What's In Your Diaper Bag? Celebrity Edition - Fictional Book Babies

We had so much fun a few months back imagining the contents of our favourite TV characters' diaper bags that we decided to keep our imaginations going with our favourite book characters this week. If these fictional babies had diaper bags - and really why wouldn't they? - (other than the fact that many of them aren't human) what would be the can't-leave home-without items? Since no one else is considering or writing about this issue, I guess we're the definitive guide. So! Hey favourite characters from our childhoods and beyond, what's in your diaper bag?

Baby's Name: Very Hungry Caterpillar

Most Important Thing in Your Diaper Bag? SNACKS! A growing baby caterpillar needs to eat a variety of nutritional snacks throughout the day to stay healthy and active, and this baby is hungrier than most. Keeping some berries and leafy greens in a Ziplock bag to pull out on a moments notice is crucial for a drama free day.

Baby's Name: (Unknown)

Basic Save: We try to save on anything we can. You never know what's going to end up broken or flushed down the toilet when you have an active little boy. If you're going to have to replace it more than once, why spend more than you have to? The dollar store is surprisingly good for the basics and it completely takes away the guilt of abandoning a mud covered bib in the park trash can. When we stop focusing on the stuff, we can focus on our unwavering love for our babies!

Baby's Name: Runaway Bunny

Essential Splurge: Definitely our safety harness. I was on the fence because of the controversy surrounding baby "leashes" but when you have an active toddler with a sense of adventure like mine, you need to take precautions. I may be willing to follow my baby to the top of a mountain to bring him back home safe, but sometimes a mama just needs to get to the bank before it closes.

Baby's Name: Kate Read

Best Preparedness Advice: Always carry a book or two in your diaper bag. You'd be surprised how often it'll come in handy. A longer than normal bus ride, an unforeseen wait at the grocery store, or even just a spur of the moment stop at the park on a beautiful day: it's always a good time to pull out a book and share a story together!

Baby's Name: Little Critter

Final Words of Wisdom: Children love adventure and new experiences, so swap out the contents of your diaper bag to suit that day's storyline. You'll need different things for a day with Grandpa then you will for a day at the beach with the whole family. While the basics stay the same, it's smart to pack the diaper bag with each excursion in mind.

Play Time: Favourite Tickles

We're big fans of reading here at WIYDB?, that's no secret. Whether it's a quiet bedtime story or a raucous afternoon story time complete with funny voices and call and response, reading is important to include into every day, where you can. But, there is more to pre-literacy than books. Songs, rhymes, bounces, tickles, and play all work together with books to prepare your child for reading and communicating throughout his or her life and, really, who doesn't like to play? We're introducing this new "Play Time" feature to the blog to give you tips, tricks, and hacks for the ultimate (but not expensive) play experience with your growing little one.

Why tickles? Simple tickle rhymes are a great way to bond with your baby using language and fun. The use of rhyming words builds phonological awareness while the movements help to connect words to actions and associate words to fun and love. It's great to add rhymes, songs, and tickles to a story time - to keep your child's attention and build different skills - but you don't have to set aside special time in your day to incorporate a tickle. Try a back tickle when you've sat your child up to button the back of her shirt, or do a tickle while you wait for the bottle to warm up (much needed distraction).

Below are some of my favourite tickles, illustrated and annotated so you can do them at home with your baby or toddler. Take a minute to try one out this afternoon!

Slice, Slice:

*If your baby can't sit up on his own yet, make sure you offer proper support as you do these tickle rhymes. Or, put him down on his stomach and alter the actions a little bit.

Criss-Cross Apple Sauce:


* Take cues from your baby. If she doesn't seem to be enjoying the tickle rhyme, don't force it. She may be fussy or gassy and just not feeling it right now. Try again later - after a nap for example - when she's in a better mood. If she still doesn't like it, just move on to another kind of play, like a bounce or a lifting song.

Slowly, Slowly:

*When possible, face your baby towards you while you play. It's a great bonding experience, and you can see that adorable happy, laughing face! Allow a toddler to do the rhyme on you for added fun.

'Round and 'Round the Garden:

Mommy Mental Health - Getting Around Without a Car

As I've mentioned before on this blog; my husband and I don't own a car. This is mainly because we don't have our licenses (yet!) but it's also a financial decision. Living in a big city like Toronto means that it is far cheaper - and sometimes easier - to take public transit instead of driving. I was never good at math, but by my logic when you add up the costs of gas, insurance, car payments, maintenance, and parking with the inconveniences of grid lock, finding a gas station, and finding parking in busy places - walking or taking transit makes more sense. (Not always, and not for people who live in smaller communities.) Even if you have a car or two, taking the bus may be the best option for certain activities.

