Baby Faves

Okay, I had a lot of ideas about the kind of mother I would be before having a baby. I had rules and expectations for what I would do and not do. For example, I seriously thought I would never have toys or gadgets that light up, make noise, and create motion. I know, that sounds crazy but hear me out. As a teacher, I'm constantly working with kids that are labeled as "ADHD" (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder). At times it seems a bit over diagnosed and I think to myself they are "just kids". On the other hand I feel like there is an influx of the diagnosis due to kids being over stimulated with all of the interactive technological gadgets that we have (and this is coming from a gadget girl).

Now, I have to say that all of my rules went out the window when our little peanut was born. Sometimes a mom just needs to go pee and if a bouncy seat that lights up, sings, and bounces all at the same time will keep the baby calm and entertained for a moment...I'm all for it!! Also remember that my husband works 6 days a week, sometimes as much as 14 hours a day. So with that in mind, these are the things that bring peace and harmony into our home.

We hardly wanted to be separated from Brooklyn when she was born and wanted a close eye on her. I loved having her sleeping next to us on the couch in the baby lounger by Boppy. She still sleeps in the lounger in the pack 'n play. It also makes for a great prop for getting some good baby images.

This next toy is essential for me getting a shower every day. The toy I said I'd never have is my best friend. I take this bouncer into the bathroom every day so I can get a shower. She likes it so much that I can even get dressed and ready afterwards. Amazing. It's become a permanent fixture in our bathroom.

Another essential is the baby swing. Brooklyn was a bit fussy the other night and I put her in the baby swing. I layed down on the couch thinking I'd get a few moments of sleep while she did and didn't wake up until several HOURS later. I felt so bad that I had left her in the swing that long but she was still ASLEEP. We've had two swings before this one and she was not so impressed. She likes to swing side to side and not so much front to back. She also likes to swing FAST. So much that it makes me nervous.

In a desperate moment, I researched online ways to calm a fussy baby. The first suggestion that came up was "wearing" your baby in slings or carriers. It honestly has been a god send to me for several reasons. One, it actually calms her. Two, it frees up my hands to get other household essentials done. I wear her around the house, on walks, and when I go shopping. Also just the change of scenery to outside can make all the difference. Another mom stopped me today in Babies R' Us amazed that Brooklyn was sound asleep in her sling. As it turned out she had a little boy that was born on the same day. Brooklyn is not a fan of her car seat or stroller, so the sling & front carrier have been a great alternative.

One thing I have learned is that every baby is different. I have had many moms give me suggestions but they haven't worked for Brooklyn. You just have to keep trying until you find the one thing that actually works for both you and baby. Now, from the sound of this post it's like I'm passing my baby off to the bouncer or swing or whatever. Not true. I'm with my baby 24/7 and sometimes I just need a little break or even ME is not pacifying to her. All of these things have allowed me to enjoy HER so much more. I'm sure these things will change as she gets older but with a little experience under my belt now, I'm ready!