I'm so glad the blanket matches the nursery! When I saw your rug choices, I just knew it had to be purple! So happy for you and Don, and we (my mom and I) can't wait to see the baby! :)
I've been subscribed to your channels for several years. Formerly a midwest girl myself (St.Louis). And I was here when you had some strange and horrible comments. I completely and totally understand your feelings on vlogging about baby girl. For those of us who love you and support you, would love a peek or two at how well you are doing as well as how beautiful your daughter is. So a limited peek or two is good for me. As I'm sure it is for the Jen Ross fans !
+JLynn Schmitt I have been watching Jen's organizing videos mostly on her other channel and some daily vlogs but never knew she had horrible comments. I cannot imagine what they were and why, she seems to be such a sweet person! She is one of my favorite vloggers and her videos were the ones that really helped me to get organized when I was really starting to get serious into it several years ago. Her ideas were so helpful to me and I am so thankful for her sharing her gift and a little bit of her life. So sorry for mean people, cannot imagine what they found to be mean about. She is definitely being wise to keep her baby guarded.
Very well said. I've been a subscriber since the beginning as well. I truly miss the old vlogging style but completely understand where she is coming from. I don't even let family members repost photos on my kids!
I can completely understand your feeling of being "mama bearish" and protecting your child. While I'm sure we're all looking forward to seeing some pictures of her, we all understand why you won't be vlogging with her in it. I also wanted to say that you look so happy and excited and it's refreshing to see, and enjoy your sharing that excitement with us. I'm looking forward to seeing her nursery and how you've set that up. You have such good taste that I'm sure it'll be absolutely adorable. Take care and your little one will be here before you know it.
I am incredibly excited for you, Jen! I have been watching your videos since I was 16 (I am now 20) and I was going through a rough patch in high school, discovering some friends of mine were not true friends. I was feeling so bummed but spending time alone and away from them gave me the chance to find your channel. I was immediately inspired by you and you were an amazing role model to me. Seeing you, a woman with such a grace and class, having a mutual love for organization, urged me to think about the kind of woman I wanted to be. Seeing your family grow has made me feel so excited and motivated to work hard for my own future, and the future of my family one day. I want to thank you for being one of the few women out there who carry themselves with such dignity and have a pure heart. You are going to be one fantastic mom! Baby girl is very lucky. :)
You are almost there Jen! Enjoy these last weeks and spend plenty of extra time with Don. Both of your lives will be changed forever :) Thanks for sharing. {BTW you will LOVE that bassinet. I used it for my daughter and it was great!}
My pediatrician said that a baby doesn't need special detergent unless he has sensitive skin. I just washed our babies' clothes with ours. Both were fine. My pediatrician also didn't like baby lotion. She suggested regular Nivea. It kept our little ones very soft. Have you chosen a pediatrician yet? We had to pick one before I gave birth so that they could examine my boys after the were born. We chose one. Met with her and loved her. She was very old school in some ways which we liked. I felt at ease because of this. You want someone who shares a similar philosophy. They won't be a perfect match, but still... I would wear the hospital gown/underwear as much as possible unless you are taking pictures with your daughter. I didn't want to mess up my clothes. The first week or so after birth is messy. Sorry to be so blunt. My hospital bag consisted of a going home outfit, toiletries, and baby's going home outfit and blanket.
+Fashionable Lena I Agree with you Lena. Jen there's no need to go overboard and spend unnecessary money on things marked baby cause they're always marked up! Use a mild laundry detergent and if you're using it on your own clothes it will be fine for baby girl. I agree too on the hospital gown or oldest tshirts possible. Having a baby is not when you want a prom outfit! In other words it's messy in babyland for many weeks and you'll become acquainted with fluids you didn't know existed! Nivea is a beautiful cream too :) I still use their skin so soft, it's divine.
Would you consider doing daily vlogs for vlogmas? I really miss that content from you, but I understand if you can't due to all of the baby prep. Love you!
You are a "social media" role model. I have loved watching your weekly pregnancy updates and I am so excited for you! I just had my second child in October and I relate to your feelings about motherhood. Motherhood is the most important role if a woman is blessed with children!
You are so adorable and I am so happy for you!! I totally understand about your protection of baby girl with sharing and I totally support you! And just a note - you are already a mom! Not a mom to be but you've been caring for your precious girl since conception so you are very much a mommy. She's already so loved.
Less is more with the hospital bag. But I do suggest bringing a empty bag folded up in your baby for gifts and all the stuff you will be given at the hospital. Also put a box or tub in the trunk that can hold any vases of flowers and bring the baby book for foot prints.
+Jaime LovesLife I so agree about the hospital bag. With both of my kids, I WAY overpacked. And, I packed less with my second and still overpacked. And, the empty bag to carry hospital extras in is a must. :)
Your joy is contagious! Every video I have a huge smile on my face and you bring back memories of the time I was carrying my now 23 year old daughter. That bassinette looks great, wish that was around years ago.
you are totally rockin this pregnancy !!!! I can totally understand and respect your decision to protect your baby and safegaurd your families privacy. You have read all the books and taken the classes and prepared for this amazing time in your life, enjoy every moment of it . congrats Jen and Don and the Ross family.
You honestly are such a beautiful person and will make such a wonderful mother. Cannot wait to see you in that phase of your life. Congratulations to you and Don!
Hi Jen, another great video, thanks so much for sharing with us. These videos will be so lovely for baby girl when she's older to see how much you cared and loved her before she was even born. Not everyone in the world is so lucky to have such a wonderful family. You are truly glowing, hope this week goes well for you xxx
I love watching your updates.. I can just see the emotion and excitement in your eyes.. I'm a mom of five and you are going to have the best time of your life! Nothing compares to seeing your baby for the first time.. I'm so excited for you!!!
