When Good Monitors Go Bad

When I was first pregnant with M and registering for baby items, I was young and naive. I didn't have many close friends with babies, didn't follow any Mommy Blogs (or have my own yet) and didn't really do much research before I started clicking the "add to registry" button. It was out of this frustration of not knowing what I would really need for baby and myself once she arrived that this blog was born. I had asked all of those Mamas that I knew with babies (about 5 at the time) to fill out a 10 page questionnaire about everything from how many diapers you change on average to what kind of

DO NOT BUY THIS MONITOR!!!

nightlight do you have (or do you even have one)?

The majority of my friends recommended I register for a video baby monitor. Those that only had an audio wished they had the video, and those that had the video recommended nothing but Summer Infant brand. So of course I registered for a Summer Infant video monitor as I had to have what everyone else had. I didn't do any research, just clicked the "add to registry" button, received it from a very generous friend of my mother's at my shower and started using it the day we brought baby home.

That monitor lasted about 9 months. The battery began to not hold a charge, so we got a new battery. But then the screen stopped working. Instead of dealing with customer service, we did a little research this time and purchased a Lorex LW2003 video monitor, as it had pretty great reviews on Amazon.com, and had some interesting features - two way voice talk, ability to view 4 cameras at once, etc.. We liked it right from the start...

...until it broke about 8 months later. The screen went white and we were unable to see M, but we could still hear her. I searched on the Lorex website for a customer service number (not easy to find on their site at all) and gave them a call. 20 minutes later I was put in touch with someone who barely spoke English, and they told me they would email me something to fill out and send back. I never got the email. I called them again, and discovered they had my email wrong. I received the email, filled out the form....yada yada yada...after a week of back and forth I was approved for a refurbished monitor. That arrived in the mail 2 weeks later...

And it worked for about 7 months. This time the battery wouldn't hold a charge. We then purchased our third video monitor, another Lorex as we had already invested in multiple cameras for this LW2003. Fast forward to 6 months or so after this new one and it MOTHER EFFING BROKE AGAIN. So me, being the Maguyver of the household, took the receiver from the 2nd Lorex and used the battery from this latest one and re-linked the cameras and it worked like a charm...

...until today. This monitor is so poorly made on the inside that the USB-type port actually came loose and fell into the inside of the monitor (which is apparently a very common problem with this monitor I have since found out.

We loved this monitor, when it worked, but here we are 3 (and a half - if you count my rigged version) monitors later and we are shit out of luck. I actually did some research today and ended up purchasing a Motorola video monitor as it came highly recommended by Baby Gear Lab and a lot of friends on Facebook...so it must be good right?

We shall see...thanks to Amazon Prime and Local Express Delivery it will be on my doorstep in the morning.

Stay tuned for my review!

Bye Bye Babies R Us, Hello Buy Buy Baby!

Three years ago when I was registering for baby goodies during my pregnancy I had many friends from out of state tell me that I had to register at a store called Buy Buy Baby. I had never heard of such a place, as there weren't any locations in the Boston area. So I registered, like all my Boston friends, at Babies R Us (as well as Magic Beans, a local baby boutique.) Over the last few years Babies R Us has unfortunately been my go-to store (if it is something I need immediately, otherwise everything comes from Amazon) as there is always one conveniently close by.

I have never enjoyed shopping at Babies R Us- it has strictly been a convenience thing. If I had a Target closer by, I would go there instead, but I literally have a Babies R Us on the street behind my house (and Target doesn't have the selection that BRU has). The customer service at Babies R Us is sub-par at best. The place is usually a mess and terribly stocked. The products they sell are average baby products. Everything that you buy in a box looks like it has been used and returned before and just wrapped in tape. I will go there if I am desperate for diapers or something that I can't wait 24 hours for Amazon to deliver.

A few months back a Buy Buy Baby opened up 20 minutes away from my house, and yesterday I was finally able to get to it to check it out. Let me say right now, I will never go back to Babies R Us. I will happily drive the extra 20 minutes to Buy Buy Baby to purchase any and all baby related items (again that I can't wait 24 hours for via Amazon - can you tell I am obsessed with Amazon???).

