My favorite baby gear so far PART 1

In no particular order, here are things that I think are great. I wish someone could have told me this stuff before I (and others) spent a fortune on other stuff!

3 Marthas burp cloths. They are pricey. They are great. They wash up to be the softest thing ev. And, they're perfect for an outing, as they are particularly cute!

Huggies Diapers. I am a big fan. I was a Pampers girl until I started to notice my child kept getting diaper rashes. Those Pampers were not absorbing the way the Huggies do. So long Pampers.

Lansinoh breast pads. Obviously, no need to read it you aren't breastfeeding. But, if you are, there really is no better option here. I have tried Gerber and Medela brands and they are bulkier and crinklier. (And also not as easy to open up and stick in your bra.)

The swaddling blanket. Depending on when you have a 0-3 month old, you can get these in thin cotton or flannel! I had both. The key is to get really big ones so you can fold them up good and really swaddle tightly. (Especially if you have a wiggle worm like I do!) This was a true lifesaver for us for the first 3 months solid. Also, that video, "The Happiest Baby on the Block" is no joke. Check it out.

Recent pictures

After Maren's Baptism

David & his girlfriend, Elizabeth Anne

At Pawleys...the whole clan

El & Jeff on their cruise in Alaska

Updated pictures just for you, Rachel!

I took all these pictures last night.

Maren in her Christening gown

Maren's friends

Maren & Harlyn

Daniel & Maren

Sam at our house



These are all 2009 babies and all are April except Daniel! So cute!

Nana's Maren

I think Nana's got a new friend.

I am the only one awake in my house.

my little angel baby

I have had the least amount of sleep and they are the ones sleeping!! I'm about to hit the hay, though.

I've been feeling a little down the past few days, and ready for it to pass.

There have been so many changes in my life and my hormones, that it's not shocking I guess.

Some things I feel good about:

-my family...all of em.

-getting some sleep

-having a safe car

-living in a great neighborhood

-feeling comfortable in my church

Some things I am working on:

-living a more balanced life

-practicing patience and faith

-not cussing or drinking too much

-being nicer to O'Hara

Some things I am struggling with:

-finding balance

-figuring out how much "me time" is appropriate (if any) right now

-being away from Maren--even for short periods of time. (even though I think I want a break sometimes)

-friend relationships. I could go on and on about this one, but won't. It's been hard, though.

Next post will be happier!

Night, y'all!