I'm not blind to the downfalls of using public transit, especially as a mommy. It is definitely not all roses and sunshine taking the bus but now that the weather is nicer and I want to get out of the house more, transit is inevitable. Whether I'm taking trips to malls, mommy groups, or I walk too far and baby wants to go home NOW I have to take a bus or two. Lately, I've been asked a lot of questions by some intimidated mamas considering this transportation option, so I thought I'd share what I have learned so far.

Stroller vs. Baby Wearing.

How you choose to transport your baby is completely dependent on what you're planning on doing when you're out. While wearing your baby in a sling or Baby Bjorn may take up less space, it's not always the best option. Keep in mind that you may not be offered a seat on a busy bus (people are jerks sometimes) so you have to consider your own comfort zone for wearing your baby standing in a moving vehicle. More importantly, where are you going? If you're going out for a long time, you'll like the versatility of the stroller. Baby can sleep while you shop or socialize, plus you have storage for carting things around. If you're going to a play date at a friends house, or just to the grocery store to pick up a few items, baby wearing is a better choice. You can put your baby down when you get to your friends house, and you have more freedom to move around while you're out and about. Make sure to take your baby's weight and diaper bag needs into consideration before going out this way, though. Even a 20 minute walk can be difficult with a 35 pound baby on your back!

The Pros and Cons of Buses and Subways.

My husband ALWAYS chooses subway over bus - even if it requires him to go a little bit out of his way first. I can understand why: they are faster, bigger, and more reliable. (Plus, more likely to be temperature controlled!) However, as a mommy traveller, you have other things to consider and subway is definitely not always the best choice. Here in Toronto, subway station elevators are not as common as you'd think. Especially with a large travel system, stairs and escalators are not a viable option if you're travelling alone with a baby. It makes more sense to research all your route options and the weather forecast in advance and then make a decision. Are you willing to walk from a further subway station? Or, is it easier to take two buses to get there? One of my favourite parts about travelling by transit vs. car is that I don't have to constantly bring my baby out of the car seat and put her back in at every stop to shop or eat. With a bus, you stroll right on, and stroll back out and you're ready to go - no disruptions to a sleeping or fussy baby. 

Unexpected Events.

There are some things that might happen to you on public transit that definitely wouldn't in your own car. People are attracted to babies like magnets, so you will likely get asked about your baby, told stories, and in the worst case scenarios, people might try to touch your baby. Just be polite yet firm with strangers. It might be a good time to call your sister, or if baby is asleep, pull out an iPod.

One more dreaded possibility is that multiple strollers get on one bus. I've been on a bus with three other strollers! It's not the end of the world. If other riders are frustrated with you, that's their problem to deal with. You have every right to be on the bus with your stroller and baby. Communicate with the other mothers about which stop is yours, and be prepared to wheel off the bus and right back on to accommodate other strollers. The other mamas will understand - they're dealing with the same things.

Let's face it: when you're taking transit whether it be bus or subway or street car (baby wearing only on most street cars) you may have to take a longer, less direct route and you may have to walk a bit. Planning in advance saves you stress and time. Figure out when the bus runs, write down the transfer streets, and bring distraction toys for baby. I love the time to either talk and engage with my baby while en route, or if she's sleeping relax and unwind without having to be alert to traffic. If you're intimidated to take public transportation, try it for a short distance trip in the middle of a weekday when it will be less busy. I'm sure you'll find that it's not as hard as you think, and the pound of freedom to explore the city is worth the ounce of trouble. (I took three different buses in one trip to get to a mommy meet up on Monday!)

Do you have a bus travelling horror story? Or some good tips for travelling locally? Share below in the comments!

What's In Your Diaper Bag? - Sara and Riley

Having a young baby at home is hectic at the best of times, but today we feature a busy entrepreneur who takes a full schedule to a new level. As a hair dresser, artisan, and a full time mom, she has had to learn multi-tasking! She told us "I have a three year old and a 4 month old and let me tell you it is way more difficult with 2. I work from home and don't take mat leaves so while trying to take care of two children I also work. My clients love to hold Riley while they get their hair done. Thank goodness otherwise it would be crazy." Well, who could blame them with cheeks like those!

What's In Your Diaper Bag?

