Oh I am so (so) behind in keeping up with the 101 things! But don't you worry, it's coming back. And in true Mommy Style (maybe next week... or month as my time is limited dear readers), we'll do the other half of the blog, writers! Anyway, here we go (in no particular order... as ordering 101 things is almost fruitless):
101 Things a Mom Can't Live Without (or a Dad. We like Dads too)- Alone time. Seriously. We all need it. And you should really allow yourself at least an hour a week of non-kid time. And that is a bare minimum. Ideal? An hour a day. But in the beginning if you have a routine, family-life, and high-nurser like me, it is almost impossible. An hour a week? Not so much. Enlist husbands, other family members, neighbors, child-care workers. You deserve the time. And the kiddo(s) deserve a bit of a rested mother.
- The diapers of your choice. Cloth, disposable. Whatever you are into. You just go through so many of them it is almost ridiculous. So stock up. It may seem obvious, but well... I've got 99 more things to go on this list and I'm not leaving out a thing! Not to mention--this is harder than it looks. So give me a freebie (or two, see below).
- And another obvious one--baby wipes. BUT, the added bonus is that baby wipes are wonderful stain removers. Seriously. Try them on a carpet stain. Or on your furniture. They work. And not only that, keep them with you when you go out. They can disinfect dirty hands in no time. The next worm sighting and catch will be squeaky clean in no time.
- TiVo. Or well, any DVR (Digital Video Recorder). Much better than a VCR, and how else can I pause a live television show when I am being constantly interrupted by the kidlings and never miss an episode of my new obsession Reaper?
- A Bouncy Chair. Both my kids loved these. Especially for the first few months. So hunker down and buy one. It might buy you an extra nap during the day. Or one meal with both hands at your disposal.
- Another Mom Friend. Yep. Try to find some. Either with kids the same age as yours (give or take a month/year) or some with a couple years older. Honestly, comparing notes can sometimes save you life. Just make sure they are really friends. Not trying to judge or one-up you. And the whole play date thing? So last year. Just go for one other mom friend. You'd be surprised what one phone call in the middle of night can do for your sanity.
- Warm-and-serve food. Good stuff. Especially when you only have one hand/arm to work with (the other is holding a child remember). And hell for me it is two-fold, the other (older) kid likes to eat that stuff too. So stock up. Whether it is TV or frozen dinners of your choice--or last night's left-overs, prepare for warming up food. It saves time and lets you actually eat when the kids are napping. What's I've warmed: pizza (both homemade, frozen, and delivery); lasagna, chili (homemade), pot roast and mashed potatoes, tacos (just make the meat and then save for rewarming), casseroles...
- Side-to-side swings. Like this. Or this. Love this. Didn't have it when The Kiddo was born--but should have invested. The Peanut's favorite place to nap.
- A sense of humor. We have conversations about poop and sleep. Let's hope we at least have humor to bring us through to better times.
- Mommy Goodie Bags. And I am not talking about for us Moms (but hell, sounds like a good plan to me. I'll have to investigate what I'd want in my mommy bag). Depending on the ages of your kid(s), well you can fill that bag with just about anything. For me right now it's got a funky pen, blank paper, a few markers, a matchbox car, a few super heroes, and an emergency package of fruit snack for my almost 5 year old and diapers, wipes, blanket, burp rag, and of course the pull bug toy for the new baby. For when she starts to want to interact a bit more. This bag? Comes with me everywhere. It can avoid more than tantrums. Be prepared.
- Caffeine. Pick your poison--soda of various kinds (Pepsi, Coke, Mt. Dew of various flavors, Red Bull, Jolt...), coffee (also of various kinds and flavors), espresso (same deal). They don't warn soon-to-be-parents about the lack of sleep for nothing.
- Extra large capacity washer and dryer. Unless you pay for laundry service (which hey, if you have that kind of cash lying around, more power to you), do yourself a favor and purchase the largest capacity washer and dryer you can find that will fit in your home. I don't care how ugly they look. You can thank me later. Just after you finished your 4th load of laundry for the morning instead of the 8 loads it would have normally taken.
- Magic Erasers. This little item is making its second appearance on a 101 list (first time here)--and they really live up to the hype. Seriously.
