Jammy Jams - Once Upon This Rock Review

Disclosure: I have received this product through Tomoson.com in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Nugget is great in the car until he is not anymore.  Yes, I know that statement barely makes sense but it is the total truth.  We took a short little road trip up the mountains for a birthday party.  Jammy Jams - Once Upon a Rock came in the mail moments before we left.  I packed it in the diaper and figure we would give it a try.

When I first put it in, I was disappointed that there were no words.  This has been a common complaint with a lot of the children's CDs I have come across.  I want to be able to sing with Nugget when he gets older, but I guess I need a different product for that.

The songs on this CD are considered Christian Rock songs.  They are just pleasant music so don't' be deterred if you aren't into that genre.  There is a rendition of Fray song that I liked a lot.  Now, although I was disappointed with the CD being only instrumental, Nugget on the other hand took right to it.  By took right to it, I mean he fell asleep instantly when we put it on.  This wasn't just a fluke either.  I had to put him in the car when he was really crying and this CD calmed him down again.  It's a keeper and will remain in CD changer to save us on road trips.

Want to check out Jammy Jams other collections?  They have a bunch of other lullabies that would make a great gift!  Hook up with them on their social media to bring your baby the best of rock music..Twitter...Facebook...Instagram...Pinterest...YouTube!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Natural Bottle and Spout Cups by Philips AVENT Review

Disclosure: I have received the Natural Bottle and Spout Cups from Philips AVENT in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Bottles, Cups, Spouts, Sippies, OH MY!  There comes a time when the ways to feed your baby becomes very overwhelming.  While I would love to feed him at the breast all day, my work schedule does not allow for it.  We are always in a never ending search for the perfect bottle.  Philips AVENT's original bottle was one of the first that I bought when I was pregnant.  It turned out to be Nugget's favorite.  This made me very excited to try out the new Natural Bottle by Philips AVENT.  

When I first recived the bottle and I went to wash it, I was very excited to not find the ring that was common on the older Philips AVENT bottle.  Fewer pieces mean fewer things to lose and less chances that you forget the ring and your bottle leaks.  The bottle is a wide mouth opening which I prefer because it is compatible with my Hygeia pump.  Along with compatibility, wide mouths are far easier to clean than a standard opening.

The nipple on this bottle is where all the greatness is.  It is soft and very similar to the breast.  When you watch your baby latch, you will see how similar the latch is to breastfeeding.  The nipple has twin valves that reduces gas as well.

The bottle itself is BPA free and great to hold.  I do not like to bottle feed my baby since I contain the source, but I did try this bottle out myself.  It is very ergonomically shaped and sits in your hand nicely.  The indents make it easier for your baby to hold, too.

Overall, the Natural Bottle is definitely a favorite of ours.  Nugget, at 6 months old, is starting to use other feeding devices.  So with the bottle, we needed to start to introduce some form of a cup.  The Spout Cup by Philips AVENT is a fun addition to your feeding tools.

Six month is an appropriate time to start to transition your baby from bottle to sippy cup.  The Philips AVENT Spout Cup makes that transition easy.  It is equipped with a soft spout that is spill proof.  The spout it actually covered by a lid to keep it clean.  While some may like this.  I found that at 6 months old, Nugget wasn't sure how to keep the lid out of the way and had a hard time drinking from it because of the lid.  I plan to remove the lid to make it work for us.

The bottle, along with the whole Philips AVENT line on cups and bottles, has the easy to clean wide mouth opening.  This also make it interchangeable with different cup and bottle parts.  This cup comes with handles that are a must on a great sippy cup.  These assist in holding and allow the baby to feed themselves.

Nugget is still preferring the bottle right now and hasn't master the sippy yet but the Spout Cup makes a great choice because of its versatility to attach a nipple if you have to. 

Philips AVENT has a great selection of other feeding, mother and baby care items to fit your needs.  Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter to keep up to date on the latest technology in baby gear.

When did your child start to take a sippy cup?

 Disclosure: I have received the Natural Bottle and Spout Cups from Philips AVENT in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Nuby Easy-Grip 3 Stage Feeding System

Disclosure: I am a Nuby Mommy Blogger.  I receive Nuby Products in exchange for honest reviews.  The opinions are 100% my own.

