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TLB’s First Ever Newborn and Postpartum Summit

November 25, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Newborn and Postpartum Summit

A totally free event with say-it-like-it-is conversation about the newborn and postpartum stage featuring guest experts and The Leaky Boob’s New Baby Guide.

This completely free summit event is made possible by the generous support of GooseWaddle, My Baby’s Heartbeat Bear, Charlie Banana, Pura Stainless, Andaluz Waterbirth Center, Bets & Emy, Crane USA, and TWELVElittle.

Enter the giveaway at the end of this post before December 1st for your chance to win some of our favorite products from the sponsoring brands.

 

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Guest speakers:

Rebecca Michi, Children’s Sleep Consultant

Dominique Gallo, IBCLC, Doula

Sue Potts, CNM

Angela Campos, Child Injury Safety Expert, RN, CPST

Victoria Strong, CPST

Laura Brown, LE, CPST, Babywearing Educator, Postpartum Doula

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The summit featured 4 livestreams on The Leaky Boob Facebook Page, and they’re all gathered here for your convenience:

 

Newborn Behavior: Sleep and Feeding- The Leaky Boob Newborn and Postpartum Summit

The dreaded “is she a GOOD baby?” is almost always really about sleeping and feeding and crying. But are babies really even capable of being “bad?”

Is my baby supposed to do THAT? Is it ok he wants to feed ALL the time? Whoever said “sleep like a baby” hasn’t met my baby- will she ever sleep? Is that even normal?

What is normal anyway?

Down to earth, this first livestream in The Leaky Boob Newborn and Postpartum Summit debunks the “good baby/bad baby” myth with a realistic look at normal newborn behavior when it comes to sleep and feeding.

 

Postpartum Recovery and Healing- The Leaky Boob New Baby and Postpartum Summit

Why do they smash on your belly after you give birth? What’s with the no baths rule? Why does your bleeding change color?

Certified Nurse Midwife Sue Potts fills us in on the postpartum recovery process explaining what’s happening in our bodies, what we need to fully heal, and what to expect with your care provider.

The Leaky Boob Newborn and Postpartum Summit features 4 livestreams with different guests in one day taking an honest look at the newborn and postpartum period. Host and TLB founder Jessica Martin-Weber is joined by her best friend, Sue Potts, CNM to tell you about the wonders of perineal ice packs, what’s really behind the no baths rule, and more about postpartum healing and recovery.

 

 

Newborn Safety and Gear- The Leaky Boob Newborn and Postpartum Summit

Have you ever asked “is that safe?” What’s the most common injury for babies? How do you know you pick the right car seat? What hidden dangers am I missing to keep my baby safe?

Child Injury Prevention Expert, Angela Campos, RN, CPST and Baby Gear Concierge, Victoria Strong, CPST join host and TLB founder, Jessica Martin-Weber for The Leaky Boob Newborn and Postpartum Summit. Hear what safety products are worth investing in and get guidance in what baby products you really need, what’s nice to have, and what you can probably skip.

The Leaky Boob Newborn and Postpartum Summit features 4 livestreams with different guests in one day taking an honest look at the newborn and postpartum period. Host and TLB founder Jessica Martin-Weber is joined by two long-time Leakies and safety experts to discuss gear and safety for the Newborn.

 

 

 

What Postpartum is REALLY Like- The Leaky Boob New Baby and Postpartum Summit

The first pee and poop after having a baby… what’s it REALLY like? How long does the bleeding last? Did you know about the night sweats? Or why you may want to hold on to those maternity clothes long after giving birth?

Postpartum Doula Laura Brown is our special guest for an honest-to-goodness-hold-nothing-back discussion about what postpartum is REALLY like. Giving it to you like it is, you might just laugh so hard you’ll pee yourself.

The 4th livestream in The Leaky Boob Newborn and Postpartum Summit, host and TLB founder Jessica Martin-Weber is joined by Laura Brown with real-talk about our bodies and lives after having a baby. With 13 children between them plus many more they’ve supported through birth work, doula support, breastfeeding support, and more, Laura and Jessica draw from experience to be sure nothing about the postpartum period takes you by surprise.

 

If for some reason the videos aren’t playing for you here, you can follow these links to watch them on Facebook:

Newborn Behavior: Sleep and Feeding

Postpartum Recovery and Healing

Newborn Safety and Gear

What Postpartum is REALLY Like

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Here’s the giveaway! Ends December 1, 2020.

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Filed Under: Article, baby, Featured, postpartum Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

TLB Reviews: Push Pack

July 6, 2014 by 8 Comments

Let’s talk about packing your bag for your birth center or hospital birth. (And hey, even if you’re birthing at home…it’s a good idea to have a bag packed just in case!)

The Goods: Princess Push Pack by Push Pack, $78.95, in Tulip and Magnolia Pink

The Reviewers: Elise and Amy

The Good: 

Elise says… I had a breech position baby so I headed into the hospital for a planned c-section. I was a little nervous as I had never had surgery before. Having the Push Pack helped to make my journey feel like a fun adventure. It was comforting to know I had a package of everything I could possibly need. I packed some of my own things too, but it is nice to have some extras! I did not know how long I would be in the hospital and it was a great comfort to have the pack with me. Two months later I am still using items from the pack. My favorite items by far are the breast pads. I have tried many different kinds of breast pads both disposable and cloth and the cloth pads included in the pack are definitely my favorite.  I was impressed that the included items were all natural including Tom’s of Maine toothpaste and lanolin free nipple cream. I would definitely recommend getting this for someone as a gift. I know that people love to give baby clothes at baby showers, but it is so much nicer when someone gives you something fun and useful like this pack.

Elise received the Princess Push pack in Tulip.

Elise received the Princess Push pack in Tulip.

