I don't know why, but the whole concept of a baby registry has overwelmed me from the beginning. I get online and there is just so much - I start to feel panicked and I wonder, could I possibly need all this STUFF? Most of it seems ridiculious and unnecessary. But then there are the essentials, like a carseat and a stroller. Why didn't anyone tell me these things were so expensive? I feel almost guilty putting it on a registry, basically asking family and friends to spend enourmous amounts of money on me. I'm sure the grandparents on both sides will be more than happy to, but really, where are the inexpensive things to register for so my friends can get me things as well? Ugh. I would like to thank a great friend for giving me a crib. That has been such a huge relief to both myself and my husband. There's a normally $300+ item crossed off the list!
I did finally sit down and force myself to start the registry, and some of it was quite fun. Some of the baby gear, like the pack and play and the baby bouncer, look just so adorable. I got a matching pack and play, swing and highchair just because the print was so cute. Other items are causing me more stress. The biggest right now is the infant car seat. I have been doing research and like the Chicco one the best for safety ratings, etc. But everything I read about it also says it is heavier and bulkier. It seems short moms don't give it the best ratings. Being not that tall (okay, being extremely short), and defintiely not that strong, I wonder if I will find it to be a pain to carry around. At one point I had registered for the Graco SnugRide. And now I just can't choose! I don't know why something as simple as a car seat can cause so much stress! And do I register for the whole travel system, or just the car seat and a stroller seperately?? The travel systems seem pretty expensive, and I don't think I need a regular stroller quite that nice, since I plan on using a jogging stroller around the neighborhood for walks (yay gravel!). I could just register for a cheeper stroller to take with me to say the mall or the store. But am I making the right choice?? AHHHHHH HELP!!!
I don't think I've ever registered for baby gifts and my children are still alive. Sometimes I think it's over-rated but it is helpful to let people know what you need, especially with a first baby. If anything friends and family can you get gift cards that go towards the bigger items. I have to get a new infant car seat 'cause we discovered the one we used with Clayton is all moldy...gross. I think I'm just going with an $80 at Wal-mart or Fred Meyer, having used the $50 with Clayton I think I need a little better quality but if it keeps your child strapped in and comfortable it's good, imo. If you have any questions let me know, I can tell you at least in my opinion and from experience which things I think are way over-rated and which are must haves.
ReplyDeleteIm glad your registering for things, I know It will help when you have a baby shower out in portland because the stores are so close, And then they arnt left thinking they got you somthing that will inevidably be re-gifted in the future. Dont stress it, think of it as a wish list, if you dont get it oh well. If you are worried about the price make sure you counter ballance it with little cheepies, burp rags, binkys, socks..that sort of thing. :) I am loving the fact you are an addicted blogger! ha
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