I have heard it time and time again.  " My baby won't take a bottle and I have tried them all!"  We have all been there.  It starts by trying to register for what ever bottle your friend tells you her baby took.  That bottle doesn't work for your baby so you have to keep moving on to different ones.  It becomes a very expensive experiment. 

The Easy-Grip 3 Stage Feeding System tackles this problem and many more.  The never ending trial and error doesn't end at bottles, it goes to sippy cups and straw cups as well.  This one bottle will transition your child smoothly to the next stage.

The bottle fits all the nipples and is designed with your babies hands in mind.  It is, just as the name says, Easy-Grip.  It is a nine ounce bottle which will last you through toddlerhood.  

Stage 1 is is a Natural flow bottle nipple that is perfect for the beginning.  You then move on to the soft spout sippy.  Finally, Stage 3 is the Sport Sipper straw that is preparing your child for a cup.  

The Easy-Grip Feeding System features Nuby's leak resistant design to stop messy feedings.  They are dishwasher safe and easy to clean without one.  If you are looking for an one stop bottle system, you can purchase this one at Amazon.com, Diapers.com or in store at Kmart.

Disclosure: I am a Nuby Mommy Blogger.  I receive Nuby Products in exchange for honest reviews.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Nuby Teething Blankie Review

Disclosure: I am a Nuby Mommy Blogger. I work with Nuby to review their products.  I have received the Nuby Teething Blankie in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own and may differ from yours.

Nugget cut his first tooth the other day.  If you didn't know...teeth are not fun.  I have been trying every different kind of teether to help soothe him.  The Nuby Teething Blanket is perfect for just that as well as being a comfort item to snuggle with.  This small little blankie really does pack a lot into the space that it has. The center is a squeaker, the ends teethers, there is some crinkling in there and of course some tags to play with.

I hate to give toys while Nugget is in the carseat because 1. It is dangerous and 2. they get thrown everywhere.  This one is soft enough though that I feel better about him holding on to it and since it is in a blankie form, he throws it a lot less than his other teethers.  

The Nuby Teething Blankie come is four different styles.  All of them have a cute little animal in the middle and bright colors throughout.  You can order one now on Amazon.com, Walmart.com, or purchase in store at Sears.

Disclosure: I am a Nuby Mommy Blogger. I work with Nuby to review their products.  I have received the Nuby Teething Blankie in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own and may differ from yours.

Nugget

Hugo The Happy Starfish - The Last Bully Review

Disclouse: I have received this product through Tomoson in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

This may sound crazy but I already worry about my 5 month old starting school.  My Muslim child will be going to school among other children that will most likely not share his religion.  There will come a day where September 11 is taught in school and I fear that the teacher will portray the event in a way to create hate towards my children.  The same goes for the people who are my age that spread this hate towards the Middle East because they will have children the same age as Nugget and those children will have heard how their parents speak of Muslims.  That was the reason I decided to review this book.

Hugo The Happy Starfish - The Last Bully by Suzy Lieberman is a great tale to teach children the importance of mutual respect for one another.  Unlike most other children's books, The Last Bully has a solid story line.  Hugo basically makes a club that promotes no more bullying.  It comes full circle in the end when the person who caused Hugo to start the club, request to join the club because he was bullied as well. 

Hugo is a great role model for children.  Throughout the series of Hugo books valuable lessons are taught of character, life skills, and  ecological alertness.  Children will learn to respect one another and teach respect to their peers.  This will hopefully lead to children who don't bully, thus reducing bullying in schools.

The Last Bully will be available in February in 7 different languages.  You are able to purchase through Amazon.com or Goodreads.com.  Check out the other Hugo Books here!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

My Jordanian Nugget's One Year Anniversary Giveaway!

My Jordanian Nugget is celebrating its 1 Year Anniversary this month!  For the past 11 days I have brought you some of Nugget's favorite things.  You know he is about to be 6 months in a couple of weeks!  How did that happen!?  I teamed with some great companies to bring you this giveaway.  It was made possible by my readers and I so happy that I get to bring you such a great prize pack. The winner will take all and there are a ton of entries, including one that you can do each day, so get to entering!  

