Babies only remain tiny for a period of time, which is why it's important for parents to soak up all of their lovable moments while they still can.

Shellie Wall is a mother of three and a notable U.K. photographer who perfectly captures the adorable gestures of a newborn. Mastering the art of swaddling, many of the images at Shellie Wall Photography feature cuddly babies in darling poses.

Warning: The photos you're about to see are extremely precious.

Image courtesy of Shellie Wall Photograpy

Watching your baby suffer has got to be the worst punishment for any mother. Which is why our hearts break for Rebecca Harreman, whose 4-month-old son has been battling whooping cough for the the better part of a month. She shared a video of her baby's coughing fit along with an angry diatribe only a near-hysterical mom could have written.

Here's the heartbreaking video of the tiny little sick baby fighting for air. It's not hard to understand why the freaked-out mama wants to rant and rave at someone, anyone.

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Harreman wrote in her Facebook post:

This is a GOOD coughing fit in a 4-month-old with Pertussis, or Whooping Cough -- 23 days after his cough started which is when it's supposed to be getting past the bad stage. It lasts for up to 100 days, but a simple cold I passed onto him that I caught from being with him in hospital is making him relapse again.

Exhausted, frightened, and angry, Harreman says she hopes the video helps bring awareness to how devastating whooping cough can be for babies, and begs people to vaccinate their kids.

She makes some good points and makes it crystal clear in her desperate post that whooping cough, also known as pertussis or the "100 day cough," isn't a disease any parents want their kids to catch. It kills nearly 200,000 people -- mostly the very young and very old -- every year.

More From The Stir: Whooping Cough Outbreak: Don't Blame Anti-Vaxxers, Blame the Vaccine

But, the CDC warns, while the whooping cough vaccine -- DTaP -- makes the illness much less severe for those who have it, it doesn't make you completely immune. So in addition to vaccines, people need to use the simplest disease-prevention technique imaginable -- covering your cough.

In the meantime, we hope Rebecca's baby makes a speedy recovery and she gets some sleep soon.

Image via Rebecca Harreman/Facebook

November 17 marks World Prematurity Day, an international initiative that aims to promote awareness and support surrounding premature birth. It's estimated 1 of every 8 babies in the United States is premature -- born before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Here are some ways you can help a mom with a child in NICU.

Having a child before full term can be extremely scary and overwhelming. Hopefully these ideas will encourage you to find different ways to help out your loved one with a premature baby.

1. Help keep the house running. It's only assumed a mom or dad would spend as much time as they can in the hospital with their child. With that said, a great way to help out is to check up on Mom or Dad's house while they're away. Simple acts, like picking up older children from day care or school, walking/feeding pets, getting the mail, and even washing a few loads of laundry, can really go a long way.

2. Make a care package. Whether you live close by, or are a great distance away, feel free to make a care package. You can include staples like preemie-size clothes and accessories, items to accommodate nursing -- and also other needs, like gift cards for gas and food, books and magazines, snacks, to-go toiletries, money for parking at the hospital, and whatever else you think your loved one could use.

3. Cook a meal. Any parent with a newborn would love this! Don't hesitate to offer a few home-cooked meals -- including freezer dishes your friend or family member can enjoy for days to come.

4. Drive to and from the hospital. Should you have the time in your schedule, consider taking a parent with a preemie to and/or from the hospital. There's a very good chance he or she is exhausted, and could use as much help driving as possible.

5. Help identify resources. Parents with a child in NICU don't often have a ton of time to dedicate to finding resources that can help them. There are many organizations, like Graham's Foundation, that provide support and assistance to families with a premature baby.

6. Give words of encouragement/affirmations. Sadly, there are many uncertainties a child born prematurely can face. As you would expect, it takes an emotional toll on the parent. A great way to show your support is to keep the words of encouragement and affirmations coming. Gift a journal Mom or Dad can use in the hospital as they sit by their child's side. You can also write empowering notes (text and emails are okay) to help them stay positive.