Name: Sara

Baby's Name (and age): Riley (4 months)

Image borrowed from Walmart.ca

Most Important Thing: Swaddle sac. Riley loves to be swaddled every time she goes to sleep. And this sac cuddles her up nice and tight.

If being snuggled up is your baby's style too, and mastering the art of a blanket is not your thing, there are lots of brands to choose from. Remember to look for the seasonal weight of the blanket (summer vs winter thickness), and consider a model that wraps in multiple ways for your growing and changing sleeper! We like gender neutral to function for multiple babies, but there are dozens of cute patterns to choose from!

Basic Save: Clothes. I haven't bought any for Riley. We are using hand me downs from Hayden

Essential Splurge: Diapers. Once she is 6 months old we have cloth diapers for her. But until then spending money on disposable ones.

Best Preparedness Advice: I tell my husband what I have in there and ask if I'm forgetting anything... He then says we aren't going to the moon so if we forget anything we can just buy it.

Involving your partner is a great idea! It's always best never to assume the other added more diapers or remembered to take the spit up covered pajamas out of there before your next outing!

Baby's Own Health - Boo Boos and Owies

Borrowed from http://alterforchildsafety.ca/

Whether your child is a master of the ball pit or still hanging around the play mat, accidents happen - a lot. While learning to walk, while petting an anti-social cat, or just over eagerly playing with your toy horses.  If you're my son anyways... It can be tough. Part of you wants to run yelling to the scene, scoop your child up dramatically and smother them with cure-all kisses. Yet, part of you is saying to wait it out, see how bad it is. It's all part of learning independence! Growing a thicker skin! It's definitely harder on mommy than on baby sometimes. As I learn to calm my own inner panic attack, here are some tips for coping with your little klutz.

The best place to start is always with an ounce of prevention. A local initiative funded by several southern-Ontario health units, in association with the University of Guelph, suggest that parents "ALTER for Child Safety."

Activities - Change what you are doing or what your child is doing.

Location - Move to where you can better see your child or bring your child to where you are.

Timing - Ask yourself "Do I need to be doing this now?"

Environment - Make changes around your home that can prevent a fall.

Resources - Ask for help and use what you have learned.

Let's be honest; you can't keep your eyes on your child for 100% of every day, but a huge number of minor injuries can be prevented using these strategies. Your supervision can only do so much, so set your home up for success. Install baby gates on stairs, and have a secure spot for baby to wait for you when nature calls. Have anti-tamper plugs for electrical sockets and locks for cupboards with chemicals. It's a real juggling act sometimes, but don't let household guilt override quality time. Let the laundry and the dishes pile up every once and a while to focus on play. Small, largely common sense changes make for a huge difference in protecting your child from your space, and vice versa!

When the inevitable bumps or scratches happen, focus on the lesson as well as the bodily damage. It might not be their fault, but they might be able learn something about why they got hurt. This might mean calm instruction as to why the activity they did was dangerous, for example, even if they don't fully understand. Kids are very eager to please, and far more receptive to conversation than they might lead you to believe. Talking over what happened becomes part of the healing process, and can distract from the initial shock of what happened.

It's an emotional thing to get hurt, and that's not something to be ignored either. They are exploring their environment and learning skills about which they have no experience. When something unexpected happens, there is frustration, sadness, disappointment, and maybe even anxiety to try again. Consider bringing a little fun in to the healing process with a toy that ices while it cuddles! They are easy to make and super cute (not to mention seasonal)! 

It's called a Boo Boo Bunny, and it takes under 10 minutes and 10 items to make one! You can find instructions here, but there's are lots of cute animal variations to make your child's perfect healing companion!

Take a deep breath, and know that these things happen. What they need more than anything is a big hug from you, and encouragement to try again. There is no better medicine in the world than the love of your mom.

Mommy Musing - Going Back to Work

Four months postpartum, I was so ready to go back to work it was ridiculous. At home I felt a little lost, very lonely, and without a benchmark to go by, like I was failing completely at motherhood. It's not that I wanted to be away from my son, I just felt that in his best interest, he should be with someone who was better at entertaining him and tending to his needs. In short, a better mom. The thing about that is - even on my worst days - I'm the only mom he has, and I'm the best person for the job.

The anxiety started to lessen for me around six months when his emotions were more readable from his reactions, and his routine was a little more established. It still took work; like commiserating about the hard stuff with other moms, and having something to get dressed and be out of the house for. Fresh air, even when it's very cold, is great to wake up your senses. Things still happened to make me worry and doubt, but it didn't get me down in the same way as it did early on. His smiles and laugher reassured me that he was happy.