Jen, I just wanted to tell you that I so enjoy these videos and your calming spirit! I look forward to these videos each week and enjoy your outlook on your pregnancy and how much I agree with you and how reassured I feel about my thoughts on my 2nd pregnancy after watching each week. I completely agree with your thoughts on sharing information about Baby Ross, I couldn't imagine putting my child's life all over the internet but I so hope that you reach for the camera often just for you own personal videos and memories because the first year flies by so fast and those memories are so very precious!
I completely support you mama-bear attitude towards filming baby girl. I will be happy with whatever amount of footage you feel comfortable with. :) Thanks for letting us be on your journey!
I really love how excited you are. Just enjoy every moment they grow far to fast. i didn't use any special laundry detergent until my son was 16. He all of a sudden became sensitive. Sleep when they sleep is one of the best things that you can do.
Jen - I just want to tell you that I am so excited for you! I can feel your excitement and the love you have for your baby girl. I have been with you for a bit and recently re-watched some of your older videos. I remember and re-read the incessant questions in the comments about when you and Don were going to have a baby. I must say that you handled all of that, during your struggles, with such grace and patience. It took my husband and me 16 months to conceive our oldest daughter and I felt like I was falling apart inside. The wait, of course, was well worth it - as you will soon see! We now have two healthy, beautiful girls! Once you have your sweet girl in your arms, all of the past pain and struggle will be a distant memory! ☺️
You are so over the moon and I can totally relate.....although my 3 were all adopted with a 18 month wait for each.......I remember the anticipation and the preparing and the constant sorting of the clothes stash.....lovely times. Is Don just as excited or his usual chill self? You will be an awesome Mommy. We were amazed by the amount of sweet gifts everyone gave us........so heart touching.
I'm so excited for you Jen. I can't believe she will be here soon. My daughter came early at 36 weeks, weighing 5 pounds 1/2 ounces. She was a LONG awaited angel (7yrs to be exact) and everything went well. Fast forward 8 yrs and I remember that day so perfectly. Just wanted to share some tips, when you go purchase your sleepers, purchase many with zippers or like that magnetic one you recieved. They are the easiest to do in the middle of the night during those feedings/changes. I learned that one waking up every 2 hrs to feed. Another tip, DO NOT be afraid to nap when she is. You will NEED too. The house and laundry will get done, don't worry, just take care of your self and her and enjoy, if your tired, you will not enjoy and be stressed. One last tip. Nursing is not easy. But if it is in your heart, it will be. I loved every moment of it. Hubby can't help, Don will sleep, and you will hate him.lol But it really is worth it. But never feel that you HAVE to, if your struggling, DON"T, there are other ways and nothing is wrong with it. There was only one person in my life that gave me the heads up, and I was glad she did. I was able to nurse for 11 months and loved every moment. I wish you all the best Jen..I can't believe your going to be a MOMMY!!!!!! xoxo from Canada!
so excited that it is getting closer! I would love a video of what you actually used at the hospital. I way over packed but better to be prepared! Looking forward to your future vlogs.
Jen you are so very lucky to have such a supportive and loving family,I'm sure your shower was wonderful. Cherish all the time with them and the love that surrounds you. We had our daughter this June and not by our choice it is just me and my husband as far as family goes. I would want nothing more than to surround her with family,friends and tradition and I still pray one day we can but right now we give her all the love we have. Enjoy your last months of pregnancy it goes so quickly.
Laugh if you want, but these videos go so fast!!!! I wish they were longer. It's like sitting down with your friend and talking over a cup of tea the time just flies by. TFS. What beautiful gifts and that bassinet is amazing!! I'm having so much fun watching and hearing all about everything as my one and only baby is 42!!! Take care............
Time is just flying buy!! The blankets are just beaurtiful, and that they where made buy your grandmothers and friend is even more meaningful. The bassinet is so nice, and really used a lot. How cute is the tea set, can you just imagine, a little white table and chairs with a lovely table linen in a corner of your baby girls room so pretty!!! So very excited for you both. Your love overflows and it's a beautiful thing.
I really wish you had been pregnant before me!! I would have LOVED to watch your pregnancy update videos when I was pregnant with my son! :) I remember thinking that I really wished you had kids back then! Well, these videos will be a MUST WATCH next time I'm pregnant. I love how thorough you are on everything!! I still love to watch your pregnancy updates even though I am nowhere near to being pregnant! :)
The one thing I figured our very quickly is buttons on sleepers are awful! During the day, not so much, but through the night, zippers are much easier! It excites me to see you so excited! Congratulations!!
Hi, Jen! Congratulations on your baby! My last baby was born just on the 32nd week of my pregnancy measuring 17 1/2 ", and weighing 4lbs 6oz. What a milestone. As a detergent for all my 3 babies I used Dreft, and it worked perfectly for them all. Thank you for sharing with us all your milestones! - Gladys
As always a lovely video. I can totally understand about you being very protective and you have to blog and vlog as you feel is fit to do, don't feel pressured into sharing any more than you want/feel comfortable doing.Enjoy these last pregnancy months.Hope you have a lovely blessed Thanksgiving.
SO excited for you! I can see the pure joy illuminating from you (: I pray that God blesses you and your baby during delivery and makes it safe & easy. May God protect you, your family, & your baby always.
Hi Jen, just thought I would pass on a little hint. I am a mum of 4 and if your water breaks at home use a disposable Nappy (diaper) in your undies also after the birth i found it very helpful to layer sanitary pads over each other ( lay about half of the pad over the other pad, elongates it and bulks up the centre.) also black knickers are wonderful
I would stick with sleepers for the most part for the first 2 months. A few outfits for going out, but with winter coming up you will probably stay indoors most of the time. And sleepers are easier to change frequently (2-3 times a day)
I used Dreft! My baby girl will be 6 years old on January 15. I too had my baby shower on 11/14 six years ago. I love watching your vlogs. Embrace baby girl in your belly. It's such a short time and enjoy every day with her. It goes SO fast.
I gained a lot of weight at the very end so don't be surprised! I lost most of it when baby was 3-6 months old as the body holds on to it for nursing purposes for 0-3 months. My question for next week is: What are you most nervous about when it comes to labor/being in the hospital?