More from The Stir: 20 Things Not to Say to a Mom of a Preemie

7. Be a listening ear. There are extra precautions a parent with a preemie must take -- and sometimes that means quarantining his or her child. No matter if you're allowed to be around the baby or not, just be present. Be the listening ear for your loved one to vent. Let him or her know you're there, for any needs.

Image via herjua/shutterstock

If you're a baby, you really only have three jobs: eat, sleep, and fill your diapers. If you're a parent, however, you have way too many jobs, including changing all those diapers, getting that baby to sleep, and doing all the prep and cleanup required to feed an infant who might want a bottle as many as eight times a day.

When my daughter was born, I breastfed for the first few months and then, for a variety of reasons, switched to formula. There was a lot I liked about using formula, especially when it was 3 a.m. and I could finally ask my husband to get up and feed the baby. But it was also an adjustment to the multiple steps -- and extra minutes -- it takes to get a bottle ready.

Thankfully, I eventually found some bottle-prep hacks that made my life as a formula-feeding mama a little easier:

1. Don't warm the water. Sure, lots of babies like warm bottles -- but only if that's what they've gotten used to. Instead of getting yourself into a heating routine, skip a step and use room temperature water to mix baby's bottles. Baby won't know what he's missing! This will make formula feeding on the go easier, since you won't have to worry about finding a way to warm the bottle up while running errands. You may also find that as baby gets older, he'll be able to tolerate bottles from the refrigerator as well. This is a totally worthwhile goal, especially if you want to use tip #2.

2. Make a batch in advance. Once you get a sense of your baby's feeding schedule, you can consider mixing a day's worth of bottles in advance or stirring up a pitcher to keep in the fridge. I know mothers of multiples who swear by having a pre-made pitcher of formula so that when a little one is hungry, all you have to do is give it a quick stir and pour. Just remember: Pre-mixed formula, either in the bottle or in a pitcher, is only good for 24 hours, so only make as much as you know you'll need that day.

3. Get an assist from a big sibling: A lot of older siblings are eager to help when a baby arrives -- and it's great to let them help with feeding-related tasks at their level. For example, when my daughter arrived, my son was 4 years old, the perfect age for helping me get bottles out of the cupboard and taking used bottles to the sink. Older kids can fill bottles with water or even take charge of rinsing and cleaning them after use.

4. Prep nighttime bottles before bed: When it comes to night feedings, speed is the name of the game. The quicker that bottle is ready, the faster you can get back to sleep. I personally hated having to turn on the lights to measure out formula, so my simple solution was to fill the nighttime bottle with formula powder and then fill a water bottle with the correct amount of water. When baby woke up, I'd pour in the water, shake, and feed. No need to take a trip to the kitchen or even to flip the light switch.

5. Pre-portion formula for on-the-go feedings: One of my diaper bag essentials was a plastic formula storage container. It has three compartments, which each held enough powder for a small bottle. That, plus a unopened bottle of water, meant not having to carry a bulky container of formula with me and made for much faster bottle making in public. This is key when your little angel decides that she needs to eat now.

More from The Stir: 'Judge Less: Fed is Best' Photo Series Strives to Put an End to the Breast vs. Bottle-Feeding Battle

6. Stick to one style or brand of bottle: Nobody wants to spend minutes listening to a hungry baby crying while you're stuck searching for the right nipple or ring to fit your one clean bottle. I eventually found a brand and style of bottle that worked for us and had only those, so every nipple and ring fit every bottle.

7. Make a one-stop stop: I set up a bottle station on our kitchen counter with a drying rack, a container for nipples, a container for rings, the formula, and a room temperature gallon jug of water. Having everything in one place allowed me to see when I was getting low on clean bottles and made bottle prep faster.

8. Save soap-up time: Rather than wash each bottle after every feeding, at the beginning of the day, I filled a large bowl in the sink with soapy water. After a feeding, I'd rinse the bottle and separate the ring and nipple and throw them in the bowl so any remaining formula didn't get crusty in the nipple. My husband was in charge of washing the bottles and parts when he got home at night.

My husband being in charge of bottle washing brings me to the final (and possibly most simple-to-implement) tip:

9. Partner up: One of the biggest perks of formula feeding is that both parents can be equally engaged in the bonding task of feeding the baby. So if you have a partner, go ahead and team up to make sure baby gets fed and loved.

