Crib and carseat banter

So here's the thing about waiting until the last minute to get a crib -- don't do it.

We finally got a crib for Logan yesterday. Just a simple Graco one, because it wouldn't make sense to buy some $300-$500 crib that'll only be used for one kid (I don't know if we'll have another child after Logan), no matter how beautiful they (heavy expensive cribs) are. I would've gone with an Ikea crib -- believe it or not, Ikea cribs are rated "A" on the safety and value charts -- that's why it's soooooooo freakin' hard to find one and they're never in stock ($100 good quality cribs - hell yes!).

So, I spent all night putting the crib together myself at 34weeks pregnant! Hahaha, I can't believe it either. It actually only took me two hours, but I will admit that it was a pretty uncomfortable and excruciating experience. Doua will kill me once he finds out about it tonight, but hey, I just HAD to have it up, ok! It's not exactly the color I would've gone with, but it's sturdy, the mattress is on tight and looks pretty good for a crib under $200. One thing for sure, it doesn't have MDF. Don't ever buy Delta or Simplicity brands, they use MDF boards. I just can't trust that. (Yes, I've done my research). Anyway, back to my first point, don't ever wait until you're 34 weeks pregnant to buy a crib. Stores don't really have cribs in stock. Plan to receive your crib anywhere from 2 to 14 weeks, from the date you order it. It sucks because I really wanted a Sorelle crib and would have to wait 10 weeks for it, when I needed it now. I couldn't trust the online retailers to ship it out to me, because of Sorelle's tarnished customer service reputation, in case anything should go wrong in the shipping process. Ack! Forget it. It's done and over it. I'm happy with my simple crib.

One thing I did splurge on -- a carseat. Graco Snugride Platinum. It's so soft and beautiful.



The Snugride is America's best selling carseat, based on it's top-rated ranking for safety and design. I knew right away that I wanted a Snugride for Logan. They range anywhere from $70-$150 at your local retailer. However, the lower models are made with rather starchy and hard fabric. I can't imagine myself sitting in something like that, so why would I put my beloved son in it? Therefore, I opted for the highest model, the beautiful platinum with EPS. I do want to point out that they don't carry the higher models at your local discount retailer (Target, Walmart, even Babies R Us). I had to make the trek down to USA Baby in Richfield to get it. Worth the trouble, because I just love it and can't wait to use it!