- Hoodies. I don't care what is said about Hoodies being the "Mommy Uniform." There is a reason for the irresistibly of these little versatile items of clothing. First, temperature control. If you are running from a parking lot to the grocery store, a hoodie is a great jacket no? And then there is the whole, holding an infant who suddenly becomes an instant heater and you are sweating through every pore in your body. Yep. You guessed it. Hoodie comes off or unzipped and life becomes a bit more tolerable. Not to mention their usually pockets. My hoodies anyway have pockets in them. And if you're a mother of younger children this can save you from tantrums and 18 trips upstairs if you use the pockets to your best advantage (read: storage for small always-wanted toys, Kleenex to clear snot noses, and a temporary garbage bin to put the dust-bunny you found behind the console table earlier this morning).
- A baby carrier or sling. I loved both the Baby Bjorn and my New Native Baby Carrier. Word of caution though, use this right away with your child. If you wait too long they might not get into it as much as you would like. Then you just get a sore arm from carrying them with no assistance.
- Straws. From a 6 month old to an adult, can you imagine any better imagination toy? Seriously, they have a ton of potential to keep anyone busy for hours. Not to mention their ease-of-drinking capabilities. Though in our family, I think the play-action out-weigh their true usage.
- Television. And really, I'm talking about my tube viewing time here, not the children (though that is a nice side effect if you really need to keep them occupied). As mothers, we need a little escape time and television can really do it for me. How 'bout you?
- A nice shade of red (or pink or berry, or wine, or...) lipstick. Don't tell me you don't go out. This lipstick can be used to go on the weekly trip to Target. Honestly. It doesn't hurt to feel a little good about yourself when you have children hanging of your arms and hips.
- Speaking of feeling nice--don't forget a good-fitting pair of jeans (and nice looking, perfect-for-your-body-pair of jeans). I can't say enough about this item, make sure they fit right and you'll have no problem looking your best--even doing the million and one errands we do a week. Jeans can make (or break) and outfit. Even with a hoodie.
- Hair cuts (and colors). Honestly, husbands out there, don't make your wife wait for the hair cut she desperately needs. We have an awful habit of putting everyone else ahead of ourselves. Hair cuts included. In fact, right now. I am 2 weeks over due for a cut. The mop on my head would prove it. And since we are on a theme of looking good, I might as well throw this one in.
- Sleep. I know, I know. We're all tired aren't we. But who says we shouldn't be allowed an extra hour of sleep every now and again. And NOT feel guilty about it. Every mom I know is deprived of this one simple pleasure. Let's start changing that.
- A laptop. Okay, this might just be me, but let me tell you. Kids are all different. They do crazy things. And Google. Well, it can save my sanity when trying to determine if my kid's rash is just a normal diaper irritation thing. Or a dreadful disease. So for me, the laptop is must (portability). For you, maybe not so much.
- Snap 'n Go Stroller. This is the best invention ever for little, ity-bity, newborns. I didn't have one of these compact strollers when The Kiddo was born. Instead I used the mammoth stroller that came with his Graco car seat. And I was constantly being cut off in the mall. And hated strolling around anywhere. So my advice--don't buy the whole stroller/car-seat systems. Too big and bulky. Go for the carrying type car seat and buy the Snap 'n Go for strolling.
- The Pediatrician's phone number on speed dial. For me, it is on my home phone AND cell phone. But hey, I just advocate having it somewhere for those middle of the night emergencies.
- Restaurant carry-out or drive-thrus. Now I know fast food isn't particularly good for you or your kids. But guess what, we aren't "good" parents over here. Or apparently good people that can withstand the power of a fast-food burger. Especially when there is at least one sleeping child in the car (and if both are sleeping AT THE SAME TIME)--we use the saving graces called drive-thrus. Or carry-out. Or delivery. Depending on the location, time, cravings, restaurant availability. And one of our favorite Congratulations You Had a Baby Gifts? A gift certificate to a local restaurant that had curb-side pick up. We ordered via phone, picked up the deliciously find food. And ate it in the parking lot while the kids slept.
- Sex. Okay, okay. I know we women are given crap for not wanting sex while pregnant. And then post-baby we have a hard time getting into it. But hey, we just HAD A BABY. Cut us some slack. It takes some time to feel a bit sexy with our whole torn in two memory and the fact that we spend most of our days smelling like sour milk. Or returning home from work to have a kid on our hip all evening. But bear with us. We need the sex like anyone else. We'll get there. And we really do need it. Honestly.
