Grubs up!

Moving onto solids starts a whole new chapter for both mum and bubs. There are some great gadgets available to make the transition fun and easy. This list showcases some of my favourites, especially if you choose to make your own food...

1. Mini Chopper CH550 - Kenwood
   This mini chopper makes pureeing an absolute breeze. I cook/steam my bus fruit or veg, pop it in here and within minutes have a smooth puree ready to go. A choice of two chopping speeds and simple, push-down operation make it very easy to use and the double blades chop quickly, with great results every time. An added bonus is that it is very quick and easy to wash too. Available from Checkers
   
   
2. Freezer Tray - Clicks
   This weaning freezer tray has 8 individual cube pots which are the ideal portion size for purees or first foods when weaning your baby. Easy to store and convenient to use, the cubes can be stored individually in the freezer or together in the tray. Every day after breakfast we choose our next breakfast, lunch and supper and pop them in the fridge ready for meals the following day. Suitable for dishwasher use (top rack only). Available from Clicks
   
   
3. White Hot Spoons - Munchkin
   Munchkin’s innovative White Hot Safety Spoons can help make those first feedings a breeze. Simply dip the tips of the spoons in heated pureed baby food to check if it’s too warm. If the tip turns white, the food is too hot. Wait for it to cool, dip again, and if the tip is no longer white – voila! You can feed your little one without worrying about a thing. Suitable for dishwasher use (top rack only).
   Available from Spar and Baby City
    
4. Sippy Cup - Brother Max
   The easy-hold first cup has four ways to use it.  In the first stage mode, with wrap-around handles and easy-flow drinking spout, your little one can pick up however feels natural and sip with ease.  The close-&-go sipper spout is perfect for drinks on-the-go. Once older and more confident, the handles and lid can be removed and the cup becomes a beaker.  Also available in Pink/Green. Available from Clicks
   
   
5. Weaning Bowl Set - Brother MaxI just love these bowls from Brother Max. The range is bright, fun and colourful but, most importantly, very practical! If your little bubs is anything like mine he is always on the move. He always has his own spoon and makes a quick grab for the bowl every now and then. The nifty handle has definitely rescued some potentially messy lunch escapades! The bowls are BPA free, dishwasher and microwave-safe and are available in blue/green or pink/orange. Available from Clicks
   
   
6. Fresh Food Feeder - Munchkin
   As a first time mom some things can be scary. This little gizmo helps you feed your baby, without worrying about choking. Just pop a piece of fruit or vegetable into the mesh bag, close it and let your baby chew, suck and benefit from all the whole food goodness and taste. The mesh allows only the tiniest, easy-to-digest particles to come through. Fair warning...it can get messy...but that is half the fun! The handle is easy for baby to grip and gives them the experience of feeding themselves. Available in blue/green or pink/orange. Available from Spar and Baby City

MY TOP 5 STROLLER ESSSENTIALS

The more organised I am, the happier both me and my little bubs are. Babies soon learn what being put in the car seat means and the more efficient I can be, the smoother the trip goes.

These are my 5 top tried-and-tested stroller essentials that I am never without:

1. Muslin Squares - George
   These light cloths are perfect for light cover of your little one or to keep the sun out. Easy to wash and can be tumble dried they are super convenient. I initially bought mine in the UK but Game Stores now stock a small selection of baby goodies from the UK brand, George
   
2. Lilly Lamb Stroller Toy - Tiny Love
   This little jittery lamb is fun to pull and touch. With bright colours and scrunchy legs she keeps a little one entertained. Available online from Baby Group
   
3. Pram Pegs - All 4 Ella
   These great clips hold the blanket in place on your stroller or car seat. They are available in a number of fun colours. Order yours online from Babies n Cream
   
4. Stroller Hook - Munchkin
   This oversize and nifty hook makes for easy grocery shopping. The grippy rubber sleeve protects your stroller and helps keep the hook from sliding around. Available in a variety of colours from Baby City
   
5. Stroller Bag Grips - JJ Cole
   These are the perfect solution to attach your diaper bag to your stroller. Not only safe and secure but it is very convenient to grab a toy or your wallet when needed. They simply loop over the strollers handle and have quick release clasps to attach your bag. Available from Baby City or Amazon
   

What are your essential goodies and gadgets?
 