The store was immaculately clean, and carries such a variety of brands for every item. I was shocked to see some high end brands (UppaBaby, Aden & Anais, Boon, Puj, Magnificent Baby, etc.) stocked in the store - and totally delighted. Their stroller department had almost every brand of stroller I have ever heard of - all available for you to try out on the spot. Every car seat, bouncer, bassinet, pack n' play, etc., is out for you to actually see put together, unlike BRU. The furniture department was pretty impressive as well. And the few employees that I interacted with were a total delight.

My only complaint was the lack of options in the bottle department. I think there were only 5 brands to choose from (Avent, Dr. Browns, Playtex, Born Free and one other) - none of those new bottles that actually look more like a boob than a traditional bottle nipple (as that was something I was actually looking for).

Other than that, it was a great shopping experience, and I highly recommend you all traveling to Braintree (exit 6 off 93S, right behind Pier 1 and Barnes & Nobles) to check it out! Oh and they have special parking not only for pregnant women, but women with children - about time!!

I Heart My NoseFrida

If only they made one of these for adults!!!

This is exactly how it works! Don't be scared!

What is the NoseFrida you ask? Well, it is literally a snot sucker. It is a plastic device with a pointed end that you place at the opening of baby's nostril, attached to a tube that you put in your mouth and suck on. And I wish I invented it.

I was skeptical when my sister-in-law gave me one of these and said it was the greatest invention for kids ever, but I was also pretty excited to use it. I am one of those people that gets a sick satisfaction at sitting in front of the mirror and picking at zits.  Don't judge...I know you do to!

Cut to Baby M having a cold these past few days and waking up with green snot running from her nose. I quickly got out the NoseFrida and started sucking. And I was amazed at what I was able to get out of her nose! She was fine for the next few hours after our initial sucking, and I only had to do it once again that day. The next morning it was harder to get things out, but I could tell that she was having trouble breathing out her nose. I squirted a puff of Saline up each nostril and waited a minute and then sucked out some fabulous green boogies again.

I am embarrassed to say I actually tried it on myself, as I am suffering from a cold along with Baby M. Of course, my husband walked in the room while I was doing it and was horrified. And no, it did not work.

I highly recommend everyone running out and getting one of these suckers. They are sold at most Whole Foods, and some Babies R Us. They are worth every penny, and not as intrusive as the nasal bulbs you get at the hospital.

Suck It NoseFrida!!

I Heart My UppaBaby Vista Stroller!!

Uppa Baby Vista '09 with Rumble Seat

Like all new moms, I struggled over the decision last year of what stroller to register for. Do I go for the most popular (Bugaboo)? Do I spend a small fortune (Orbit)? Do I go practical (Snap n Go)? Do I want versatility (can baby face front and back? Is the carseat adaptable?)? Do I want the stroller to grow with my baby (Rumble seat capability)? Do I want easy to fold (do I have to remove the carseat adapter or seat attachment)? Light weight? Jogger? Coolest looking? Best color choice? Will the handle extend so my freakishly tall husband won't have to hunch over to push it? My mind was blown.

And then I saw an episode of Martha Stewart that was all about the hottest Mama products. Featured on that episode was the new "it" stroller, the UppaBaby Vista '09. It had Martha's approval so I was definitely interested.

After doing some research, I discovered that it was actually manufactured in Rockland, MA, which meant it was made locally and for some reason that made me feel really good. I watched every instructional video that I could find online, read reviews, did research, and was still interested.

I then went to Magic Beans and "test drove" the '09 model. It was smooth ride indeed. I was given a very helpful demostration by an employee who showed me how to attach my Graco carseat, how to flip the seat around so baby can face both ways, the extended sunshade, the gigantic storage space below, and he finished with a quick flick of the wrist to fold it all up into one neat little package.

Does that come in green? SOLD!!