Almost eleven months in now, watching him dance, learn to walk, eat "table" food... it's amazing. He's developing the most amazing personality right in front of my eyes, and I don't want to miss a minute. Now that I'm coping, and some days even thriving as a stay-at-home mom, I have to go back to work. The stress and the anxiety is creeping back, but this time it's about leaving. Will I remember how to do my job? Will I miss something important? After spending almost a year learning how to have a routine without employment, can I go back? Will I be able to develop that work-life balance?

I have never dealt well with major change. It's just like that first September with no school, or seeing your ex when you feel you have finally moved on. You feel at the edge of something new, and you sense a lack of control. I firmly believe that everything happens for a reason, and I have been very fortunate that every end in my life has brought me somewhere better, so I had to think of the up sides, and it isn't that hard to find at least a few.

Staying at home is like working double shifts every single day. You spend no less than 12 hours a day together, not to mention those night time visits. So, now that I will be spending one of those shifts away, I will have the opportunity to miss my son a little. I know this will help me to appreciate our time together more, and give me even more reasons to take cute pictures to keep at my desk.  The structure that comes with an actual work day (and a lunch break!) are going to be helpful in the long run.

For anyone getting near this big shift for the first time, like I am, take a deep breath. It's not going to be easy, but you can do it. I'm scared, but determined not to be too hard on myself. If you need a double shot to get started in the morning, or don't fit in to your old work wardrobe, that's life. A lot of things are going to be different now, and that's OK. Motherhood is the best kind of insanity there is, and we're in it together.

What's In Your Diaper Bag? - Hope and Allison

On Parenthood

"...not what you ever expect it to be. It's terrifying and wonderful all at the same time"

Often in life, we make friends with people because of situations we're in, such as school or a job. Since circumstances change, you often lose touch with individuals who at one time you considered very close. This is one of those people. From sleep overs to school dances, Hope and I drifted apart in our twenties. Now (ahem) a little older, and toting diaper bags rather than back packs, we've reconnected. We can talk about life as moms with our kiddies in tow while our crazy husbands play hockey. Unlike Hope with a whole gaggle (and by that I mean three kids), I only have to worry about what my one son needs! I had to find out how this busy mom of two active boys and a growing daughter packed her main accessory now that Bonnie Bell lip balms and pencil cases are a thing of the past!

What's In Your Diaper Bag?

Name: Hope

Baby's Name (and age): Allison (nearly 1), but also Keith (6) and Ethan (3.5)

Most Important Thing:

Extra clothes, toys and snacks

Basic Save:

I pack a couple of newspaper bags for dirty diapers, make sure I have snacks and juice or water for the older kiddies and extra clothes for all.

Super smart! Much like Stephanie's savvy swap of dollar store diaper or doggie bags, newspaper bags are perfectly sized, free, and delivered right to your door!

Image borrowed from ebay.ca

Essential Splurge:

We don't really splurge on anything, if we have extra money and the kids have been good then we reward them with eating out or a small toy (ie hockey cards are a favourite in this house).

Best Preparedness Advice:

Pack the night before, then you aren't running around before you leave and forgetting anything.


Final Words of Wisdom:

Always double check your diaper supply, I have gone out of the house with only one diaper for a whole day. Not fun to realize you don't have any more in the middle of a diaper change!

Mommy Money Matters: Swings, Exersaucers, and Large Entertainers

My mom laughs at me for certain comments I made when pregnant. No matter how much experience you have with kids, there are just some things you can't know until you have your own.  For example, having started my family later than some, I had already filled my house with stuff and asserted staunchly that I would not have an explosion of technicolor baby paraphernalia crowding my space. Well... let's just say, it's inevitable. Your child needs toys to engage them, stimulate them, and occasionally just offer you a break! There is a limit though, for your wallet and room in your house. With so much stuff out there in cute coordinated patterns and sky-high prices, what do you actually need? The truth is, not as much as you think. Any toy you accumulate is soon out grown and gets relegated to some already crowded corner of your garage or basement until the next one comes along (or garage sale season).

With local spring mom swaps around the corner, we're doing a detailed breakdown of 5 big ticket baby items found in most playrooms and even living rooms at one point or another. Decide for yourself on what you should splurge, seek in seconds (see our tips here), or skip altogether!

Swing and/or Bouncer Seat

age: Birth to approx. 6 months
purpose: to calm the baby and secure them in a safe place for when mom is occupied for a short period.
cost: anywhere from $25 to several hundred dollars depending on features and brand name.

