On the rare occasions I’m able to go shopping at a department store, I often pause to reminisce about pre-baby days.
“I used to be able to wear those kind of swim suits,” I sigh, thinking sadly about my now sagging stomach.
“Oh, for the days when I could wear tube tops and halters. There’s no way a strapless bra is holding these milk jugs up any more,” I lament, picturing my nursing bras.
When I walk past the purse section, it almost brings a tear to my eye. I study the leather, canvas, and variety of buckles. I mentally match the styles and sizes with the outfits I have at home.
I’ve loved purses since I was a child. I collected quite a stash of purses, and had one to match every outfit. These days, I carry the same purse with every outfit. It’s big, it’s functional, it’s boring. Yep, you guessed it: it’s my diaper bag.
Although I miss carrying purses, I have to admit that there is one nice thing about carrying a diaper bag instead of purse: I never have to transfer the contents, and I’ve gotten very good and keeping it streamlined. Here’s what’s in my diaper bag:
For Baby:
*diapers
*wipes
*wet bag (for poopy diapers or poopy clothes)
*receiving blanket (for warmth or messes)
*container of baby food, spoon, and bib
*bag balm
*booger sucker
*pacifiers
*pair of cotton pajamas (to replace any poopy outfits)
*sun hat
*stocking cap
*nail clippers
*thermometer
*sunscreen
*lotion
For Mommy:
*chapstick
*wallet
*cell phone
*gum
*keys
*camera
*nursing cover
I realize there are mothers who carry both a purse and a diaper bag. To me, it’s not worth it. I have enough to juggle without adding another bag to the mix. I’m proud of the way I’ve pared down what I bring with me around town, and I’m prepared to go purse-less for the next 10 years, if need be.
Have you given up purses? What’s in your diaper bag?