Can't live without it...

All of the pregnant bellies I have seen lately confirm the fact that Spring is in the air! A new "mum" recently stopped me in the store to ask me what baby items she needed. I am far from being a baby expert, but there are a few things that definitely made my life easier that I would recommend splurging on.

1) A realllyyyyy comfortable rocking chair with an ottoman. You would not believe how many hours you spend rocking. If it isn't comfy enough to sleep in it, it isn't good enough.

2) A good quality carrier/sling. My favorites are the Moby wrap and the ERGOBaby Carrier. Don't waste your money on the baby Bjorn-- by the time I had recovered from my csection to use it, Dominic was too heavy to be carried comfortably in it.

3) A video baby monitor. I do not technically own one (yet), but now that my baby is a little older, I can see the value in it. It would be helpful to be able to see if the baby truly needs me while he is napping, or if he is just resettling himself.

4) Muslin baby blankets. Babies love to be swaddled any time of the year, and with these thin blankets you don't have to worry about them overheating. They are also great to throw over a stroller or infant car seat when the baby is napping.

5) Baby Bouncer Seat. I didn't think I would need this initially, until I realized that I only have two arms, and realistically cannot hold the baby all day long. Thanks to the bouncer seat, I was able to take a quick shower (once in awhile).

6) A king-size bed. I don't have this one either, but for all engaged couples out there-- splurge on this one. Even if you swear you will never have the baby in bed with you, just do it. I promise you will thank me one day.

Ok Mommies... What other items would you add to this list??