Although the swing was a fantastic addition to my home, I didn't pay for mine. I borrowed from my cousin whose son had just out grown it. Unlike my son, hers couldn't stand the thing, and it was in perfect condition. That is to say, it could end up being an extremely expensive blanket rack, or the mommy essential of the age. Bouncer seats are a little smaller and lower tech. They usually have a small mobile and a vibration function for a similar calming effect. If you have a smaller space, or a smaller budget, and you really want to buy new, a bouncer might be a fantastic option. They serve a similar function (a secure place to put baby if you need to fix lunch or run to the toilet), but a bouncer is much easier to move from room to room if your baby needs you in constant sight. If you have your heart set on that swing, and you can't borrow, you might consider buying used. These pieces are very short lived in your baby's life, and as such, remain in excellent shape for multiple children. In order to closely examine it before purchase, and maybe have a small guarantee, a place like Once Upon A Child is a fantastic middle ground between big box store and Kijiji. 

Exersaucer and/or Jolly Jumper

age: Approx. 4 to 10 months (from when the baby can support its own head, until they out grow it physically, or grow bored of it).
purpose: to exercise the baby physically as well as mentally.
cost: between $25 and $250 depending on complexity.

Both of these products engage and exercise your baby, helping them to work out some of that energy safely and in one spot, so you really only need one or the other. The Jolly Jumper is pictured above. It's basically a bouncing harness traditionally clamped to a door frame, but also offered with a stand for new homes that don't have the framing. That's certainly something to consider before buying one. Because of the potential to interact more freely with pets and siblings, this option really requires more of your attention. With a stable floor base, large tray surround, and plenty of toys and songs, I feel a lot safer grabbing a coffee or checking my emails with an exersaucer. Space is a factor, however, and you might not have it. This plastic monolith does take up a big chunk of my family room. These items see a lot of use, and can be damaged from child to child, but again, a second hand item will save you approximately 80%.

Playpen

age: Birth to approx. 24 months (depending on child's size and physical strength).
purpose: to provide a safe temporary play or sleep environment.
cost: $80 - $250 depending on portability and bassinet/ change table features.

This a very functional piece of baby equipment. It can double as a bassinet or place to nap at grandma's. It's a contained play space for when you need to vacuum or (heavens forbid) use the washroom. I can't think of much in the way of negatives, other than the huge amount of floor space they take up, and the ridiculous prices they try to charge for one. Prior to buying one, I was under the impression that a $50 gift card would be more than enough for the cost of a raised box covered in mesh. Not so. That said, this is a piece that will get dirty. Food, bodily fluids, dirt from transport or outdoor use... For me, this is where my ick factor kicks in. If you plan to buy used, make sure it's opened, not stored in a handy carrying case. Make sure it is not torn, stained, and that it is structurally sound. This is serious business. Check out what the government of Canada recommends for playpen safety.

Floor Seat (ie toddler rocker, bumbo, etc)

age: Approx. 4 months to 3 years.
purpose: to provide a secure seated position for eating or playing.
cost: $25 - $ 100

Much like the bouncer for very small babies, the advantages of a floor seat include the stability, safe restraint, and entertainment of your little one if you are occupied for a short time. The difference is more in the conversion possibilities of the various models. Some have food and play trays, others potty additions, while others recline or rock. A select few also function as boosters that can attach to kitchen chairs, but be very certain this is the case with your seat before you try. The majority are not meant to be elevated. Consider what function you need to fill before buying a seat on hype alone. If you already own an exercauser and a high chair, you may not need one at all, unless it is to fill these uses at Grandma's house. If the fabric is detachable to machine wash, or if the item is largely plastic, this is a prime item to look for used.

Walk & Ride Toys

age: Approx. 8 - 12 months to 24 months
purpose: to provide encouragement and stability for new walkers.
cost: $20 - 50

I don't think I understood the purpose of this toy, until I watched 18 babies compete for the elusive 2 walkers in a local community play group. It is certainly a sense of pride and confidence they have as they parade in wide circles, occasionally running in to obstacles. The ride on feature also prepares your little one for the tricycle stage by strengthening their legs and accustoming them to the propelled motion. These toys do require some open space, so if your living room is small and you don't have an alternative, this might be more of an outdoor plaything. That, and the fact that they can be used well into their "terrible twos" might mean that the toy has been used roughly. The inexpensive new price tag might merit getting new (on sale if you can), but used is also possible if you're also going to use it outside. A little scratched paint won't impact the use, so it's up to your comfort level.