Baby M all Gansta in her Vista

And I have to say I couldn't be happier with my choice. I have used my Vista every day of my babies life. We take it on long walks every morning. I have flown all over the country with it in tow. She easily takes naps in it when need be. I wish they made one in adult size and I would ride around in one all day. Here are some reasons I really love it:

- I can go grocery shopping w/o pushing a cart around. I put all my groceries in the bottom of the stroller, and have plenty of room for a ton of things. I am talking like 5 giant shopping bags worth plus a diaper bag kind of space

- The extended sunshade has been our best friend this summer. Baby M can remain out of the sun for the entire walk with this feature

- Like I mentioned before, it has an extended handlebar, which I actually use as well in the extended position as it feels better on my back (not sure there is any science to this but it is just my opinion)

- You don't have to take the carseat adapter off the base of the stroller to fold it up, nor do you have to remove the seat.

- When baby #2 comes, we have the option of the rumble seat. See the photo above.

I just can't recommend it enough to new moms. If you are looking for a versatile, cool looking, smooth-riding, fancy pants (but not the fanciest pants) stroller, look no further. Register for an Uppa Baby Vista!! I like to say it is the Lexus RX of cars - luxurious, but not flashy.

Eating Peas in Style (Chicco Hook-On High Chair)

Last weekend we introduced our daughter to solid foods, and therefore were finally able to use the Chicco Hook-on High Chair I received for my shower back in October. A lot of things I registered for I wish I didn't (Fisher Price Zen Rocker, the Ergo carrier), and there are somethings I regret not registering for (the list is too long), but this high chair has been a truly pleasant surprise!

I originally registered for it while we were still living in our small condo in South Boston, where we didn't have any room for a normal sized high chair...or for the three of us and dog for that matter. We are now in a much larger house, so I toyed with the idea of getting an actual high chair, but figured I would give this one a go first.

It took my husband all of 30 seconds to assemble the chair and another 30 to hook and tighten it into place at the end of the table in the kitchen. It definitely gets the "easiest to assemble" award for any baby product we have purchased to date. I then snapped the tray table in place, dropped my daughter in and we were off and running.

Because it turns 360 degrees I was able to turn her about 45 degrees and pull my seat right up close to her face. She is still a little small for the seat, so I simple placed a burp cloth rolled up in between her legs so that she sits back and upright in the chair. I don't know whether it was the rice cereal of the comfort of the chair (or both) but she was happy as a clam.

We never had any luck with the Bumpo: every time we put her in it she whined and arched her back in attempt to get out of the torture chamber we call the Bumpo. We actually learned in one of our classes that the Bumpo is in fact not ergonomically correct for babies sitting position, and that it is pretty normal for a baby not to like sitting in one. But my peanut could sit in this high chair all day. If I have dishes to do, or laundry to fold, I just sit her in it and put some toys on the tray and she entertains herself easily. And if I am on the computer I put her in the chair and swivel it around 180 degrees so that she is facing me.

I love that we don't have this big bulky high chair that we would have to move all over the kitchen, and that doesn't get in the way. And the gray and yellow pucci-esque pattern is adorable too.

I highly recommend this product, not only to people looking to save space, but to every one out there!

Baby Monitors: Smile you're on candid camera!

After polling our 80+ members of our Facebook page, the consensus is that a video monitor is the way to go when registering. Although they will cost a significant amount more, they seem to be the favorite amongst the Mamas:

"Video is the way to go. You can see everything your little monkey is up to, and you can tell if they really need you in there, or if they are just rolling around in their sleep."

"Turns out, even though the baby's room is right next to ours, I love having it, especially when we're in another room watching t.v. or I'm cooking. It's great to take with you to people's houses, too, for dinner parties or visiting the Grandparents b/c it allows you to relax while enjoying some "adult time".

" When he was a newborn, it was especially helpful, because otherwise I would have been peeking into his room ALL the time!"

"It's nice when they're a little bigger and starting to pull themselves up so you can actually see what they are doing in there! Plus there's something comforting knowing that in the middle of the night I can look over and watch him sleeping on the monitor :)"

The favorite brand amongst the Mamas is the Summer Infant Day & Night Monitor.

What to Register for!

