There's a Baby Stroller In Our House!

Well, first and foremost, if you haven't heard already, the ultrasound we just had revealed we are having a little girl! Anthony will have to wait for "bub" #2 in hopes of a boy but let's get through "bubzi" (as we've grown to start calling her) #1 first. Regardless of the gender though, Anthony already has plans to get her on a dirt bike. And I on the other hand, have been trying to find the most technologically advanced shock-absorbing material I can wrap her from head to toe in by the time that day comes.

Although we're still 4 months out, we've only heard how we should shop early for certain items as stores here do not seem to like to keep things in stock therefore it can take weeks (6 to 12 wks) for any selected items to arrive. Since June is the last month of the financial year here in Australia (tax cycle starts anew in July) we heard now's the time for sales. However, even if things are on sale here, they are still much more expensive than items in the States.

Anthony heard about a warehouse distribution place that was open to the public that specialized in some infant items. So we paid them a visit on Saturday. Even paying wholesale prices (which were $200-$300 cheaper than the retail price) we still gritted our teeth to know that we're still paying at least double what these items would cost in the States. But alas, the bubzi has to sleep somewhere and get around in a "pram" rather than being carried everywhere. On a side note, Australians differentiate strollers into "pram" and "stroller."

A pram is larger, bulkier, and usually converts from infant (lay down) to toddlers (sit up) with add on options like rain covers, sun shades, extra compartments, etc.

A stroller is the typical simple and light sit up stroller that collapses like an umbrella.

We opted for a more reasonably priced pram so that we can afford other bubzi items. Plus in case we have to dump it in a year, it wouldn't be a loss. And yes, Anthony has already tried to talk me into letting him put the dogs in the stroller. I think he likes sending me into a frantic tizzy.

The distribution center also had a couple crib and changing table deals. So we picked up a nice solid cot and changing table.

So Anthony has his first bubzi assembly project to work on now! And I'm sure like all the other male chest thumpers out there he'll say to hell with the instructions!

With the crib, changing table, and stroller sitting in our dining/living area at the moment, it's screaming "You have a baby on the way!!!" It's another reality check that it's REALLY happening!!

I don't foresee us doing much baby shopping in the immediate few weeks as I think I've already sapped Anthony of his quarterly allotted shopping patience in this last go. Well, I'll let him drop his guard after a few days before I hit him with another shopping trip for the very important and another expensive expense for a car seat. So don't give him a heads up!

- julie