- An iPod. How else would I survive long car trips with the kids? It's also on the iHome unit in the bedroom. And well anywhere I want a little music that does not remind me of Dora the Explorer or Jack's Big Music Show. And hell, if it gets real bad you can always find a way to put the kid's music on the thing. You know, in case of an emergency (they won't keep quiet in a long, long car ride and a road side stop isn't for another 50 miles).
- Another electronic, a cell phone. I live by that thing. Doctor appointments, calling the husband, making sure the kids are okay when I am not home, having a social life. Taking quick pictures or videos of the cutest kid things. Sure, I am a electronics geek. So sue me.
- Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags. Might only be useful when the kids are little... but boy are they ever. What a better way to clean and disinfect bottles and pacifiers in 3 minutes?
- Stain Sticks. Tide makes them (Tide to go). Oxiout is another. And don't forgot Spray 'n Wash. Not that it matters, just buy a brand and keep them with you. It gets out more than spit up (think ketchup, coffee, barbecue sauce...)
- Character band aids. Put all your commercialism aside people and just buy the band aids. Do you know how many ailments can be cured with a band aid? Just about all of them. It never hurts to carry one on you just in case. Right now in my diaper bag-- a box of Scooby Do. And in the purse? Nascar. I'm prepared.
- Car seat covers/protectors. And I am not talking leopard print here (but those could work). I am thinking more in the lines of seat back protectors like these. Or a car seat undermat. Because let me tell you, there will be more Cheerio stains (yes, grind them up and push them into the seats, you'll see) then you will care to ever admit. Be proactive and it will save your car seats.
- Snacks, snacks, and more snacks. I don't care what you kids are into, just pack a bit of extra food goodness for them. Please. Even if it bribery food like suckers and M&Ms. It just helps when you are out and about to have something to stop the incessant whining that accompanies a hungry child.
- Learn how to bribe. You think I am kidding? There is definitely something that can be had for using a bribe every now and again. Example 1: Sleep in your room until it is light out to give mom and dad some much needed (cough, cough) rest--you get a small toy of your choosing tomorrow. Example 2: Be very, very quiet while mom is on her conference call today, you can get a special treat of fruit snacks. Example 3: If there is no whining while we drive to grandmas (long, long drive), well maybe we can stop and get some ice cream on the way. It is a parents way to sanity I tell you.
- Blocks. Preferably wooden. Doesn't matter what shape or size. But children of any age (well if the blocks are small you gotta have older kidlings) love 'em. Hell, why do you think Legos are so popular? They are a modified block. Right now, I have an old wooden alphabet set from Pottery Barn (meaning they don't offer them anymore). Guess who's playing with them? The almost 5 year old. And as soon as the new baby is old enough, she'll grab a couple and start teething on them. Everyone's happy. And occupied.
- The art of patience. Learn it. Live it.
- A lovely, perfect purse/diaper bag/mommy bag. Seriously, treat yourself to a nice looking one that fits your needs. I am NOT a backpack girl myself. And in fact, find that if I do bring a backpack (like say when we go to an amusement part), i feel like a schlep. It just ain't my thing. So, if you are like me, go get a snazzy bag that matches your personality. It makes lugging it around a bit more fun. Not to mention stylish.
- Books. As in children's books. Sure I am a writer and I would love nothing more than raising literacy in our country--but there is an added benefit to getting your children addicted to books of all kinds (including comics!). They can occupy themselves. I kid you not, I can bring type of book along with me, even magazines and junk mailers and my son wants to look at them. Talk about them. And even "reads" a story. So give it a shot. Even if you just give the junk mail advertisers over to the kids and they don't "read" it--at least they have something to tear apart that isn't valuable (and they are occupied) right?
- A babysitter that you can trust. Really, we all need time away. Whether this is grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle, or the girl/boy across the street. Just find one.
- A burp rag. When the kids are young, spit up becomes something like a best friend, always there for you (on your shoulder).
- Chicken nuggets. They've got 'em in all shapes and sizes. Organic and white meat only. And your kids will love them. Seriously. Not only can you microwave them i n 2 minutes (and under), well if you do the conventional oven way, it takes about 7 minutes. And for a screaming hungry kid (or a meal you have yet to eat), it'll work. Just make sure to warm up some veggies too. you know, like I do. French Fries count for that right?