A big thank you to all the companies that participated Britax, HALO SleepSack, Wubbanub, Smart Mom Jewelry, Zipadeezip,  Bamboobies,  Preggie Pops, Daddy Scrubs, Lansinoh, Nuby,  and Simple Wishes!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy One Year Anniversary! - Nugget's Must Haves Giveaway!

Disclosure: Some of the items in this post were provided to be review for this post.  The opinions are 100% my own.  Some links will take you to posts where the product was provided to me.

One year ago this month I started blogging about my family's journey to get pregnant and have a child.  I love looking back to see how far we have come.  In celebration of Nugget's Anniversary I am giving away a large prize pack of some of Nugget's favorite things.  Scroll to the bottom to enter!

Before Nugget was born we, like many other new parents, were excited and confused about registering for this new baby.  There were so many options there and how was I suppose to know what my baby needed.  Please know that before you read my must have list, every baby is different and your list may be completely different than mine.

Let's start with the nursery:
Now Nugget didn't even try to sleep in his crib until he was 6 weeks old, so our room was an extension of the nursery.

• Arms Reach Co-Sleeper
• King size pillow cases make great sheets for this instead of the ones that are specific for the co-sleeper
• Waterproof mats for co-sleeper
• Crib
• 2 Fitted Sheets
• 2 Waterproof Crib Protectors
• Crib Mattress
• Bedding Set
 (totally optional since most of them contain lots of items that are deemed unsafe)
• Crib Mobile
• Changing Table
• Changing table mat
• 2 Changing table mat cover 
• Bins for storage - we cloth diaper so it is necessary to be organized
• Rocker
• Dresser/closet/clothes storage
• Size Hangers
• baby hangers
• Hamper
• Dehumidifier
• We have hard wood and covered it with foam play tiles.  This has kept me from waking up the baby several times while I drop everything

Diapering that Little rascal:

We cloth diaper full time.  We did start out with disposable newborn diapers before he fit into his cloth.

• 2 Hanging wet bags
• 4 diaper wet bags
• Cloth Wipe Spray
• Cloth wipes - we use baby wash cloths and love them.  We probably have about 50
• The type of diaper you will choose will depend on what works for your family.  Check out my post here on what we use when.
• Cloth diaper safe detergent
• Cloth diaper safe rash cream

Feeding Nugs:

Nugget is an exclusively breastfed baby so much of this is what mama needs.  I am also a full time working mama, so I pump during the day and breastfeed on nights and weekends.

• Breastfeeding support pillow
• Nipple Healing Supplies
• Nipple Cream
• Hot and Cold Therapy
• Soothies Breast Pads
• Nursing Tanks
• Nursing bras (sleep and during the day)
• Breast Pads
• disposable and washable
• Bottles and nipples - I wouldn't' buy a lot because you do not know what your baby will take
• Breast milk storage pads
• Drying rack
• Bottle Brush
• Breast Pump
• Manual
• Double Electric
• Hand's free Pumping Bra
• High Chair

Dressing Baby:

Your baby will grow at an unpredictable rate.  Do not invest in a lot of clothes before the babe gets here.  My 5 month old wears 12 months clothes.

• Scratch mittens
• socks
• Plain white onesies are great to have around, throw some in the car or in the diaper bag
• Zip-up sleepers - I hate buttons in the middle of the night!
• Zipadee-zip
• Halo SleepSack
• Everything else is extra.
• Swaddlers

Traveling with Baby:

We flew to Jordan with Nugget when he was two month old and some of these things were much needed.  Others are just for your everyday travel.

• Stroller
• Accesories for your stroller
• Infant Seat - We did a travel system so we got both in one purchase
• Travel Bed
• Car Mirror
• Car organizer
• Soft Structured carrier
• Woven Wrap
• Diaper Bag

Entertaining Baby:

This is where it gets sketchy on what to buy and what not to.  We bought almost everything used because we didn't know if he would like it.

• Pack n' Play
• Swing
• Exercise Mat
• Bouncy Seat
• Sleep Sheep
• Teethers
• Oball
• Floor Mirror
• Teething Bling
• Sophie

Keeping Baby Clean and Safe:

• Burp cloths
• Baby Tub
• Baby Shampoo
• NoseFrida
• bibs
• First Aid Kit
• Saline Drops
• Gas Drops
• Colic Calm
• Gripe Water

Random Items:

• Receiving blankets
• Swaddle Blankets
• Pacis
• Books
• First Aid Kit

Bringing Baby into the world:

You can go here to see what I packed for Nugget's Birth.

