Baby Gear (at 3 weeks)

We are 3 weeks into this whole parenthood thing and we are finally starting to know what works and what doesn't. I really appreciated other mommies blogging about their favorite baby products so I am going to do the same. These items have helped save our sanity through the last few weeks. They are in no particular order.

Graco Swing- It vibrates, it swings, it makes wonderful noises like ocean waves, babbling brooks, and classical music. I love this thing and so does Ethan. Actually he is sleeping in it right now as I type this out.

Sleep Sheep On the Go- This little guy is another sound machine. He is only $2 cheaper than his full-sized friend but I like him because he can strap on to the car seat and stroller. I'm not sure if his white noise is more soothing to us or to Ethan but this guy is always nearby.
Itzbeen Baby Timer- This thing has helped us keep track of Ethan's feedings and diaper changes. It is especially helpful overnight when Mike and I change shifts and try to figure out when it's time for the next bottle. I know there are apps out there that do the same thing, but with 2 of us, it is just easier to keep the timer clipped to the side of the bassinet. Also, I feel like my phone has constantly been needing to be on the charger and I'm sure that using an app would drain my phone even faster.
Miracle Blanket- Oh "baby straight-jacket", I love you so. Mr. Ethan is a big boy and he is VERY strong. He can maneuver his way out of any swaddle. We have tried big muslin blankets, hospital blankets, and other special swaddlers with velcro, and the little man busted right through them all. The Miracle Blanket is our night time swaddler. The regular blankets will do during the day but this is the only thing that will keep him wrapped for hours so we use it at night. It really is a miracle! (I went back to buy another. I might go get a 3rd.)

Happiest Baby on the Block DVD- Oh. My. Goodness. This thing is a must! Watching this video, Mike and I couldn't help but think "yea right" as this man put babies into an almost hypnotic state by shushing and putting them on their sides. But the first time we tried the techniques with Ethan, they instantly put him into zombie-baby mode and it was AMAZING. The glazed and calm look in his eyes is just incredible as he receives ALL FIVE S's. Thank you, Dr. Karp!

Fisher Price Rock & Play Sleeper- For the first 2 weeks, Ethan did not like to sleep anywhere other than our arms or the swing. I didn't feel comfortable falling asleep with him in the swing, which means that we took turns sleeping on the couch, holding E. He WOULD NOT sleep flat in his bassinet. Thankfully, a wonderful friend let me borrow this product. Hallelujah! Ethan loves it, will nap in it, and has even allowed us to sleep in our bed this past week. YAY!

These are our MUST-HAVES for the first 3 weeks. I'm sure I will have a lot more items in the future but for now, these are what we could not live without!