Sunday, September 30, 2007

Challenge #2 - Jennifer K

This was a really hard challenge for me - I didn't know anything about most of this stuff. Please let me know what I've missed or if you have any other comments about the list - Thanks!!

Feeding:
- antibacterial dish soap
- sink stopper
- Rubbermaid container for wash bin
- nipple brush
- tongs for swishing nipples in hot water
- bibs (2 - 1 in backpack)
- disposable bibs
- 2 8-oz Playtex drop in nursers
- 6-8 Playtex fast flow silicone nipples
- 120-150 Playtex drop in liners
- snack bowls w/lids
- spoons and forks
- teething feeder (I got the Sassy one because it had a cover)
- extra mesh bags for teething feeder
- formula bags -or- twist ties for drop in liners -or- powdered formula dispenser
- thermos (in backpack)
- cheerios *buy later*
- rice cereal *buy later*
- goldfish *buy later*
- biscuits *buy later*
- powdered electrolyte *buy later*
- formula (n/a - agency provides first bag, we'll buy more in China and transition to US formula at home)
- Rubbermaid canister for formula (I've heard that Chinese formula comes in bags and gets all over the place unless you transfer to another container)
- scoop for formula do I need this?
- funnel for formula do I need this?
- plastic measuring cup *still need*
- pacifiers (4 - 2 in backpack)
- sippy cup do I need this? won't she be taking a bottle?
- 3 burp cloths
Bathing/Diapering:
- Huggies size 3 diapers - enough for a few days, buy more in China does this seem like the right size? may buy some size 2 when we know her size
- Huggies Natural Care wipes (5 - 40 ct soft packs)
- swim diapers
- diaper disposal bags
- Aveeno diaper rash cream
- California Baby baby wash
- California Baby baby lotion
- Burt's Bees Baby Bee apricot massage oil
- changing pad (in backpack)
- disposable changing pads
- disposable wash cloths
- baby comb and hairbrush
- baby nail clippers
- baby nail scissors
- baby toothbrush
Clothing
- hat (in backpack)
- 1 pair shoes (probably white tennies - to keep baby safe from the clothing police until we can go shopping)
- swimsuit
- 5 sleepers *still need*
- 5 outfits
- 1 sweater
- 1 hooded jacket
- 5-10 pair socks *still need*
Toys
- stacking cups
- Baby Einstein Mirror Me board book
- Snuggle Puppy board book
- soft photo album w/family photos
- lovey (in backpack)
- inflatable safari roller
- Taggies bucket buddies
- Haba rattle
- plastic keys
- beach ball
Misc
- anti-bacterial wipes
- table cloth for floor play *still need*
- outlet covers
- night light

It was probably smart to do this before the luggage challenge -- I've learned something about the size of bags I'll be needing! Wendy, any suggestions for how I can pare back??

- Jennifer K

Angela's list for Challenge #2 (baby clothing, feeding and diapering)

So here are my lists and pictures for this month's challenge ~ its still a work in progress!! Sorry the pictures are so dark! The clothes I have listed are all ~ 6-12 months, so may need to buy different sizes depending on her age/size at referral, but its a start!

Baby care & diapering:



- Huggies baby wash/shampoo
- Aveeno baby lotion
- Aveeno baby soothing bath treatment (2 packs)
- baby powder (in backpack)
- diaper rash cream (in backpack)
- Box disposable facecloths
- 3 baby facecloths
- hooded towel (I know ~ not a necessity but cute “photo op”!)
- baby q-tips (12)
- baby comb
- baby nail brush
- baby nail clippers
- baby toothbrush/paste
- change pad – reusable & disposable (8)
- wipes - travel pack & 4 packs of 40
- diapers Huggies size 3
- Huggies night-time diapers (for flight) **have to buy these in US**
- rubber diaper cover (1)
- 3 swim diapers *if hotel has a pool*
- diaper disposal bags

Feeding:



- 3 Playtex (8 oz) bottles (one in backpack)
- 1 Playtex (4 oz) bottle
- 100 8 oz liners (50 drop-ins & box of roll-ups)
- a few 4 oz liners
- nipples * 2 high flow (2 extra in backpack),2 medium flow, 2 natural action
- twisties (to pre-fill liners with formula)
- nipple brush (small)
- antibacterial dish soap **don’t have yet**
- container for washing bottles (pack with food on the way over)
- thermos (in backpack)
- formula (buy closer to trip)
- rice cereal (buy closer to trip)
- formula divider (in backpack)
- snack container (in backpack)
- cheerios/mum mums/gerber puffs/gold fish crackers (buy closer to trip)
- sippy cup
- soother/holder/clip (in backpack)
- 1 box disposable bibs
- bibs * 2 plastic & 2 cloth bibs
- disposable placemats
- disposable spoons
- travel utensils (in backpack)
- plastic bowls with lids