• Outfit for Mommy
• Daddy Scrubs
• Coming Home outfit for Baby!
• Candy to suck on during labor

You can check out Nugget's Must Have Store here to pick up any of these items!

Do you wanna win some of these items!?  Enter Here!

Britax Stroller Organizer Review

Disclosure: I have received this product in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Being a new mom, I am sure there were times when I was out in public I looked a mess trying to find everything that I needed.  Now that my baby is 5 months old I have my life a little more together, but man do I appreciate items that organize me.  My stroller is one thing we could not live without.  We went with the Britax B-Agile because I liked that it was light, easy to use and looked sleek.  One of the things that I did not like was that there was no place to put any of my things!  That is when I found the Britax Stroller Organizer.  Every mom needs one to keep her sane.

The Britax Stroller Organizer has velcro closures that go around your handles to position the organizer right where you need it.  

The organizer has two cup holders that are a must to hold my coffee I should not be drinking and the bottle of water I should be drinking but never do.  In between the cup holder is a magnetic compartment that I throw my keys and wallet in for easy access whilst shopping around the mall.  In addition to my keys, wallet and coffee, I need some place to hold my phone and pacis, which have to always be readily available with Nugget.  There are three outer mesh compartments that are perfect for this.

You can store all your immediate essentials in this organizer.  When you go to close your stroller, even though it is an add-on it works with the collapse because it is also collapsible.

The Britax Stroller Organizer is not just for Britax strollers.  It fits all strollers that have handles that are 13 to 21 inches wide.  

Want to buy one for yourself?  They are sold on Amazon!  My complete list of must haves and a chance to win some is right here!

Don't forget to check out Britax on Facebook and Twitter!

Tell us what your favorite stroller accessory is.

Disclosure:  I have received this product in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Smart Mom Jewelry - Teething Bling Review!

Disclosure: I have received this product in exchange for a honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Do you have a 5 month old?  Do you frequently go to dinner and order nachos or mozzarella sticks because you know you can eat them with one hand, since your other is entertaining your babe.  Well I do.  I have a very active 5 month old that loves to chew and hold things.  I constantly find myself picking up toys from the nasty ground because Nugget is training to be a pro baseball player by pitching teether as far as they will go.  My very active breastfed 5 month old is very easily distracted as well.  This means that the innocent bystander in the mall/restaurant/or where ever my baby is hungry, may get a whole boob shot if you make a loud/interesting/or the slightest noise.  He has very little attention span and needs something to occupy him while he eats.  Why am I telling you this?  Well, because Teething Jewelry has been our answer to solve these problems.

Smart Mom Jewelry sounds like the type of company that we all wish that we worked for.  They are mom owned and mom staffed.  They have a kid friendly office and let you work around your family's schedule.  Amy Maurer Creel is the found of Smart Mom. She started the company after suddenly losing her sister-in-law to an undiagnosed heart defect.  Her sister-in-law, Maria, was an artist and clothing designer who had inspired Amy to start her own company.

Amy's company has created the original teething jewelry, Teething Bling.  This is jewelry that parents can wear to entertain and soothe babies with emerging teeth.  Teething Bling is completely safe!  There are no harmful chemicals...i.e no phthalates, BPAs, PVCs, lead or latex.  They are both FDA approved and carry the European CE mark for safety.  This is ADULT jewelry, though, so never place the necklace on the baby. 

So it is safe, which is everyone's main concern.  Why I like Teething Bling?  It is helpful!  Nugget loves to grab and play with it and will let me enjoy a meal or coffee without needing entertained.  I don't have to worry about him grabbing for other things and I also don't have to worry about it falling on the floor like so many of his other toys.

With trying to make our kids happy, I know some of us are still trying to look stylish...be it hard when you have to find clothes that fit and have easy access to the feed.  Smart Mom Jewelry doesn't look much different than normal jewelry that I would wear.  I just don't have to worry about this breaking.