My Busy Little Boy

So my little 8 month old is a really busy little guy. His motto is currently "why lie when you can sit, why sit when you can stand!" He is pulling himself up to standing on anything solid and crawling around quite contentedly.

Whilst I am thrilled at these milestones, it does make for a challenging day as I cant take my eyes off him for a minute. That is why we have ordered a playpen for him. In fact we have ordered two which can be joined, giving him a wonderfully big and, most importantly, safe play area. I can't wait for it to arrive! It means just that little bit of freedom to be able to leave him long enough to make a cup of tea...ahhh!

The play pen is natural wood and the flooring I am laying down are the interlocking foam squares. I want to put a cushion or beanbag in the playpen for him too so that if he wants a little rest or just to chill quietly he can do that. In this search I have come across these great options I thought I would share. Now how to decide...

These floor cushions are from Zana in Cape Town. 

They are screeenprinted and washable and great for kids or pets. 

Baa Baa Blacksheep has a selection of beanbags that can be customised.

This crocheted floor cushion is from Mono Online Shop and is made by Pomme Pomme. These colours would be perfect for a little girls room.

Little Love Kids have these fun round floor cushions in lovely fabrics.

Sophie La Girafe

 At six months old my little man is showing some signs of teething and I want to try to make this process as comfortable for him as possible. Thats where Sophie La Girafe comes in! She is a sweet little giraffe with big black eyes and rosy cheeks revealing a cheerful little smile.

This little giraffe was born in France on May 25th 1961.  She is made from 100% natural rubber derived from the latex of the Hevea tree. She was one of the first toys to be created in such an exotic design.

The rubber has a unique smell and is totally soft and pliable. Sophie lets out a little squeak when squeezed which gets my little man smiling every time. He is also able to hold her very easily and enjoyed chewing on her from the very first minute.

The only negative so far is the rather heavy price tag but if it brings him comfort I will pay it again and again! I bought mine online from The Baby Group.

Naartjie Kids: Spring

Naartjie Kids spring range is now available in store and is a gorgeous combo of pastels and denim. Shop in store or online here.

Mr Price August Haul

Mr Price has got some super cute gear for littlies. I bought this stash from their online store. The delivery was swift and efficient and I didnt even have to get out of my slippers!

1.  Striped Shorts - R69.99
2.  Printed Golfer - R49.99
3.  Denim Joggers - R109.99
4.  2 Pack Long Sleeve T-shirts - R49.99
5.  Printed t-shirt - R35.99
6.  Printed Shorts - R79.99

Grubs up!

I have done a lot of reading on when to start solids and SA certainly has a very different concept to the UK. Here most babies are started on rice cereal at around 3-4 months. In the UK baby-lead weaning is followed by most mums. 

What is baby-led weaning? It is forgetting about weaning spoons and purees and letting your baby feed himself. This is encouraged from 6 months onwards and has babies eating proper food with you, exploring naturally by themselves. 

So which is right? Unfortunately babies don't come with a manual and we simply need to listen to our maternal instincts and our babies. 

I decided to do purees but to start them later. I tried rice cereal at first as it is meant to be the least allergenic and easy on baby's tummy, but my little bubs had a terrible reaction. One brand gave him a rash and another brand had him projectile vomiting! ...not pretty when it happens in a car seat a couple of hours later! I decided to scratch this step and a just doing veggies. I do one veggie for three days to make sure there is no reaction and then try a new one the next day. I steam, blitz and sieve and feed him no more than 2 teaspoons. I plan on starting to leave some texture now as he is swallowing like a little champ. So far we have tried: sweet potato, butternut, carrots, mushy peas and baby marrow. The clear winner so far...carrots! I'm raising a rabbit!

Two lessons learnt quickly: 
1. You can never have too many bibs
2. Butternut stains

Game has started stocking some great baby brands and I bought a set of 3 Playtex bowls and set of 4 Playtex weaning spoons from there. I also picked up a set of 5 bibs that are the UK brand George for R70.  