Amy says… I had a planned home water birth, so I’m writing from a slightly different perspective. This time around (my second birth) I did not want a repeat of my hospital birth. I didn’t want anything to do with packing any “emergency” or “just in case” bag. From that point of view, I love that this is a ready-to-go bag that’s all done for you (in a pretty case, to boot!). If something hit the fan, this pretty little case included everything I needed. Basically, it didn’t mess with my psyche AND I was still prepared. BOOM.
The bag it comes in is extremely high-quality and pretty (I’d expect it to retail for over $40, actually), I’ll get years of use out of it. (There’s a less expensive version that comes in a different bag that isn’t premium like the one we’re reviewing, too!)
The products are very consciously-chosen: organic, natural, good-for-your-body-and-the-earth stuff. That made the bag even more of a no-brainer for me. I didn’t need to think about packing stuff and this came with product selections that I would have chosen for myself. I can’t honestly think of what I would add, other than my own clothes, baby clothes, and my camera (and they actually include a tag on the bag with a suggested list of what to pack in addition to the Push Pack, which would be really helpful).  You really don’t need much more than what’s in this bag!
Here are some pictures of the goodies that came in the Push Pack:
Really pretty, right? It's an extremely high quality bag!

Really pretty, right? It’s an extremely high quality bag!

push pack personal care

Everything you need to be fresh & clean! If you walk out the door with only this, you’re covered.

Mama care: pads, disposable underwear (there were 3 in the pack, 2 are shown), Earth Mama Angel Baby's Mama Bottom Balm, Motherlove nipple cream, and breast pads. You're literally taken care of from top to bottom.

Mama care: pads, disposable underwear (there were 3 in the pack, 2 are shown), Earth Mama Angel Baby’s Mama Bottom Balm, Motherlove nipple cream, and breast pads. You’re literally taken care of from top to bottom.

The inclusion of a notepad, pen, and thank-you notes? I think that's brilliant. So helpful.

The inclusion of a notepad, pen, and thank-you notes? I think that’s brilliant. So helpful.

The pack of playing cards is great! It's very possible you're going to have to pass some time, so they might come in handy. There were more snacks, but, uh...pregnancy. I ate them before photos were taken. ::hangs head in shame::

The pack of playing cards is great! It’s very possible you’re going to have to pass some time, so they might come in handy.
There were more snacks, but, uh…pregnancy. I ate them before photos were taken. ::hangs head in shame::

I was reaching for the nipple cream and breast pads within hours of birthing my son at home, so this isn’t a product that needs to be exclusive to moms birthing at hospitals or birth centers. I’ve found most everything to be useful and this was great to have at home for my peace of mind, should a transfer have been necessary. Price-wise, I think you’d come pretty close to what this costs if you tried to DIY it. Once you add in the convenience of someone else thinking through what goes in it and packing it, I’d buy one if I were birthing again. I also think this would make a fantastic gift for any mama-to-be!

 

The Bad:

Elise says… Honestly I did not end up using anything in the pack while I was in the hospital. To my surprise my c-section went amazingly smooth and I was only in the hospital for 2 nights. The hospital was great in providing everything I needed for those two nights. However when I got home I found myself going back to the bag over and over again to get needed items. When I ran out of those ugly disposable underwear that are oh so necessary I found an extra pair in the pack. When I ran out of pads I had extra in the pack. When I ran out of shower gel and nipple balm, there were some in the pack. So while it was merely a comfort to know I had it in the hospital it really became useful during my postpartum recovery at home.

Amy says…  It comes with a packet instant oatmeal that says it helps promote milk production, and it’s my understanding that you need old-fashioned rolled oats if you’re aiming for a galactagogue effect. (Though hey, it’s just nice to have an option that isn’t hospital food, I guess! And it comes with a spoon, which is really thoughtful.)

 

The Ugly: 

Elise says…  I ran out of thank you notes and I was hopeful I could use the ones in the pack, but they were too small to fit my standard size birth announcement. I am not a gum chewer or candy eater so while the lollipop and gum were fun ideas they were not useful to me (but probably great for others!).

Amy says… The razor that comes in it is probably not one I’d use (single blade, disposable, I’d probably cut myself). Same goes for the undies; even though they’re individually wrapped and labeled as disposable, they weren’t going to be comfy enough for me to wear. (Though admittedly, I’m very particular.)

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We’re super excited to be giving away a $40 gift code to one lucky Leaky to help them select their own Push Pack.  This giveaway is open to US mailing addresses only.  Good luck!

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Filed Under: giveaway, Review Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

The Leaky Boob Launches Product Review Program

June 26, 2014 by 3 Comments
by Jessica Martin-Weber

One of the best parts of The Leaky Boob community is the diversity of experiences.  No two stories or perspectives are exactly alike.  From breastfeeding to returning to work to our birth stories and introducing solids, our journeys are varied and complex.  When it comes to talking about products, this is even more apparent.  One person’s trash is another’s treasure.  What my family couldn’t live without, yours may find completely worthless.  It’s not unusual for me to be asked for my opinion or if I have written a review about a specific product.  The truth is I don’t really like writing reviews.  Some are a lot of fun and some, well, aren’t.  If I actually get the chance to write though, I don’t usually want to write about a product, it’s just not a creative or inspiring outlet for me.  Yet within our community be it here, on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, we often discuss topics that extend way beyond breastfeeding including various products and I discovered I am often giving casual, on the spot reviews anyway.  That doesn’t bother me, it’s just a conversation, but it hit me that even though I don’t care to write reviews, people are looking for them and because they already trust TLB as part of their community, it makes sense for them to seek that resource here.

