Helpful hints and tips from a mom of a 4-month-old

Of all the people I know that are expecting or recently delivered, Vivian (at 4 months) is the oldest baby. Between us, Chris and I know 10 mommies/daddies/babies. Good grief. I've NEVER known this many people to have kids. The economy goes to poo and everyone has a baby. Can you say baby boom?

Vivian's 4 month appointment at the peds went well yesterday. She's now 24" tall (50th percentile) and 13 lbs 2 oz (50th percentile). Dr. Adams said she looks great and is thriving. She did well with her shots too. Only got a bit fussy later in the day, so we gave her a very, very small drop of Children's Tylenol.

I thought I would put together a list of things we found we did/didn't need. We've been selling/consigning stuff like crazy recently because either we aren't using the items or Vivian didn't really like them. Of course, I must add my disclaimer: every child is different.

The Infant Bath Tub - In my opinion, it's a total death trap. We tried it twice. It did not go well, so we've been co-bathing (mommy gets into the tub with Vivian) ever since. I have far better control over the baby and she doesn't freeze since she's sitting in the water. She loves it. No more screaming and it's a great bonding time. If she pees, poos, spits-up, no worries. I just shower after! :)

The Changing Table - It's great for the first month. After that, it's much easier to put the baby on the floor. At some point, your baby will become a bit mobile. If you need to grab something, having the baby on the floor is a far better option than not being able to leave her on the changing table.

The Swing - Vivian used it for a few weeks. Considering we paid $130 for the thing and then sold it a couple of months later for $40, it wasn't worth it.

The Travel System - Unless you have a mini-van or Escalade or something, don't get one. The stroller takes up the entire trunk of our BMW, which makes it very hard to pack anything else. Honestly, we're considering getting a Maclaren which can be used up to 55 lbs and is good for your kid over 3 months. They're a bit spendy, but it lasts a long, long time.

Fancy Crib Sheets - Three Words: Late Night Blowout. Get two Ultimate Crib Sheets and you'll be set! They are waterproof and attach directly to the mattress.:)

Consignment Sales - I cannot speak highly enough of these sales. When your kid pukes, poops, pees, and whatever other fluid comes out of him or her, you'll be grateful you only paid a couple of bucks for the outfit.

Cloth diapers - Get a couple of packs. They absorb all sorts of things -- including spit-up and poo.


That's all I can think of for now. It's time to go check-in on a little one! :)