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Thursday, February 28, 2008

The Registering Begins

Billy and I made a trip to Babies R Us on Sunday to start registering for baby things. That place is incredibly overwhelming. We could hardly decide what side of the store we should even begin the process.

As we went up and down each aisle and scanned stuff, we realized that we really had no idea what we were doing. I had printed out several lists of what we would need from books and websites, but there were so many options within each category, that we were going crazy.

t started with the mattress covers/liners. There were 5 or 6 different kinds. Which ones were the best ones to use? We had no idea! Billy didn't even know what they were for. I had to explain that if a kid pisses like crazy one night or has some mad runny poopies, it could get right through to the crib mattress unless there was barrier there. Okay, it was decided these would be needed, but then the next question was, "how many?" We started wondering what happened if all of them did that one night, and we had to change all of the mattress pads. We registered for 6 of them, just to be safe. We were still left wondering if that would be enough. Who knows?

Then, we had to start thinking about how we were going to decorate the babies' room so that we could register for some crib sheets and accessories for the room. This is very difficult since we don't even have a room for these babies. Billy keeps saying we need a house with the babies' room before we start decorating it. I agree, but we need to register so we just have to wing it for now.

We decided we liked the idea of green and white stripes on the walls of our imaginary nursery. Then, each baby's bed would have blue or pink gingham sheets. That should look cute. It's gingham or polka dots. We registered for the gingham sheets, but we reserve the right to change our minds.

When we started looking at some of the items where the options are limitless, like baby carriers, pack and plays, strollers, etc., we had no idea what to do. I told Billy he would have to do some internet research to see what the best ones are. All of the pack and plays look the same basically. So, why is one $250, while another one is $79.99? If we register for the cheap one, will it somehow set our children up for future failure, or will it become a murderous death trap? I just don't know.

Then, we were back at the car seat issue. Although we determined that the Chicco KeyFit will fit 3 across in the back of the pilot, Chicco does not make a triple or even a double stroller. On the other hand, there is a triplet stroller frame that I am registered for that is compatible with the Graco SnugRide car seat. Billy did not like the Graco SnugRide seat. He said it looked flimsy, and he couldn't release the seat from the base as easily as the Chicco. He kept shaking it and looking at it from all angles. He just was not pleased, but I can't think of another alternative. Chicco isn't right for multiples. The problem with the Graco, though, is that the base is just a little bigger than the Chicco, which could be disasterous in the back seat of the Pilot. I think we may have to do another test. The people at Babies R Us are going to hate us!

We are not done with the whole process yet, but at least we've begun, which is a big step. I should have a better idea of what we'll need after we hit this multiples consignment sale on Saturday. Billy is now coming with me, instead of Mems. He's going to be so grouchy that early, but you gotta do what you gotta do. After we go to the sale, we are spending some time with a family that has 3 year old triplet girls. They invited us over to see what it's like. Billy may pack up his stuff and disappear from my life after we return from that visit.

3 comments:

Jamie said...

I have a book that I will give you that helped us a ton when trying to narrow down choices on high chairs, pack n plays, etc. It's called Baby Bargains and I'll give it to you next time I see you. I also have a Consumer Reports book which was OK but not as helpful as Baby Bargains.

Anonymous said...

Agreed. Baby Bargains is the bomb! Also, I am happy to help you register! Just let me know. I have the Graco carseat and have found it to be durable and easy to snap in and out of the base. One drawback is that it is heavy--especially with a baby in it!

Anonymous said...

Leslie! This is Lisa (remember me??) and I am so excited for you! I've been reading your blog and hearing about how you are doing from Amanda. I had a small nervous breakdown while registering so I ended up printing out a friend's registry and copying it item for item. I scanned everything she listed while stumbling through Babies R Us. There's just too much stuff in that crazy store. Anyway, Chris and I are so happy for you and Billy and your growing family, and we send all our best wishes your way!

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