Ever since we had our 20 week scan and saw our little girl, counted all her little toes and can now feel her wriggling about, everything just feels more ‘real’. Now, at nearly 24 weeks pregnant, the fact that in just a few short months I’ll be holding her in my arms is just starting to sink in. Her nursery is now painted, the cot has arrived and I’ve been busy filling her room with all kinds of adorable woodland animals, Disney sleep suits and story books. Here’s just a few things we’ve picked up recently…
1. Story Time – Although she’s still tiny (understatement of the year) I’ve already made a start to her very own library. I think reading stories to your child is so important for their well-being and language development. Don’t get me wrong – I’m no expert, but I also believe it helps to stimulate their imagination and curiosity while expanding their understanding of the world. A familiar story is also something you can take comfort in, like a friend. The whole process is a beautiful way to build a connection, it’s calming and soothing for both baby and parent. Some of my favourite childhood memories are of my dad reading me a bedtime story every night, I hope she will share these happy memories. I ordered a few classics a while back: The Cat in the Hat by Dr Seuss, The Jolly Postman by Allan & Janet Ahlbery, Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney, Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell, The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Elmer by David McKee, all from Amazon.
2. Time to Snuggle up & Dream Happy Thoughts… – Having cringed at some of the prices stores such a Mamas & Papas are charging for baby clothes, ASDA’s adorable and affordable collection is a breath of fresh air. I picked up two Bambi inspired sets shown above at around £8 each which came with a sleep suits, bibs and hats. The material is thick, warm and so soft; far superior to similar items I’ve seen in Primark. I’ve also picked up a few Winnie the Pooh accessories, socks and mittens at a fraction of the cost of well-known baby shops.
3. Our Little Superhero – This Wonder Woman all-in-one was a gift and is available from Mothercare. The 100% cotton onesie has a ‘Toe Safe’ design to ensure there are no loose threads to wrap around tiny toes, a full popper opening for easy nappy changing and an envelope neck which easily pops over the baby’s head without becoming misshapen. Also, it’s super cute and geeky. They also have an R2 D2 onesie and hat set available that I’m desperate to get my hands on.
4. Planning ahead – I’ve picked up quite a few of Annabel Karmel’s meal planning and idea guides. She is the UK’s best-selling author on baby and children’s food and her New Complete Baby & Toddler Meal Planner and Top 100 Meals in Minutes are full of inspiration for new parents.
5. Something for Mummy – I’ve been reaching more and more for my Mama Mio Tummy Rub Butter available at feelunique.com to help to relieve the itchy, tight, uncomfortable feeling in my stomach as it grows. It can also be used on your hips, thighs and boobs to protect your skin against stretchmarks as it’s packed with an ‘elasticising” blend of organic oils and shea butter.
What do you think of all the goodies I’ve treated myself & my baby girl to?
Do you have any children’s book suggestions that I should pick up next?
Please check out last week’s post were I discussed my feelings towards body confidence and pregnancy here. I’d love to know your thoughts.