Toys:



- teething toy (sassy fish)
- toy keys
- doll
- taggie blankie
- stacking toys
- blow-up ball
- small board book (baby Einstein)
- “Who loves baby?” photo album
- flannel-backed plastic tablecloth (for playing on the floor)

Clothes for Ella:

- outfits see below
- 2 blankets (one light, one dark for stroller)
- bathing suit (if hotel room has a pool)
- sunglasses
- sun hat
- hair accessories elastics/clips (if she has hair!)
- 5 or 6 pjs (have 4)
- 5 onesies (for layering) *need to buy 3 more plain 6-12 month onesies*
- 6-8 pairs of socks
- 4 or 5 pairs of tights
- coat
- extra sweater

6-12 month denim ladybug dress / onesie /sweater / white tights / denim hat
6-12 month ladybug jeans / red onesie / white socks
6-12 month pink ladybug dress / pink tights
6-12 month ladybug sweater
6-12 month red shoes


6-12 month panda denim jeans/turquoise top/panda socks
6-12 month denim dress/pink t-neck onesie/cardigan sweater/fushia tights
6-12 month panda top
6-12 month pink ruffle pants
6-12 month pink flowered shoes



6-12 month barnyard cutie pants & onesie & socks
6-12 month red pants
6-12 month red onesie/denim dress/tights



6-12 month Gap denim dress/onesie
6-12 month PJs
6-12 month bathing suit
coat

Wendy's Packing Challenge




I am not officially taking part in this challenge only because I haven't thought about actual packing yet. Since I have been twice, I pretty much know what I will pack and I tend to pack light, from experience! I will probably pack right before travel. But I do want to post photos of my luggage the first time I went to get Kate in China. Above, I have mine and my brother's suitcase and carry-ons. We were in China for 26 days because we travelled a week ahead to sightsee. You can see that we went Carry-On only and I actually still had things that I never once used, like duct tape, dress pants, and a few other things. Nowadays, you really cannot go Carry -On only because many off the airlines have strict regulations for carry-on sizes and weights! Whatever the restrictions are in USA, you can bet they will be stricter in China. Everything is smaller there, the planes, the seats, the limits. But the fines are big, so be careful when packing!

My biggest tip to all of you is that now in the year 2007-2008, you can buy just about anything you need in China so don't overpack. You will be glad when you are pulling a much more efficient and lightweight load, including a baby! ! LOL I would be happy to answer any questions if you want/need advice!

Saturday, September 29, 2007

Laundry Sheets

I'd been planning on bringing some Woolite in a little bottle, but then I stumbled across these
I found them at http://www.wishingfish.com/ - which also has paper shampoo and shaving paper. The laundry paper is out of stock, but they told me that they expect to have more in 1-2 weeks.

Jennifer K

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Global Bag Tags

The last post had me thinking about luggage tags (it's time I grew up and stopped using the free ones from work and trade shows). While looking online, I came across these:


They are a little spendy, but they allow you to track your luggage online. Sort of cool, although not as pretty as I'd hoped. For more info, go to GlobalBagTag.com.

Victorinox also makes a similar tag:


You can read about this one here.

~Jennifer K

Ladybug Tag



Our Critter Luggage Tag is available in a cat, dog, frog or ladybug character. They're a fun and whimsical way to identify your luggage, backpack, tote, laptop case or diaper bag. • Soft leather-like construction
• Clear window on back to view identification
• Buckled leather strap
Find it here.

Double-Sided Divided Pill Box

"Our Clear Double-Sided Divided Pill Box hinges open to reveal three small, two medium, and one large compartment. Its large capacity is ideal for taking a supply of medication and vitamins, cotton swabs, hair elastics, and a pair of earrings. It can also serve as a mini sewing kit. It's great for work and travel. "
Find it here.

Clear Mesh Packing Bags

Clear Mesh Packing Bags Set of 4

Description
"Travel packing is now a dream with the help of packing bags!

The Packing Bags by Lewis N. Clark are made up of diamond-weave ripstop nylon that is expertly designed for optimum organization and spill-free travel packing. This set of 4 packing bags are leak resistant, wipe clean and are ideal for packing wet items and those prone to spills.

The clear design make it easier for you to identify the contents. This bag keeps your items neat and easy to access. Each bag comes equipped with a convenient carry clip.

Check out our entire line of Packing Cubes and other travel packing bags.

