thefeltmouse's Profile

Many versions on Amazon are $20 or less -- are you looking for less than that? Saw $20 one recently at Ross.

I would not like anything to be on the crib that blocks my line of sight when I am walking by the room.

I thought I read something about plaster with this type of texture in older homes containing asbestos, but I could be wrong...

It seems from the pic that this is a tall hallway - perhaps loftier than the average ceiling height of 8 feet? If that is the case, perhaps instead of using the walls, you could use the ceiling to hang empty frames (or other arty pieces) in a cluster behind the light fixture from the direction you most frequently enter the hallway? May look kind of fun, or Disney Haunted Mansion-esque - not sure.

If you use the walls, I would avoid framed pictures and the like, as you would not be able to view them the same way you would in a wider hallway, and even the slight protusion of the frames may make the hallway look more narrow/cluttered. But, perhaps you could do something with written art - paint squares or circles at regular intervals and at different heights the length of the hallway with painted sayings. As guests walk down, they can stop to read each one (reading something seems like an activity you can be closer up to than looking at an art piece). If you think you will get bored with the words, you could use chalkboard paint. Wall decals could work too, just to provide visual interest to keep leading you down the hallway, but I wouldn't add any element that would narrow the walkway even more.

A couple of long patterned runners (I'm picturing a chevron design) are a must!

I try to be really careful about passing on stuff that is still in style, no stains/rips, etc., but definitely do not receive the same in return. I have received broken toys, clothes with both spit up and poop stains on them, and random things like travel toilet seats that seem like "one family use" items. I am pretty ruthless with getting rid of things, and am happy to send off what I do not need. In never worry about the gift giver coming over looking for their items. If by chance they do ask about something, I am honest about why I gave it away.

I have seen new moms overwhelmed with used items that they don't have the heart to get rid of as they were gifts from people they love. I try to explain that the stuff will just increase exponentially, and it is best to stay on top of it, and just keep the things YOU love.

If you can hear your baby making the noise from where you are in the house and can also hear it through the monitor (i.e. "in stereo"), you probably don't need one. We definitely did not end up needing one in our 1,000 square foot house, and I was glad because they drive me batty.

I'm sorry, but gotta say it. Worst. Nursery. Ever.

I *know* a few folks asked about the plant stand thingy from the Pioneer Modern house tour reading nook in the original post, but not sure they received a reply. Anybody recognize it?

They are all lovely homes!

I, like many commenters suggested, would hold off on big furniture until after you move. A bassinet of some type would be good to have from the start. Even if you plan on co-sleeping, it is still nice to have some place to lay the baby if you and the hubby need some cuddle time, during naps, etc.

After the move, the two things I have found to be of little use are my rocker and pack n play. My rocker is from Ikea and has a wide arm base, but it still feels cramped and there is no good way to hold the baby. I see a lot of beautiful rockers in the nurseries on Ohdeedoh, but I always think to myself that they look even less comfy than mine. The only one that is comfortable for nursing, it seems, is a glider (with ottoman!), but unfortunately most affordable options are not so great in the style department. I prefer to nurse in bed propped up against the headboard, and my son prefers to be carried in a sling versus rocked.

I had big plans about hauling the pack n play around if we were going to spend the evening with friends or family but - ugh - it is so big and such a pain in the butt to set up that we just said forget it. Our alternative may seem like a silly purchase to some, but we got a Kidco Peapod, and it works great for evenings at somebody else's house or concerts at the park and the like. It folds up super small for storage and gives you a break from holding/carrying the baby while you are out.

As for strollers, here I differ from some of the previous commenters. Although I use a sling if I am just walking around the block, our jogging stroller is indispensible for longer jaunts to the coffee shop, etc. We have crappy sidewalks, so a regular stroller was not an option. We also have a stroller base that fits the car seat. Great for when you just need one thing at the store, going to the pediatrician, restaurants before the baby can sit in a high chair, etc. If the baby is asleep in the car seat, you do not want to disturb him or her by taking them out to put in a sling, carry them, etc. And, as I quickly found out, you don't want to be the dope carrying the 20 pound combined car seat baby very far. We were given an Aprica umbrella-type stroller that admittedly we have not used yet, but I think would be good once the baby outgrows the car seat stroller, which will be a sad day for me.

Best wishes!!

My rental came with the ironing board closet outfitted with tiny shelves, perfect for spices http://thefeltmouse.blogspot.com/2006/03/quizzical-results.html