- Directions to the closest emergency room. You think I am being overly dramatic or cautious don't you? Well, you just NEVER know. And I'd rather be prepared, wouldn't you?
- Extra napkins. And if you keep them in your car, purse, or diaper bag they will always be with you. Hell, you might spill your coffee (happened to me this morning), or the kid might drip ketchup on his pant leg (last week offender), or your burp rag might be otherwise pre-occupied. One can never have enough wiping materials. You'll wipe more than snot noses with those extras. Trust me.
- Color Wonder notepads and pens. They are all they were advertised as and more. Who can ask for better entertainment-- markers and notebooks that can't stain a thing. They work particularly well for traveling in a car or airplane. Just make sure to buy a few extra activity books. They kids fly through them.
- Speaking of fun activities--chalk. This little funness travels from a year old to about 8. Just this past weekend we had an 18 month old, a 4 year old and an 8 year old chalking up the sidewalk while we played a game of Bocce ball. So, stock up. They even work on portable chalk boards you can use indoors.
- A camera. Preferably a digital one since kids are so fidgety it is hard to get a good shot of them. With digital you can take as many pictures as you want... and then get the perfect smile/grin/look/pose. And yeah, they grow up so fast you forget what they look like and all that.
- A few good quality long sleeve T-shirts and a few wraps. That's right. That whole thing about looking good, pair that with the well fitting jeans and you will be one hot mamma (think: nice quality and good fitting black long sleeve shirt with a black wrap. Hides any baby bumps, spit up, and if you are nursing like me the wrap is a wonderful little nursing/flash protector. Add a heeled boot. And well, I am ready for a night out.
- Wine. Every good mother deserves a glass of wine every now and again. Or a martini. And hell, if you can snag a sitter make it a whole night out. And a lot more wine.
- Onesies. Until your kid is like 2 years old, buy as many of these as you can (there are a ton of colors, patterns, styles). At least while they are still in diapers and being carried around 80% of the time. I just haven't had luck with the cute little none bottom between the leg shirts. I put them on, pick up the kid, and what do you know? Their back is fully exposed. And cold. And then the diaper starts to fall off their ass. And they don't have a plumbers tool belt dragging it down.
- Comfort food. Moderation is key here, but please, stop the dieting and treat yourself. We do hard work raising children (and wiping asses) all day long. So if your thing is chocolate, buy the best kind you can and treat yourself every now and again. Cupcakes? Pie? Bon Bons? Well yeah, buy a package of the best kind you can find--and eat one after dinner. Seriously people. We should be allowed to have a treat once a month. Right? Call it a reward for dealing with the little people.
- A dishwasher. People say that laundry increases--they forget about the dishes.
- Pacifiers. Honestly. My son wouldn't even touch them. Constantly spit them out and flat out didn't see the need for them (he preferred the boob). So I tossed them all. But with the new kid. Well, let's just say, they can be life-savers. Literally.
- Electrical outlet covers. Now, all of the safety items that are available for children are likely worth their money. But in our house, my almost 5 year old is still fascinated with outlets. And tends to want to pull out the covers to want to shove something in them--but at least now I slow him down. And then can give him the run-down on how unsafe it is. But hey, I still think they are a must have. It is an easy preventative measure, don't you think?
- Juice boxes. Love them! And these days, they can even fit in the car seat cup holders. What can be better than that on a long car drive?
- Eye cream and under-eye make-up. The lack of sleep doesn't make you look all that, um, rested, now does it? Use a good eye cream for the wrinkles and grab some of that under-eye concealer stuff to throw on before your foundation. Will definitely freshen you up a bit.
- A box full of dress up clothes. No matter what the age, we all love dressing up like it's Halloween. So keep old clothes. Buy the left-over Halloween costumes for 75% off. Shove them in a box and keep 'em around. It kept my son busy for at least an hour today. Think about it, that could be an another hour for you.
- An extra outfit. That includes, shirt, pants, underwear, socks. For an infant, at least a jumper and a onesie. Toss it in the back of the car if you have to. Because accidents happens. And so do spills. And that water fountain that just had to be jumped into.
