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Leaf and Steel

motherhood - growth - living

My Favorite Baby Items and My Biggest Regrets

June 27, 2022

I finally have a list of my favorite baby items! Now that I have a toddler I feel like I know what to buy for the next kid. I was tempted to make this list earlier, but I now feel that I have the perspective to really evaluate what I loved, hated, and didn’t need!

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.

My Top Baby Item Recommendations

If the item has an asterisk (*) it means we are still using it at 19 months!

Baby Monitor*

I love our monitor. I didn’t want one that synced to my phone or measured her oxygen levels or whatever. I knew before I had her that I would need to rest when I was away from her, and that those kinds of monitors would lead to me over-monitoring her.

We went with the Motorola monitor and it’s amazing! My favorite part is that you can turn the screen and volume off but there are little colored lights at the top that turn on when there’s sound in the nursery. We can also talk to Baby M through it.

It has a pretty nice range, so I can bring it outside with me in the morning while I’m playing with the dog.

Aden & Anais Muslin Blankets*

As a former preschool teacher, I’ve had my eye on these for awhile. My students would use them for nap time and their parents would confirm that they had gotten them as babies. Anything that’s usable for years and softer with every wash is a bargain, in my opinion.

I have dozens of muslin blankets from them, and it’s one of the few items that I’m glad I over-purchased. We use them for everything!

Pottery Barn Circle Mat*

Did you know babies can learn just from watching you? We put Baby M down on this mat from a few days old and let us watch us. It’s a nice alternative to a swing, which can inhibit gross motor development with high levels of use.

Gerber Cloth Diapers*

We didn’t use these as cloth diapers, but as do-it-all rags. They worked as emergency wash cloths, burp rags, high chair cleaners, etc. They retain a lot of moisture!

Jellycat Stuffed Animals*

Ugh, I love Jellycats! They are the softest stuffies ever. We have the raccoon, owl, bunny, and puppy. Baby M just adores them.

Chicco LullaGo Bassinet

I am so glad I went with this bassinet and not one that is right on the side of the bed. Baby M was a loud sleeper, even as a newborn. Like, you can’t imagine something so tiny is so loud. I was able to put her at the end of the bed and get (some) rest.

The Runaway Bunny*

This is my absolute favorite baby book. I read it before I was even pregnant and I cried. It’s an American classic! You can also view my (hopefully future) The Runaway Bunny Inspired Nursery here.

Baby Jogger*

My mom got this for my husband as a gift and we’ve fallen in love with it. It’s like a mountain bike. If you keep reading you’ll see that my baby didn’t tolerate wraps, so we ended up carrying her pretty much everywhere. She loves this stroller and we love that she loves it 🙂

Baby Bjorn Bouncer

This one is pricey, but worth it. We added this to our registry because we knew we wanted multiple kids and would pass it on to someone who really needs it after. I love the simple, ergonomic design. Baby M really started to enjoy it once she learned how to kick to make herself bounce!

Fisher-Price Calming Vibes Hedgehog Sooth*

We got this as a gift and it’s just the sweetest little toy. It vibrates and plays lullabies. It’s also super soft.

Sleep Sack*

Who invented these things? They’re genius. I can’t remember when we stopped swaddling, but these were the next step. Now, even with a toddler, I don’t have to worry about my angel getting tangled in blankets or being cold. Burt’s Bees has lasted through puke, poop, and many, many washes.

Antilop High Chair*

This is the best high chair. Ever. It is all plastic, so it’s a breeze to clean. It’s under 8lb. It’s sleek, simple, and stylish. I don’t know why anyone would even consider another high chair.

Mushie Bibs*

I love the Mushie bibs. They’re held their shape over time and are so easy to rinse off. I put a command strip on the back of our high chair so I can hang the bibs while they drip dry!

My Regrets

UppaBaby Stroller and Car Seat

This car seat was so dang heavy. And it didn’t last too long before Baby M grew out of it. The stroller is nice, but it really doesn’t come with much. No cup holder, no front pocket, no tray for the little one to have a snack.

Now, we really only use our baby jogger, as it’s just as smooth and has great carriage space.

Little Unicorn Crib Sheets

I love these crib sheets, but they haven’t stood the test of time. They are too shrunken now. I probably didn’t wash them correctly, but what parent wants to read the tag and do a separate load of laundry? No thanks! Our Burt’s Bees sheets have washed beautifully.

