Baby belly, 27 weeks and growing

Here I am at 27 weeks!

This was 2 1/2 weeks ago and I feel like I've doubled in size.

I'll try to get another picture soon.

My sister took these at my niece's bridal shower which I must post!

The first trimester creeps by so slowly and then about halfway through time just starts accelerating.

Sometimes I get a little sad that we're in the home stretch.

I can't wait to meet the little guy but I also love being pregnant.

I love watching the baby move and feeling him practice his karate.  Most of the time.

I love carrying this baby without really having to do much to care for him.
That sounds terrible but some of you know what I mean.
I've had a newborn, I remember those sleepless…. months.

This is my last pregnancy and I want to remember all of it. 

I'll miss it.

~sniff, sniff~

Do I need all the things?

Here's the thing about a 4 year spread between kids.  

It doesn't seem that long but in parenting years it's really more like 28 years.

Parenting years are like dog years.

Only without all the perks of being a dog, like being fed and bathed and taking naps.

Yeah, parenting years are like dog years without the sleep.

You see, I'm having a hard time remembering what I really need.

NEED.  This word has new meaning with the second child.

After posting on Facebook that I needed bottle suggestions and realizing I still had 45 more questions, 

I thought a blog post might be a better option.

So hit me with all your favorites!

Baby slings:
I'm super excited about the Ergo my lovely Mother-in-law just bought us.

Will that work around the house or is there a sling that doesn't involve me watching a youtube video and being a contortionist to use?

I've seen some of these slings and frankly, they scare me.
Please send help.

Strollers:

I have a newborn seat with a snap and go.

We have a single stroller.

But do I really need a double stroller?
Regular stroller?  Jogging? (and no I don't plan on running with the stroller unless something is physically chasing us)  Tandem?
These suckers are expensive so I need the low down on the stroller situation.

Glider:

Last time around I bought a rocking chair from Ikea. 

I will never live this down because IT DOESN'T ACTUALLY ROCK.

Did it rock in the store?  I can't remember but it was a disaster and I'd like an actual glider this time.

Are there any attractive gliders out there that don't cost $800?



I did find this rocker that is a chair and a half which might be a cool option so Peanut can sit with us.
But now I'm afraid of rockers, so I'm just not sure.



Monitors:
Our Levana monitor died and the static was horrid anyway.
Although, to be honest, I don't really need sound.  I usually turn it off bc I hear everything, all the time.
But I do need a visual.
I need a camera for the baby and one for Peanut.
Peanut talks and cries and calls for me in his sleep so it's better if I can check the monitor instead of going into his room.
This is a non-negotiable for me because it allows me to wake and glance at the monitors instead of going in there and staring and the children, which I will do!
Temperature would be a nice addition bc I'm always afraid it's too hot or cold but it's not a deal breaker.
Any suggestions?

And what about this Angelcare monitor, awesome or a way to fuel paranoia?
I would still want a visual but I'm curious to see what you all think about it.

Other goods:

Oddly enough when I think of things I need, the first item that pops into my head are the Aden and Anais swaddle blankets.  I use them daily.

What can't you live without?

What else do I need?