Kids will be kids, and things are not exactly going to be used delicately, but budget trimming is worth keeping a few more tips in mind. If you are planning on having multiple kids, keep in mind how you will store some of these items. Basement and garage storage will mean fabric should be easily washed and plastic should be able to be scrubbed. There are entire Pinterest boards dedicated to tricks involving toothbrushes and Oxyclean to keep your items sparkling. Even if you're not, the nicer your item weathers, the higher resale you an see for your own mommy table or Kijiji ad. 

How do you protect your baby items? Tell us on Facebook!

Mommy Musing - Top 6 Reasons I Didn't Go To A Mommy Group This Week

Ah, the mommy group. The opportunity to get out of the house to commiserate and celebrate with other mothers. They are a much needed respite from the every day isolation of maternity leave where women can bond, and at the same time they are cesspools full of baby germs and rivalry. I attend my share of events in my neighbourhood to meet people and get out of the house and I've found it a very rewarding experience, but it's not something I can do too much of. So, here are the top 6 reasons I didn't go to a mommy group this week. (Or, last week, or whichever week I chose to abstain.)

6. I Couldn't Get It Together

This is not a newsflash: some days are a lot harder than others. So, if we didn't sleep all night because of a growth spurt or teething or if I've just finished cleaning up the third poo-splosion of the day, I'm not going to get out of the house. Some days the kitchen gets cleaned during nap time, the groceries get picked up on the way home from an extra long play date, and dinner is a new recipe I found in a magazine. The majority of my days look nothing like that, however. Most days, success means the baby is playing quietly on her play mat (finally!) while I get to pee for the first time in 5 hours. I try to shower every day but it doesn't always happen. The last thing on my mind when we're in between meltdowns is which drop-ins are happening that afternoon. Getting out of the house, meeting new people, exposing my baby to new faces, and learning new skills or songs are all important to me, but sometimes I just cannot get it together enough to add a mommy group to the mix.

5. I Couldn't Get There.

We are a zero car family. Neither my husband nor I have our driver's licences, but even if we did, we would not be able to afford multiple cars. (Or even one car, right now, probably.) So, when mommy events happen across the city or somewhere with limited transit service, we simply can't go. I've met some amazingly nice mothers who offer to drive baby and me to different meet-ups, but that isn't always an ideal solution. If my daughter gets especially fussy, or I have something to do right after the event, I am not free to leave on my own. This pressure flows onto the mom kind enough to drive me, as she tries to feel out whether I am ready to go or not when she's done socializing. When it comes to going anywhere with an infant, you need the freedom to be able to pack up and leave at a moment's notice, because, honestly: sometimes baby just isn't feelin' it.

4. I Couldn't Afford It.

Putting aside for a moment all those amazing mommy resources in the city that cost an arm and a leg to access (baby yoga, stroller-cise, art classes, etc) and the programs that require membership fees just to get in the same room with other moms - being in a mommy group can get really expensive. A warm weather walk ends at a fancy café for a pricey coffee drink and baked goods. Lunch dates are hosted at up-scale sushi places or fancy restaurants instead of tuna sandwiches at someone's house. I know mom's are looking to get out of the house, (and also wanting to take advantage of the perks of weekday afternoons at different businesses) but my husband and I cannot afford for me to go gallivanting about town, spending upwards of $50 a day just to be social. Man, do I ever wish I could reap some of the benefits of these classes and clubs, though.

3. I Couldn't Make the Timing Work.

What is it with the people who plan programming for mothers and babies? The library story time is from 10:00-11:30 and my closest Ontario Early Years 0-6 month baby group is 1:00-3:00 (otherwise known as nap times). With all of the recommendations of getting your baby on a sleep schedule and "consistency is key" messaging, why do the programmes that are tailor made for babies fall right in the sweet spot of sleeping times? I understand that there will be issues with any time slot, as mommies everywhere rush to get a baby dressed, changed, and fed before going out (to minimize the chances of a meltdown), but I feel like certain times are more universally selected for nap times than others. As my baby gets older, she is less likely to sleep just anywhere, so I have to be strategic in which events I attend to lessen the impact on her precious sleep times. (Because, I really NEED those sleep times!)

2. I Couldn't Compete.

Personal sleep doulas. Lactation support technicians. Nannies. Swim lessons directly following pre-ballet class? I can't compete with other mothers (I don't think I got directions to the starting line) and some days I just can't listen to women talk about how their babies are doing everything sooner and better and with way more professional support than my own baby is. There are definitely resources I would take advantage of if I had more money, and I feel that exact same surge of pride when my baby does something a bit sooner than the experts say to expect it, but I really resent the attitude that if you aren't doing this or haven't purchased that, then you're not doing it right. A lot of my discomfort stems from my own insecurity, I know. I read into things and see gauntlets being thrown down where none were, but there is definitely a spirit of competition ripe in mommy groups and I do not feel like playing that game.