We use a few detergents, Honest Company, unscented Seventh Generation and also Ecos (don't feel unscented is necessary because the smell is so light). We just use it for everything. I'm a sad your vlogging has slowed down so much. Miss that! It's what got me hooked on your channel. :)
Hi Jenn! I used Dreft with my son's clothing (he is now 7) and he ended up with tiny little bumps on his arms and legs. His pediatrician said he had developed a skin sensitivity, which he still has now. Not sure if it was related to using Dreft, but I decided to try something different with my daughter; she's almost two. I use the Tide Free and Gentle pods. Her clothes have stayed so much nicer than my sons did...less fading and better stain removal. She has not had any issues with skin sensitivity so far! 😊
You're so close!! Yay!! I'm so excited for you!! I gave birth at 38 weeks for both my babies! I didn't want to go anywhere I didn't have to the last month for fear of my water breaking in public! 😳 lol loving the videos! So happy to hear everyone is doing well! Love you Jen!
What beautiful baby blankets! I had my baby shower at 34 weeks and everyone went off registry with the gifts, my son was born at 35 weeks (didn't even have a hospital bag packed) so we had a lot of scrambling to do for gear and prep for baby haha I ended up just using the detergent I use for our clothes for baby, ECOS. 5 months in and no issues! I'm so happy for you, congratulations!
Please do a bag video, I've already had my baby but I love watching them! I packed a ton of stuff but the one thing I recommend is a soft black robe, target has them for around $20 and I lived in it! My little girl has really sensitive skin and we have used dreft detergent for the past 8 months with no problems! I look forward to these every week :)
HAPPY 32 WEEKS!!! You made me tear up in the beginning. So happy for you! Cant wait to meet your baby girl either =) Yay!!! I love that bassinet too. SO cute and functional they didn't make them that awesome when my kids were little lol
I've gotten behind on your weekly updates, but catching up now! Your baby shower sounds like such an amazing event! Love the handmade blankets you received. They are so lovely and thoughtful :)
I really enjoy watching your videos! I am currently 5 months pregnant with my fourth child. I have always used All free and clear laundry detergent. This detergent is unscented and free of color dyes. My son has extremely sensitive skin and this was the only detergent that worked really great for him. I hope this was helpful! Take care and congratulations!
+organized4 I agree All Free and Clear or I think Tide makes a free and clear now also. I do recommend free and clear detergent since you never know what will and won't bother baby. You aren't a momma to be you are a momma Jennifer. :) My kids are grown and I have a granddaughter now. Even though my kids are grown I am still protective of them. I don't think that protectiveness ever goes away it is just more pronounced in early childhood. The hospital had a robe for me but I did not care for it so you might consider taking your own robe and pjs if you don't like hospital gowns. I do recommend a gown not anything that is going to go around your belly like shorts or pants.
+Life Paths Jennifer I forgot to mention that my son has issues with dryer sheets even to this day. They break him out in hives so we have to use dryer balls. Just something to consider. Your baby girl probably won't have any issues.
Not that everyone is the same but I found for my shower I got mostly all useful or registered for things but then once my daughter was born a lot of people sent or brought another gift. Those gifts were mostly clothes, books and toys. It's nice to have your own set of basics ready but leave room for the "meeting baby" gifts too.
Great video! I used Dreft for the first 1 of her life then I used unscented for a little bit, but after she was like 2 I used my regular detergent and we never had a problem with any.
Yes!!! Love to see a baby girl clothing haul!!! Also, I am wondering if you plan on, or would consider, doing hauls for Baby Girl Ross (like you do Mommy Ross) hauls thorough her years... I would love to see to see what she gets as she gets bigger, Also, how you organize her "stuff" as she gets older. Thanks for sharing and Blessings to you and Don on your last few weeks. I remember the excitement of wanting to hold my first child in my arms. It is something I will never ever forget.
We love the Honest Co laundry pods and their oxy boost pods. Super gentle on the skin and perfect to take care of stains. So excited for you! Washing & folding baby clothes was always such a fun nesting activity for me.
I personally used the same detergent for my now 3 year old son as I used for my own clothing. A lot of people will recommend an unscented which is great, but if baby girl is going to be held by you she will still be coming in contact with whatever is on your clothing (hope that makes sense). I used all free and clear for my entire family. :]
Please make two videos! One beforehand, about what you're packing, and one later, about what you actually used!! :). That way we also get to share in the excitement of preparation with you :)
What a beautiful tea set and I love that you are excited to play tea party because it is so much like me! My daughter has 4 or 5 tea sets and the beautiful wooden tea cart from pottery barn kids...my parents gave it to her for her first birthday and it is so beautiful in her playroom! My advice on newborn or baby clothes is have some 5-9lb onesis but invest mostly in 1-3 months! One piece outfits and little cardigans are perfect..I bought a lot of impractical things and learned very quickly that onesis were most comfortable and warm!
I'm a mommy of 4 lol so I think I got this down by now haha. But I recommend dreft detergent it's made for baby but after 6 months you can use your regular detergent. I also recommend buying baby girl clothes in sets of 0-3 months and 3-6 months and maybe add in a few 6-9 months they grow so fast! I'd keep the new born but just buy 0-3 because they grow super fast. Plus if she's a long/ bigger baby you can easily fit her in your already established "stash" of clothing on hand. Also remember that most baby companies have awesome return policy and if something just didn't fit you could return them after she's born. I also recommend having a pacifier on hand sometimes they don't care for the hospital pacifier so it's good to test some out. She may also hate them as two out of my 4 didn't care for them. Hope this helped. So happy and excited for you and Don. 🤗😊
Detergent is really up to the baby sensitivities. We've always used the most basic tide or even generic plus downy clothes softener. We have never had a problem. Feel it out. You could try a few pieces with your current favorite detergent and see how her skin reacts.
I used Dreft for my first baby and some other random unscented detergent for my second. You realize with the second that all of those bells and whistles that you thought you HAD to have for the first are quite unnecessary. Also, don't be surprised if baby doesn't cooperate with your plans. My youngest was such a light sleeper that he was never able to sleep in our room and went right into his crib in his nursery. So funny how different they all are!!!