Are there any bottle prep or cleanup shortcuts we missed?

Photo via Alasdair Thomson / iStock

A put-together nursery doesn't just mean having stylish crib sheets and a safe crib. It also means having a setup that makes your life with baby easier. And it's vital you don't forget one very important area: the diaper changing station. Here are the things you'll want to keep there.

1. A ton of diapers and wipes. This one might sound like a no-brainer, but stock up! It's very easy to quickly run out of diapers and wipes, and you don't want to find yourself in a very important diaper-free-baby moment, rummaging through the diaper bag in hopes there's one left (or worse, realizing there's not!).

2. Changing pad with safety clip. Babies can be really wiggly, and no matter how strong you are, you'll need to make sure yours is extra secure during changes.

3. Diaper pail. Before you accidentally miss when tossing that diaper across the room, move the diaper pail closer to your changing station, within arm's reach. Whether it's a step-can or motion activated, it should have a way of opening that's hands-free.

4. Baby lotion. Whatever lotions or potions your pediatrician recommends you use to care for baby's skin, umbilical cord, and/or circumcision, have them handy at changing time. These are the moments you've got baby's skin exposed, so use them! You don't want to have to undress baby more often than you already are.

5. Storage bins or drawer organizers. Obviously, you're going to need places to put all the diaper changing gear. If you have open shelving, you'll want bins to put the diapers and products in. If you use a dresser top as a changing table, consider drawer organizers to wrangle the stuff.

6. A few favorite toys. Oh, the joys of trying to change a dirty diaper when your kid can't help but grab his feet, and little ... parts (moms with boys know). Definitely keep something enticing nearby -- a mobile, a colorful rattle or other favorite item -- to keep baby distracted and occupied.

7. Soothing items. Some babies really hate having their diapers changed. Soft music, a pacifier, or another soother can help prevent a fussy bout.

More from The Stir: The Essential Nursery Checklist: Everything You Need for Baby's Room

8. Laundry bin. Changing stations aren't just for diapers. This is where the whole wardrobe is going to get switched -- often multiple times a day. Keep a laundry bin as close to the changing area as the diaper pail is.

9. Change of clothes in baby's current size. This one is optional, but having it close will save you a trip to the closet or the dresser when you realize there's a spit-up stain on baby's onesie during a change. You don't want to leave baby alone on the changing table for a second (yes, even with the safety strap).

10. Night-light. Face it: You don't have night vision. Nighttime diaper changes can get tricky in the dark, and turning on an overhead light at 2 a.m. is jarring, which is why I recommend a nearby night-light.

11. Grooming kit. While your baby is strapped down on the changing pad, you might as well trim and file his nails, which grow fast. Keeping the grooming kit at your changing table will remind you to stay up on those claws. You may want to comb his hair then, too (if he has some).

12. Small blanket. Whether it seems a little drafty at home, or you're trying to keep baby warm post-bath, there's a good chance a blanket will come in handy.

13. Another changing station. In addition to this main changing area, you'll probably want another place to change baby, whether it's in your living room, the bathroom, or your bedroom, if baby spends a lot of time there. Consider another place in your home where you're going to want the basic essentials. It can save you multiple trips up and down stairs or between rooms at night or after bathing. And stock the diaper bag too!

What else do you keep in your baby's changing station?

Image via iStock.com/gpointstudio

Sponsored by Dreft

As your baby grows up, you’ll have lots of opportunities to teach him important skills -- how to tie his shoes, how to ride a bike, how to drive a car. But when it comes to teaching him how to feed himself, the best you can really do is toss some treats on his tray and hope for the best. The good news is you now have your hands free to take photos of that adorable messy face . . . and hair and shirt and, somehow, impossibly, socks. (Don’t worry -- with Dreft Stage 2: Active Baby liquid detergent at the ready, you can tackle stains in a snap and instead focus on enjoying your little one explore his tasty new world.) Here are seven fun finger foods to get him started.

(Always supervise your baby while eating, and talk to your pediatrician before introducing new foods to your baby.)