Features:
Made up of diamond-weave ripstop nylon
Clear design for easy identification of contents
Optimizes organization and leak free packing
Leak resistant and easy to clean
Corded double zipper for easy access to items "

Sizes:
Extra Large: 10"tall x 14"wide
Large: 8"tall x 9 1/2"wide
Medium: 6"tall x 8"wide
Small: 4"tall x 4"wide


-:¦:- Stephe -:¦:-

Traveler's Cord and Charger Storage



Traveler's Cord and Charger Storage
by Kangaroom Storage
$30
"Which is worse: leaving a charging cord at home or at the hotel? Or figuring out how to plug 4 cords into one hotel outlet? Now you can just unzip, insert one plug, and you’re set. Includes 6 pockets and room for a surge protector with up to 8 outlets."
-:¦:- Stephe -:¦:-

Thursday, September 20, 2007

More Organizing Bags




These are some more organzing/packing bags that I found these on I'm an Organizing Junkie blog. You can go here to order them. They have several different sizes, but these pictures of the smallest and largest that they have.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

I had to share

I found these at Walmart in the comping section and thought they would be perfect to through in our suitcase for China. I think I paid less then $2 for them. Each package has three little sponges that are pre-soaped (no need to carry something that might leak) Scotch Brite Pre-Soaped sponges (Sorry I could not find a picture) are a good thing LOL

Also while perusing the camping section Hubby found these
and had to have them... LOL
I am not sure that we will ever use them but just in case we need them we have a Fork, Spoon and Knife all in one. and they come in a few cool colors....They are called the Spork and are made by Light my Fire

Monday, September 17, 2007

PortaMEe

I just found this and fell in love then I saw the price!!!

"Let’s face it. When you’re traveling, you’re shopping and when you’re shopping it’s really nice to have your hands free (and look good too). Enter the PortaMEe, a super cool hip carrier that all you yummy mummies out there are sure to love…and an alternative to shopping with a stroller that’s sure to please both you and your little one.
From a style standpoint, it’s hot. And from what we’ve read, it’s just as great in terms of comfort and function. Aside from the great colours (blue/brown, pink/brown) and leather trim, this little number has ergonomic lumbar support that helps reduce back fatigue, and also give you the ability to maintain eye contact with your child. Plus it has pouches for keeping things like money and diapers and you can even purchase a snap-on insulated bottle holder, and a waterproof hooded cape.
The portaMEe is suitable for ages 5 months to 3 years. It’s available online from the company for $198 USD."
-:¦:- Stephe -:¦:-

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Stephe's Diaper Backpack

So, here is my diaper backpack. Can you believe so much stuff can fit in one bag? Plus, there is actually room for more. But it does look slightly obnoxious. I've been home sick, on meds and laying around the house all day. So, my laptop has been my best friend! :)

click on any photos to enlarge

I'm not sure if I'm definately bringing a voice recorder but it fit nicely in the side pocket so it staying for now. I found these 4x6 clear zipper pouches at WalMart for $1.97 and decided to make little kits. Whatever the "kit" was, I had to find items that would fit into it instead of finding a container to fit them. It force me to scale down...both in size and volume. I will have to refill my backpack on a daily basis and will pack that stuff in the checked bag.

Yes, I know...but I HAVE to have my makeup. I still have to add mascara, eyeliner & shadow, and lipstick. ALL makeup that I will be bringing will be in this little 4x6 pouch. Same goes for my mini office kit.

Still will be adding some meds to this med kit. Of course I needed some little hair accessories. Oh, and you gotta have one of those plastic diapers.

Baby Meds...more to come. Waiting til referral to purchase these due to expiration dates. Clothing includes one sleeper, dress, hat, socks and onsies.

The feeding kit is kinda big and empty. Waiting til referral. Thermos & baby blanket are not shown. Last but not least is the misc pouch.

Monday, September 10, 2007

Inflatable Baby Bath Spa

I thought this looked totally cool. I don't think I'm bringing any kind of tub to China with me, inflatable or not...but I've seen that some parents do...

"If you’re traveling with a baby and you don’t like the idea of renting a baby bathtub, check out this Inflatable Baby Bath Spa. It’s totally compact and easy to travel with, and it inflates in minutes.
There are 4 suction caps on the base for added stability and the bath floor has ribbed sections to stop baby from slipping.
It also features a hanging loop for quick drying, and an internal bath plug for quick drainage.
Sounds great, right? Yes, but for now it seems to be available only in Australia!"
-:¦:- Stephe -:¦:-

Stephe's Diaper Backpack

I bought it at Walmart for $14.96. The brand is called EASTSPORT.
It seems like ok quality. I just want it to last for my China trip. If it dies after...it'll still be worth the $14.96 that I paid for it.

