From the Top

Dentists are really on to something. I've discovered that certain tasks are just way easier when done from the head end of baby--that is standing behind his head while he's lying on the changing table. This includes: Looking for new teeth, and brushing the tiny ones he has. Cleaning out a really stuffy nose. Trimming nails (incidentally I always do this while whisteling a tune and it never fails to keep him still and attentive). And baby massage. Try it, you'll be amazed at how much easier these tasks are.

Fast Fixes

With a baby that consumes almost all of what used to be free-time, I've learned to fully embrace efficiency-enhancing products. Here are some that have really made a difference in my newer, speedier lifestyle:
1. Fast Fixx spray-in conditioner - gives me soft, shiny, untangled hair and (bonus!) eliminates fly aways.
2. Carnation Instant Breakfast - it's no 3-egg omelet, but hey it is calcium, vitamins AND chocolate milk.
3. Medela Quick Clean Micro Steam Bags - just two minutes and my pumping parts are all clean.

Three Tips for when You're in a Pinch

1. From Steph: The Straw...if you don't have a bottle or if baby wants a sip of water at a restaurant, offer it to them with a straw. You would be amazed at how young your kid gets it! I think Heidi was 4 months old.

And more kudos for the straw, from Kelly: Sometimes when we went to a restaurant and were waiting for our food, Alex did not always want to just sit nicely in the highchair. No toys could make him happy. So one time I used my straw to suck up some ice water and drip it in his mouth to try to distract him. And he loved it. The ice cold water plus the straw makes it interesting enough for him to keep wanting more and stopped his whining.

2. Another good one from Steph: We all know the diaper changing trick while your baby is on your lap. This is good for little kids. However, what do you do in a public place where there is no changing table for an older tot? As long as it's not a stinky diaper, you can quickly whip down their pants and remove the dirty diaper. Then position the new one in between their legs (in the approximate location) and then sit the child on your lap. The diaper will cover their bum. Then, quickly fasten the diaper into place. This was an essential thing this past week at the airport and on vacation w/Heidi.

3. The literal Pinch (this one's just kind of funny, heard it from my hairdresser today). If plucking your eyebrows really kills, a little baby Orajel first works like magic!

Your Second Brain

Babies are distracting. Cute, but distracting. So when you have an important phone call to make, a nap or feeding schedule to adhere to, or anything else that needs to get done at a certain time, it doesn't hurt to have a gentle reminder. I like these two products because they are really easy to use and multi-functional. But your cell phone alarm would work great too. Just set your timer, slip it in your pocket and go back to your baby's cuteness.