And, the number one reason I didn't make it to a mommy group this week...

1. I Just Didn't Feel Like It.

Just as a zebra can't change his stripes, a homebody, introvert will not change into a social butterfly when a baby comes. I like to stay at home. I like to go on long walks just me and baby pointing out the new and different sights. I like reading a book while my baby takes a much needed nap. Some days I am taken aback by how isolated and lonely I feel at home alone with a 4 month old but most days, I just don't feel like getting out there and making small talk. This isn't because I dislike people (I have met some wonderful mothers and babies so far) and it isn't laziness. I just feel stress and pressure when I'm surrounded by people and I prefer to be alone a lot of the time. I do know how important it is to expose my daughter to other babies and new experiences, so I make sure to get out there at least once a week. But, more often than not, you'll find us walking around our neighbourhood singing songs or cuddling at home with a book, and that suits us just fine.

What's In Your Diaper Bag? Celebrity Edition - Mila Kunis and Wyatt

Borrowed from www.dailymail.co.uk

Having a celebrity baby is big business. One picture of the child of famous hotties Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher was the shot of a lifetime for hungry photographers, but they were very secretive, not even revealing the child's name or gender for a lengthy period after the birth. For private people, they have been quite open with how they are raising their daughter together. Hands-on dad Ashton in particular has been very vocal regarding equality for parents. He has even Tweeted about the lack of change tables in men's rooms! For gender equality purposes, maybe we should be asking him...

What's In Your Diaper Bag?

Name: Mila Kunis (That 70's Show, Ted, Black Swan)

Baby's Name (and age): Wyatt (5 Months)

Most Important Thing in Your Diaper Bag: Diapers! A classic, but when you read about this pair, it comes up again and again. Wyatt is mostly breastfed, so early on Ashton took over most of the diapering duties! No wonder he laments the lack of change tables! Mila also mentioned to Ellen that he's a "Master Swaddler," so I'm sure a few wraps and blankets figure in there too!

Basic Save: Clothing! Born well over 9lbs, Wyatt is growing really quickly. On Ellen "Newborn never happened," Mila said. "Newborn diapers never happened. And newborn clothes never happened. Zero to three. She's 4 months old and wears six-month clothing — six to nine. She's a big girl, ya'll." No point in buying Channel when she'll outgrow it in a couple of weeks.

Essential Splurge: Though not strictly in the diaper bag, US Magazine reported about the deluxe baby nursery the pair readied in their $10 Million Californian abode. She even started to limit guests to the home pre-baby in order to prepare.

Borrowed from

hollywoodlife.com

Best Preparedness Advice: Despite her celebrity status, Mila is not getting a nanny. She's enjoying the process, sleep deprivation and all, knowing every stage is fleeting. She explained it to Ellen like this:

"Here's the thing: when I go back to work full time and have to have 17-hour workdays, I'm gonna need somebody to come and help me, because I can't do both. But because I'm in a very specific place in my life where I could take time off, I did. And I don't think that everybody has that privilege. I think that people nowadays have to go back to work right away, and I didn't, so I took advantage of it. Like, I love the fact that the first three months she and I were up every night. And I figured her out and she figured me out and she now sleeps in her own crib in her own room, and I will never have that time again, so for me it was a really nice three months."

They seem to be a very sweet and down to earth couple, and we can't wait see this beautiful baby grow up!  Want to take part in a diaper bag profile? Click here to take our online survey!

Mommy Money Matters: The FAQs of Mom Swap Shopping

At WIYDB, we love a bargain, so you'll often read about how we've pinched our pennies on everything from diapers to toys and beyond. One of the ways we do that is by establishing when an item can be bought second hand (see our article here). If an item is large and plastic, or otherwise easily washed, I'm always willing to have a look and see if the price is right. A fantastic place to do that is at a local mom swap - a sale at a community venue, usually hosted by a mom group or a charity, as a fundraiser. Often when I talk about ones I've been to, or plan to attend, I get asked a lot of the same questions. Here are some of them, and hopefully some helpful answers to encourage you to have a browse.

How often are swaps held?

Since it's a community event, you can find one just about anywhere at any time. In your own community, however, they are predictably held approximately 2-3 times a year. Your best bet is spring and fall.