Plus, there are so many great products out there from companies that truly support and value families.  Wanting to connect the parents looking and the companies with the product through honest, unbiased perspectives, we began discussing what it could look like.  With that, The Leaky Boob Review Program was born.  Believing that for a review to be unbiased, the reviewer needed to not fear that they would receive backlash from the company if they were critical.  Talking with Jeremy and then Amy West, we determined that we wanted to pay our reviewers independently so not only would they receive the product, they would be compensated for taking the time to evaluate and write a thorough review of the product, free of any pressure to make the company happy.  Continuing the approach to reviews already established on TLB, reviewers would go over the good, the bad, and the ugly of each product, to be as objective and trustworthy as possible.  Our reviewers were hand-selected by Jeremy and me and represent some of the diversity we see within The Leaky Boob community, communicate clearly in written word, and are able to give objective feedback on their experience with a product.  Being parents first, all of our reviewers are able to evaluate a product as any other parent would, not based on insider knowledge of the baby industry (both a handicap and an advantage) and would use it as any parent new to a product would.  Each new review launched in our review program is covered by at least 2 of the writers to provide 2 perspectives right off the bat and we encourage anyone to ask questions in the comments section of each review and anyone with experience with that particular product to comment on the review sharing their own personal experience review as well.  Together we will grow a resource of trusted, diverse reviews reflecting a wide variety of opinions and experiences.  Our review writers include a mom of 2 (preschooler and infant at the time of this writing), a husband and wife with 4 children (ages 6, 4, 2, and infant), a new first time mom of an infant, and occasionally parents of 6 and creators of The Leaky Boob, Jeremy or me.  Check out their bios here and get to know them through their reviews.

We’re going to continue our primary focus on supporting families in feeding their children, specifically when it comes to breastfeeding and breastmilk.  This new development won’t be taking anything away from our core purpose, merely adding to it.  In true TLB style, it’s more than just us, this new extension of our community will greatly depend on the input and connections shared in your own personal stories and support.

Help us make this a useful resource for you and others.  What products would you like to see reviewed?  How would you like our reviews to be different from others you have seen?  Please tell us what is important to you in a review.

I’m excited to see TLB grow in this way.  We’ve already been doing it, we’re just making it TLB official.

~Jessica

Filed Under: Article, Breastfeeding, Featured, Jessica, Review, The Leaky Boob Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Love Beyond Moi TLB Giveaway

February 13, 2014 by 762 Comments

Presenting:

The Leaky Boob‘s

Valentine’s Day Giveaway:

“For the Love of… Love!”

 

Valentine’s Day may be our favorite commercial holiday.  Underneath the shiny red packaging, the chocolates, the flowers, and the expectations, it’s a celebration of Love.  And not just romantic love, important as that is.  On Valentine’s Day, we celebrate the love we have for our children and for our friends too, and the love our children have for each other and for us, and of course, our love of Love!

Once you become a parent you really understand love beyond yourself and beyond what you get out of it.  In the first year, breastfeeding often plays a vital role in developing that parent/child bond of love.  Moving first beyond yourself, and beyond your partner, taking them with you to new experiences together, beyond the known, and way beyond breastfeeding, where do you find information and support beyond TLB?  Jessica and I explore the challenges beyond breastfeeding on our other website: beyondmoi.com and to celebrate this Valentine’s Day we are bringing TLB and BeyondMoi together for the first time.  In honor of this event and our involvement in MommyCon (see below), we have each written an article about sex after baby, one on each website.  Jessica’s is here, and Jeremy’s (The Piano Man) is here.

This Valentine’s Day, we thought we would spread the love to The Leaky Boob community by facilitating a huge giveaway to demonstrate the love and appreciation we have for our sponsors and our followers.  The Leaky Boob community continues to be a place where breastfeeding support and encouragement can be offered for free, and where the normalization of breastfeeding feels like a real possibility through the sharing of information, experiences and the growing network we are all helping to create.  Perhaps this giveaway would be more aptly named: “For the Love of… Breastfeeding!”  But we know that breastfeeding itself is an act of love, so we’ll stick to a celebration of love.

Below is a list of some of our generous TLB sponsors, with information on what they are contributing to this giveaway, and links to other promotions they are having.  Below that, you will find instructions on how to enter the giveaway.  By the way, we’ve decided that it would be fun to lump all the prizes into one Grand Prize for a single winner!  Just wait until you see all the loot being offered.  We will also have a small, but charming, second place prize.  Before you scroll down to check it out, there is one more very important thing you need to know: due to the large number of sponsors participating in this giveaway, and each of their shipping restrictions, we have decided that this giveaway will be for people living in the U.S. only.  I apologize if this restricts you from possibly winning this giveaway.  The U.S. is simply the one single place for shipping that all of these sponsors have in common.  Please, U.S. entries only.

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Happy Valentine’s Day!

Jessica, The Piano Man, and our whole family of TLB sponsors

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oobr-snowberryClek

Giveaway entry:
Pink Oobr booster seat
(winner’s choice of Flamingo or Snowberry)

Oobr™ is Clek’s™ full back booster seat that provides superior protection for your child without sacrificing comfort, convenience or style.

Click here for more information.

Additionally, don’t miss our February 14th special on our shop.clekinc.com site: all pink seats are 10% off!  One day only!

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Arm's ReachArm’s Reach

Giveaway item:
Mini Co-Sleeper® Bassinet Toffee

The Mini Co-Sleeper® bassinet is a unique creation that allows you and your baby to sleep comfortably next to each other from the moment your baby arrives. This bassinet enables you to reach over and draw your baby close for comforting and bonding. The innovative design also makes breastfeeding easy.

The Mini Co-Sleeper® bassinet is the ideal sleep solution for any concerned parent.

Arm’s Reach is also the generous sponsor making it possible for Jeremy, aka: The Piano Man, to speak with Jessica at 4 different MommyCon events in 2014, presenting their “Sex After Baby” talk.  Jeremy will be speaking in Chicago, Denver, ??? , and ???  Look below for more MommyCon information.

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Motherlove adjusted Motherlove

Giveaway item:
Nurturing Life Giftbox.

Motherlove’s complete selection celebrating new motherhood! From pregnancy and labor, to breastfeeding and babies, these products nurture mother and baby with certified organic herbs and pure ingredients. These products do not contain any synthetic ingredients, fragrances or parabens commonly found in body care products. The perfect gift for the mother who is looking for only the highest quality, pure, natural products for herself and child. pregnant belly salve 4 oz., nipple cream 1 oz., birth & baby oil 2 oz., sitz bath spray 2 oz., diaper rash & thrush 1 oz., environmentally responsible Motherlove tote bag

Motherlove is also the generous sponsor making it possible for Jessica to speak at all MommyCon events in 2014!   See below for more information!