They have all different kinds of pendants and bangles to choose from.  This will give you options for every outfit in your closet!  My favorite are the Whimsical Pendants!  How can you not love the Cookie Monster one?

Smart Mom does not just make teething bling.  They also have a very unique product that I have never seen before: Babe Magnet Ties.  These ties look just like a regular tie, but they have a squeaker and rattle hidden inside.  I know Nugget would have loved this while he sat through countless weddings this summer.

Want to get you own?  You can buy one here!  My complete list of must haves and a chance to win some is right here!
Tell us which Teething Bling you would like to have!

Disclosure: I have received this product in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Daddy Scrubs Review!

I know that when I was thinking about my birth experience...how silly it may be...I thought about what I would wear during birth.  I always assumed that I would wear a hospital gown because that is what I saw everyone else wearing.  Little did I know that now people were wearing much more comfortable birthing gowns.  I was lucky enough to have my aunt make me two that I would wear when I gave birth.  Now if I am going to have an awesome outfit, why shouldn't the new daddy have one too!



Daddy Scrubs provides new dads with a great ensemble to wear on that special day.  Their signature Daddy Scrubs come in different colors and style and are very comfortable to spend long hours in waiting for the arrival of baby.  Sure, beats plain old hospital scrubs...right?!

We did not get to use Daddy Scrubs during the arrival of Nugget, but I assure you that after baby comes you do not need to put these away.  First, they are very comfortable.  Daddy will want to wear them to lounge in far after your family has come home.  Second, what better outfit for a post partum mom than some oversize pjs.  I love hanging out in these, even though every time I put them on Dufda says that I stole them from him and he will never get to wear them.  Lastly, they will last through multiple births.  I have washed them several times already and they look as good as new.

Here is another thought...We shower new moms with gifts, but what about daddy to be gifts?  How nice would it be for pregnant mama to come home from her shower and give the expectant father a gift, or just skip that step and make the new dad feel special and send these his way.

Daddy Scrubs does not just offer scrubs to wear in the hospital or birth center, but also lots of other items that any new dad would love to have.  Seriously, how cute is this matching set for Dad and baby.

So whether you are buying a gift for someone else or packing your own hospital bag...Daddy Scrubs has something that can fit your need for birth and after.  

Stay connected with Daddy Scrubs on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr, Youtube, and Instagram by searching DaddyScrubs!

Wanna buy Daddy Scrubs?  Use the coupon code BLOG13 to get 10% off your purchase!  

My complete list of must haves and a chance to win some is right here!

Bamboobies Review

Disclosure: I have received this product in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

After you have a baby you are literally leaking out of everywhere.  The new one to most of us is leaking out of your boobies.  I remember when I first brought Nugget home, I was so frustrated that I couldn't figure out what to wear to sleep because I would be soaking wet when I woke up.  We went to the store and I bought a box of disposable nursing pads...then I bought another box...and another box.  I thought to myself, If I am using cloth diapers on my baby's bum, why I am not using cloth for myself?  I had heard really great things about Bamboobies and was just waiting to give them a try.  The breaking point was when I was packing to go on a vacation to Jordan for 2 weeks.  How many nursing pads would I need?  The thought of bringing boxes and boxes with me drove me to the store to get some Bamboobies.

When I examined their style of breast pad, I was sure that it wouldn't contain the geyser my boobs had become.  I gave it a try anyway, but still packed some disposables...just in case.  Not only did they contain the leaks for a 14 hour flight, they were perfect to pack since we were line drying everything in Jordan.  They dried very quickly and didn't take up much space.

After you open up your new pack of Bamboobies, throw them right in the washer and dryer.  They come out sooo soft.  The heart shape are made for day time use and the circles are for night time.  Let's start with the day timers first.

Their day time nursing pad is made of three layers.  The layer that is closest to your skin is a combination of cotton and organic bamboo, next is where the milk is absorb and that is made out of cotton and hemp, then the layer that keeps you dry it the outer layer.  The pads are cut into a heart shape to give you a clean look under your clothes.  I prefer to wear mine with the point up, but you can put them in any way you like.

The overnight pads have the same make up, but have more layers to absorb.  They are equally as comfortable and I am still able to wear them during the day if I have to.