The top center compartment fits a hard travel wipes case and the bottom left compartment fits 8 diapers. It you take out the water bottle that comes with the backpack, you can fit a baby bottle in it. What I love the most is that there are lots of places to clip things on. I agree that it's a bit obnoxious. But, I'm strictly going for ease and function on this trip! There are also big compartments on each side. And large seperate zippered areas in the actual backpack area. Well, in theory, this is the perfect China Diaper Backpack for the money. Only time will tell. :)
-:¦:- Stephe -:¦:-

Sunday, September 9, 2007

Diaper Backpack items


Here are some of my Diaper Backpack items. It's kind of blurry, if you click the picture to enlarge, it's much clearer.
Feel free to comment on whether I need some of this stuff or I forgot some stuff! :)

-:¦:- Stephe -:¦:-

Saturday, September 8, 2007

Finally!!

I have actually had this done for a few days but I finally have time to post it! I have to say that working on this challenge actually made me feel as though I was making progress with something! I plan on using this backpack for my carry on and for day trips. I will use a smaller one for shorter trips when I am in China. I think I may pack the things I don't need for the plane trip over in a packing cube and then assemble the diaper bag when I arrive. So here is my list so far and I still have a few things to add!:
Thermos
Office Supplies (calculator, pen, pencil, white out, sticky notes)
Chapstick
hand sanitizer wipes
Shout Wipes
1st aid kit (bandaids, tylnol, small ice pack, etc..)
Tampons
Snack bag (crystal light, coughdrops, pria bars, salt, pepper, sugar)
travel Toilet paper
Tissues
Sunblock
insect repellant wipes
contact solution , contact case, Glasses
bibsters
snack containers w/ snacks for Lily
formula dispenser
bottles / liners/ nipples
baby fork / spoon
burp cloth
Toys (book, keys, stacking cups)
Baby med. kit (diaper cream, pacifier, med. spoon, powder, nail clippers, small scissors)
Disposable changing pads
Wipes, diapers, diaper disposal bags
outfit, hat, blanket







Friday, September 7, 2007

g diapers

Are any of you familiar with g diapers? I found them this evening as I was searching for diapers that didn't have cartoon characters all over them. The idea is appealing to me. I don't like the idea of filling up the landfills with disposable diapers, but I don't think that I'm up for cloth either. These seem like a happy medium - a reusable cloth outer pant with biodegradable liners. I'm wondering how well they work...

Jennifer K

Wilson Jones doc organizer


I know that this is not this month's challenge, but when I saw that it was free with purchase.... I just had to do it - honestly it might just be FREE with purchase and have no min purchase too

There were only a few there, but it's worth a shot. I am sure most of you have an Office Depot in your town....I always appreciate the help when finding a good deal...so good luck!

Thursday, September 6, 2007

Document Organizer



This is the document organizer I've had for about two years. Similar to the one posted by Jennifer K. I love it and it has held all my docs since the beginning. I got mine at Target during the back-to-school month. They usually have a section on mod back to school stuff, and this is where I found it.

Evelyn

RazBaby Keep-it-Kleen Pacifier

Ironically Amy, one of my blog sites just posted this...

RazBaby Keep-it-Kleen Pacifier
By admin on Uncategorized
"It’s a long flight. You’re traveling solo with the baby, and she’s not liking the airplane. In a desperate attempt to get her to sleep, you plop the pacifier into her mouth. She spits it out. You catch it and put it in. She spits it out. This time it lands on the floor. As desperate as you are, there’s no way you’re using the 10 second rule with the airplane floor. Then again, washing the paci means crawling across the two people beside you while holding a wailing, kicking baby.
We’re sure something like this must have happened to the mom who invented the
RazBaby Keep-it-Kleen pacifier. This smart silicone savior has shields which close instantly when the pacifier drops, which means it always stays clean. Plus they are totally cute to look at, and retail for about $6 CDN."
-:¦:- Stephe -:¦:-

Boudreaux's Butt Paste

Diaper Rash Ointment, Tube 2 oz

I think this is perfect size to put in carryone...it's only 2 oz.

Pediatrician RecommendedDiaper Rash Ointment (Zinc Oxide)
Goes on and cleans off easily
Treats and protects

Pleasant scent


Helps treat and prevent diaper rash. Protects chafed skin due to diaper rash and helps seal out wetness.

Foil Packet 0.33 oz (10 g)

I LOVE these!!!