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MommyConMommyCon

Giveaway item:
Two general admission tickets to any MommyCon location in 2014

MommyCon is a natural parenting convention that travels around the United States bringing organic parenting practices to the masses. The event features seminars and workshops on topics such as; birth, breastfeeding, babywearing, car seat safety, essential oils and so much more. Guest speakers include; The Baby Guy NYC, Honest Toddler, The Badass Breastfeeder and The Leaky Boob.

Use promotional code “leakyboob” for 10% off at mommy-con.com

“We love leakies! Come leak at MommyCon!”

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SOLEIL ELLIE BECO BABY CARRIER adjustedBeco

Giveaway item:
Beco Soleil Baby Carrier (Ellie print)

With the Beco Soleil Baby Carrier, crossing your straps makes wearing your baby comfortable and easy!  Beco’s award-winning design is celebrated by parents around the world.  Combining proper ergonomics with versatile features provides you the best babywearing experience.

Wear Beco from birth through toddler years.

Wear Beco on your front, back or hip.

Wear Beco with love.

Click here for more information on the Beco Soleil.

“This one’s for the Leakies! Soleil makes breastfeeding possible anywhere you go! ♥ ”
– the Beco team

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Fairhaven HealthFairhaven Health

Giveaway items:
A jar of Dream Belly Stretch Mark Butter, a Milk-Saver and a Milkies Freeze, and one bag of Nursing Time Tea

• DreamBelly Stretch Mark Butter: A luxurious butter with a gentle, refreshing scent – just what you need to tone and regenerate the skin on your belly after childbirth.

• Milkies Milk-Saver: Save every drop of your precious breast milk with this one-of-a-kind product that collects leaking breast milk from your non-nursing side while you breast feed.

milkies-milk-saver-6

• Milkies Freeze: The answer to your breast milk storage hassles: A “first-in, first-out” breast milk storage container that protects your bags of frozen milk from damage and leaks, and fits nicely in  your freezer.

• Nursing Time Tea: A nutritive and refreshing tea with a light lemony flavor that contains several herbs helpful for promoting breast milk production.

Use promotional code “LEAKYHEART” for a 10% discount on all of our nursing products through February.

Milkies-Freeze-Banner

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ErgoBabyErgoErgoBaby

Giveaway item:
ErgoBaby Wrap

The Ergobaby Wrap is the perfect companion in those first months & beyond. Made from soft stretchy cotton (our premium 4D Stretch™ material), our Ergobaby Wrap makes different carrying positions easy, comfortable & secure for you & your baby.

 

 

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RuminaRumina

Giveaway items:
Rumina’s Sweet Valentine set

Each set will include one Red Relaxed Hands-Free Pump & Nurse Bra plus an order of Sea Salted Caramels & Half Dozen Swizzled Strawberries by Shari’s Berries.

Rumina2

Plus, like Rumina’s Facebook Page to enter March’s Lucky Momma Giveaway! March Rumina will be giving away a $100.00 Amex card, a $50.00 Amazon card and one lucky winner will receive a Motorola MBP25-2 Digital 2.4-inch Video Monitor (retail value $199.99).

AND, shop www.ruminaformoms.com to receive 25% Off Plus Free Shipping on Rumina’s Red Relaxed Hands-Free Pump & Nurse Bra. *USPS Priority shipping only

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BamboobiesBamboobies

Giveaway item:
Bamboobies Prize Pack

The Prize Pack ($115.00 value) includes:

Multi-pack Bamboobies Nursing Pads (3 pair regular + 1 pair overnight)

Boob♥ease 100% Organic Natural Nipple Balm

Bamboobies Brahhh: Maternity, Sleep and Nursing Bra with Flower Accent (color berry)

Bamboobies Chic Nursing Shawl with Flower Accent (color black)

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Wean Cubes Garden Pack adjustedWean Green

Giveaway item:
A Garden Pack of Wean Cubes (4 oz pack of 4 – multicolor)

Wean Green is dedicated to providing parents with safe and environmental baby products that fit into every parent’s diaper bag!  Our Glass Cubes are the safest way to store your breast milk,  homemade baby food, and of course, those snacks that your little one can’t live without when you’re out and about!

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SnugabellSnugabell

Giveaway item:
PumpEase hands-free pumping bra, color rhubarb

PumpEase features patented, ‘no-stitch’ horn openings, guaranteed to accommodate any breast pump on the market.  Click here for more information.

Additionally, use promotional code “TLBOOB25” for 25 percent off at Snugabell.com, Amazon.com, and Amazon.ca.
(minimum $38 order)

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Kangaroo CareKangaroo Care

Giveaway items:
An Aqua Rainbow Nursing Necklace and a Matching Teething Bracelet

 Kangaroo Care is also offering a 20% discount  from the 14th of February through the 15th of February!  No coupon codes need to be entered – the prices will already be discounted!

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OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe Dairy Fairy

Giveaway item:
The Sadie All in One Tank
(valued at $75, in either Black or White)

The only nursing tank that multitasks as much as you do; nurse, handsfree pump and adjust to fit your fluctuating size. In or out, our new design is beautiful and discreet.  Click here for more information.

Additionally, use code “sadielaunch” at thedairyfairy.com for a $10 discount.

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LilleBabyLíllébaby

Giveaway item:
Líllébaby COMPLETE Organic Designer Baby Carrier 
(Green Meadow w/ Finch – Retail value $149.00)

Líllébaby is excited to offer one of their brand new designer prints for this giveaway: the Green Meadow with Finch!

Why COMPLETE?
“Compare the líllébaby® COMPLETE™ with any baby carrier and you will see why it deserves its name – it includes every carrying position and ensures your baby is correctly and  ergonomically positioned in every setting.”

Click here for more information.

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Muslin isla-nc-package-1000pxBébé Au Lait

Giveaway item:
Bébé au Lait Muslin Nursing Cover

“New for 2014! Bebe au Lait’s Muslin Collection pairs the softness and breathability of premium Muslin with the stylish patterns that have made their products must-haves for modern families.”