In addition to the light pink, you are able to get them in black and hot pink.  Just like black underwear, black nursing pads are about as sexy as nursing pads come so I put these in when I am feeling fancy.  I would say in all I have about 12 pair of day time and 6 pair of night time.  I keep back up in my purse and car in case of emergencies and change them out when wet.  Once you go to Bamboobies you won't go back to your disposables.  

You are able to buy Bamboobies here!  Use coupon code MJN20 for 20% of your purchase!  My Jordanian Nugget will also being giving away a $25.00 store credit!

My complete list of must haves and a chance to win some is right here!

Tell us your favorite thing about breastfeeding!

Disclosure: I have recieved this product in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Preggie Pops Review

Disclosure: I recieved this product in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

You are probably thinking...I thought this was a birth to 6 months favorite, what are Preggie Pops doing on the list.  Or actually you probably had no idea and didn't think that it was wierd.  Why I chose Preggie Pops is because they are just really good.  They really really helped me during my pregnancy...the whole nine months that I was sick, and they were the first person who agreed to do a review and giveaway when I started my blog.  A year ago, I didn't bring them much advertising so I thought I would offer for them to be part of the One Year Anniversary Giveaway to pay them back.

Preggie Pops aren't just for pregnancy, though.  I keep them in my diaper bag pretty much all the time.  The Preggie Pop Drops Plus contain Vitamin B6 which gives you a nice little boost.  I also think they are great to suck on during labor.  When I started to transition I was so sick to my stomach that I needed something to wet my mouth.

I used Preggie Pops injunction with Zofran to curb my nausea during pregnancy.  Pop one in and you instantly feel better.  The flavors are great too.  If I didn't have a handful of these in my purse I would have gotten much more sick than I did.  Preggie Pops are effective due to the blend of essential oils, aromatherapy and the delivery method.

You can pick up Preggie Pop drops here, or you can win them as part of our One Year Anniversary Giveaway!

My complete list of must haves and a chance to win some is right here!

Did you have morning sickness?  What did you do to take care of it?

Simple Wishes Pumping Bra Review

Disclosure: I have received a Simple Wishes pumping Bra in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Do you pump at work?  Maybe you pump on the go in your car?  Or just pumping at home.  Let's face it, no one is raving about how fun pumping is, but there are ways to make it more enjoyable and easier.  When I first started to pump I couldn't figure out how I was going to hold both of the bottles the entire time I had to sit there.  I obviously would like to do something else while pumping to kill time as well.  That is when I found the Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bra!

The Simple Wishes Bra holds your flanges in place securely due to the design of the opening.  There are four pieces of fabric that "grab" the flange and stop it from moving.  By not having to hold the flanges, I can relax and scroll through Facebook or whatever I find interesting for the day.  I assume if you had to work while pumping that you would be able to to do that as well.  I have even heard that people use these and drive while pumping.  Just don't speed, that would make for one interesting traffic stop.

This bra does all kinds of adjusting to make it fit just right.  The panel in the back is adjustable based on your bust size.  They also include an expander that seperates the flange holes 2in wider.  

You are able to add straps or wear it strapless, as well.  With all these options, there is definitely a fit for everyone.

The zipper down the front makes it quick and easy to get on and off.  This is important since we do not have all the time in the world to pump when we have to.   I would probably throw in towel if the closure was something similar to a real bra.

I do have on complaint.  This thing takes forever to dry!  This make me very thankful that I have two.  Being that it is bound to get milk on it, you will start to have that wonderful aroma of breastmilk.  If you remember to wash this the night before you work, it will still be wet in the morning.  I suggest if you are working full time, get two and save yourself the headache.

You are able to pick up your own Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bra here, or you can check out my complete list of must haves and a chance to win some is right here!

What do you like to do with your two free hands while pumping with the Hands Free Bra?

Disclosure: I have received a Simple Wishes pumping Bra in exchange for an honest review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Breaastfeeding Relief from Lansinoh

Disclosure: I received these products from Lansinoh in exchange for a review.  The opinions are 100% my own.

Breastfeeding is hard.  I have yet to come across a mother who says otherwise.  The reason why most of us stick it out is because it does get easier.  I was so unprepared to start breastfeeding in terms of supplies.  I had no idea what I was going to be experiencing or what I was going to be feeling.