Munchkin Step Diaper Pail

Call me crazy, but was this ever necessary? We started putting our diapers in a little bag outside of the front door and take it out every night. I feel like this pail didn’t really do much. You have to buy the inserts, and it takes up space.

It has a baking soda scent sanitizing thing-a-ma-jig attachment at the top, but the room still smelled like a dirty diaper. I had to put the whole pail outside in the sun for days to get it to stop smelling. It’s definitely not on my list for baby #2.

Things I Bought Way Too Much Of

Poop Bags

I bought those disposable diaper bags like they were going out of style. Now I used them for the dog and the cat litter. I think I’ve used maybe 5 in total so far. Most people are find with us sticking a dirty diaper in their trash or there has been a garbage can around.

Flimsy Bibs

You know those terrycloth-like bibs? I have dozens. I don’t know what I was thinking. We have a few of the Mushie bibs and that’s all we use! My baby wasn’t a drooler, so I think that made a difference.

Wraps/Carriers

I loved my Solly Baby wrap. And my ErgoBaby Wrap. And our ErgoBaby carrier. My baby hated all three. She couldn’t stand being contained past week one!

Diaper Creams

So, modern day diapers are so effective at holding liquid that there is less of a need for diaper cream/baby powder than there was in earlier generations. We are still on our first jar of Aquaphor.

Nipple Butter

Again, I don’t know why I bought 5 when I only used it once!

Nursing Pads

I loved using reusable nursing pads, but I didn’t need them for long. I also didn’t need the 100 or so nursing pads that I bought. I don’t know why I thought I was going to be walking around like a geyser all day.

Gerber White Onesies

These bad boys stain so easily. I received so many (I registered for so many), and I wouldn’t buy them again. Not only are they easily stained, but the fit didn’t seem to last as long as other cotton onesies.

Baby Socks

So. Many. Socks. Now we have so many partner-less socks. My kid hated them. I really only needed 1-2 pairs.


What are your favorite baby items? Your least favorite?

Do you love or hate anything on this list?

Let me know below!

O.

More from Leaf and Steel:
  • How to Take Care of Your Baby When You’re Sick
  • Little Things I Do To Make my Baby Feel Loved
  • My Baby Knows What She Needs
  • How to Keep Your Toddler Cool in the Summer
  • Gift Guide for the Tired Mama in Your Life
  • The Runaway Bunny Inspired Nursery

If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

Filed in: Favorite Things, Uncategorized • by Olivia • 2 Comments

Breastfeeding Essentials

June 22, 2022

You might have heard that all you need to breastfeed is well…breasts. And that’s true!

However, there are a lot of things that can make breastfeeding more comfortable and convenient.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.

I was able to breastfeed my baby for 13 months and I couldn’t be more proud of myself!

It required a great deal of luck, stamina, and determination. There were so many days where I wanted to quit.

You’ll see below that there are pumps on this list. Prior to having my daughter, I was given a Spectra pump and Haakaa. I never thought I would use them – but once I needed them, I was so grateful that I had them on hand.

I eventually started pumping during naptime and freezing the milk to build a freezer stash. It is NOT necessary to have one, but it made me more comfortable to have one.

My husband was able to give our baby a bottle of milk so that I could have a break. It sounds counterintuitive, but if I didn’t pump that one bottle every day and get that break, I probably would’ve quit breastfeeding. It gave me a small dose of freedom and time so that I could fill my own cup.

So, keep reading to see what’s on my list of breastfeeding essentials.

A High Quality Lip Balm

An Insulated Water Bottle

Power/Protein Bars

Nursing Tanks

Nursing Bras

A Boppy

A Stylish Boppy Cover

Muslin Cloths

Disposable Nursing Pads

Reusable Nursing Pads

Nipple Butter

Breast Ice Packs

The Haakaa

A Spectra Pump

Spectra Pump Parts (make sure to measure before purchasing)

Breastmilk Storage Bags

The last thing I’ll add is this book on nursing. Friends and the internet were my main sources of help when it came to breastfeeding, but The Nursing Mother’s Companion had a lot of great tips in book form!

Be sure to check out my post on my experience with breastfeeding here!


Did you use any of these while breastfeeding?

Is there anything you would add to this list?

Let me know below!

O.


More from Leaf and Steel:
  • How to Take Care of Your Baby When You’re Sick
  • Little Things I Do To Make my Baby Feel Loved
  • My Baby Knows What She Needs
  • How to Keep Your Toddler Cool in the Summer
  • Gift Guide for the Tired Mama in Your Life

If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

Filed in: Uncategorized • by Olivia • Leave a Comment

The Runaway Bunny Inspired Nursery

June 21, 2022

Mark my words: my next nursery will be The Runaway Bunny themed.

