Month: July 2024

We spent about month solid prepping for the arrival of our little one; the amount of information out there is overwhelming. One list we looked at had over 70 items on it; just for packing the hospital bag –for mom; that didn’t even account for what we should bring for baby. Websites and books present a ton of great information but a lot of it contradicts each other. We found it really tough to figure out the essentials. I have learned a great deal this month.

1. Baby Diapers and Wipes

Sign up with Huggies and Pampers and they will send you free samples and coupons. Newborns use about 12 diapers day and you only needs them for a few weeks. Size 1 diapers, which take you to about 4 months; expect to use 10 diapers day. And invest in the diaper genie!

2. Baby Clothing Essentials

Dress your baby in soft, breathable fabrics that provide warmth and flexibility. Essentials include onesies, sleepers, socks, and hats suitable for different weather conditions. Look for clothing that is easy to put on and take off, especially during those frequent diaper changes. Don’t over buy; I found that the newborn outfits were too small and he didn’t wear them long; 0-3 months will suffice just time.

3. Baby Feeding Gear

For breastfeeding moms, nursing bras, breast pumps, and nursing pillows offer comfort and convenience. Bottles, nipples, formula (if needed), and sterilizers are must-haves for bottle-feeding parents. Don’t forget burp cloths and bibs to keep messes at bay.

4. Baby Gear for Transportation

I went bougie with the car seat; I loved the Cybex one that swiveled. I loved the side impact technology that no other seats had. Definitely, look online first then go into the store and spend the time with an associate and have them go through EVERYTHING with you. Practice with it. You can mix and match seats and strollers; you just need to purchase adapters (very reasonably priced). Opt for lightweight and easy to fold strollers with larger wheels.

5. Nursery Items

Create a cozy and safe haven for your baby with nursery essentials. A crib or bassinet with a firm mattress and fitted sheets provides a comfortable sleep environment. Swaddles or sleep sacks can help your baby feel secure during sleep. A changing table. Babies don’t need as much as we are led to believe.

6. Baby Bathing and Grooming Supplies

Keep your baby clean and fresh with gentle bath products suited for delicate skin. A baby bathtub or bath seat ensures safety during bath time. Soft towels, washcloths, and baby-safe toiletries complete your bathing routine. Nail clippers or files designed for infants help keep tiny nails trim and tidy.

7. Baby Health and Safety Products

Invest in a baby monitor allows you to keep an eye on your little one while they sleep; although they haven’t been shown to decrease SIDS; the peace of mind it creates was something I needed.. Thermometers for checking temperature, nasal aspirators for clearing nasal passages, and baby-safe first aid kits are essential for handling minor illnesses and emergencies.

8. Baby Toys and Developmental Tools

Engage your baby’s senses and encourage development with age-appropriate toys. Soft rattles, teething toys, and colorful books stimulate curiosity and learning. Consider baby gyms or activity centers that promote motor skills and exploration as your baby grows.

Embrace the Sun: A Guide to Thriving as Women in the Summer

School is done, summer is here. It is time to slow down and enjoy what this season has to offer. It is the perfect time to experience adventures and relax and recuperate. There are several suggestions I have to make the most of this time; before it runs out… because let’s face it… September will be here before we know it.

1. Celebrate Your Skin

I think it is important to ditch the make-up; we slather it on everyday in our work life. Summer is the opportunity to go back to our natural state. All you need is sunscreen and refreshing moisturizers! It’s also a perfect time to schedule that “treat yourself” spa pampering.

2. Fashion with Flair

Gone are the business casual outfit and replacing them are comfortable lightweight dresses, shorts and comfortable sandals. Summer is also a season of COLOUR and playfulness in terms of clothing.

3. Indulge in Seasonal Delights

Summer is my favourite “food season.” The number of fruits and refreshing drinks that are in season are staggering. What better way to enjoy them, is by having a picnic with your besties.

4. Nurture Your Mind and Body

The way I relax is to reset and go back to the intentional routines I had set earlier in the year but unfortunately abandoned, with the excuse of “I’m just too busy.” Summer is not only the season of laid back fashion and incredible food it is also the season of self-care. Reading, yoga and gardening are the top three ways that I nuture my mind and soul.

5. Explore the Great Outdoors

Summer gives me more of a chance to get outside; winters are long and rough here; and the winter blues can be severe. Summer allows me to go for walks and go fishing and camping with loved ones. It also allows me greater flexibility to see friends and go on adventures in the city or go on quick day trips.

6. Connect and Celebrate Sisterhood

Summer is the season of get-togethers. True, meaningful connection is crucial in our overly technologically connected world. Chances to participate in BBQs, potlucks, picnic and spending time on the many patios of hip restaurants abound. it is important to renew your friendships and share laughs.

7. Reflect and Renew

We often reflect at New Years, but we should and can do this more often. It is shocking how little we check in with ourselves (and others). Summer presents a really good opportunity to check in with ourselves; you can do this at the start, at the end or both. You can reflect on how your year has been to this point, what you want your summer to look like, how your summer has been and how you want to move forward into fall.

In conclusion, make the most of summer in a way that meets your needs; but make sure to stop and smell the roses.