I’m a new mom. But, now that Cal is 5-months-old, I’ve got a much better handle on the needs of our life at home, on set, and on the road. I did so much research and planning before he was born, but learned that it was all pretty much useless once my son actually arrived. His needs were so much different than what I imagined they’d be, even with all the thought I put into what I purchased for him. I’ve tried to stay very flexible and roll with each stage as it comes. And, I’ve learned that having the right things on hand — both for Cal and for myself — really helps. Here are the 10 things that get me through the day (in no particular order)!
New Mom Life: 10 Things I Rely on to Get Through the Day
-
Bravado Nursing Bra
This is the nursing bra that I reach for first. It’s comfortable, easy, and provides a good amount of support.
More infoPhoto: Bravado! Designs
-
Comotomo Teether
Cal would never take a pacifier and hasn’t mastered his thumb, but this chew toy soothed him from early on. It's his favorite thing to munch now that he is officially teething.
Photo: Como Tomo
-
Thenice Baby Bandana Drool Bib
So cute and so necessary once teething hits!
Photo: Amazon
-
Nook Lilypad Play Mat
This thing is washable and portable and was the perfect turf for rolling practice. It’s soft and padded but easy for him to grip. If I am ever successful in getting him to sleep in his own bed, he’ll be sleeping on Nook’s mattress!
Photo: Nook Sleep Systems
-
Herschel Supply Backpack
I spent way too much time and money choosing a diaper bag before Cal was born. I bought one that was super chic but totally heavy, so it's pretty much useless. This backpack, which I bought on sale at nordstrom.com, however, is my everything!
More info
Photo: Herschel Supply -
Atomic Moms Podcast
This weekly podcast is run by my BFF Ellie Knaus, and it features tons of experts and real mom stories, as well as plenty of laughs. Blood pressure-lowering genius!
Photo: iTunes
-
Lactation Cookies
Cal eats every hour and a half (or more), and when I went back to work my supply was having trouble keeping up. As soon as I added these brewer’s yeast treats to my routine, I caught up and got ahead, making life much less stressful.
Photo: Food.com
-
Rock n’ Play
I resisted this thing at first, but it really does live up to the hype! I am missing it big time now that he’s too big to sleep safely in it. It is a nap’s best friend.
Photo: Target
-
Toddy
My Cal is not a great sleeper, so coffee is crucial! Since I’m often on my own in the morning, the Toddy system is the easiest way to get my daily fix. I make the concentrate over the weekend and then have delicious, restorative cold brew all week long.
Photo: Toddy
-
Water Wipes
These wipes are totally pure and much wetter than the average wipe.
Photo: Water Wipes