Click here for more information.

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MomzelleMomzelle

Giveaway item:
Maria criss-cross nursing dress

New from their winter collection, this graceful nursing dress will make you feel beautiful and comfortable at the same time. The criss-cross nursing opening is very practical and can be used both sides simultaneously. Made with cotton modale (95% cotton modale, 5% spandex), this fabric has a fresh and soft feeling on the skin, plus gives a nice drape to the dress.

Made with love and care.

“This eye-catching dress can easily be your new breastfeeding essential. For everyday and any occasion, you deserve to feel beautiful and confident while breastfeeding!
Thank you and happy nursing” 🙂

– The Momzelle team

Additionally, use code “LKYF14” at momzelle.com for a $5 discount.

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My Baby's Heartbeat Bear adjustedMy Baby’s Heartbeat Bear

Giveaway item:
Angel Bear

The My Baby’s Heartbeat Bear Angel Kit includes an adorable stuffed Angel Bear and special heart shaped recorder.  The Angel Bear is a very soft fleece-like material, with a velcro closure opening on the back where you can place the recorded heartbeat. My Baby’s Heartbeat Bear kits make the perfect baby shower gift or pregnancy keepsake!  Click here for more information.

Additionally, use code “FEB20” at mybabysheartbeatbear.com for a 20% discount.

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ShowerHugShowerHug

Giveaway item:
a ShowerHug

The Shower Hug is a therapeutic breast wrap designed to make showers a time of serenity and renewal for pregnant and breastfeeding moms who experience breast tenderness.

A “Certified Miracle,” The Shower Hug is Mommy’s patented Essential for Breast Pain Relief during pregnancy, postpartum and breastfeeding.  This multifunctional and affordable alternative to traditional nursing bras eliminates the most frustrating and painful obstacles to breastfeeding success. The Shower Hug can be worn in or out of the shower.

Click here for more information.

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KKBrwn-LR-CLKoalaKin

Giveaway item:
A KoalaKin, Hands-Free Nursing Pouch

The KoalaKin® nursing pouch helps you bond with your nursing baby by freeing your hands for extra snuggles, diaper checks, and even reading.  Click here for more information.

“Love is in the air… Free your hands for more loving touches with the KoalaKin, Hands Free Nursing Pouch.”  

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MobyWrapMobyWrap

Giveaway item:
Organic Moby Wrap in our new Garnet color

Wrap baby in our 100% OE certified organic cotton carrier.  Softness and Support.  Click here for more information.

Additionally, use code “TLBbaby” at mobywrap.com for a 10% discount.

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Naked Nursing TankNaked Tank Logo 1Naked Nursing Tank

Giveaway item:
White Luxury Bamboo Naked Nursing Tank

Click here for more information.

Additionally, use code “LEAKYSHIP” at www.thenakedtank.com for free shipping.

“Happy Valentine’s Day Leakies!!  Hope you love your new tank as much as you love your special Valentine!!” – Carrie and Jen

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Freja Toys necklaceFreja Toys

Giveaway items:
a nursing necklace (any color for winner’s choice)
and a baby rattles fruit set.
Total value: $54.00

 We have been creating our toys and moms jewelry in the Ukraine (East Europe) since 2007.  All of our products are unique and full of warmth and love.  They are made from natural materials and are absolutely safe for your kids!

Freja Toys fruits-set-01

Our main goal is to give joy to kids and their moms and to make the world around happier and kinder!

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sloomb diapersloomb basewooliesSloomb

Giveaway items:
a Camper VHLC and a Sparrow Basewoolies

“The Velour HLCs are soft, trim, and super absorbent cloth diapers – extra soft fluff for your little hipsters! Just pair the VHLC with Sparrow Basewoolies to keep your kids warm on the inside and out!”

Click here for more information about VHLCs and here for more information about Basewoolies.

PS: HLC stands for “Happy Little Clouds”

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MrsPatels adjustedMrs Patel’s

Giveaway item:
Gluten-free Vegan Chocolate Fenugreek Bars

Our mission is to help nursing mothers. We believe our products can help women heal faster after giving birth as well as increase their milk supply.

Additionally, use code “FIRSTORDER” at mrsmilk.com for 20% off your first order.

“Treat yourself and your baby this Valentine’s with a box of our delicious gluten-free and vegan milk-making Fenugreek Bars!” – Anhoni

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NuRooNüRoo

Giveaway item:
one NüRoo Nursing Scarf

The NüRoo Nursing Scarf provides endless options for coverage and style. Learn more at nuroobaby.com.

NüRoo® fabric is super soft, breathable, wrinkle free, and not distracting for baby. As an added bonus, you’ll love this fashionable scarf long after your breastfeeding days!

Customize your coverage: wrapped or draped, front and back, over the shoulder or around your neck.

Learn more here.

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GoosieGoosie Organics

Giveaway item:
an Organic Nursing and Babywearing Jewelry piece of your choice

Check out the Goosie Organics Etsy shop here!

We create beautiful organic nursing and babywearing necklaces and bracelets. All of our products are handmade with natural materials including our unique 100% organic yarn. Each wooden bead and necklace chain are hand crocheted with this beautiful organic yarn. The wood buttons, coconut rings & buckles and wood beads are handcrafted locally and polished with organic beeswax and olive oil.

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Giveaway item:

An Assortment of Breastfeeding Products

 

The Assortment includes:

– MilkMakers Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies (10pk)
– Balm Baby Nipple Soother/Nursing Aid (1.25 fl oz)
– Milk Trays Breast Milk Freezing System
– Dry Mama Reusable Nursing Pads (1 pair)
– Our Lady of Leche – Birds & Bees Teas Lactatin Tea – 2.5 oz tin with loose leaf tea

Basic Baby is both a physical store in Upstate New York, as well as an online retailer, offering helpful products for parents in all beginning stages of parenting, such as maternity, cloth diapering, babywearing, nursing, potty training, and more.  Get to know them at basicbabyshop.com

Additionally, use code “leakylove” for 10% off regular priced items store wide with free shipping on orders over $15 – not to be combined with any other offer – 1 use per customer – offer ends 2/28/14

“Thank you for all the love!” – the Basic Baby shop team

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JetPackRainbow Souffle

Giveaway item:
a JetPack toy and a printable JetPack Valentine’s Day card

The JetPack toy is a unique soft fabric toy that engages children’s natural tendency to make anything into an adventure.  Show someone you love them to the moon and back with a toy JetPack!
The printable paper JetPack card also doubles as a toy! It’s whimsical and fun for kids of all ages.  It’s easy to assemble and you have the option to print a Valentine’s message on the reverse side.