The Little Company

The Little Company is an online store offering quality baby and toddler clothing made locally, in Durban. Their fabrics and patterns are all about comfort and style. They have some gorgeous combos that are sure to make your little bubs look and feel great. With a great selection of girls clothes, boys clothes and accessories there is something for everyone.  Follow them on Facebook to be informed of their sales.

Peep show or Mommyhood

Ahh - breastfeeding in public...peep show or one of natures most natural instincts? Between Facebook, Twitter and your next door neighbor, everyone seems to have an opinion.  When one looks at the celebrities dress sense on the red carpet, it is surprising that this is still such an issue.

I never anticipated being able to breastfeed; my mom always said she only managed a very short while before her milk ran out and not being blessed in that department (size wise) I thought I would have the same experience. I also totally underestimated the bonding experience that you share with your precious little bubs. You have been nourishing and nurturing for 9 months and to be able to continue to do so after your bubs arrival is an absolute privilege. There are some interesting biological aspects too, like how a newborn can only see a short distance initially which, you guessed it, is the distance between the two of you during breastfeeding.

We all know the benefits of breastfeeding for a baby's wellbeing and yet there is still a stigma of breastfeeding in public. To be clear I am talking about discreet and covered nursing, and not the brazen whip-it-out-in-public variety! Baring a breast in public is definitely not my thing!

I have found that very few public places offer a feeding room and many don't even have a changing room for little ones. I have been surprised by this as life has to go on after your baby is born, there are still groceries and chores, travel and more and you don't always have the luxury to time your feedings so that you are back home in time. The simple truth is when your little one decides it is time there is no amount of soothing that is going to quiet your crying baby. So yes - sometimes you need to feed your baby in a restaurant, at the mall or even in an airplane (not my fault the flight was delayed)!

It is daunting at first but a really good trick is to look confident and not like you want to crawl under the table. Remember that it is a natural moment of motherhood. Anther important trick is be prepared - don't wear that pretty dress that is difficult to access; wear the right bra and clothes for you both to be comfortable. I also have a feeding blanket that is weighted in one corner which you throw over your shoulder. Lastly...remember that you are being a good mother and that is what mommyhood is all about.

GRATITUDE

Having a little bubs in your life really puts a lot of things in perspective. We rush through life chasing goals and material things, constantly looking for something bigger and better, brighter and shinier. But a sweet, vulnerable, trusting baby shows the purity of how we all started, where having basic needs met and receiving attention and affection was enough to make us content. So...these are some simple blessings to be grateful for:

Small victories:
Whether it is getting a shower or making it through the day without tears, as a mommy you should celebrate these small triumphs. 

Your circle:
Your spouse, mom, BFF, neighbor or moms group who understands our frustrations, hug us when we have spitup on our clothes or bring us a chocolate after a trying day...thank you!

Favorite cuddles:
For that blankie or soft toy that soothes your bubs when nothing else will. 

Automation:
Keyless cars and automated doors are the worlds best invention when you are trying your best to manage a stroller, diaper bag and the groceries. 

Magic moments:
Those little moments where your little one looks at you and smiles. For giggles when you tickle his little feet. For their sweet, heavy breathing as they fall asleep on your chest. For that gorgeous scent of wash and lotion after bath time...these moments are magic...enjoy them!

ANVIL & I

I came across these gorgeous pendants during a midnight nursing session. I was looking for something with the initial "m" to celebrate the arrival of my son, Matthew. 

These heart pendants are available from Anvil & I through www.iheartthis.co.za. I ordered mine and a few days later a beautifully packaged necklace arrived. The silver chalks delicate and feminine and the initial is subtle yet perfect for anyone who is as sentimental as me... 

 The only problem now is convincing myself not to wear it for fear that Matthew, who is learning the strength of his hands and fingers, might pull on it too hard!

Visit their website for more gorgeous pieces: www.anvilandi.co.za

THEY JUST DONT FIT ANYMORE

One thing I have realized when it comes to baby clothes is: don't keep any outfit aside for a "special occasion "! 

Every day is a special occasion and your little one will grow so quickly that they may not even get a chance to wear that especially cute outfit even once! I found thIs out the hard way. The good news is at least the outfits are good enough to keep for the next one...wink, wink!

