1)Thirty One ZOUT (Zip-top Organizing Utility Tote): Honestly, I thought my days of a big diaper bag were past. I was having so much luck using just this bag (Vary You Backpack Purse from Thirty-One) before Christian came along. I had another bag in my trunk with extra essentials (clothes, diapers, wipes, burp cloths, and blankies) and it was working beautifully. Until I remembered how many things a newborn needs and needs right now! Not whenever you can make it back to your car. After about a week or two, I gave in and went back to a bigger bag. I love this bag! I’m so glad they put a zipper on it so all of my things don’t fall out all over. I can fit everything I need in here with room to spare and the 5 outside pockets keep all the little extras (hand sanitizer, lotion, nose wipes, pacifiers, sippies, etc) super organized.
2)Fisher Price Rock N Play: While Alex slept great in the Pack N Play, Christian was not digging it so much. I’ve heard quite a few people swear by the Rock N Play for the early months since it makes babies feel more secure and snuggled. Sounded like just what we needed because Christian would not sleep unless he was being held. That left John and I taking 3 hour shifts to hold him while he slept. Not a whole lot of sleep that first week. Since we’ve purchased the Rock N Play, he has slept (mostly) like a dream! Love this thing.
3)Aden & Anais Swaddle Blankets: Not for swaddling though. They are way too stretchy and Christian can break out in about 5.5 seconds. So, for what then, you ask? Nursing cover! I never liked the ones that went around my neck, I could just never get it right. These are great for the warmer summer months because they are so light and airy. I’ll be using these until I get around to making a nursing infinity scarf.
4)Soothies Pacifiers: These are the only ones he will take. We tried the Nuk kind and he was disgusted (he already has strong opinions). Luckily, John thought to buy these! What a guy!
5)Boba Carrier/Moby Wrap: I use these interchangeably. The Moby is wonderful when we are around the house and he’s feeling fussy or just wants to be held. I love that I can keep him close to me and he pretty much sleeps the whole time he’s wrapped up in there. The Boba is awesome for being out and about at the grocery store or just playing outside with Alex. It’s super comfortable for me and he seems to like it too! I have the 3G in Safari (pictured) and I got it on super sale because they were phasing it out for the 4G. Score! Both of these have saved the day more than once.
I’m sure there are 5 million other things that I cannot live without, but these are my necessities for surviving every day.
What are some of your go-tos for surviving mommyhood? I’d love to know what I didn’t know I needed!