- A rocking chair. Again, I learned the first time around with my son. We didn't have a true baby rocker (glider). We used an old antique wooden missionary style rocker. Yeah. I know. It creaked, and did nothing for my comfort of rocking the baby. This time around, we purchased a somewhat cheap glider rocker with matching stool. As much as it can be an eye sore in the living room, put this wonderful must-have in the nursery. It can save you when the baby is inconsolable. And my five year old got a cuddle on it today too.
- Small portable fold-up stroller (like an umbrella stroller). Worked wonders til the kid was 3 (can't use it til the baby is 6 months). They were perfect for the quick trips and tired legs.
- Children's Tylenol. Chilren's Motrin. Oh and Orajel. And Benadryl. Of course use these at your doctor's discretion. But you will use it for pain medication for an ear infection. Or for teething pain. Or for whenever your doctor recommends it.
- A calendar. You think that having just a baby doesn't warrant a day planner or calendar? You thought wrong. Infants have 1 week, 1 month, 2 month, 3 month doctor appointments. At least. And then as the child grows older you have pre-school, birthday parties, Halloween get-togethers. Then there is soccer. T-ball. School. Plays. Oh, the list just grows. You might as well get a family calendar now and hang it somewhere that everyone who lives in the house can see it and reach it readily. Start writing in the appointments. They will only grow.
- Lanolin based breast cream (and damn good nursing bras. Plastic connectors works best). Of course, this is only if you are a nursing mom. My breasts looked like a war zone after a week home with my newborn son. This cream saved my live... It soothes sore or cracked skin and does not need to be washed off before baby nurses again. This time around, I bought 3 tubes of it to just "have around." And of course, my body must have some memory. I didn't get as much chaffing or cracking. And in fact, didn't need this cream much at all. But at least now I have it. Just. In. Case. (Might as well also add a damn good breast pump. Pump In Style rocks. Especially if you are gonna go back to work and pump. I know this is like 3-in-1 but hey, not all Mom's breastfeed).
- Night lights. They scare away "night monsters." Or you can use them to see during a night time diaper change.
- Local zoo membership. If you have one, get it. We originally did the zoo visit on a weekend for fun. Well, The Kiddo loved it. This year we got the annual membership. Number of visits? 5. And we can even go in the winter. Can't beat that entertainment.
- Table and chairs, child size. Children love to play at a table that is just their size.
- Socks and Underwear. Losts of 'em. And you know I am talking about everyone here. Baby socks--must have. Underwear for bigger kids (mine like boxers. With characters. The Husband wouldn't mind those either).
- Backpack for the kids. Ever hear something similar: "Take along some toys in your backpack in case we have to wait at the doctor's office." We say it all the time around here. But swap out doctor's office for just about anything. The chidren's toy bag is as much a life saver as the Mommy Bag I talk about above (and yes, bring both when you need behaved children. It's a pain in the ass, but sometimes we wait a long time).
- No Tears Shampoo/Body Wash combo. Not only do you not have to fuss with 2 bottles, you don't have to hear, "Mom, it's gonna get in my eyes." Sure kid, it might. But you won't know it!
- Board books (like this or this). Especially when kids are about 6 to 18 months. Not only do they look cool and introduce reading, well, the kids can flip the pages themselves. And that will save you a lot of headache.
- Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). Or Aleve. Or whatever works to cure a headache in your home. Because as much as we love our kids, well, they can give you a headache. And you'll need a cure. Quickly.
- An ExerSaucer. I didn't like wheels on mine, but buy what you want. All I know, is that my almost 5 year old still tries to climb in his old one.
- Some swag, easy to put on shoes. When you are running out of the door after kidlings or with an infant, well you need some cool shoes that take little effort to put on--but look damn good. In the summer, go for some funky, but elegant flip flops. Spring and Fall? Well I would go for maybe this new Alice Croc (nope, it's not the ugly looking holed ones! It looks like mary janes!). And winter? Well, not something you can slip on with no hands, but definitely a book with a little heel does wonders to make your legs look longer.
- Bubble bath. Hell, it can be for you when you finally get that 1 hour to yourself and need to soak in the tub. Or for the kids when they need some fun bath time. You decide.