1. Slip-proof bananas. Babies love bananas, but the bite-sized bits aren’t always easy to hold on to. Instead of letting her chase the pieces around her tray all afternoon, roll them first in crushed cereal O’s so they don’t slip-slide around and end up sailing off into abyss of your dog’s mouth.

2.  DIY custom mini-pasta mix. Babies love exploring new shapes and textures, so instead of handing him some boring macaroni, boil up a batch of mini pasta in all shapes and sizes. Tiny farfalle (bowties), mini shells, and ditalini (short tubes) – let him try it all on for size.

3. Sticky rice. Short-grain rice holds together amazingly well -- so well that you can mold it into simple shapes perfect for little hands. If you’re feeling more ambitious than spheres, look online for some Japanese-style rice molds to up your game.

4. Mozzarella pearls (perlini). Cut these mild, soft cheese balls in half or fourths and let your little one practice his pincer skills. Put a mat under the high chair to catch the strays.

5. Buttered toast. Introduce your baby to the wonderful world of buttery, carby goodness that is perfectly toasted bread topped with melted butter. Cut the toast into finger-sized sticks or small cubes to make them easier to hold.

6. Sliced cheese. Amp up the cute factor of regular cheese slices by cutting them into shapes with vegetable cutters (like cookie cutters but smaller). A set of animal shapes will give your baby a good opportunity to show off the barnyard sounds she’s been working so hard to master.

7. Dipstravaganza! Older babies can often be convinced to try new food if you let them dunk it in a favorite sauce. Set up a dipping station with several choices (yogurt, ranch dressing, hummus, marinara) and it just might be the trick to getting them to eat steamed vegetables with gusto.

What are your baby’s favorite finger foods?

Leah Maxwell is a book editor, freelance writer, cereal addict, wife, and mom to two young boys. She has been blogging at A Girl and a Boy since 2003.

Image ©iStock.com/SolStock

These babies don’t mess with stains, and neither should you. (Thank goodness for laundry’s little helper, Dreft Stage 2: Active Baby liquid detergent!) Here’s what these hilarious little guys and girls would say about messy mealtimes if they were allowed to talk with their mouths full. 

What messy foods does your baby love to eat?

Leah Maxwell is a book editor, freelance writer, cereal addict, wife, and mom to two young boys. She has been blogging at A Girl and a Boy since 2003.

Image courtesy of Amanda Genge

Sponsored by Dreft

The holidays are hectic in the best of circumstances, and they can be even more overwhelming when you have a new addition making demands on your already limited time. But guess what? New babies can actually be the best excuse to just take it easy and soak in the holiday spirit! Here are six reasons to be glad you gave yourself the gift of a newborn this year.

1. You can decline all those parties you otherwise might have felt obligated to attend. This year, instead of dragging yourself to your neighbor’s fruitcake exchange extravaganza or the work potluck you dread for months beforehand, you can stay home and nibble baby toes instead, no questions asked.

2. You can justify long shopping trips because your baby loves to sleep in the stroller (or be worn in a carrier) while you trawl the mall. Wear athletic shoes and your nicest yoga pants and maybe you can even call it a workout. A few miles up and down the aisles sure beats jogging on snowy sidewalks while paying for a babysitter.

3. You can rationalize all those gratuitous baby-clothes purchases as being gifts for your little one. The holidays are the height of infant fashion (ruffles! bows! sweater vests! suspenders!), so go all out and then indulge your senses as you give each new item that pre-wearing wash in Dreft Stage 1: Newborn knowing that it’s gentle on their delicate baby skin.

4. You can make your relatives come to you for a change. Traveling with a newborn is the best example of the classic kid-gear paradox: “The smaller the kid, the more stuff he/she needs.” Instead of hauling cross-country with your teeny-tiny infant and her not-teeny-tiny mountain of “essentials,” invite guests to your neck of the woods and then sit back and bask in the feeling of not stressing over travelling in uncertain weather with a brand new baby of uncertain temperament.

