Happy Wednesday, friend! Tomorrow marks a milestone birthday for me. This year is my big 4-0. I can hardly believe how swiftly life has moved since becoming a mom. As I reflect on my #momlife journey thus far, one of my most cherished and downloaded episodes of this podcast comes to mind: Episode 15. That episode is my #1 downloaded show, so today we're giving it a much-deserved rewind.

Since self-care is our foundation for caring for those we love—let's dive into the essential must-haves and nice-to-haves for your baby registry. Trust me, this list is all about convenience, frugality, and making sure both baby and mom are snug, safe, and stress-free! These are all the items I wish I'd known about before my little was born. Listen HERE now!

Diapering Down

Seriously, register for a mountain of diapers and wipes!

  • Various Sizes and Brands: Newborns can go through 10-12 diapers a day, and you don't want to be stuck without. You need them everywhere—in your car, the go bag, EVERYWHERE.
  • Diaper and Wipe Buffet: This is an amazing gift idea for new parents. Imagine the convenience of figuring out which brand works best, while having a variety on hand.

Baby-Wearing Essentials

No mom's arsenal is complete without a baby carrier or sling.

  • Lillebaby Complete All Seasons Carrier: Perfect for any time, offering sturdy support.
  • Baby K'tan Original Baby Wrap Carrier: A bit more hands-on, but just as fantastic for comfort and ease.

Safe Spaces for Play

Baby swings and bouncers are game-changers!

  • ExerSaucer: It's my personal fave. It can often be found secondhand at a very reasonable price and offers the perfect combo of fun and safety.

Healthcare Heroes

  • Digital Thermometer: A must-have.
  • NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator: Those tiny noses often get clogged. (This thing looks/sounds gross, but TRUST ME when I say it's the absolute best on the market.)
  • Baby Nail Clippers or Electric File: Because their nails are so delicate.

Daily Hygiene Tools

The look of love also involves keeping our little ones neat and tidy!

  • Brush, Comb, Toothbrush: Yes, even those tiny toothy grins need early care.

For the Luxe List

Sometimes, you want a bit more than the essentials:

  • Special Baby Bathtub: Go for non-slip surfaces for both safety and functionality.
  • Durable, Washable Baby Clothes: Babies can make messes, so it’s better to invest in easy-care, long-lasting items. Consignment stores like "Once Upon a Child" and "Kid to Kid" are fabulous for this.

Additional Essentials

  • Infant Optics Monitor: Features include video monitoring, temperature checks, and two-way communication.
  • Baby Bottles: Even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed, having backup bottles (like Philips Avent) and a Boon Grass drying rack is super helpful.

Travel Necessities

  • Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat and Stroller Combo: It's all about those high safety ratings and ease of use.
  • Pack 'n Play: A lifesaver for travel and providing a portable sleep space.

Meal-Time Magic

Though not immediately necessary, a high chair or booster seat becomes essential as your baby starts solid foods.

Breastfeeding Essentials

You’ll find a more in-depth breakdown in our previous episodes and blog posts, but a good breast pump and storage bottles are indispensable.

Self-Care for Super Moms

Let’s not forget YOU in all of this:

  • Stay Hydrated: Keep that water bottle close.
  • Exercise: Even if it’s a walk around the block.
  • Skincare Routine: You’ll feel more human, promise.

Remember, you've got this, momma! Sharing is caring, so pass this valuable episode on to any expecting or new moms in your circle. Catch the full episode HERE.

This journey is crazy, wonderful, and best shared together. Have you tapped into a mom community yet? Plug-in HERE.

Warm hugs (and maybe a little pre-birthday cake),
-Krista-

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