New Mom, New Year Essentials Made Easy With BabbleBoxx
Although I’ve mentioned it on some of my social media platforms, I haven’t written too much on the blog yet about our new baby on the way! (Surprise if you’re just finding out now!) Little boy #4 will be joining our family in early March, so we’re in the homestretch now! Although this baby isn’t my first rodeo (so to speak), it’s been a few years since we prepared for a newborn around here. Must-haves and new mom essentials are always changing, so I’ve busy researching, learning, and stocking up on all we’ll need. Keep reading to check out some of my favorite new mom essentials for the new year!
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com
NEW MOM ESSENTIALS FOR THE NEW YEAR
Peace Of Mind
I know, a post about new babies really doesn’t need to get too heavy. And I promise, I don’t want to drag any of you down. But we’ve got to talk about something a little serious, because, let’s face it- starting a family can be serious stuff. No one wants to think about it, but the truth is, now is the perfect time to start researching life insurance. Hear me out, here. I know, you’re feeling young, and pretty healthy right now, and thinking the need for life insurance is years away. But the benefit of purchasing now is that it’s easier to obtain coverage, and rates are lower when you’re young and healthy.
And although new babies make budgets tight (all that stuff certainly adds up), I’ve actually learned that life insurance coverage is not nearly as expensive as I thought. You and/or your spouse may already have coverage through your employer, but often, that policy ends if your employment changes. Policies through work also not likely to cover as much as you need- it would be heartbreaking for your family to be left in a financial lurch at an emotionally devastating time.
When we first started to consider our life insurance options, my husband and I were SO overwhelmed. Luckily, we found Nationwide! They’ve been so helpful and informative throughout the entire process. The Nationwide website has tools and calculators that helped us consider cost, coverage, and how we could make the purchase work. Don’t let the figures or facts stress you out- it’s time to adult a bit, and Nationwide can help. Head online to check out information about a life insurance policy, or grab a life insurance quote!
A Little Self Care
Listen guys. Pregnancy is hard. The newborn stage is hard. And motherhood itself is, well, hard. There’s nothing wrong with finding products you love that allow you to indulge in a little bit of practical self care. (I’m not talking about spa days and mani/pedis here my friends!) During this pregnancy, I’ve been adding a little bit of luxury to my usual skin care routine, and it’s the perfect little touch of self care to help me feel better about my skin (without feeling guilty about taking time away from my kiddos). I know it’s going to be just as helpful when the next little one arrives as well.
Vichy Aqualia Thermal Gel Cream is an amazing gel moisturizer that has been SO rehydrating during this harsh winter weather. It’s the perfect day time moisturize for normal or combination skin, and lasts around 48 hours. The Aqualia Thermal Night Cream delivers similar benefits in an overnight product, and I couldn’t love it more. If you’re interested in trying these refreshing, paraben-free products out for yourself, Vichy is offering 15% off + free shipping until 02.28.2019 when you use discount code ‘Babble19’. Be sure to grab yours soon!
Nursing Essentials
Guys, I discovered Bamboobies brand nursing goodies when I had #thelittleone 3 years ago, and quickly became obsessed with what they had to offer. (Those heart-shaped nursing pads are seriously LOVE!) I’m lucky to already have a good supply of pads at home, so for number four, I’m thrilled to have a new Open Nursing Shawl and their Boob-Ease USDA Organic Nipple Balm.
The nursing cover is incredibly versatile. I can use it while holding or wearing the baby, and because it’s black, it matches nearly everything, no matter how casual or formal. This shawl is knit from soft bamboo rayon, so it’s lightweight and comfortable. I love that it won’t scratch or irritate either of us. The nipple balm is certified organic, and also lanolin free, so it’s totally safe for nursing without needing to be cleaned off. It works double duty for chapped lips and patches of dry skin as well as cracked nipples- multi-tasking at it’s finest!
And bonus! Bamboobies is offering my readers a 10% off coupon for an Amazon purchase of a 2-pack of nipple balm. (While supplies last; ends 02.06.19; limit 1 coupon per customer.) If you’re looking to stock up, be sure to grab yours from the link above!
Some Serious Support
Every mama knows that our bodies undergo some major changes throughout pregnancy and the post-partum period. Aside from the obvious belly transformation, our breasts are in a constant state of flux for at least a year. That’s why it’s so important to have a supply of supportive, comfortable nursing bras available. These Playtex nursing bras are some of the best I’ve come across in years of trying to find the right bras.
The Playtex Nursing Pretty Shaping Foam Wirefree Bra is definitely my day-time go-to. The light foam keeps me fully covered. Plus the absence of underwire is so important when I’m engorged with milk. The ‘quickstrap’ openings make it easy to feed baby on demand. A comfortable bra for bedtime is so important towards the end of pregnancy, and early in the post-partum period. The Playtex Nursing Sleep Bra is a new mom essential for me, as I can sleep comfortably with breast pads in the hidden pockets until my milk supply has fully regulated. Both styles are constructed with Cool Comfort™ technology, so you’re always cool and comfortable.
Feeding Foundations
I know, it seems like there’s still a long time until my newest squish will be ready for ‘real’ food. The truth is, those first 6 months fly by in a flash! With my oldest, I researched feeding options before he was even born, so it’s really never too early to start thinking about it. Whether you opt for traditional purees or decide to try out baby led weaning, there’s a place for Sprout Stage 2 Pouches in your pantry!
These organic baby food options are full of plant powered protein in a variety of interesting flavor combinations, to keep little foodies happy and healthy. Flavors like apricot banana chickpea fig and strawberry apple beat red beans mean your little ones get plenty of healthy protein (2 grams!) from organic sources, with no added flavors, colors, or sugars. The pouches are convenient to tuck into a diaper bag, making them the perfect choice for feeding on the go. Keep your eyes peeled in 2019, because Sprout is gearing up to launch a ton of new products for babies and toddlers.
What other new mom essentials am I missing from my list? Let me know about any other ‘Must-Haves’ in the comments below!