Are you going to have a Baby Book for her? I brought my baby books to the hospital so that when they are doing the newborn footprints, they could do them directly into the book as well.
I suggest you look to Tiffany's way of incorporating little Olivia in her videos. Very sparingly, that is. And not at all in the beginning. I like that she's so protective of her little one. And I'm sure you'll find your family's sweet spot for sharing given time.
Baby draft or baby ALL baby Ivory snow is also a good one. I used whichever baby one I could find and my babies had very sensitive skin (band aides will even break them out) and never had any issues.
I've used Dreft with all four children. I even continue to use it on my four year old. Wonderful scent and we've never had any allergic reactions to it at all. I even buy a bottle to go with my gift basket anytime I attend a baby shower. One less thing the parents to be have to worry about 😊❤
My mom bought me a new robe and nightgown for after the birth of my son and they ended up being my favorite items in my hospital bag. I was so excited to put them on after my first shower. It may seam minor, but at the time it was so special to put on something that made me feel pretty and somewhat put together (and that didn't take extra time away from my newborn the way hair or makeup would). Also, I would suggest flip flops for in the shower 😊
My daughter has eczema so we have to be extremely careful with detergent. We use, and I highly recommend, Tide free and gentle. It is dye and perfume free. Great for washing baby's laundry.Also, when you pack your hospital bag, make sure you pack socks. My daughter was born in June and my feet were freezing! I would also recommend taking your own sleepwear so you are comfortable.
We have the same activity gym for my son. It took us MONTHS to discover that the squirrel and bird make noise when you squeeze them :) My son has very sensitive skin so we use and love tide free and clear and also free and clear dryer sheets.
Happy to hear how much you enjoyed spending time with the wonderful women in your life at your shower. Your MIL and SIL outdid themselves, it seems, and from the few photos you've posted on your blog everything looked beautiful--as did you (baby) & Winnie in your matching purple! Very excited to see all the heirloom blankets and beautiful gifts in the nursery! Be well, friend.
I think you said do two videos. One for what you are going to bring and the other what you actually used. I think it will be helpful getting people's input.
My first baby girl was born almost 22 years ago. She did have sensitive skin and I used Dreft exclusively for her clothes for at least the first year and washed all of her things separate from anyone else. We learned VERY early on that baby wipes can break baby out horribly. We didn't know being new parents, so the more i saw her break out the more I wiped trying to keep her nice and clean, not realizing it was the baby wipes, so if you notice anything early on, stop and change wipes. I wouldn't worry about too many newborn or 0-3 clothes. My daughter was only 7.2 and still grew out of those sizes within a month. Have a few basics but concentrate mostly on 3-6 month sizes.. seems like she wore those for a longer length of time. The same thing for diapers, you don't need too many of the newborn sizes and i wouldn't stock up on case you don't like a certain brand or it irritates her. Just a few of my mommy tips, from this older mommy. So excited for you.
Dreft! It is baby heaven! I have 2 VERY sensitive skinned kids and Dreft has never caused any issue with them. For tough stains I make a mixture of peroxide, Dawn, and baking soda. Scrub it on and it will take anything out- even set in stains!
Hi Jen! i would suggest using a nonscented laundry detergent like tide free and clear or the honest company makes a nice one as well. You can then buy dreft unstoppahles so you can control the amount of scent and you can easily stop using it if you find your baby has any irritation. always a good idea to start completely scent free and then slowly introduce it as you watch for irritation. sensitivity to fragance is different for every baby so just keep an eye and everything should be fine! loved the update :) stay well
hi! I would love to see a video on your hospital bag and see what baby products you researched and registered for and why plus your birth plan. I'm two weeks behind you and this is my 3rd baby but it's been 9 years so I feel a lot has changed! you are great at research and product review so I value your opinion
Love your videos! Your pregnancy update videos makes me think back to my first pregnancy; I had a little girl in the beginning of the year too. Detergent-wise, I used Dreft and never had a problem. I do remember milk stains are tough to get out. I'm sure they have better products now than 15 years ago. Ha ha.
I'm so glad the blanket matches the nursery! When I saw your rug choices, I just knew it had to be purple! So happy for you and Don, and we (my mom and I) can't wait to see the baby! :)
+K Werner Design You & your Mom are the sweetest :)
I've been subscribed to your channels for several years. Formerly a midwest girl myself (St.Louis). And I was here when you had some strange and horrible comments. I completely and totally understand your feelings on vlogging about baby girl. For those of us who love you and support you, would love a peek or two at how well you are doing as well as how beautiful your daughter is. So a limited peek or two is good for me. As I'm sure it is for the Jen Ross fans !
well said!!
+JLynn Schmitt I have been watching Jen's organizing videos mostly on her other channel and some daily vlogs but never knew she had horrible comments. I cannot imagine what they were and why, she seems to be such a sweet person! She is one of my favorite vloggers and her videos were the ones that really helped me to get organized when I was really starting to get serious into it several years ago. Her ideas were so helpful to me and I am so thankful for her sharing her gift and a little bit of her life. So sorry for mean people, cannot imagine what they found to be mean about. She is definitely being wise to keep her baby guarded.
Very well said. I've been a subscriber since the beginning as well. I truly miss the old vlogging style but completely understand where she is coming from. I don't even let family members repost photos on my kids!
+JLynn Schmitt me too!
+JLynn Schmitt What happened with the comments?? I've heard her mention this a few times now and I feel like I'm missing something!
I can completely understand your feeling of being "mama bearish" and protecting your child. While I'm sure we're all looking forward to seeing some pictures of her, we all understand why you won't be vlogging with her in it. I also wanted to say that you look so happy and excited and it's refreshing to see, and enjoy your sharing that excitement with us. I'm looking forward to seeing her nursery and how you've set that up. You have such good taste that I'm sure it'll be absolutely adorable. Take care and your little one will be here before you know it.