Where can I find one?

If you are already a part of a mom group such as Ontario Early Years, Momstown, or Yummy Mommy, they can usually point you in the right direction. Other good places to look for ads are parenthood charities (like our friends at Beginnings Family Services), churches, and the community events listings in your local newspaper.

What can I buy there?

It depends on what the individual moms have hanging around! Good bets are; clothing, sleepwear, large play centres, strollers, books, and toys. You can sometimes find; furniture, high chairs, maternity clothes, breastfeeding supplies, and a whole lot more. It's helpful to come with a list and look for your essentials first, so that you don't get distracted by the wide array of goods!


Can I haggle?

Sometimes... Often sales are set up as individual tables with the mom/owner of the stuff right there. This is a prime opportunity to ask questions and haggle, but might be a little more awkward to really examine the feet of each pajama set, etc. Other sales are set up in a more consignment store style, with items tagged to credit the mommy, but she's not standing right there. This is better for scrutiny, but makes asking for a price reduction a little harder. Not impossible though. The owner might be taking cash at the end and can be asked, or the representative on the floor might have been given some wiggle room. Bottom line? ASK!

What if I don't like what I bought?

This is the tricky part. If you buy something battery operated and it doesn't work, or bought a onesie with a great big stain, you're pretty much stuck with it. If you're still within the sale, you might be able to go back and explain - people are reasonable - but if you're already home, that's that. The thing is, the prices are so much lower than store prices, it's generally worth the risk. That toy might be fun, even without the bells and whistles, for $5. And that $1 onesie? You can try some stain remover, or just throw it out and call it a $1 lesson in checking better next time.

Have some more questions about how to score a great bargain? Have a story about an amazing mom swap find? We want to hear about it! Comment below or message us on Facebook!

DIY - Nursery Artwork

Back in September, we did a Mommy Money Matters post about decorating a nursery on a budget (see it here) by planning ahead, concentrating on must-haves, starting early,  and  making the most impact with pieces that offer function and style. The nursery space has an important emotional appeal when preparing for a baby, but it can be difficult to justify certain expenses above and beyond the essential furniture and fabrics.

Wall colour is the first big decision, but once you've painted, you may feel overwhelmed by the empty vertical space. Large, bare walls can make a room feel incomplete. You’ll most likely be spending a lot of time in the nursery for multiple daily dressings, feedings, and diaper changes, so consider adding some artwork to the walls to set a relaxing or fun tone to the room. It’ll be nice to have something to look at from the rocking chair at 3am while baby eats (or cries).

Artwork is a non-essential, though, isn't it? Prefabricated art - whether stretched canvas, poster, framed print, or other - can be expensive and the bigger the scale the bigger the price tag. I suggest making your own nursery artwork. You get the the double bonus of saving money and having a one of a kind space. Here are some suggestions for adding those finishing touches without going into debt. (As a bonus, you don't even need to be particularly crafty to pull these off!)

Fabric
If you want to make a big visual impact it logically follows that you need to hang something big. Including one large piece can really anchor a room, but they can easily cost you hundreds of dollars to buy. An inexpensive alternative, that still packs the same visual punch, is to stretch a bold printed fabric over a canvas. Fabric is sold by the yard, so the price will vary based on which pattern/material you choose, and how big you decide to go. Something like this, this, this, or this, would look really sharp on a nursery wall, for a fraction of the cost of a large print or canvas.

Book Illustrations
You can pick up a beautifully illustrated classic or modern children's book for under $10 at a used book store and select three or four of your favourite images to put in frames from the dollar store or Walmart. You'll easily find artwork to complement any theme, and to set any tone from peaceful to silly. Try a modern space or underwater theme, or go for a classic Beatrix Potter or Winnie the Pooh theme.

Scrapbook paper
Just like fabric, scrapbook paper comes in an abundance of patterns and textures and you can pick up multiple 12x12 sheets for cheap. Michael's often has 3 for a dollar sales, and they have a selection of colours to choose from. I used two different kinds of scrapbook paper, and six $2 frames from the dollar store to  spell my daughter's name above her crib. Cheap (under $20) and easy! You can use it in other ways, too, though. Buy a stencil of your choice and paint it in the centre of a sheet of scrapbook paper, or frame and hang a bold print on it's own.

Adding the finishing touches to complete the nursery doesn't have to put you over budget. If you have a little extra money, a little time, and a little bit of vision, you can have a nursery you'll be itching to show off. (If you can keep it clean once baby comes!)