5. You can get to the heart of your holiday traditions. With a new baby limiting your ability to do the million and one holiday tasks you’ve convinced yourself are necessary elements of celebrating the season, take this opportunity to pare the list down to your favorite traditions and leave the rest by the wayside. This is the best time to find out what’s really important to you, and the perfect time to define what will be important to your family now that you have kids of your own.

What are you most looking forward to about celebrating the holidays with a newborn?

Leah Maxwell is a book editor, freelance writer, cereal addict, wife, and mom to two young boys. She has been blogging at A Girl and a Boy since 2003.

Image ©iStock.com/MilosStankovic

Of all the changes that happen when you become a new mom, one of the hardest to get used to is the new clock you live by. It ticks faster than it ever did before. Entire stretches of the day disappear while you’re still in your pajamas, stealing super-fast showers, and picking at muffins between diaper changes and naps.

There’s no magic wand to stop the clock, of course, but there are a few things you can do to make the most of your time while you’re caring for a new baby.

What are some of your time-saving tips?

Betsy Voreacos is a freelance writer and blogger who lives with her family a stone’s throw from Manhattan. 

Image ©iStock.com/ChristinLola

Sponsored by Dreft

Holidays are all about traditions—both sharing your favorites and creating new ones for your children. Your little one might be too young to sit through your favorite seasonal movie or sing your favorite holiday songs, but there are plenty of ways to get your baby involved, even as at such a young age.

1. Schedule an annual professional family photo shoot. You might have a million pictures of your baby, but how many shots do you have of the whole family? Start a tradition of getting some quality photos taken at the same time every year, and you can even include them with your holiday cards or frame them as gifts for the grandparents.

2. Pick out a book or toy to give to a charity collecting gifts. Kids of all ages take special pride in helping those in need, and encouraging your children to give to other children is a truly special tradition.

3. Splurge on adorable sleepwear. Babies are always outgrowing their clothes, and pajamas are no exception. Retailers turn out some of their cutest PJs at the end of the year (2015 is giving us tons of plaid flannel and fair isle), and having new winter pajamas will make your little one feel warm and cozy. Wash all the new PJs in Dreft Stage 1: Newborn liquid detergent as soon as you bring them home so they’re ready for your baby to wear on special holiday nights.

4. Write your baby a letter. Include details about how you’re celebrating the holidays that year and what milestones he or she has reached lately. Each year, collect the letters in a scrapbook or box and you’ll have a priceless keepsake to pass down. This year she might just love playing with wrapping paper, but by writing it down you’re helping write the story of her childhood, and I can’t think of a better gift than that.

What holiday traditions are you planning to start with your babies?

Leah Maxwell is a book editor, freelance writer, cereal addict, wife, and mom to two young boys. She has been blogging at A Girl and a Boy since 2003. 

Image ©iStock.com/RealCreation

Sponsored by Dreft 

One of the best parts of celebrating the holidays is indulging in our favorite holiday foods. If your little one has made the foray into the wonderful world of solids, here are a few tips for making festive meals more baby-friendly.

• Roasted or boiled vegetables (think mashed sweet potatoes or vegetable stews) are perfect for baby as long as you cut or mash up large chunks and always test the temperature first.

• For babies old enough to eat table food, you can start getting into the habit of having them eat what the rest of the family is eating. Let them sample small portions of what’s being served to everyone else; you’ll be surprised how much they will eat (and like!) beyond the stuff that comes in a jar.

• Most babies under age 1 will still be getting most of their calories from milk or formula, so don’t put too much pressure on what they eat at the table. Let them test out food in a no-stress environment, and let them use all their senses to explore their meal, even if that means your little guy gets gravy in his hair and your little girl smears sweet potatoes on her new dress. Stock up on Dreft Stage 2: Active Baby to tackle stains and just focus on the fun memories you’re making.

What holiday foods are you going to introduce your baby to this season?

Leah Maxwell is a book editor, freelance writer, cereal addict, wife, and mom to two young boys. She has been blogging at A Girl and a Boy since 2003.