Click here for more information.

Additionally, use Coupon Code “ROCKETBLAST” in our shop for 20% off their order through February 20th.

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View More: http://christinacampbell.pass.us/vintaghoneyThe Vintage Honey Shop

Giveaway item:
A nursing necklace with teething ring ($25 value)

The Vintage Honey Shop is a place to buy handcrafted paper & fabric items.  Jennifer & Melissa make every handcrafted item with love and care!

The Vintage Honey Shop: Where paper & fabric stick!

Additionally, use code “LEAKIESWIN” at thevintagehoneyshop.etsy.com for a 10% discount.

“All of our products are handmade to help mama feel beautiful while helping baby be happy!  Happy Valentines Day, Leakies….we {heart} y’all!!”
– Jen & Mel

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A Mother's BoutiqueA Mother’s Boutique

Giveaway item:
a nursing top of her choice from our Annee Matthew collection  (value up to $75)

Annee Matthew maternity and nursing clothes are unique, exquisitely designed pieces of modern maternity and nursing clothing that will make any new mother or mother-to-be feel beautiful.  Click here for more information.

Additionally, there is a special coupon for Leakies to treat themselves to something else in our store, at mothersboutique.com.  Just use coupon code “TLB” and you will save $5 off any purchase of $20 or more.

“We support breastfeeding moms and nursing in public is so much easier in one our cute, stylish nursing tops!”

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UM.AdQuartPgShortUndercover Mama

Giveaway item:
a $30 giftcard to Undercover Mama

Mom Invented, Mom Owned, Mom Operated.

Additionally, enjoy Free Shipping on orders of 2 shirts or more at undercovermama.com/shop (no coupon required)

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nursing-bra-express-giveaway adjustedNursing Bra Express

Giveaway item:
Molded Cotton Nursing Bra
(winner’s choice of nude, white, or black)

Our best selling nursing bra is comfortable, supportive, soft and has a pretty trim.  Wear this nursing bra every day – it is perfect for all occasions and will keep you comfortable and cool with breathable cotton and quick-release one-hand nursing clasps on each cup.  Larger cup sizes have foam support in cup and wider straps.  Sizes available: 32-36A, 32-40B, 32-44C/D, 32-44DD/E, 34-42DDD/F.

Additionally, use promotional code “LOVE” to save 10% on your entire order at nursingbraexpress.com, and free shipping on orders of $99 or more!

“Happy Valentine’s Day to all the Leakies!  We hope you think of us for all of your nursing bra needs.  We have a great selection of bras at affordable prices!”

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Petite BisouPetite Bisou

Giveaway item:
a set of our Bebe Nacre Breast Shells (a$49.95 AUD value)

Hand-polished in Paris, these natural shells soothe sore and cracked nipples and provide nourishment and protection while nursing.  Find out more about this age old Scandinavian tradition for breast care here.

Enjoy Motherhood and your new baby in a beautiful way! 

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One Creative MamaOne Creative Mama

Giveaway item:
a mommy-baby matching shirt set

Mommy Is My Dairy Queen shirt for babies: http://onecreativemama.com/dairyqueen.html – Value $13.99

Dairy Queen shirt for moms (moms can nurse through the sleeve!): http://onecreativemama.com/dqmom1.html – Value $33.98-36.98

Winner can choose size and color for both items

Total Value: $47.97-$50.97

Additionally, use code “TLB” at onecreativemama.com for a 15% discount on any purchase.

“Hey leakies, One Creative Mama supports breastfeeding and we want to share our cute designs with all of you!”

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DSC_9766_09.psdMelinda G™

Giveaway item:
A Smoothly Divine™ nursing bra in nude 

Win the new Melinda G™ very pretty, very comfortable nursing bra with removable pads – wear with the pads for discretion and added OOOOMPH! or without the pads for natural contours – either way, you’ll look great!  Click here for sizing information.

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CezaraT Belly Support Panty #4000 after delivery with pink backgroundCezara™ 

Giveaway item:
A Cezara™ belly support panty   

Cezara™ provides comfy belly lift and back support during pregnancy, after delivery and especially after Cesarean delivery, when the internal pad compresses and protects the scar, for more relaxed nursing without the concerns of baby resting on the scar.

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And finally, a special, sexy guest sponsor for this Valentine’s Day giveaway:

Blossom Organics

Giveaway item:
A Pleasurable Gift Basket

“Let Your pure Pleasure Blossom Naturally with Blossom Organics”

The basket includes:

Natural Moisturizing Lubricant (4 oz and 1 oz)
Warm Sensation Lubricant (4 oz and 1 oz)
Pure Pleasure Arousal Gel (0.5 oz and 5 ml)
Warm Sensation Massage Oil (3 oz)
Revitalizing Breast Exam Cream (1.7 oz.)

Our goal is to create safe, all-natural intimate care products that help you achieve healthy well-being, beautiful intimacy and blissful pleasure.  Click here for more information.

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WOW!  That’s a whole lot of TLB sponsor love!

Below is the widget for the giveaway.  Remember, this is for U.S. entries only.  

Here’s to hoping you get lucky!

And don’t forget to use the discount codes from our sponsors listed above!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Gear up, baby!

April 17, 2012 by

I’m a simple kind of gal.  There is very little I feel we need for a new baby and then some things I want for a new baby.  Really it comes down to something for the pee/poop, boobs, and something to keep the newbie tied to me.  But there are somethings beyond that we get to help care for our newest little person.  Some are our basics, others make it easier, and still others are a luxury.  Most of this can be found at yard sales, thrift stores, craigslist, consignment shops, and hand-me-downs from friends, we rarely buy brand new. Everyone’s list will look a bit different, what works for one family won’t for another.  Here’s our breakdown.

