Getting Ready for Baby

Hard to believe, but in two weeks’ time I will be a mother of two and I am now in the throes of getting ready for baby. With this being the second time around, I am a slightly more discerning consumer of baby goods than I was two years ago when every baby gadget seemed to scream “YOU NEED ME.” However, that this forthcoming arrival is a girl has thrown a whole new dilemma my way: resisting all those incredible pink outfits! Be that as it may, here I have my current list of must-haves with a few frivolities (read: great gift ideas) thrown in for good measure.

Getting Buggy with it
Inline Vibe by Phil & Teds: RRP $740
www.philandteds.com

If there is a buggy out there that you might consider calling “sexy,” this is the one.
Phil & Teds inline buggies have received great acclaim for their innovative inline functionality, and now the Vibe model lends the brand a super-stylish flair. The key to success behind Phil & Teds’ buggies is their unique double kit. The add-on attaches to the front or back of your buggy, allowing two children (aged newborn to four-years-old) to ride ‘in line’ with one another. For self-professed klutz’s such as myself, this is a huge selling point as the double buggy is barely larger than a single. What’s more, the buggy is easy to assemble and easy to keep clean thanks to wipe-down fabrics. I can’t wait to get this piece of kit out on the roads!

Carrier
M1 by Lascal: RRP $129
http://www.lascal.se/

There’s nothing like feeling your newborn baby against your body. Lascal’s new M1 carrier offers a secure and perfect fit for newborns whilst being strong enough to support an older toddler (up to 30lbs). What’s more, the carrier is made from a super soft, naturally antibacterial Bamboo fabric, which helps prevent irritation.

A beautiful nursery
Custom bedding: Accessories starting at $24, Sets starting at $490
www.monarch-creations.com

There is something so wonderful about putting together the room that will soon be inhabited by your newborn—picking out colour schemes, fabrics and themes. Of course, you want to make it as special as possible. Tracy at Monarch Creations makes the most beautiful handmade crib bedding and nursery accessories you could imagine. From ethereal toiles to funkier polk-a-dots, there is something for everyone’s taste and Tracy is more than happy to work with the individual customer. The accessories, including toy bags and diaper stackers, make beautiful baby gifts, too.

Hi-Tech
SoundSleep for Babies: RRP $24.95
www.soundscience.us

This is, apparently, the “most accurate womb simulation CD on the market” that gets babies into a deep sleep within minutes. The soundtrack was tested over several years in homes, daycares and hospital NICUs and all reports and testimonials confirmed this CDs ability to make a remarkable difference in an infant’s sleep help. Perhaps it is just weird science, but count me in if it means I get some sleep!

Layette
Totitude: RRP $30-60
www.totitude.com

Frills and dresses might be nice to look at but they can’t be comfortable for a newborn to loll around in. However, with all these guests coming by to check out your new addition, you want to make sure she dazzles. I am currently smitten with Totitude’s collection of infant and children’s loungewear—the onesies and tank-top sets bejewelled with your favourite children’s characters are nothing short of adorable, whilst being funky to boot. What’s more, owner Terri Schneiderman, will gladly accommodate custom orders for baby/ sibling gifts, such as the pink bodysuit Asher will be giving his new little sister upon her arrival, which proudly claims her as “Asher’s Little Sis.” For enquiries, email tcasler1@aol.com.

Diaper Bag
Skip*Hop Duo Deluxe: RRP $54
www.skiphop.com

This is one of the best diaper bags on the market. With it’s many pockets and compartments, the Skip Hop Duo helps to keep even the most dishevelled amongst us organised. The bag’s Shuttle Clips give the bag great versatility—allowing it to either attach to the handlebars of your stroller, or convert into a trend-conscious shoulder bag. What’s more, there is enough room in here for two children’s worth of product!

Memory Maker
Ticche & Bea Baby Clothes Quilt Kit: RRP $35
www.ticcheandbea.com

This is currently one of my favourite baby gifts for the parents who have everything! The baby quilt kit provides the ideal way to preserve some of the treasured pieces from your baby’s first-year closet. The kit contains everything you will need to make the quilt—minus your child’s clothing, of course—minky fabric for alternating squares, batting, a quilt back, safety pins, straight pins, a cutting template and easy-to-follow directions. What’s more, if you don’ have the inclination to sew this quilt yourself, simply send the kit back with your squares of baby clothes and for an additional $30 someone will sew the quilt for you.

Clean Air
Vicks GermFree Humidifier
www.vicks.com

This warm-mist humidifier kills up to 99.999% of germs, mould and bacteria in the water, which generates a healing mist for the stuffy moments you and yours will inevitably succumb to. I plugged this in upon the first signs of Asher’s recent runny nose and within 24 hours the cold was gone. No drugs required.













Until next time,
Hannah xo