Here is a compiled list, made by us Mamas, of what we think every mom needs to register for (for more detail about each item, click on "Registry" on the right):

• Full-size stroller
• Umbrella stroller
• 2 Car Seats - both Infant and Toddler
• 2 Bundle Me's - one for winter, one for warm weather
• A Baby Carrier of your choice (Ergo or Bjorn, and/or sling)
• Pack n Play
• Diaper Bag
• Tub
• Activity Mat
• Bouncy Seat
• Exersaucer
• Swing
• BUMBO
• Bottles
• Breast Pump (you might be able to get this through insurance at hospital)
• High Chair
• Boppy (with multiple covers) and/or My Breast Friend
• Burp Cloths
• Bibs
• Diaper Genie
• Diapers, Creams and Wipes
• Crib, Crib Bedding
• Sleep Sheep
• Tiny Love Mobile
• Changing Table
• Glider/Rocker
• Sleep Sacks
• Swaddle Mes
• Monitor

Baby Clothes

Baby Clothes - When it comes to Baby Clothing, you don’t need to register for a whole lot, as this will be the first thing people will give you. If anything, register for some onesies for when they are newborns (with arms and legs).

Baby clothing stores we like are:

- Carters (you can find this brand at Babies R Us as well as JC Penny) – good quality at an affordable price

- Old Navy – cute, affordable stuff for the modern mom who wants her kids in big people clothes

- Baby Gap

- Osk Kosh B Gosh

- Gymboree – on sale only!

- Janie & Jack – for those very special occasions

- Tea Collection

Words of Wisdom:

- You will change your baby multiple times a day and you will let them wear the same thing for 3 days in a row because you will be too tired to deal!

- Make sure to keep the tags on everything over 6 months, in case later on you decide you want to return something.

- Wash all clothing before they wear it

- Get the newborn pajamas that have the little things that fold over the hands. This way they won't scratch themselves.

Sleep Wear

Sleep Sack - Because you aren’t supposed to use blankets in the crib, Sleep Sacks are a must. Register for both the fleece (for winter) and the cottons ones (for every other season).

Swaddle Me – These are also a must for the first 3 - 5 months of your babies life (that is if your baby likes being swaddled when sleeping). Like the Sleep Sack, register for both fleece and cotton styles.

Changing Table & Glider

Changing Table – Those of us that actually have changing tables have ones from Pottery Barn. Those of us that don’t simply placed a changing table pad on top of a dresser in the nursery. Whatever you do, remember to register for multiple changing pad covers as there will be pee and poo all over everything in the beginning!

Glider/Rocker - You will need a comfortable place for feedings, rocking to sleep, story and quiet time. And for the first few months it is sure to double as a “bed” for mom or dad at some point! Whether you use something you already have or purchase a new chair, it is nice to have a chair that actually moves (whether it be gliding or rocking) as your baby will be soothed by the motion. Some Mamas use their gliders all the time, while others use them more to throw dirty laundry on. These can run you up to $700 for a chair and ottoman set, so you might want to look into getting one second hand, because at this point you don’t know if you will use it or not.

Other – Other items you might want, but aren’t necessary, to have in the nursery are a dresser and bookshelves.

Accessories – Laundry basket, soft lighting, humidifier

Cribs & Crib Bedding

Cribs - You don’t need to spend a ton of money to get a decent crib. For anywhere from $199 - $399 you can get a good looking, good quality crib, that your little munchkin will be more than happy in. You don’t need anything huge and grandiose, as your baby won’t know the difference! Babies R Us has a nice selection, ranging from cheaper portable cribs to more fancy solid wood cribs. Remember to register for a crib mattress as they are sold separately. Here you don’t need to spend a ton of money either!

Bedding - There is such a wide range of crib bedding out there, we aren’t sure what to say here! You can get it basically anywhere baby items are sold, and can spend anywhere from $60 to $1000 on it. But again, will the baby really care if you buy the best, softest bedding available? We have had ours hand made by our moms, purchased from Pottery Barn, bought at Target and Babies R Us to name a few. The only items you really will need are a bumper and a fitted sheet.

Accessories – Sleep sheeps are a must! This soft adorable creature can be attached to the side of the crib, and plays soothing songs and sounds to lull your baby to sleep. We also like Tiny Love mobiles!

Diapers, etc.

