12 Lifesavers!

Since we are nearing Reese's first birthday, I thought I would give you a list of 12 things that I couldn't have made it through this year without.  These are in no order, it's just how I remembered things.

1.  Miracle Blanket. 

I believe we've talked about the "miracle-ness" of this blanket.  But for real, if you have a baby that likes to be swaddled...this is worth the money.

2.  Duck Bathtub

This bathtub {Munchkin product} was perfect for Peanut when she was at the "in-between" stage and had outgrown the infant bathtub, but was too small for the huge bathtub.

3.  Boppy pillow

This was a lifesaver in the early days.  Whether you actually feed a baby on this or prop them up with it, it really is a much needed baby item!

4. Bumbo seat

This was great for when Reese couldn't quite sit up on her own, but had good head control.  Of course, don't leave your baby unattended when sitting in one!

5. Tiny Diner Placemat

This has been an awesome {Kiddopatomus product} item to have when we go out to eat.  We can put her food down on this and don't have to worry about her chewing on the table or eating off the table!

6. Video Monitor

This is kind of like a cell phone, in that you wonder what people did before video monitors!!  I love being able to see what Reese is doing and if she is crying out because she is actually awake or just dreaming.

7. Zip up footie sleepers

These are not easy to find.  I'm not sure why.  So, when you find them, snatch them up!  Buttons are annoying, esp. when they get old enough to wiggle around.  Such a quick change just to zip right on up!

8.  Snack Catcher

Another great Munchkin product.  These are perfect for when they are able to feed themselves cheerios or puffs.  There is also a place on the bottom to write their name.  A must-have when in the car!

9. Musical table

Sorry this is so small!  We have the Fisher Price musical table and it is perfect when babies are practicing standing and pulling up.  The fact that it plays music is great for Reese!

10. Puffs

Seriously, I'm not sure what I would do without Puffs.  They are an amazing "learning to eat" food and help develop hand-to-mouth coordination.

11. Push toy

We have this Fisher Price walker and love it!  It does work better on carpet, esp. before babies can walk really well.  Of course, Reese loves the music on this little walker!

12.  Random things you already own.

Yes, it's fun to go out and buy bright, shiny new toys, but I'll be honest, some of the most entertaining moments come from objects such as these:

Solo cups

and these:

Spatulas.

Also included {but not limited to}: coasters, keys, anything plastic, cell phones, remotes, containers, dishwashers, etc.

So.  In conclusion, don't think that you have to go spend a bunch of money to make your baby happy.  They will inevitably toss aside the $15 rattle and head straight to the nearest solo cup.

{Of course, she did enjoy the above-mentioned items, which we did spend money on.  So, that makes me feel a little better.}