I am incredibly excited for you, Jen! I have been watching your videos since I was 16 (I am now 20) and I was going through a rough patch in high school, discovering some friends of mine were not true friends. I was feeling so bummed but spending time alone and away from them gave me the chance to find your channel. I was immediately inspired by you and you were an amazing role model to me. Seeing you, a woman with such a grace and class, having a mutual love for organization, urged me to think about the kind of woman I wanted to be. Seeing your family grow has made me feel so excited and motivated to work hard for my own future, and the future of my family one day. I want to thank you for being one of the few women out there who carry themselves with such dignity and have a pure heart. You are going to be one fantastic mom! Baby girl is very lucky. :)
+darakristi Thanks for sharing your experience and for your lovely works :)
You are almost there Jen! Enjoy these last weeks and spend plenty of extra time with Don. Both of your lives will be changed forever :) Thanks for sharing. {BTW you will LOVE that bassinet. I used it for my daughter and it was great!}
My pediatrician said that a baby doesn't need special detergent unless he has sensitive skin. I just washed our babies' clothes with ours. Both were fine. My pediatrician also didn't like baby lotion. She suggested regular Nivea. It kept our little ones very soft. Have you chosen a pediatrician yet? We had to pick one before I gave birth so that they could examine my boys after the were born. We chose one. Met with her and loved her. She was very old school in some ways which we liked. I felt at ease because of this. You want someone who shares a similar philosophy. They won't be a perfect match, but still...
I would wear the hospital gown/underwear as much as possible unless you are taking pictures with your daughter. I didn't want to mess up my clothes. The first week or so after birth is messy. Sorry to be so blunt. My hospital bag consisted of a going home outfit, toiletries, and baby's going home outfit and blanket.
+Fashionable Lena I Agree with you Lena. Jen there's no need to go overboard and spend unnecessary money on things marked baby cause they're always marked up! Use a mild laundry detergent and if you're using it on your own clothes it will be fine for baby girl. I agree too on the hospital gown or oldest tshirts possible. Having a baby is not when you want a prom outfit! In other words it's messy in babyland for many weeks and you'll become acquainted with fluids you didn't know existed! Nivea is a beautiful cream too :) I still use their skin so soft, it's divine.
Would you consider doing daily vlogs for vlogmas? I really miss that content from you, but I understand if you can't due to all of the baby prep. Love you!
You are a "social media" role model. I have loved watching your weekly pregnancy updates and I am so excited for you! I just had my second child in October and I relate to your feelings about motherhood. Motherhood is the most important role if a woman is blessed with children!
You are so adorable and I am so happy for you!! I totally understand about your protection of baby girl with sharing and I totally support you! And just a note - you are already a mom! Not a mom to be but you've been caring for your precious girl since conception so you are very much a mommy. She's already so loved.
Less is more with the hospital bag. But I do suggest bringing a empty bag folded up in your baby for gifts and all the stuff you will be given at the hospital. Also put a box or tub in the trunk that can hold any vases of flowers and bring the baby book for foot prints.
+Jaime LovesLife I so agree about the hospital bag. With both of my kids, I WAY overpacked. And, I packed less with my second and still overpacked. And, the empty bag to carry hospital extras in is a must. :)
+Jaime LovesLife I agree with this or suggest a plastic laundry basket will also do the trick.
+Jaime LovesLife Thanks for the tip!
Your joy is contagious! Every video I have a huge smile on my face and you bring back memories of the time I was carrying my now 23 year old daughter. That bassinette looks great, wish that was around years ago.
you are totally rockin this pregnancy !!!! I can totally understand and respect your decision to protect your baby and safegaurd your families privacy. You have read all the books and taken the classes and prepared for this amazing time in your life, enjoy every moment of it . congrats Jen and Don and the Ross family.
You honestly are such a beautiful person and will make such a wonderful mother. Cannot wait to see you in that phase of your life. Congratulations to you and Don!
Hi Jen, another great video, thanks so much for sharing with us. These videos will be so lovely for baby girl when she's older to see how much you cared and loved her before she was even born. Not everyone in the world is so lucky to have such a wonderful family. You are truly glowing, hope this week goes well for you xxx
I love watching your updates.. I can just see the emotion and excitement in your eyes.. I'm a mom of five and you are going to have the best time of your life! Nothing compares to seeing your baby for the first time.. I'm so excited for you!!!
Norwex detergent. No dyes, no fillers, no scents, no optical brighteners... Only 2 ingredients. :)
Jen, I just wanted to tell you that I so enjoy these videos and your calming spirit! I look forward to these videos each week and enjoy your outlook on your pregnancy and how much I agree with you and how reassured I feel about my thoughts on my 2nd pregnancy after watching each week. I completely agree with your thoughts on sharing information about Baby Ross, I couldn't imagine putting my child's life all over the internet but I so hope that you reach for the camera often just for you own personal videos and memories because the first year flies by so fast and those memories are so very precious!
I completely support you mama-bear attitude towards filming baby girl. I will be happy with whatever amount of footage you feel comfortable with. :) Thanks for letting us be on your journey!
I really love how excited you are. Just enjoy every moment they grow far to fast. i didn't use any special laundry detergent until my son was 16. He all of a sudden became sensitive. Sleep when they sleep is one of the best things that you can do.
Your hair has gotten so long and looks much thicker! The "glow" looks really good on you! So excited for you!!
Very happy for you & your hubby!! Enjoying as you share your excitement & joy through your vlogs.
Jen - I just want to tell you that I am so excited for you! I can feel your excitement and the love you have for your baby girl. I have been with you for a bit and recently re-watched some of your older videos. I remember and re-read the incessant questions in the comments about when you and Don were going to have a baby. I must say that you handled all of that, during your struggles, with such grace and patience. It took my husband and me 16 months to conceive our oldest daughter and I felt like I was falling apart inside. The wait, of course, was well worth it - as you will soon see! We now have two healthy, beautiful girls! Once you have your sweet girl in your arms, all of the past pain and struggle will be a distant memory! ☺️
The tea set from your MIL is just the most precious thing! That could become a beautiful heirloom, as well as the blankets!!!