Diapers - Pampers rule. They are what the hospital will give you, they are the softest, you can buy them in bulk at Costco…no brainer.

Diaper Cream – Triple Paste is the best!

Wipes – As far as what brand of wipes to buy, that will be up to your baby and you. Some of us like Huggies, others like Pampers. Some of us even buy generic brands, or whatever they have at Costco.

Wipes Warmers – This is an unnecessary registry item. Not only are they a fire hazard, they also dry out the wipes.

Diaper Disposal

The majority of us Mamas have a Diaper Genie. While you do need to buy special bags for this diaper-eating machine, you can easily find them at your local Target or Walmart. We find that this is the best brand for keeping the smell contained. Other brands we have tried are the Diaper Champ and the Diaper Décor, but we found them to be much smellier than the Diaper Genie.

Those Mama’s with little boys might want to get a pack of wash cloths to cover your little one’s unit while changing him, as they will be sure to pee on your almost every time they get changed – something about that fresh air on their junk that makes them go!

We also recommend picking up some Especially for Baby disposable bags. When you are on the go these are great to have (much like doggie poo bags) to put soiled diapers in to block the smells.

Burp Cloths & Bibs

Pretty burp cloths are nice to have, but make sure you have some crappy ones around for the real messes. Believe us when we say you won’t care what the cloth looks like that you use to wipe up your babies spit up! Some Mamas even use Target plain wash cloths, while other like the organic line from Gerber. You can even use cloth diapers as a burp cloth. Whatever you get, you will need a ton of them.

Like Burp Cloths, you will need a ton of bips. In the beginning you will want soft ones to clean up the spit –up and drool that is constantly coming out of your babies mouth. When they are older, you can use ones that are laminated or plastic. We like the Bumpkins and the Kiddopotamus brands for bibs.

Boppy/Breastfriend

The Boppy is a must have. You will use it for feedings and to prop the baby up. If you have multiple floors, it might be nice to have one for each floor, so register for two. And be sure to register for at least one cover as they get dirty very easily.

Most of our nursing Mama’s used My Breast Friend, a firmer pillow (as opposed to the Boppy), when breast feading. It straps around your mid section so you don’t need to use a hand to hold it in place.

High Chairs

You won’t need one of these for the first few months of your baby’s life, as you will be holding him/her in your arms for most feedings. It is a nice thing to register for, as it will be one of the more expensive items you purchase for junior. We don’t have a favorite brand when it comes to High Chairs, as there are so many on the market, and they are all so similar. Some of us have Chicco’s, Graco or Phil & Teds, while other apartment dwellers have the Fisher Price Space Saver (fits on top of a normal chair, and doubles as a travel chair). This is also an item that you could easily get second hand via Craig’s List, or a good friend!

Breast Pumps

All of our Mamas that breastfed swear by the Medela pump. It is the “gold standard milking machine.” No other pump will get you the milk that you need, like the Medela Style Advanced (a double pump). You might want to hold off on registering for a pump, as it might be covered by your insurance (you can find this out when you are at the hospital for the big day).

For handheld pumps, we recommend the Evenflo.

Bottles

Most babies are picky. It is better to buy a few bottles and try them out to see what your tot likes, than to buy a ton of one brand. For those babies that are colicky we recommend Dr. Brown’s, but with these bottles comes extra time spent cleaning the many parts. If you are breastfeeding you will need the ones that go with whatever pump you have. Other brands we like are Avent and Born Free. Remember to register for a bottle drying rack, and maybe a brush to clean the bottles and nipples.

Bumbo

This soft and squishy chair allows your baby to get the feel of what it is like to sit up, without any assistance from Mama. If your baby doesn’t like to sit still though, this might be kind of a waste. Be sure to get the tray that attaches to it if you do decide to register for it.

Swings

We refer to this as “the sleep machine” as it saved many a Mama from rocking their baby to sleep at times. You have many options here – you can get one that a carseat snaps into, one that moves side to side and can be turned to swing front to back, with music, with vibration, etc. Some say that this is a good place to spend a little extra money, as it will be a lifesaver. As for brands, Fisher Price or Graco are the way to go here.