We embarked on the Great Baby Supply journey Saturday. Our intention this trip was to get an idea of what we need, pricing, and what’s available. The answer to the last question is: an overwhelming selection! Do we want a traditional crib with a drop-side rail, or a Lifestyle crib that can be converted into a toddler and later a full-size bed? Do we want white, natural, oak, cherry, or pine finish? Do we want mission style furniture, or contemporary, or country? How much do we want to spend? What is the difference between two cribs of the same type and style other than the price tag?

We want a glider. Do we want one that reclines, or swivels, or both? Do we want microsuede or cotton upholstery? One is $600, and another is $300. They look the same and function the same. The same company seems to make them all (Dutelier). So what makes the more expensive one worthwhile?

Do we want to pick a theme for the decor? (At first I thought no, but I’m rethinking.) Do we want to get a a bedding set: sheets, dust ruffle, padded cloth to tie to the crib sides, and blanket? You can drop a couple hundred dollars for a set. Do we want to paint the room? We’re renters, but we can always paint it white later. The room came with dark sage green curtains. Do we want something kid-themed?

What type of stroller do we want? Do we want a travel system, even though the stroller will be somewhat heavier? Shall we get one with a single bar handle or umbrella handles? As for the high chair, gosh, do we want one with toys built in to the tray or not? Do we want a removable cover for easy cleanup? Do we want one that’s collapsible for easy storage?

We looked for five hours and at three stores. Husband’s shopping style is different than mine. He likes to research a lot and look at many items before he chooses. I find it stressful, because after a time I can barely distinguish the difference and deflate into a state of exhaustion. I prefer to set a dollar limit, look at several items in that range, and make the purchase. In many cases, though, his method results in us getting a better deal. In order to help me tolerate the process this time, we agreed by the day’s end we would purchase one baby item to give me a sense of accomplishment.

At least a dozen parents have sung the praises of and urged us to acquire at least one of an item called a Boppy. They are apparently the salvation of mankind. One friend advised us to get one for every level of the house (though since we have four separate levels, that seems extreme). I put the Boppy on our registry at Babies R Us, but since we want two, we bought one Saturday. And I should warn you: I’m turning into a gooey, sentimental momma-to-be. The one I selected was called Sweet Pea: light green with little pea pods all over it, and inside each are three cute little faces with green caps. Peas in the pod! Babies! Adorable!

And I have another admission to make. Since at least half a dozen people have spoken enthusiastically of the miracle called a baby wipe warmer, I did [cringe] add it to the registry. My first response upon learning of such a thing was to scorn it as a luxury, and indeed it is. After all, I grew up without warm baby wipes and I’m a contributing member of society! But I trust the enthusiasm of parents; they have the experience, after all. When I asked my mother what she used (I was born before baby wipes existed), she said she cleaned me with a warm washcloth. A-ha! So there’s proof that a warm wipe on a baby’s bottom is preferable. Husband believes he’d like to use washcloths. Fine for him, but since I expect I’ll be changing the majority of diapers, I’m damn well going to get and use baby wipes and a warmer. So there.

What’s especially delightful to me is watching Husband’s responses to all this. He’s embracing his Inner Father: reading Consumer Reports Guide to Baby Products, searching Internet forums discussing the pros and cons of items, reading about baby care in What to Expect the First Year. I handed him a booklet from Fisher-Price that features their products, and he was charmed by the baby bath and swings. The reality of what’s coming is permeating us both, and we’re getting excited. I plan to borrow Dr. Seuss books from the library so he can read to my belly.

And yes, I’ve already decided on and aquired a baby book for her first year. They are all so different: some are frilly and cute, some are hip, some have scrapbook elements, some are spiral-bound, and they all are organized differently. Since I’ll be using it for a year, I found one I really like. For myself I bought The Belly Book; it’s a keepsake for me, but I imagine someday my daughter might like it, since it’s a record of the very beginning of her life.

I’m a little concerned that my regular readers will find the frequency and length of my posts on all things baby tiresome after awhile. But that’s the direction of my life. I’m becoming a parent, and this blog focuses on what I find relevant to me, so I expect to often use the lens of parenting and childhood. I’m sure I’ll write about other stuff too; I’m too interested in everything to fall prey to tunnel vision. So have faith if you’re not interested in parenthood and children; I’ll throw a bone to you now and then. 😉

P.S. I’m feeling her move frequently now. There’s a little person inside me. I’m bringing her into existence. It moves me to tears. And it truly is an awesome feat.