In an attempt to be productive during load-shedding we did a closet clear-out of all the little outfits that don't fit my little man anymore. I was astonished! I have also decided that all future baby showers I am giving larger sized items as everyone gives you the sweet little newborn and 0-3 month outfits but suddenly you get to 3 months and have to do a full shop for the basics again...not that shopping for my gorgeous guy is a bad thing... any excuse to spoil him!

THE GIFT THAT JUST KEEPS GIVING

A really good friend of mine is pregnant at the moment. I keep getting text messages like "now I know what you meant about the pelvic pain" or " You were right, it is freaky when your tummy touches your thighs when you sit!"

People don't talk about the not-so-pretty details of pregnancy...and there are a few. Obviously the good far outweighs the bad and the precious bundle that you get at the end makes it all worthwhile, but I thought I would list my top 5 side effects here:

1. Aching hips

Is hip pain keeping you up at night or preventing you from walking more than a few steps without pain? Yep, this is another common side effect of pregnancy that your girlfriends didn't warn you about. More common in the third trimester, hip pain is caused by relaxin, a hormone that prepares your body for delivery. Relaxin softens your joints and widens your hips in order to help Baby exit during delivery.

2. Bleeding and sore gums

Hormonal changes send extra blood flow to your gums, causing the, to swell and become painful. Keep brushing but brush gently and swop to a soft toothbrush.

3. A running nose

Tissue after tissue, you have a runny nose that just won't stop running! An increase in hormones can cause the inside of your nose to swell and the mucus there to thicken. The same hormone that helps relax and prepare your body for birth can also relax your sinuses, giving you a nose that constantly drips.  Nose bleeds can also occur so keep those tissues handy!

4.  You are glowing

Ahhh....not if your third trimester is during the hot seasons, then I'm afraid it is perspiration! And with a great big belly it means under your arms, between your legs, on your belly and your face and neck.  Your metabolism is in overdrive, and the extra blood pumping through you warms the skin...your body is simply cooling off..

5. Luscious locks

This one is for post pregnancy...the gift that keeps on giving. At around three months after giving birth my hair started falling ou. Now we are not talking big bald patches but we are also not talking one or two strands. We are talking the drain is blocked and the vacuum cleaner is clogged! Not much you can do here except sweep the floor regularly!

What were your most unexpected pregnancy side-effects?

Designer Wednesday : Valentine's Day Printables

It is the month of love and so, in celebration, and preparation,  I thought I would source some cute free Valentine's Day Printables.  Whether you whip up some cards for your kiddos to hand out or a card for your loved one you can make these adorable free Valentine's crafts yourself at home.

 

Cupids Arrow

Help cupid to hit his mark with these cute pencil Valentine's gifts from Muffin Grayson.

 

Click here to download

You're Just Plane CoolThese sweet Valentine planes won't soar too far, but you should have some fun with them!

Click here to download

Love Bug Valentine
Who knew creepy-crawlies could turn into something this cute!

Click here to download

You're No. 1 in My Book
These cute bookmarks make a great Valentine's gift.

Click here to download

You're some bunny special!
Have fun with these cute animal Valentine's cards, customizable in 20 different colours!

Click here to download

Mommy Monday : Antenatal Classes

I recently spent a Saturday at Sister Sonja Palframan's Antenatal course that she runs once a month from her home in Pietermaritzburg. If you are a first time mom, and PMB is within driving distance, this is an absolute must! Not only do you learn from Sonja and her guest speakers but you leave there with a sense of having a network of caring specialists that will help you through this exciting, exhilarating, and exhausting time ahead!

Antenatal classes can help you and your partner prepare for labour, birth and early parenthood. Sonja's class guides you through late pregnancy, labour and birth, and what life with a newborn will be like. She keeps her classes small and creates a relaxed, non-judgmental environment that encourages you to ask any question that is on your mind...

 Check with your medical aid as many of them cover an antenatal course for new mums.

Click here for Sonja's details

Designer Wednesday : Pregnancy Milestones

I cam across this gorgeous printable for all the moms-to-be on the Lovilee blog recently. The time goes so quickly and we forget the little things so this pregnancy milestone keepsake is just too lovely not to share....

