Denver is Here

I can't believe that one week ago, we became a family.  Denver Jude joined us on January 8...just as mommy and daddy both predicted he would.  This week has been an incredible learning experience.  As new parents, you really have no idea what to expect.  There is no instruction manual or how-to guide that can prepare you for the changes and experiences that come with a newborn.

One of the hardest things was preparing for this little man, when I had no idea what I would need.  Here's a few must-haves that helped us get through the first days with our bundle.

 Snugabunny

This swing is incredible!  We thought he might be too young to use a swing, but it put him right to sleep when he was tired, and let him sit with mommy and daddy when he was awake.  Any swing is probably great, but what I love about this swing is that it rocks in three different directions, and it plugs into the wall so no batteries!

Dr. Brown's Bottles & Bottle Warmer

We weren't sure what kind of bottles to choose.  That is by far the most intimidating aisle at Babies R' Us.  You have no way of knowing which nipple your little one is going to like.  A friend let us try a Dr. Brown bottle and we had instant success!  I think Denver appreciates the  little vent system that prevents air bubbles.  I appreciate the convenience of the bottle warmer!  I didn't think I needed the extravagant warmer and figured I would use the microwave or stove top, but there is no denying that this handy contraption is one of the best purchases we made.  I throw a bottle in, hit the button, change Denver's diaper, and it is just the right temperature in just the right amount of time!

Cloth Diapers

We use these for everything...except diapers.  They make great burp cloths, eye boogy grabbers, spit up catchers, and just about any other strange baby ooze getter you can think of.

Medela Nipple Shields

For some reason, the lactation consultant at the hospital let me struggle tirelessly all day and night to get little Denver to latch on and breast feed.  This was impossible, then frustrating, then a little depressing.  Then, she told me that she had a little trick up her sleeve...a nipple shield.  Why couldn't we start with this?!  It basically turns you into a bottle so your little one will latch on a little more easily.  Genius. 

 

Cute Socks

Just because they're so darn cute.

Amazing Husband/Daddy

Someone who will wake up with you in the middle of the night.  Someone who will help you with the laundry, dishes, and dinner.  Someone who will cheer you on when you wonder if you will be a good mommy.  Someone who will change diapers when you can't get out of bed.  Someone who will sing to the baby when he thinks nobody can hear him on the other end of the monitor.  Someone who will love that baby just as much a you do.