- The Euro High Chair. Totally loved this once the kiddo could sit up relatively easily and wasn't into the high chair with an attached tray (read, wanted to sit at the table like mom and dad). In fact, it stayed in our kitchen til the kid was almost 3. And he cried when he moved on to a big kid chair. Who knew?
- A padded potty seat cover (you use it over the seat of the real toilet). Like this. My son was tall. And a normal little potty to train him? Ha! He'd have pissed all over himself (yes, he learned to first pee and poo sitting. It worked for us. And within a month he was peeing standing up. Like Dad.). So we needed something larger and more sizable for him. A padded seat we just put atop the toilet was key.
- A piggy bank. Yep, start giving your kid an allowance at about 2. It can't hurt can it? My son had a piggy bank around that time and we'd give him some of our spare change so he could add it to his "collection." Not only did he learn about money (coins, dollars) he learned the importance of money. Now he earns his allowance by helping with the baby and keeping his room tidy (as in I am not stepping on Legos upon entrance). And he uses his own money to by new super hero figures. Or small toys. And then we even make trips to the bank to help him learn to save. Especially when his piggy bank is overflowing with coins!
- Thomas the train set. Sure it costs money, but, um--what better way to instill an imagination. The kids BUILD with it! And of course stay busier than without it. Try it with the show on the televison as well. You've got a guaranteed half hour of less-child time.
- An ongoing grocery list. For me it is a blackboard that we keep on the wall near our kitchen. As soon as I am out of a grocery or household item, it get written on the list. That way when I do my bi (or tri) weekly grocery run, I don't miss a thing.
- Rattles. They work on infants. That is why they have existed for years. Seriously. If they are a teether and a rattle, even better.
- A portable DVD player. Seriously. You would have wanted one too when you were a kid. And it works wonders when traveling via air or on long car rides. Or when you want to watch a movie with an above-G rating while locked in the bathroom for peace and quiet.
- Ketchup. It makes everything taste better for a 2 year old (and still growing at almost 5). Won't try spinach? Well dip in in ketchup, it tastes great! How 'bout eggs? Yeah, ketchup can make almost everything edible (personally the ketchup and egg thing makes me gag, but hey, the kid eats 'em).
- Ability to sacrifice a bit. Seriously, the people that tell you that parenting can be done without changing a bit of yourself? Full. Of. Shit. When your kid is sick (as in really sick, not just the sniffles, you sometimes have to give up the night out you had planned for 6 months. Or a full night's sleep is shot because you are giving breathing treatments every 4 hours. Parenting is a bit of sacrifice of yourself. But in the long run, you get to watch a being grow and flourish. It is amazing at the same time as difficult. But I wouldn't trade it for the world.
- A crock pot. You can prepare something (large) in the morning and it is ready by dinner. Need a pot roast? Buy a rump and throw it in the crock pot with baby carrots and small red potatoes on low. A short 8 - 10 hours later you have dinner. Want chili, almost as easy. Brown some hamburger, add tomatoe paste, tomatoe sauce, kidney beans, chili beans, some salsa--simmer on low all day. You'll be salvating my 5pm. It can save a dinner time.
- Leapster L-Max. Seriously. Video Games Educational and hours of entertainment? It is worth every penny. Even for the unGodly expensive game cartridges. Hey, the kid is learning how to add with now (and he's not even 5 yet).
- Plastic bins. All shapes and sizes. Preferrably clear. You're either going to want them to store all of your kids toys where they can find them (and if you do that, leave off the tops and put them on low shelves. The kids can take the toys in and out the play with and then, of course clean up on their own). OR you are going to use them for storing items for yourself. Whether it is old children's clothing you want to keep, or your own hobby stuff that needs a home other than in the middle of the dining room table.
- Blank greeting cards. Why blank with simple covers? Well you can use them for everything. Need a Thank You card in a hurry? Done. All you need is a ball point pen. Need a birthday card without running to the store (again)? You've got the cards right there.
- Disposable razors. Yeah, we all need to shave our legs and under-arms right? Well, I do. And hell if I am going to go all Amazon. Kids or not.
- Cordless phone (if you have a real phone line in your home). Anyone that doesn't have one of these yet... well is in the dark ages. With children it is a must. Hell, with a husband and loud sports games--it is also a must.
