Newborn Essentials

(green & white cotton blanket here)

How the time flies. I can't believe three months have passed. Our sweet Madeline is growing too quickly! Sometimes I feel like I can't hold her close enough. There've been entire days where I've neglected everything on my list just to sit with her and study her tiny features.

I love her charming smile (complete with one sweet, tiny dimple) and I've desperately been trying to imprint the feeling of her petite body against my chest in my memory. It's awful how fast it goes.

The second time around I've been so much more aware. I've been particularly more cautious on those difficult days not to wish it away. Instead, I try to take a deep breath, let the big feelings settle and just sit in the moment with her. The feelings are so big when you're in the thick of it, aren't they?

I've had my share of challenging moments ― especially with feeling like I'm not enough for both of my children. I worry and experience guilt daily. But close friends who've been through it all keep me encouraged! The best advice was this: "Just look at it like a fun vacation for Meriwether. Throw some cereal or an Uncrustable on the counter, let her watch whatever she wants and let it go. It won't be like this forever!"

Through sharing my days with the girls on my Instagram page, I get asked often about what we enjoy using most and what I'd recommend. I wanted to go ahead and share our tried and true staples that have gotten us through these precious (exhausting) three months!

Maybe you have a registry to put together or a few final items left to purchase. Either way, I hope this can serve as a helpful guide and bring you some peace of mind as you prepare!

feeding & soothing ―

Of course the feeding journey looks different for everyone, but to give some context for my recommendations here, I exclusively pumped with Meriwether. For Madeline, a mix of nursing and pumping/bottle feeding when I need some rest at night. I've enjoyed using the Hakka this time to catch let down instead of it going to waste. I also keep a shield on hand when I get sore. I used these cool pads in the beginning too ― I cut them into smaller sections to make them last longer.

sleep ―

These swaddles and onesies proved to be winners for us with both girls! I typically do an easy, lightweight onesie under swaddles for quick nighttime changing. If your little one wakes often for changes, maybe try leaving them solely in a diaper underneath for less fuss. I noticed the nurses never bother to dress them when they're swaddled in the hospital, so I followed suit for the newborn phase. I find the sleep sack/swaddle combo is great for this!

newborn clothing ―

The first weeks you're spending most of your time at home, besides a walk for fresh air or visits to the pediatrician for check-ups. While you're bonding with your baby, getting a handle on a new routine and healing from delivery, you'll both want to stay comfortable. Don't overthink it ― ditch fussy clothes and don't invest too much here for your little one. They will likely outgrow newborn pieces within a few weeks. I purchased a couple of special things but kept it at that!

for mom ―

I've worn my lightweight LAKE robe and nightgowns constantly! I've also loved this oversized classic set and pretty pointelle nightgown. They're all lightweight enough to wear all night and convenient for nighttime feedings. My Solly Baby Wrap has also proven to be an essential. It's priceless to have free hands, especially with multiple children. I recently received a discount code for my readers to enjoy (AmeliaStyles10) so feel free to use it if you decide to order. Once you learn how to wrap your baby, you'll never want to be without it! They have tutorials at the bottom of the product page to reference.

play & activity ―

With Meriwether to care for as well, I've enjoyed our simple swing and seats for Madeline to keep busy. I keep one downstairs and one upstairs for convenience. The swing has been especially great because I can fold it up quickly and store it if I need to. We've only had to change the batteries in it one time since using it first with Meriwether! Lovevery has also been wonderful. Madeline's favorite toys have all come from her play kit!

other helpful additions ―

All of these items have proven to be great additions my second time around. The portable sound machine in particular has been saving us lately! The built in nightlight was so helpful during our most recent overnight trip. I used it during nighttime feedings and didn't have to pack a separate item or use the harsh flashlight on my phone.

For The First 3 Months...