List for new moms 6 months to before walking

It has been a while since I put out any product reviews and with the holidays approaching and several of my friends expecting I thought I would add to their lists.
Once Baikal started crawling her world got bigger and my recommended toy list got smaller. The reason? Anything and everything is a toy now. Toilet paper rolls, pots, cell phones, she sees them all as a toy. Some things I have let slide, but others get a firm "no" when she approaches them. Sure she pitches a bit of a fit now and then, but you've gotta start sometime. Here is my list for things that are helpful to know from the 6 months to before walking stage.

Robeez shoes- These are the only shoes that stay on Baikal's feet. There are similar brands out there, but these worked for her. She still has not grown out of her 0-6 month ones.

Dresses- Yes they are cute, but until walking, NOT practical. Better to have pants instead.

Playpen, walker, exersaucer, etc.- You need something to contain baby once they get moving.

Carseat- Our Graco Snugride had a limit of 20 lbs and 27 inches. Baikal outgrew the length before hitting the weight. So we had to buy a new carseat that is still rear-facing since she is not 1 year. We got the mother of all caseats, Britax Marathon. It is a behemoth. So far it has been OK. It just takes up a LOT of space.

Stroller- Once babies can sit up and look around a stroller is the way to go. No more travel systems needed. We have the Peg Perego Aria stroller. It is a good stroller, but I recommend getting the kidapottamus shade extender.

Diner covers/grocery cart covers- I don't use them because I have enough stuff that I am lugging around. I just try to give them a good wipedown and hope for the best.

Diaper bags-I just got a new diaper bag that I LOVE. It is made by Skip Hop and I give it two thumbs way up. I busted my first diaper bag from carrying so much stuff. This one has really held up. Way to go!

Restaurants- I found a WONDERFUL place to take Baikal when it is just the two of us. The Picadilly! I am sure K&W and Morrisons are also good. The pros? Overcooked veggies are soft enough for baby to eat and escape proof high chairs. Now this is fine dining!

Thanksgiving at the Garvins

We had a great Thanksgiving in Winston-Salem. It was over before we knew it! The turkey was so good that I forgot to take pictures. Don't worry, I did get video of Baikal's first Thanksgiving. It will be out in theaters this spring.


The Grandparents introducing ice cream to Baikal.


Meeting Santa.


Baikal telling Santa what she wants for Christmas.


Playing in the sun.

Baikal's new cousin

Baikal has a new baby cousin, Olive. Olive is going to be moving to our neighborhood soon. It will be great to have regular play dates.

Fall: A Series

It is fall here in Grant Park. Leaves the size of dinner plates are falling from the sky. Bright reds and yellows pop out against the blue sky above. It is a great time to be a kid. Even a baby snake had to come out to play.

Paul's Birthday

Baikal's friend Paul turned one this past weekend. We were invited over for some cake and playtime. It was great to see Eli and mom Noelle out and about also.