You are so over the moon and I can totally relate.....although my 3 were all adopted with a 18 month wait for each.......I remember the anticipation and the preparing and the constant sorting of the clothes stash.....lovely times. Is Don just as excited or his usual chill self? You will be an awesome Mommy. We were amazed by the amount of sweet gifts everyone gave us........so heart touching.
I'm so excited for you Jen. I can't believe she will be here soon. My daughter came early at 36 weeks, weighing 5 pounds 1/2 ounces. She was a LONG awaited angel (7yrs to be exact) and everything went well. Fast forward 8 yrs and I remember that day so perfectly. Just wanted to share some tips, when you go purchase your sleepers, purchase many with zippers or like that magnetic one you recieved. They are the easiest to do in the middle of the night during those feedings/changes. I learned that one waking up every 2 hrs to feed. Another tip, DO NOT be afraid to nap when she is. You will NEED too. The house and laundry will get done, don't worry, just take care of your self and her and enjoy, if your tired, you will not enjoy and be stressed. One last tip. Nursing is not easy. But if it is in your heart, it will be. I loved every moment of it. Hubby can't help, Don will sleep, and you will hate him.lol But it really is worth it. But never feel that you HAVE to, if your struggling, DON"T, there are other ways and nothing is wrong with it. There was only one person in my life that gave me the heads up, and I was glad she did. I was able to nurse for 11 months and loved every moment. I wish you all the best Jen..I can't believe your going to be a MOMMY!!!!!! xoxo from Canada!
so excited that it is getting closer! I would love a video of what you actually used at the hospital. I way over packed but better to be prepared! Looking forward to your future vlogs.
I'm so very happy for you and Don!
Jen you are so very lucky to have such a supportive and loving family,I'm sure your shower was wonderful. Cherish all the time with them and the love that surrounds you.
We had our daughter this June and not by our choice it is just me and my husband as far as family goes. I would want nothing more than to surround her with family,friends and tradition and I still pray one day we can but right now we give her all the love we have.
Enjoy your last months of pregnancy it goes so quickly.
Laugh if you want, but these videos go so fast!!!! I wish they were longer. It's like sitting down with your friend and talking over a cup of tea the time just flies by. TFS. What beautiful gifts and that bassinet is amazing!! I'm having so much fun watching and hearing all about everything as my one and only baby is 42!!! Take care............
I'll be 32 weeks tomorrow! I've so enjoyed going back and watching your weekly updates. :)
I love your vlogs and I'm looking forward to the day you share baby girl with us 😊
What about a slideshow of the pictures from the baby shower?! I think that would be cool!!
Time is just flying buy!! The blankets are just beaurtiful, and that they where made buy your grandmothers and friend is even more meaningful. The bassinet is so nice, and really used a lot. How cute is the tea set, can you just imagine, a little white table and chairs with a lovely table linen in a corner of your baby girls room so pretty!!! So very excited for you both. Your love overflows and it's a beautiful thing.
I really wish you had been pregnant before me!! I would have LOVED to watch your pregnancy update videos when I was pregnant with my son! :)
I remember thinking that I really wished you had kids back then! Well, these videos will be a MUST WATCH next time I'm pregnant. I love how thorough you are on everything!! I still love to watch your pregnancy updates even though I am nowhere near to being pregnant! :)
The one thing I figured our very quickly is buttons on sleepers are awful! During the day, not so much, but through the night, zippers are much easier! It excites me to see you so excited! Congratulations!!
Hi, Jen! Congratulations on your baby! My last baby was born just on the 32nd week of my pregnancy measuring 17 1/2 ", and weighing 4lbs 6oz. What a milestone. As a detergent for all my 3 babies I used Dreft, and it worked perfectly for them all. Thank you for sharing with us all your milestones! - Gladys
As always a lovely video. I can totally understand about you being very protective and you have to blog and vlog as you feel is fit to do, don't feel pressured into sharing any more than you want/feel comfortable doing.Enjoy these last pregnancy months.Hope you have a lovely blessed Thanksgiving.
SO excited for you! I can see the pure joy illuminating from you (: I pray that God blesses you and your baby during delivery and makes it safe & easy. May God protect you, your family, & your baby always.
Hi Jen, just thought I would pass on a little hint. I am a mum of 4 and if your water breaks at home use a disposable Nappy (diaper) in your undies also after the birth i found it very helpful to layer sanitary pads over each other ( lay about half of the pad over the other pad, elongates it and bulks up the centre.) also black knickers are wonderful
So excited to see what amazing parents you and Don will be! So happy for you guys!
I love that you're friends with Kristina Werner! I've followed her for like 12 years back when she only had a blog! I knew you had great taste :)
Since it's getting close until she's finally here, my question is what are you most looking forward to doing with your daughter?
You make me smile and I love to see you and Don so happy and full of life. So cant wait to meet baby girl!!
I would stick with sleepers for the most part for the first 2 months. A few outfits for going out, but with winter coming up you will probably stay indoors most of the time. And sleepers are easier to change frequently (2-3 times a day)
Yes, please please do a "what's in my hospital bag" video!! I'll be having a baby in March and would love to see what you pack and use ;)
I used Dreft! My baby girl will be 6 years old on January 15. I too had my baby shower on 11/14 six years ago. I love watching your vlogs. Embrace baby girl in your belly. It's such a short time and enjoy every day with her. It goes SO fast.
I gained a lot of weight at the very end so don't be surprised! I lost most of it when baby was 3-6 months old as the body holds on to it for nursing purposes for 0-3 months.
My question for next week is: What are you most nervous about when it comes to labor/being in the hospital?
We use a few detergents, Honest Company, unscented Seventh Generation and also Ecos (don't feel unscented is necessary because the smell is so light). We just use it for everything.