Basics:

diapers- we cloth diaper, here’s what we find essential

  • 3 snappis
  • prefolds, hand-me-downs and from Green Mountain Diapers
  • wool covers- mostly homemade hand knit or repurposed wool, some PUL covers from Thirsties (I ordered some new Duo Wraps from Lullaby Kisses)
  • detergent- trying Thirsties Super Wash this time, also ordered from Lullaby Kisses as well as Rockin’ Green.
  • cloth wipes- flannel squares work well as do baby wash cloths
  • diaper ointment- my babies always have sensitive skin, I love Motherlove Herbal’s Diaper Rash and Thrush, cloth diaper safe, works well, gentle on my babies’ sensitive skin, and you can’t beat these ingredients.  Oh, and a pot of it lasts forever!
  • Wetbags- dirty diapers need a designated spot.  Wetbags do the job without nasty pails of soaking diapers.  We have one big one (from Goodmama ages ago) and 2 medium ones for the diaper bag, and 1 small one to hold wipes, all WAHM ones. (Lullaby Kisses has a good selection of these too.)

clothes

  • 5 or so gowns- baby in a bag, easy for changing in the middle of the night
  • 5 or so footed PJs
  • 5+ t-shirts
  • dozen socks (because there is always one missing)
  • 3 hats (1 on their head, 1 in the laundry, 1 ready- because they somehow get poop on them)
  • 8 or so bottoms- most of ours are hand knits, have extras for poop accidents

sleep

  • Moses basket- typically a hand-me-down or borrowed, can be moved room to room or outside.
  • carrier- because they usually sleep on me or their daddy and with work and family I need to be able to multitask.  You really only need one versatile carrier.  We already have a Moby, my go-to carrier for a newborn (also available at Lullaby Kisses), a Beco, my go-to carrier for longer excursions when they are a bit bigger; a homemade mei-tai, and was recently gifted my first woven wrap (a Didymos– so pretty).  I lost my ring sling (that I’ve had for years!) and so I’m getting a new one from Paxbaby.com (they carry EVERYTHING and have great personalized service) because it’s my “fast” carrier.
  • baby blankets for light swaddling, warmth, and to throw down wherever baby ends up sleeping when not on mommy or daddy.

bath

  • water- breastmilk poop is water soluble, doesn’t even need a cleaning agent besides water.
  • bath tub- I usually bathe with my babies the first few weeks so I just hold them on my lap in the tub.
  • 2-3 wash clothes to gently scrub the neck folds.
  • 2 hooded towels, because they WILL poop on one leading to another bath and the need for another towel.

travel- leaving the house

  • Car seat- no exception.  I’ve never started with a convertible, always an infant car seat AKA bucket.  It stays in the car most of the time.  This time it’s the same Chicco we had with Smunchie and then we’ll be going to clek’s new Foonf when Sugarbaby is ready for a convertible and it will last us years.  It doesn’t have to be the best of the best or top of the line but a good seat with a high safety rating is an essential for our family.  This is one area where we see spending big dollars to be essential for ultimate safety, it’s not a luxury.  As a major yarn lover I’ve sold yarn in the past to be able to afford the kind of seat we could feel good about.
  • carrier- we don’t keep our babies in the bucket seats, they go from the car seat into a carrier.
  • bag for diapers
  • 2 wet bags- wipes and dirty diapers
  • 2 changes of clothes
  • thin blanket- to lay down for changes if need be.
  • top for mom- I’m going to leak and I want to be prepared just in case.
  • breast pads- I have a pair in my bra and a pair in my bag.  This is vital as I leak a lot.  I’ll be wearing Bamboobies most of the time and trying out Posh Pads for the first time.
  • burp cloths- spit up happens.  Whether it’s a diaper or a fancy boutique burp cloth, it’s essential to have something to clean up with.  We already have some special ones that were made for different babies along the way.

play time

  • blankets- all types: thick, thin, big, little, homemade, store bought, etc.  I like to have a nice stack of blankets for time on the floor, making a nest in a basket for time outside, for peek-a-boo, and for anything else that seems useful.
  • toy/lovey- no, they aren’t playing or interacting with these things yet but I have found one way to help older siblings respect the new baby and their space is to have something that is brand new for them, set apart as “theirs.”  Often my big girls pick out the item and often the item (sometimes items) actually do become the lovey object of choice.

feeding

  • my boobs
Nice to have

diapers- cloth

  • different styles- while the basic prefold is our workhorse diaper, it’s nice to have different styles.  We have some fitteds, a couple of pockets (LolliDoo’s eco pockets are great!), and an all-in-one.
  • cloth wipes, specifically for wiping up little bums, these are thicker than wash clothes.  Happy Heinys has some nice basic wipes you just throw in with your diaper laundry.

clothes

  • a few special pieces, just for the new baby, something I’ll save to give them for their children one day.
  • a couple of cute outfits they can poop on for you.
  • a few handmade/hand knitted/hand sewn items from me and other family member/friends.
  • extras of everything so I don’t have to do laundry as often.