It’s my favorite children’s book and it’s iconic imagery is absolutely inspiring. I collected items for my dream nursery below – now all I need is the baby 🙂

To be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of heavily themed nurseries (or themed weddings, parties, etc). I love simple motifs and little details. That’s why this inspo board isn’t loaded with bunnies; it’s a subtle interpretation.

I wanted to include different textures and colors inspired by the book. It’s a little bit whimsical, a little bit grandmillenial. It would be perfect for a little boy or a little girl!

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.


Did you do a theme for your child’s nursery?

Have you read The Runaway Bunny?

Let me know below!

O.

More from Leaf and Steel:
  • How to Take Care of Your Baby When You’re Sick
  • Little Things I Do To Make my Baby Feel Loved
  • My Baby Knows What She Needs
  • How to Keep Your Toddler Cool in the Summer
  • Gift Guide for the Tired Mama in Your Life

If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

Filed in: Favorite Things, Uncategorized • by Olivia • 3 Comments

How to Keep Your Toddler Cool in the Summer

June 21, 2022

Summer is here and things are starting to heat up! I’ve amassed some easy ways to keep your baby or toddler cool in the summer.

Here on Long Island, the temperatures can easily reach the high 90’s in June. On top of the stifling humidity, it can get pretty dang hot!

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Some of the links in the post are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.

I’m always careful to make sure my toddler doesn’t get too hot. Some days, you just need to stay inside to protect yourself. However, we do try to get out as much as possible. There’s nothing quite like fresh air and sunshine!

Stay Inside During Peak Hours

Some days, it’s much to hot to stay out from 10-3pm, so we usually save our outdoor activities or errands ’til the end of the day.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

This is basic first aid that should be in your repertoire. Make sure to know the signs!

Water, Water, and More Water

Always keep your baby and toddler hydrated! Whether that’s with water or breastmilk or both. We also love the Pedialyte hydrating ice pops on days when it’s super hot.

Try an Ice Cream Maker or Make Your Own Ice Pops

This nostalgic ice cream maker is sure to keep your little ones entertained and cool. I still remember using one in my childhood.

These ice pop makers are perfect for frozen treats.

Did you know you can also make breast milk popsicles?

This one is another quick ice cream maker.

Use a Stroller Fan

A stroller fan is a registry must-have. It’s small enough to throw at the bottom of the stroller when you don’t need it.

This one is super cute! It is re-chargable via a USB port.

Invest in a car seat cooler.

Who ever invented these is a genius! Simply freeze it and place it in the car seat or stroller for a few minutes before letting your little one sit. If it’s really hot I give my little one frozen teethers to hold onto while the car cools down.

Get the Sprinkler Out

Running through the sprinkler is a childhood classic. It seems only kids can tolerate the freezing cold hose water. My toddler also loves playing in her kiddie pool for as long as I’ll let her!

Always Carry Ice Packs

You can use old teething rings, your own coolers ice packs, or these fun ones for kids.

They are great to use in transition from activity to activity, or just as an extra way to keep cool!


Are you looking forward to summer? What do you to do help your kids beat the heat?

How do you keep cool?

Let me know below!

O.

More from Leaf and Steel:
  • How to Take Care of Your Baby When You’re Sick
  • Little Things I Do To Make my Baby Feel Loved
  • My Baby Knows What She Needs
  • Turning Off the TV
  • Gift Guide for the Tired Mama in Your Life

If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

Filed in: Favorite Things, Uncategorized • by Olivia • 4 Comments

Gift Guide for the Tired Mama in Your Life

April 27, 2022

Mother’s Day is just around the corner! I’ve gathered some of the most sought-after and special gifts to celebrate. These would also make excellent baby shower gifts, as well as amazing sip-and-see gifts! Hey, they’d even be easy new-mom presents.

If you’re a mom or have spent more than four minutes around a mom then you know that we are perpetually tired. Always. It does not matter if the baby slept through the night or not. it doesn’t matter how much sleep we get. There’s just something about mothering that is infallibly exhausting.

I didn’t realize what a currency sleep was until I had a child. There’s an endless list of things I would trade for a solid 8 hours of sleep. Sleep is everything.

These days, my little one is usually sleeping through the night. But, I still have to deal with my own revenge bedtime procrastination, the mental load, and my own hobbies and needs.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission, at no cost to you.