All images & printables by Lieflingkind Design

Mommy Monday : What I'm Reading

I'm not sleeping terribly well at the moment. All good preparation for when baba arrives I guess! Reading a light, humorous book is just what the Dr ordered...and this is what I'm reading.

The Pi**ed-off Parents Club by Mink Elliot is a comical story of an overwhelmed first time mum, Roxy. She and her partner Jack have left London for a new life in the village of Riverside, with their ten-month-old daughter Joey. But their new house resembles a building site and Roxy is struggling to cope with parenthood. With no family or friends to turn to for help, Roxy sets up a club in order to meet like-minded parents, and so begins The Pissed-Off Parents Club.

Fashion Friday : Dune Purse

I have been needing a new purse for quite some time... My trusty, old, Woolworths purse finally started to fall apart after a good many years of service.

I found this Dune Kooper Zip Front Colour Block Purse in black and tan at Edgars.

It features a front ID display, zip pocket, central zipped coin compartment and multiple card slots. Purse size: 20cm x 12cm.

Fitness Thursday : Third Trimester

With only a few months left, your expanding belly may make it harder to move. That coupled with the familiar fatigue experienced in the first trimester, and even more frequent trips to the loo (as your baby presses down on your bladder) definitely puts a damper on your workout routine... but it doesn't mean you have to give up exercising. Do what you can and do what feels good. Take long walks, hit a yoga class, and go for a light swim to keep your muscles and mind strong.

I am into the final stretch with only a couple of weeks to go and whilst I have had to adapt my yoga practice I still feel challenged and energised after my workout routine. Be mindful of your body and pace yourself. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water after your class. Relax and breathe...

Designer Wednesday : 2015 Free Calendars

Getting organised is an absolute must in my life – and if it is for you too, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy these free printable calendars for 2015.

Click on the  the link below each image to visit the original sites.

Click here to download

Click here to download

 Click here to download

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Click here to download

Beauty Tuesday : Bloom and Blossom

The third trimester of pregnancy starts to take its toll on your body. With just under four weeks to go my hips and pelvis are really feeling the extra weight of the little man I am carrying. What could be better than easing the weight in a warm, fragrant bath thanks to this gorgeous product...

Bloom and Blossom Indulgence Bath Oil is a luxurious blend of essential oils developed to ease tension, melt away stress and encourage a sense of tranquility. The unique blend of active ingredients helps to prevent stretch marks and reduce the appearance of scarring, whilst also providing a wonderfully calming fragrance. The perfect pampering treat.

Now for the bad news: this was a gift sent to me from the UK and I haven't sourced a local stockist...sorry girls!

Mommy Monday : JJ Cole Head Suport

As a first time mom one comes across these products for the first time that seem ingenious! Fact is I have probably walked by a mom, baby and stroller with this clever little item all set up and simply never noticed it before...

What am I walking about? The JJ Cole Infant Head Support.

It is a soft, comfortable solution to help hold your infant's head and provide adequate support. Designed to suit babies from premature/newborns to infants, this head support comes in two separate parts that are made to grow with your baby. With its soft velour and breathable embroidered knit fabrics, this JJ Cole Infant Head Support is suitable and comfortable for any season. It is also machine washable for your convenience!

I bought mine in graphite, but it is also available in black, khaki and pink. I bought mine from Baby City.

Fitness Thursday : Prenatal Yoga

 I have been practising yoga for a number of years. I haven't gone to specifically prenatal yoga classes but have simply adapted my Hatha practice to fit in with pregnancy and an ever-growing bump. I spoke to other yogis and did my own reserarch and settled on these general rules: no inversions, no twists and no back bends.

Yoga is increasingly recommended to pregnant women because it is a gentle way of maintaining fitness, reducing stress, tension and anxiety and preparing the body for the changes ahead and the demands of giving birth.

When you are fit and strong before birth,  your body to bounce back more quickly...definitely not a bad thing!

 1st trimester: get comfortable with the changes

2nd trimester: settle into pregnancy and move, move, move

3rd trimester: stay active and strong

4th trimester: gently transition your body back into full strength