Sleep

  • a special blanket designated as new for the baby, usually handmade.  My mom has a friend that loves to crochet blankets and so I pick out the yarn, my mom buys it, and this friend makes something beautiful with it.  I love this more than I can say.  It helps a lot too, everyone knows it’s the baby’s blanket, and it gives the new big sisters a way to help take care of the baby too.  Then, as the baby gets older, they love hearing about how it was made for them, why I picked the colors I did, and how it’s all their own.  These are treasures in our home.  But if you don’t have someone to make you a handmade blanket and won’t be making one yourself, I love these blankets from Sarah’s Silks and have quite a few friends whose children grow up loving their special soft blankets.  But since you don’t lay babies down with blankets anyway, these really aren’t for sleep in the first year, more like for cuddling to sleep.
  • cosleeper- we borrowed one of these from a friend with Squiggle Bug, loved it.  It was particularly nice when my hormones went crazy and I was having the night sweats.  We haven’t been able to budget for one since but it was really nice to have then.
  • I also think one of those moses basket stands would be nice to have though the cosleeper and the stand would be overkill.  Either one would be nice.
  • a variety of carriers.  Since I’m going to be wearing my baby more than I am anything else, it’s nice to have some options in carriers.  Like maybe something that will go with everything: a Girasol Rainbow wrap. (I might lust after that one.)

bath

Travel- leaving the house

  • diaper bag- something with lots of pockets and compartments and I really like to have a big one for longer outings with room for a carrier, and a small one for shorter outings.
  • stroller- I usually wear my babies, it’s true, but sometimes I like to put them in a stroller for various reasons (i.e. bra shopping while babywearing is a tad difficult) and sometimes it’s for nothing more than holding various paraphernalia including the diaper bag.  We’ve had the same stroller for ages, it’s falling apart so I’m hoping it makes it through one more baby before we trash it.  If not I’ll be checking out craigslist, thrift stores, and yard sales.

Play time

  • swing or bouncy seat- while we wear our babies most of the time, sometimes I have to set them down for my own sanity, shower, or just a change of pace for all of us.
  • play gym or activity bar- they can’t really do anything with it but throw down a blanket and put them on their back under that toy bar and I get enough time to cook up some bacon as they stare in wonder, particularly at the one with the mirror.  But my favorite thing?  How the older siblings get in on the action by talking to baby, jingling the toys dangling, and showing them how it all works.
  • a couple of natural wood rattles like this one, this one, this international breastfeeding symbol one, or the classic favorite Sofie.  These become heirlooms and fun to share.

Breastfeeding

  • as far as baby is concerned, nothing is nicer to have than boobies.

 

Luxury

diapers- cloth

  • some fun, fancy diapers in fun fancy prints or with embroidery.  There are so many brands out there, I just picked a few to try and bought the prints I liked.  We’ve had ours for years though and didn’t buy any for Sugarbaby this time.
  • pretty colors, super soft fabric, maybe even custom made… velour wipes are so pretty, clean up so well, and are quite the splurge.  Hazelbee Baby has a great selection in all the colors of the rainbow and then some.  Simply beautiful.

clothes

  • a line of clothing- picking a line from a company and getting a few pieces from that line.  I fell hard for some stuff from Zutano this time around and was so excited when it came up on Zulily.  Plus, this incredible company truly supports breastfeeding and has a breastfeeding/baby friendly work environment for the moms that work for them.  Beautiful clothes and an amazing company that supports a cause close to my heart?  Yes please!
  • special yarn that gets made into a special outfit.  Luxury for both me and baby plus it becomes a keepsake.
  • soft shoes- they don’t walk anywhere but they sure are cute!  Plus, they help keep those baby socks on that we’re losing otherwise.

sleep

  • I have long admired, though never been able to afford, a baby hammock like this one.  We cosleep but in a combination of room sharing and bed sharing and since we often still have company from our big kids in the middle of the night, I would love something like this for Sugarbaby.  This is definitely one of my luxury wish list items.
  • I’m big on blankets I’m noticing.  The last 3 of our babies (including Sugarbaby) have gotten a custom bamboo velour blanket from Zaichiki Baby.  We pick out the colors as a family and order them a toddler size blanket.  So they get the handmade crochet blanket and one bamboo blanket.  These become best sleeping buds as time goes by and let me tell you, the bamboo velour is divine.  This one is Smunchie’s and this one is Squiggle Bug’s.

bath

  • these and these– can you imagine?  We don’t have them but they sure seem nice!
  • hooded baby bathrobe/sack- someone gave us one of these when Earth Baby was born and I was surprised to discover I loved it.  Put her in it right out of the bath, zip it up, and snuggle!  One of the cutest things and it seemed to instantly calm her.  We’ve had it ever since, it’s a little worn looking these days.
  • Earth Mama Angel Baby Bundle of Suds and/or the Non-scents Head to Toe wash, and the Angel Baby Oil because baby massage is awesome.  I also really love all of Weleda’s baby products (and then some) and am so grateful we were given the Baby Starter Kit with an earlier baby and now a couple of Weleda products are on our wish list with our new babies.  (Pssst… they have a baby massage video on their site plus if you buy 2 baby products and use the code “BABYDOLL” at check out they’ll include a cute little free baby doll with your order!)
Travel- leaving the house
  • Ness Diaper Bag– because they’re gorgeous and incredibly well designed! (I want one, totally drooling over these bags.)
  • JuJu-Be Diaper Bag– because they’re fun!  This hip messenger style would probably be my pick.
  • I got to play with some luxury strollers at the ABC Expo this past fall and wow, I had no idea what I was missing.  Still way out of my price range but totally dreamy, I loved most of the ones I got to try.  Check out Phil and Teds, iCandy, and Bugaboo, if you’re in the market for a stroller that really does make your life easier.
Play time
  • Lambskin cuddle rug- I have wanted one of these for a long time and this past fall even figured out what brand I’d get if I could.  I love the short cut of the Lamby cuddle rug and this would be my choice to have to lay down for play times and sleepy time.  On my wishlist!
Breastfeeding
  • my boobs

 

As Sugarbaby is expected any day now I find myself checking to be sure everything is ready for having a new baby, even things I know won’t be used right away.  “Stuff” doesn’t make a home ready for a new baby but there is a lot of “stuff” that helps a family care for their new arrival including helping with the transition of adding a family member.  The tangible preparations can go a long way in helping with the mental and emotional preparations for a new baby.  Sugarbaby won’t be interested in playing with the new wood rattle waiting on the shelf in our room but every time I look at it I look forward a little bit more to my sweet babe being in my arms.  Coming up I’ll be sharing my lists for me and for the family because having a baby isn’t just about the baby, you have to take care of everyone.

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What does your list look like?  Basic, nice to have, and luxury, what would you put on your list of baby gear to have?

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