Dufda and I took Nugget out on day #2 because I needed to find myself some relief for my sore nips.  We headed to Target and I bought, what felt like, the whole breastfeeding section.  I will tell you I needed all of it to make Nugget and I's relationship better.  When we left Target I had in my bag, Lansinoh 3-in-1 Therapearl Breast Therapy, Soothies Gel Pads by Lansinoh,and  Lansinoh Disposable Nursing Pads

Most mother's do not know that when you bring home your baby, you will not be producing milk yet.  You will only be expressing colostrum.  This means that your baby is consuming small amounts of colostrum pretty frequently.  It is all they need in those early days, because their tummies are so tiny.  This made my nipples very sore.  I heard over and over again that if I was in pain I was doing something wrong.  This wasn't the case.  Nugget's latch was just fine.  My nipples were not use to strong suck that Nugget was subjecting me too.  My favorite cure for this was the  Lansinoh Soothies Gel Pads.  I placed these in the fridge before I wore them and it was instant relief when I put them on.  Unlike a nursing pad, these provided relief to my nipples.  The gel is good for about 72 hours or until it gets filled with milk.

The moment your milk comes in, around about day 3 for me, you are super engorged and sore.  This may also leave you with some clogged ducts, which causes even more pain.  The best relief for this was heat for me.  It loosened up all the milk and would free the clogs.  I applied the Lansinoh 3 in 1 TheraPearls and it was just what I needed.  The 3 in 1 is referring to the fact that you can get relief in 3 ways:  From heat for mastitis; cold for engorgement and you can also use them around your breast pump flanges to make pumping quicker.  There were several days in the beginning that I walked around the house with these in my nursing bra for relief.

When your milk starts to come in, your supply will not be regulated yet.  This can cause some extreme boob leakage and you need something to absorb it.  Leaking is different for everyone, I was and still am a heavy leaker.  I cannot go anywhere or do anything without breast pads.   

Interruption for why you should always wear breast pads if you are a leaker:  I was in a good friends wedding on March 30th, 2013.  This was just 29 days after I had Nugget.  I had rented, yes rented a pretty awesome breastfeeding friendly bridesmaid dress.  I had my manual pump on hand and a baby that would be able to nurse after all the pomp and circumstance was done.  At this time in my mom career I had not yet figured out the supply and demand of my boobs.  I was also a pretty big disaster trying to get ready for the event.  It was the first time I had blown dry my hair since the baby was born and I was so flustered about getting ready.  So I get all dolled up and feel pretty good about myself.  We are dancing down the aisle to the bride's awesome music and I realize at that moment I HAVE FORGOTTEN TO WEAR NURSING PADS!  If you are breastfeeding your baby you know that the last thing you want to think about when you aren't around your baby is breastfeeding your baby.  This automatically triggers a let down and you become soaked.  Well since I forgot my breast pads, all I could think about was how I was going to leak right through my dress causing me to leak even more than I would have.  I had two breastmilk stains on my dress through the whole reception.  It had soaked through a serious padded bra too!  Moral of the story: Wear your nursing pads!

 I like to have both disposables and cloth on hand.  The disposables that I chose were the Lansinoh Nursing Pads.  They are great because you can attach them to your bra or clothes with the adhesive strips.  I have never had one of these leak on me and I have definitely given them a run for their money.

The last thing to round out your breastfeeding essentials, Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags.  You will not need these right away if you are exclusively breastfeeding.  They are just important when you start to pump, so you store your milk.  I have these on auto delivery from Amazon because we go through so many.  I like to store my milk in 2.5oz increments (this is how big of a bottle Nugget takes), I then lay them flat to freeze and move to a box in our deep freezer.  I have never had an issue with leaking or freezer burn in these bags.  They have a double seal that seems to really keep everything in.  When I move them to the deep freezer I organize them by date to always pull the oldest first.  

These are just a couple of my favorite products for breastfeeding.  In celebration of My Jordanian Nugget's One Year Anniversary I am compiling a list of everything you need for baby from birth to 6 months and giving away some of my favorites.  My complete list of must haves and a chance to win some is right here!!
Disclosure: I received these products from Lansinoh in exchange for a review.  The opinions are 100% my own.