- A personal dream getaway. Just for yourself (no one else can come along). And once you figure out what it is (for me, it is a small hotel room overlooking a beach someplace tropical. Not too hot and humid though. But enough to let me lie around in shorts and a tank top. I want to sleep in, relax, drink daquiris and write. For about 4 days. And then go home back to reality), make plans to actually DO the dream. Even if it is for 2 years from now, just do it. For yourself. You are worth it.
- A mop/vaccum combo (like this). It cleans up virtually everything on a kitchen floor-spilled juices, cheerios, pet accidents, human accidents, and well the dirt and grime of living. And if you get really clean-addicted you could get a Roomba as well for the carpeting in your house.
- Creativity. It doesn't grow in trees, but you can exercise this pretty easily. Especially when you are in the middle of the grocery store and your 2 year old would rather be running amuck in the wild west. You need to create a game on the fly that will keep him occupied for 20 more minutes (grabbing the rest of your groceries and checking out)... what do you do? Me? I make the grocery store a Wild West Ranch. He's got to lasso the latest cactus (Chef Boyardee Ravioli can) and ride the horses to the ranch (ride the cart down the check out aisle). But hey, you can do what you want. It just helps to get creative instead of ride out a tantrum. Don't you think?
- A cool key dangle. Anything to distinguish your keys from your significant others. And if it lights up, jangles, or spins it will keep any kid busy while you are waiting in line at any store.
- Cardboard boxes. Preferrably large(r) ones. Kids are creative. And nothing beats a cardboard box.
- Car seats in EACH car you use regularly. It saves a lot of transferring and hooking and well just inconvenience.
- A dream and goal for myself--as in a person/woman--not as a mother. A happy and goal-oriented woman, then becomes a good mother. What better way to be a role model for your children.
- A thermometer. Whenever you call your pediatrician regarding your child's illness you'll get asked if they are running a fever (Hell, I get asked this same question when I call into my doctor for my own illnesses). Have the thermometer handy. It helps. What kind you buy is up to you--they all work relatively the same. I have one that goes in the ear.
- Carpet cleaner. Spills happen. And so does spit up and wine tipping. A spot carpet cleaner can save the day on more than one occassion.
- Paper plates. I know, I know, save the planet. But we're talking paper here. RECYCLED paper. And my sanity--especially when we are talking about birthday parties here--can be saved using a paper plate every now and again for my kidling. Or at least plastic. That way nothing can be broken. But paper trumps the plastic when it comes to volume. I don't have to wash 'em!
- Multi-vitamins. Now honestly, I am not a vitamin gal. But when you have kids, they bring in every germ imaginable to your house. I've been sick too many times to count in the last 5 years (and likely sick more times than in my entire life)--all because the kid brought the illnesses with him (think: kid sick with 24 hour stomach virus. 48 hours later, mom hurling in the nearest toilet). Take your vitamins. Get flu shots. Do what you need to do to stay well. You'll feel better for it. Trust me.
- Hugs and Kisses. Cheap shot I know, but how do you think *I* keep going every day.
- My significant other and kidlings of course (another cheap shot, but true! Hell, I couldn't be a mother without them)!
**
UPDATED: Yes, yes, I forgot 2 items (GASP!). But since I cheated a bit on the last two, I'm adding this as just updates. The
JJ Cole Bundle Me Lite carrier cover. Awesome. Can't say enough about it. Now you don't have to worry about falling blankets and cold children. Secondly,
Aquaphor. Yep. Use it for diaper rash, dry skin for you or baby, and well anywhere.
Holy crap, I'm done. And this by no means is as easy as I thought it would be. In fact it was damn hard.
Anyway, these 101 lists are somewhat of a feature here at Mommy Writer. And by somewhat I mean, posting on it will be whenever I have the time and/or when I remember I need to make a list. It's all about priorities... eating lunch? Or blogging a 101 list? You decide.
Also (as I have said in previous posts), this is definitely not a meme, but by all means, if you find you'd like to try some similar sort of list on your blog--feel free. And hell, if you want to link back to me-- feel free. I'm not the boss of you (or me). This idea is free to anyone that is dying to make their own list and begin in the fun. Oh, and please, this Mom Necessity List, please tell me in the comments if I missed anything. Wouldn't want a mom to be lost without the next best gadget, gimmick, sanity-saving item!
Labels: 101 Things, motherhood, parenting