I'm a sad your vlogging has slowed down so much. Miss that! It's what got me hooked on your channel. :)
Hi Jenn! I used Dreft with my son's clothing (he is now 7) and he ended up with tiny little bumps on his arms and legs. His pediatrician said he had developed a skin sensitivity, which he still has now. Not sure if it was related to using Dreft, but I decided to try something different with my daughter; she's almost two. I use the Tide Free and Gentle pods. Her clothes have stayed so much nicer than my sons did...less fading and better stain removal. She has not had any issues with skin sensitivity so far! 😊
I always used Dreft for my babies laundry. Neither one had sensitive skin, though. I am so excited and happy for you guys.
You're so close!! Yay!! I'm so excited for you!!
I gave birth at 38 weeks for both my babies! I didn't want to go anywhere I didn't have to the last month for fear of my water breaking in public! 😳 lol loving the videos! So happy to hear everyone is doing well! Love you Jen!
What beautiful baby blankets! I had my baby shower at 34 weeks and everyone went off registry with the gifts, my son was born at 35 weeks (didn't even have a hospital bag packed) so we had a lot of scrambling to do for gear and prep for baby haha I ended up just using the detergent I use for our clothes for baby, ECOS. 5 months in and no issues! I'm so happy for you, congratulations!
Baby Gap First Favorites onesies are a MUST! They wash well and are super soft!
Please do a bag video, I've already had my baby but I love watching them! I packed a ton of stuff but the one thing I recommend is a soft black robe, target has them for around $20 and I lived in it! My little girl has really sensitive skin and we have used dreft detergent for the past 8 months with no problems! I look forward to these every week :)
OMG, the blankets are BEAUTIFUL!
The tea party set!!!!!! Ahhhh! It never occurred to me to do that for my daughter!
HAPPY 32 WEEKS!!!
You made me tear up in the beginning. So happy for you! Cant wait to meet your baby girl either =) Yay!!! I love that bassinet too. SO cute and functional they didn't make them that awesome when my kids were little lol
I've gotten behind on your weekly updates, but catching up now! Your baby shower sounds like such an amazing event! Love the handmade blankets you received. They are so lovely and thoughtful :)
I really enjoy watching your videos! I am currently 5 months pregnant with my fourth child. I have always used All free and clear laundry detergent. This detergent is unscented and free of color dyes. My son has extremely sensitive skin and this was the only detergent that worked really great for him. I hope this was helpful! Take care and congratulations!
Love you Jen! Your videos are so fun to watch and I love your personality and style. Keep being you! Congrats on your upcoming baby girl! xo
Jen - after baby girl comes you could do some "keeping organized with a new baby" and similar organizational videos! ❤️
All Free and Clear. No need to spend more. Bottle says no. 1 dermatologist recommended.
+organized4 I agree All Free and Clear or I think Tide makes a free and clear now also. I do recommend free and clear detergent since you never know what will and won't bother baby. You aren't a momma to be you are a momma Jennifer. :) My kids are grown and I have a granddaughter now. Even though my kids are grown I am still protective of them. I don't think that protectiveness ever goes away it is just more pronounced in early childhood. The hospital had a robe for me but I did not care for it so you might consider taking your own robe and pjs if you don't like hospital gowns. I do recommend a gown not anything that is going to go around your belly like shorts or pants.
+Life Paths Jennifer I forgot to mention that my son has issues with dryer sheets even to this day. They break him out in hives so we have to use dryer balls. Just something to consider. Your baby girl probably won't have any issues.
Not that everyone is the same but I found for my shower I got mostly all useful or registered for things but then once my daughter was born a lot of people sent or brought another gift. Those gifts were mostly clothes, books and toys. It's nice to have your own set of basics ready but leave room for the "meeting baby" gifts too.
It's so sweet how excited you are :) Thank you for sharing! Become parents is such a big adventure...
Great video! I used Dreft for the first 1 of her life then I used unscented for a little bit, but after she was like 2 I used my regular detergent and we never had a problem with any.
Yes!!! Love to see a baby girl clothing haul!!! Also, I am wondering if you plan on, or would consider, doing hauls for Baby Girl Ross (like you do Mommy Ross) hauls thorough her years... I would love to see to see what she gets as she gets bigger, Also, how you organize her "stuff" as she gets older. Thanks for sharing and Blessings to you and Don on your last few weeks. I remember the excitement of wanting to hold my first child in my arms. It is something I will never ever forget.
We love the Honest Co laundry pods and their oxy boost pods. Super gentle on the skin and perfect to take care of stains. So excited for you! Washing & folding baby clothes was always such a fun nesting activity for me.
I personally used the same detergent for my now 3 year old son as I used for my own clothing. A lot of people will recommend an unscented which is great, but if baby girl is going to be held by you she will still be coming in contact with whatever is on your clothing (hope that makes sense). I used all free and clear for my entire family. :]
Please make two videos! One beforehand, about what you're packing, and one later, about what you actually used!! :). That way we also get to share in the excitement of preparation with you :)
What a beautiful tea set and I love that you are excited to play tea party because it is so much like me! My daughter has 4 or 5 tea sets and the beautiful wooden tea cart from pottery barn kids...my parents gave it to her for her first birthday and it is so beautiful in her playroom! My advice on newborn or baby clothes is have some 5-9lb onesis but invest mostly in 1-3 months! One piece outfits and little cardigans are perfect..I bought a lot of impractical things and learned very quickly that onesis were most comfortable and warm!
I'm a mommy of 4 lol so I think I got this down by now haha. But I recommend dreft detergent it's made for baby but after 6 months you can use your regular detergent. I also recommend buying baby girl clothes in sets of 0-3 months and 3-6 months and maybe add in a few 6-9 months they grow so fast! I'd keep the new born but just buy 0-3 because they grow super fast. Plus if she's a long/ bigger baby you can easily fit her in your already established "stash" of clothing on hand. Also remember that most baby companies have awesome return policy and if something just didn't fit you could return them after she's born. I also recommend having a pacifier on hand sometimes they don't care for the hospital pacifier so it's good to test some out. She may also hate them as two out of my 4 didn't care for them. Hope this helped. So happy and excited for you and Don. 🤗😊
Detergent is really up to the baby sensitivities. We've always used the most basic tide or even generic plus downy clothes softener. We have never had a problem. Feel it out. You could try a few pieces with your current favorite detergent and see how her skin reacts.
