Ingrid & Isabel Maternity Activewear
Sporting a baby bump doesn’t have to mean giving up the activities you love, though you might need a wardrobe update if you’re maintaining your gym membership. The Active Line from Ingrid & Isabel provides lower back support and comfort for growing bellies, while allowing Mom to remain stylish and comfortable! Bonus: The workout gear is great for getting back in shape after pregnancy, too! From $48, IngridAndIsabel.com
Ulubulu Baby Bibs
Babies are messy—especially when they begin eating solids! These adorable bibs from Ulubulu feature a built-in crumb catcher and an adjustable neck closure—plus they’re dishwasher safe! The tiger and the owl designs are my favorites, and these are definitely on my list of go-to baby shower gifts. $9.99, Ulubulu.com
Your Best Pregnancy by Denise Jagroo & Jill Hoefs
Your girlfriends aren’t kidding when they tell you that pregnancy comes with aches and pains—some in places you’d never dream! This book focuses on the causes of typical pregnancy woes and gives ideas to prevent and treat the issues before they cause you to despair! Includes information on common ailments, like back and shoulder pain, bladder issues, night cramps, sciatica, swelling and varicose veins. $19.95, DemosHealth.com
Carry Your Stuff in Style
This roomy bag features a pleated top that keeps bulk to a minimum, yet opens wide for easy access. Designed by a local mom, it’s perfect for a diaper bag, it also easily transitions to an everyday carry-all or purse. Available in three sizes. Simple. Practical. Beautiful. susannazellerllc.com
ClevaCushion 10-in-1 Ultimate Support Pillow
I found that once I had two kids, the baby gear had literally overtaken my house. This 10-in-1 pillow can be used as a feeding support, bouncer head support or highchair or stroller insert. Plus, it’s perfect for playtime, tummy time and a variety of other Baby and Mama needs. If you need to reduce the sheer volume of large baby gear items in your house, give this one a shot! $75, Amazon.com
Fearful Frannie by Stephanie Dulin
Local author Stephanie Dulin tells a tale in this children’s story about Frannie, a little girl who is afraid of everything. Frannie is fearful of jumping off the diving board, eating new foods, sliding on the playground and even riding her bike. She eventually learns that it’s best to give new things a try—because you never know, you just might like it! This is a great read for young kids who experience trepidation over new things (much like my own toddlers). More info at FranniesOnline.com
Bouncer Balance Soft by BABYBJÖRN
This sleek bouncer features an ergonomic design that helps Baby stay properly positioned with back and head support. Its operation is controlled by Baby’s natural movement—no batteries required! It can even be converted to a toddler chair once Baby is on the move. The best feature is that it folds practically flat—so easy for storage or even just transporting to Grandma’s house! $200, Amazon.com
Julie McKinley is a stay-at-home mom of a 3-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter. Keeping up with her kids is a full-time job, so she is always on the lookout for innovative baby products that make life a little easier! In between snuggles and diaper changes, she blogs at DirectorJewels.com.