It's the time of year when we're constantly surrounded by reminders of love. Hearts, flowers, chocolates...and...babies! As another precious couple prepares for the most special of gifts, we are thrilled to feature their journey to parenthood. Jennifer is counting down the days until she meets her little bundle, and we're here to share a few of her mother-to-be thoughts and experiences with you.

IBB: What is your favorite part of being pregnant?

JK: Oh my gosh, there are so many favorites…the love that I already have for this little guy, and we haven’t even met yet is truly overwhelming and totally indescribable.  Also, feeling him move has been not only amazing but comforting as well.  It’s a special bonding period for us, and I know I will definitely miss it, so I’m soaking in every last movement.  Lastly, the conversations that are struck and the advice and/or stories I receive from others about their pregnancy experiences b/c they see my bump, and they want to share.  It’s like a club out there that I never knew existed.  This journey has been incredible already.

IBB: What is the best piece of advice you have received so far?

JK: The best piece of advice, which I have taken to heart, is to just enjoy every minute of it.  No one can explain what an impact this has, and I have just taken it all in and loved each and every step.  I’m looking forward for what’s to come, even though I may feel at times I have no idea what I’m doing, I’m just ready to jump in and embrace our little man. 

IBB: What is your best pregnancy information source?

JK: In addition to hearing from others and their personal experiences, I have really found the “What to Expect” pregnancy app and daily emails from them very helpful.  I have a copy of the book as well, but I’ve really enjoyed having a daily update on what’s going on.  A little information at a time has been nice, and my husband follows along with it also on his phone.  So, we can chat about it because we’re receiving the same info at the same time.  I’ve already downloaded the “What to Expect” baby’s first year as well.  I highly recommend both.

IBB: What is your most favorite item on your registry?

JK: Well, I really can’t narrow that down.  I would just like to move into Itty Bitty and that be the nursery – does that answer the question adequately – ha!

IBB: What has your husband enjoyed most during your pregnancy?

JK:I couldn’t ask for a better partner in all of this.  He was made to be a Dad.  He has enjoyed the anticipation of his little guy getting here and following his growth process from the doctor, What to Expect, classes we’ve attended, etc.  My heart melts when I see how much love his Dad already has for him as well.  

Congratulations to this sweet couple on their bouncing baby boy!

-The Girls at Itty Bitty Bella

There is nothing more exciting in life than the addition of a new little angel to your family. When you share the stories of your little miracles with us, we feel such joy and excitement for you! The situation is certainly no different with our newest momma, Carissa. We were thrilled to death when she opened her registry with us, and can't wait to meet her sweet bundle!

IBB: What is your favorite part of being pregnant?

CA: I love knowing that God is forming a tiny miracle inside of me. This baby was definitely prayed for and I am completely in awe of how God brings about new life. I also love feeling the baby's kicks and punches--he's an active little guy! All that movement definitely builds my anticipation to meet him and makes me wonder what his personality will be like.

IBB: What is your least favorite part of being pregnant?

CA: I have had a pretty easy pregnancy and tremendous support form my husband, so I honestly can't think of a least favorite symptom worth mentioning. I have had some aches and pains of course, but I absolutely love being pregnant and so the good outweighs the bad. I think the labor/delivery process might just be my least favorite part though!

IBB: What is one thing you wish you could tell your baby before he arrives?

CA: We love you more than you could ever imagine, but God loves you even more than that.

IBB: What is your nursery color scheme/theme?

CA: Three walls are painted a warm gray and one wall has thick column stripes in the same gray and light blue (thanks to my artistic husband!). We have a white, rod iron crib with gray and white bedding that sits along the striped wall. The rest of the room has mostly white furniture and a charcoal gray glider.

IBB: What has your husband most enjoyed during your pregnancy?

CA: The excitement that keeps building as we get closer and closer to the baby's due date. The bigger my belly gets, the more real it gets for him. Sometimes my husband tells me he just wishes the baby would hurry up and get here already!

Thanks so much for sharing, Carissa. We can't wait to say hello to your precious prince!

-The Girls at Itty Bitty Bella

We're into the second week of December and if you haven't checked your list twice, you had better get a move on it! To help you out we have compiled our top 10 gift list. Some items are for mom, some are for baby and some are for the kiddos...but no matter what, all will be loved.

Top 10 Christmas Gifts- 2011

10. Animal Step Stool

 

Perfect in the bathroom or playroom- your little ones will love the independent feeling they get from reaching the "high" items on their own!

9. Octopus Ring Toss

 

Our favorite bathtime toy! The Octopus Ring attaches easily to the shower wall and the rings can be used as a tossing game (get them to land on the octopus' tentacles!) or as a water show. Simply fill the octopus up with water and watch it sprinkle down out of the tentacles. 

8. Ergo Baby Carrier

 

This one is especially for mom and dad. Carry your little one (up to 45 pounds) with ease in the Ergo Baby carrier. Perfect for shopping, trips to the zoo, or strolls around the park. See how it's used

7. Spunky Outfits

 

Everyone gets new clothes for Christmas! Pink Chicken, Mimi and Maggie, Appaman, and Kissy Kissy all offer the most adorable clothes to fit your kiddo's. From birth to size 6 (and special orders up to size 12), we've got you covered.

6. Activity Books

 

While the kids are out of school for winter break keep them occupied and entertained. Our activity books will provide hours of entertainment while they're cooped up indoors. See all activity books

5. BOB Stroller

 

Are mom and dad making New Year's Resolutions? Help them stick to it with a new jogging stroller. BOB Strollers are built with fitness minded moms and dads in mind. Take it out for a stroll around the neighborhood or an all-day trail run.

4. Petunia Pickle Bottom Diaper Bag

 

Keep mom organized and stylish with a new diaper bag. Petunia Pickle Bottom offers the most fashionable patterns on all of their well designed diaper bags. Each bag is equipped with a changing mat, bottle pockets, and travel wipe case. View all fall/winter patterns

3. Aden and Anais Swaddle Blankets

 

Wrap them up tight with Aden and Anais. The soft, stretchy cotton muslin is ideal for swaddling and cuddling. Watch our swaddle video

2. Tickle Monster Laughter Kit

 

Great for parents and kids, the Tickle Monster Laughter Kit comes with an adorable book about the Tickle Monster, and the furry tickle gloves so you can tickle along with the story.

1. Baby Jewelry

 

Give a gift that will last through the ages. Sterling silver and pearl baby jewelry is a keepsake gift that you know every mother will cherish. Some styles can be monogrammed. View additional styles

Let us know if we can help with your holiday shopping!

- The Girls at Itty Bitty Bella

This is such a fun time of year for retailers everywhere because we get to see and share all of the new products that companies have introduced for the next year.

After we returned from the ABC Kids Expo in late September, we were thrilled with what we saw, and thrilled to be able to pass that on to you all.

One company that did not disappoint is Aden and Anais.  Their new swaddle designs are our favorites by far. They feature new modern colors paired with vintage inspired designs. It's truly the best of both worlds and we're so excited they added to their swaddle print collection!

"For the Birds"

"Liam the Brave"

"Super Star Scout"

Are you new to swaddling? If so, or if you just want a refresher, here's a short how-to clip that we put together. The same swaddling instructions come in print form on each Aden and Anais product.

 

- The Girls at Itty Bitty Bella