I’ve gathered a few of the best Mother’s Day gifts for the tired mom in your life!

10 Quotes about Motherhood

Ice Roller Face Massager

This one is my personal favorite. It felt so good on my face after being up all night with my baby. It’s never too cold and the large size makes it quick and easy to glide across the entire face as often as you need. – $17.99 from Walmart

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Ultra Lite Long Robe

Ah yes, the obligatory Mother’s Day robe suggestion. There’s a reason you’ll always see robes on Mother’s Day gift guides: they’re practical, they’re comfortable, and they always fit.

This one from Barefoot Dreams is incredibly soft, lightweight, and machine washable. – $148 from Nordstrom

Vegan 24K Gold Eye Patches

A great way to restore tired eyes! These patches improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Store them in the fridge for extra relief. They can be used before bed or in the morning. Pair with the ice roller above for a refreshed and relaxed face. – $29.38 on Walmart

Stanley 24 oz Insulated Mug (in the color Blush)

This Stanley insulated mug has a cult following for a reason! “The double-wall insulation keeps your favorite beverage cold for up to 12 hours or iced for up to 40 hours. Unlike normal mugs, this is manufactured using 18/8 stainless steel, meaning it can take a beating.” The bottle is BPA free and has a wide mouth. – $19.82 from Walmart

CozyChic Throw Blanket from Barefoot Dreams

This ultra soft Barefoot Dreams blanket is nothing but dreamy. It’ll be easy for the tired mama in your life to sleep when the baby sleeps with this darling blanket. We share everything with our kids – a luxurious, mama-only blanket is a special treat for a tired mom. 54″x72″ and machine washable. – $147 from Nordstrom

Aromascape Asleep (Lavender & Eucalyptus) 3 Wick Scented Candle

A wonderful way to relax on Mother’s Day is with calming scents and warm light. This 3 wick lavender and eucalyptus candle is sure to help everyone wind down at the end of a long day. Pair with the pajamas below for the start of a relaxing bedtime routine. – $11.99 from Walmart

Essenza Mini Pure White Bundle from Nespresso

The most compact and affordable luxury espresso maker yet! This small Nespresso machine fits onto any counter and is sure to delight any coffee lover. Pair with a mom themed mug and premium coffee! – $219 from Nespresso

SKIMS Rib Pajamas (shown in Heather Gray)

Every mom needs a set of remarkably comfortable pajamas. SKIMS pajamas are high-rise with the perfect amount of stretch. I love the button down front and simple silhouette. They have so many fun colors to chose from! – $118 from Nordstrom

HATCH Rest Mini Sound Machine

Now, hear me out: I know sound machines are usually for the baby – but did you know they can help adults too? This Mother’s Day, let mom sleep in without the chaos on the other side of her bedroom door sounding through…It comes with eight different sounds: white noise, heartbeat, water, dryer, ocean, wind, rain, and birds. Control it all from your iPhone or Android. You can control the timer, dimer, sounds, volume, etc. – $40 from Saks Fifth Avenue


Are you celebrated on Mother’s Day?

Are you a tired mom who would love to receive something on this list?

Let me know below!

O.

More from Leaf and Steel:
  • Life with My 8-Week-Old Vizsla Puppy
  • How to Take Care of Your Baby When You’re Sick
  • Little Things I Do To Make my Baby Feel Loved
  • My Baby Knows What She Needs
  • How I Get Over Writer’s Block

If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

Filed in: Uncategorized • by Olivia • 8 Comments

Vintage Style Easter Decor

March 19, 2022

Here are some vintage and vintage-style Easter decor items to use this year! Bunnies are a super cute way to bring playfulness and nature into your home.

Easter is right around the corner! What better way to decorate than with these adorable vintage style decor items!

Links in this post are LTK affiliate links. This means that I may make a small commission off of products that are purchased through these links, at no cost to you.

Do you decorate with bunnies? Or decorate for spring? Is your style more vintage or contemporary?

Do you celebrate Easter?

Let me know below!

O.

More from Leaf and Steel:
  • Easter Traditions to Start with Your Baby or Toddler
  • The Best Farm Books for Babies
  • Sunday Night Routine for a Successful Week
  • The Best Easter Books for Babies
  • The Best Spring Books for Babies

If you are interested in guest posting on Leaf and Steel, please check out our Guest Post page for guidelines!

Filed in: Uncategorized • by Olivia • 1 Comment

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