Manufacturers, Listen Up!

With the consensus being that crib bumpers are very dangerous and raise the risk of SIDS, I am very confused as to why manufacturers put them in bedding sets. We were told at the hospital that the baby needs to stay in our room for 6 months to be safe. So, I asked if the bumpers are to be used when baby is older, such as a pre-toddler, for their comfort. I was told, unequivocally, NO. In fact, they said older babies and toddlers shouldn't have them in cribs because they can use them to launch themselves out while climbing. Gee, that's great.

So what the heck? I've got this beautiful bedding that wasn't cheap, and I can't use 25% of what I paid for. I think the manufacturers need to get with the program. They could include either a breathable bumper in a coordinating color, or an extra sheet, AKA something useful. What a waste of money!

People Change

Before getting pregnant, I used to fantasize about how I would dress my kids, the cool baby gear I would buy, etc. I was very focused on the material aspect of having a baby. I won't lie-baby gear is cute and I wanted it all!

Obviously circumstances have changed my ability to make most purchases.

And I am so thankful.

I am thankful for the lessons I have learned from having less money. Even though ideally we would have more money, I think it has been invaluable to my personal growth to have these experiences. I am a much more appreciative, realistic person. I am more grateful and I am quicker to acknowledge my blessings.

I am currently 34w6d pregnant and I have made only one purchase, a mattress. Well, two if you count paying shipping for a free sling and nursing cover. While I still need to do an inventory (and inevitably make some purchases) I can say that we have been gifted with most everything we need. One of Rob's co-workers gave him two giant trash bags filled with clothes, many new. The clothes were from the co-worker's sister, a woman we have never even met! A friend from church also loaned us a bunch of equipment such as swings and slings. All in all, we have received a lot.

Words can't express our gratitude. The hardest part for us will be finding a way to adequately pay it forward.

Who Knew?

Baby bedding? Is super expensive. I suppose it stands to reason that the cost could vary depending on how fancy or high-end you went, but who besides Mariah Carrey can afford $800 for a fitted sheet, bumper and blanket? It seems foolish to drop major money on bedding they will puke on, poop on, and only sleep on for a very short time. Not to mention, my research indicates that the costly bumper included with most sets is actually very dangerous, so you don't even use it.

I think I will go with white sheets I can sterilize after accidents and spend my money on a custom quilt. Any suggestions from my mommy friends on what pieces are vital to a bedding set, or where to buy a nice one? Etsy did nothing for me, despite several options. I'm leaning towards a classic car theme, which is proving difficult at best. Ah, First World problems!

An Important Edit

In my last post I was attempting to be humorous and failed. On #7 where I said I hoped people bought me stuff off my registry, I was entirely kidding. It came across as greedy and gift-grabby, neither of which I intended to be. The truth is, our baby would be fine with NO gifts and I am solely looking forward to getting to spend time with the favorite women in my life. I re-read my post and couldn't believe how awful I came across. Yes, babies are expensive but as it is my baby, I intend to provide for it. I was merely joking about how unprepared I was with how much baby gear costs. My apologies if I offended anyone or came across as uncouth.

Sling Safety

When you're pregnant you get bombarded with free offers, coupons, and the like. Most of it is useless. One cool offer I received was for a free baby sling. I quickly ordered one, since I refuse to pass up a deal.

When it arrived I was super excited. But then, I got comments from two family members about how dangerous slings are, how the baby will fall out, how they're difficult to use, etc.

I don't think they're as dangerous as claimed. As for the level of difficulty, well, I am sure some types/brands are more of a pain than others. But what better way to try it than a free one, right? Besides, women have been carrying their children in slings since the invention of fabric so I assume it couldn't truly be lethal.

Have you ever used a sling before? If so, did you love it or hate it?