Here we go...

So the grandparents-to-be are already getting restless - they are eager to purchase items for Goo-etta this Christmas. So, of course, when they ask me what I need, I just stare back blankly like, "I dunno. A collar and a leash?" And what the hell - how about a present for me instead??? Helloooooo, I still like stuff!

Anneee-way...Mama V was kind enough to assist me last weekend in my first outing to look at baby gear. The time had come. And despite having to breathe in a paper sack for an hour before hand, it was not too bad. I have come up with several conclusions:

1) I seriously need to start working out. Like REALLY REALLY need to focus on this. I struggled to lift most infant car seats -- and keep in mind, there was not even a freaking baby in the seat at the time!

2) Next to wedding supplies, baby items are a total racket. They take advantage of all of your fears to convince you that you need the highest end product available. Like your baby will spontaneously combust if you do not have a proper visor on the stroller or she will develop leprosy if you allow her to sleep on walmart sheets.

3) Grandparents in baby stores are a salesperson's dream come true. I overheard a grandmother on her cell phone with her daughter saying "Well, I just figured I should go ahead and buy some furniture for our house, too, and the entire set is on sale for only $2500." Umm, what?? I don't think THC's car cost $2500.

So, here we go... let the purchasing frenzy begin. I am seriously soliciting any and all advice on gear/furniture, so if you have any tips, please email me or leave a comment.

Note: I will say officially that AKL is the first person to purchase a gift for little Goo-etta. She brought it to my office this morning. It is very cute (thank you very much, AKL). But at the same time, I got so freaked out, I had to hide it under my desk all afternoon.