I love how happy you look!! So excited to have baby arrive :)
I used Dreft for my first baby and some other random unscented detergent for my second. You realize with the second that all of those bells and whistles that you thought you HAD to have for the first are quite unnecessary. Also, don't be surprised if baby doesn't cooperate with your plans. My youngest was such a light sleeper that he was never able to sleep in our room and went right into his crib in his nursery. So funny how different they all are!!!
+Shelly “ClassyPlasse” Plasse Babies don't cooperate because they haven't read all the books that you have.
+apfelprincess45 Soooooooo true!!!!
Are you going to have a Baby Book for her? I brought my baby books to the hospital so that when they are doing the newborn footprints, they could do them directly into the book as well.
I suggest you look to Tiffany's way of incorporating little Olivia in her videos. Very sparingly, that is. And not at all in the beginning. I like that she's so protective of her little one. And I'm sure you'll find your family's sweet spot for sharing given time.
So excited for you and Don! A special time that I hope one day to have myself!
Baby draft or baby ALL baby Ivory snow is also a good one. I used whichever baby one I could find and my babies had very sensitive skin (band aides will even break them out) and never had any issues.
I've used Dreft with all four children. I even continue to use it on my four year old. Wonderful scent and we've never had any allergic reactions to it at all. I even buy a bottle to go with my gift basket anytime I attend a baby shower. One less thing the parents to be have to worry about 😊❤
My mom bought me a new robe and nightgown for after the birth of my son and they ended up being my favorite items in my hospital bag. I was so excited to put them on after my first shower. It may seam minor, but at the time it was so special to put on something that made me feel pretty and somewhat put together (and that didn't take extra time away from my newborn the way hair or makeup would).
Also, I would suggest flip flops for in the shower 😊
My daughter has eczema so we have to be extremely careful with detergent. We use, and I highly recommend, Tide free and gentle. It is dye and perfume free. Great for washing baby's laundry.Also, when you pack your hospital bag, make sure you pack socks. My daughter was born in June and my feet were freezing! I would also recommend taking your own sleepwear so you are comfortable.
We have the same activity gym for my son. It took us MONTHS to discover that the squirrel and bird make noise when you squeeze them :)
My son has very sensitive skin so we use and love tide free and clear and also free and clear dryer sheets.
+Lindsay Townsend TFS your insider tip ;)
Happy to hear how much you enjoyed spending time with the wonderful women in your life at your shower. Your MIL and SIL outdid themselves, it seems, and from the few photos you've posted on your blog everything looked beautiful--as did you (baby) & Winnie in your matching purple! Very excited to see all the heirloom blankets and beautiful gifts in the nursery! Be well, friend.
+Hannah Mann They truly did! It was such a beautiful event :)
With my first two, I used Dreft. After that, I just used my regular laundry detergent and my other three never had an issue.
I think you said do two videos. One for what you are going to bring and the other what you actually used. I think it will be helpful getting people's input.
Loved the sweet handcrafted blankets!
I always use free and clear detergents from Purex. Dreft is also good.
My first baby girl was born almost 22 years ago. She did have sensitive skin and I used Dreft exclusively for her clothes for at least the first year and washed all of her things separate from anyone else. We learned VERY early on that baby wipes can break baby out horribly. We didn't know being new parents, so the more i saw her break out the more I wiped trying to keep her nice and clean, not realizing it was the baby wipes, so if you notice anything early on, stop and change wipes. I wouldn't worry about too many newborn or 0-3 clothes. My daughter was only 7.2 and still grew out of those sizes within a month. Have a few basics but concentrate mostly on 3-6 month sizes.. seems like she wore those for a longer length of time. The same thing for diapers, you don't need too many of the newborn sizes and i wouldn't stock up on case you don't like a certain brand or it irritates her. Just a few of my mommy tips, from this older mommy. So excited for you.
Dreft! It is baby heaven! I have 2 VERY sensitive skinned kids and Dreft has never caused any issue with them. For tough stains I make a mixture of peroxide, Dawn, and baking soda. Scrub it on and it will take anything out- even set in stains!
Hi Jen! i would suggest using a nonscented laundry detergent like tide free and clear or the honest company makes a nice one as well. You can then buy dreft unstoppahles so you can control the amount of scent and you can easily stop using it if you find your baby has any irritation. always a good idea to start completely scent free and then slowly introduce it as you watch for irritation. sensitivity to fragance is different for every baby so just keep an eye and everything should be fine! loved the update :) stay well
You have such a wonderful and loving family.
You look so happy and excited! So happy for
You.. What a fun time for you Christmas and prepping for a baby!! Lots of love from Boston 🎄🎄🎄
hi! I would love to see a video on your hospital bag and see what baby products you researched and registered for and why plus your birth plan. I'm two weeks behind you and this is my 3rd baby but it's been 9 years so I feel a lot has changed! you are great at research and product review so I value your opinion
I'm going to start a new nanny position in January! Twins, and I just met them yesterday. I can't wait to meet your little one!
I'll miss your vlogs for sure even though they've already waned quite a bit in recent years, but I certainly respect your reasoning!
Love your videos! Your pregnancy update videos makes me think back to my first pregnancy; I had a little girl in the beginning of the year too. Detergent-wise, I used Dreft and never had a problem. I do remember milk stains are tough to get out. I'm sure they have better products now than 15 years ago. Ha ha.
We never used any special baby laundry detergent. We just use the unscented Purex. Baby has had no issues at all.
I only used Dreft for both my babies and always hung the clothes up to dry.
I would prefer you do a video on the things you actually use after she's born than a blog about your registery.
+Owlsaremybesties That makes sense
yes please do the before and after baby bag