Image ©iStock.com/Jonas Unruh

Sponsored by Dreft

You can never have too many photos of your baby, and the holidays are prime picture-taking time, so don’t forget your camera at home or leave your smartphone in your purse. If it’s hard for you to remember to take photos in all the hustle and bustle of the season, write a list of shots you want to get and then post it where you’ll see it often. Photos you might want to have include:

• Your baby all dressed up in holiday finery—shiny shoes, giant hair bows, the works.

• Your baby taking in the lights on your city’s main street. They love the colorful glow of string lights, and the wonder on their face is truly magical to behold.

• Your baby’s first taste of your family’s specialty holiday dish. The little one’s reaction will depend a whole lot on whether you serve up a slice of sweet pumpkin pie or a spoonful of pickled red cabbage, but sweet or sour, get ready with that clicking finger for some funny faces!

• Your baby posed with family members you don’t see very often. Now is the time to get that three- (or four- or five-generation) photo while everyone’s together for the holidays.

• Your baby opening presents – or just crumpling up heaps of discarded wrapping paper!

• Your baby doing a messy holiday-themed craft, like footprint reindeer or fingerprint snowflakes. (Don’t worry – Dreft Stage 2: Active Baby, the detergent that’s tough on stains, will help get her clothes clean again afterward!)

• Your baby playing in the snow -- or on the beach, depending on where you live. Capture what it’s like outdoors for your baby at this special time of year.

What special photos will you take of your baby this holiday?

Leah Maxwell is a book editor, freelance writer, cereal addict, wife, and mom to two young boys. She has been blogging at A Girl and a Boy since 2003.

Image ©iStock.com/elenaleonova

This post is brought to you by Dreft. All opinions are ours.

My eldest son is in high school and it seems like before I know it, he’ll be packing his bags for college. My youngest, Charlie, is motoring through elementary school and sometimes I catch myself thinking back to the days when they were both tiny babies in my arms.

Those early, new mom years were life changing, beautiful, and they tested every fiber of my being. We all know that becoming a mother is supposed to change us, to bring us into a new phase in our lives, but there’s nothing that can prepare you for what those first days, weeks, and months will feel like -- until you’re living them!

If you’re a new mom, this one’s for you.

Becoming a mother is like nothing else in the world. Advice flies at you from all directions, you are thrilled one moment and weeping with lack of sleep the next. You run a gauntlet of emotions morning and night and sometimes you just need a hug and for someone to tell you that everything is going to be just fine!

You’re strong, you’re capable, and you’re amazing.

When I was a first-time mom, I remember feeling like I needed a lot of stuff -- or so everyone around me had me believe. Babies, for whatever reason, seem to come with loads of stuff that you end up never using or tripping on when you try to pee in the middle of the night. Stuff, stuff, stuff everywhere and to be honest, many of these items are well-meaning gifts from family members, but they probably aren’t serving you as well as the items I’m about to mention.

If you’re a first-time mom, or you’re about to become one -- congrats! -- here’s my advice on some of the best things to have on hand during those first weeks of parenthood!

Onesies & Sleepers

Specifically onesies with the little split at the shoulder (for scooting baby through when they have a diaper blowout and you need to pull the onesie off from the bottom instead of over their head) and sleepers with zippers (which are so much easier to open and close in the middle of the night).

White Noise Machine

Find a white noise machine with a setting that will let it stay on throughout the night instead of turning off after a certain time period. I find that this soothing sound helps babies not to be woken up by things like a dog barking or the doorbell. Anything for a little more sleep = perfect for new moms!

Baby Friendly Laundry Detergent

Laundry grows in MOUNTAINS when you have a baby at home. When you’re washing those tiny onesies and sleepers, you don’t want to introduce anything harsh to their skin.  Thanks to Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Liquid Detergent you don’t have to worry about that.  It’s a great choice for soaping up those petite little outfits when they get covered in the sorts of things that newborns get covered in. This detergent is the number 1 choice of pediatricians and has been specially formulated for newborns. I love that it’s hypoallergenic,plus it smells amazing! Now that my kids are out of the baby stages, Blissfuls -- Dreft’s in-wash scent booster -- takes me back to those early years with the baby fresh scent I miss. I’ll be sharing even more about why we love Blissfuls in an upcoming post!

Click here to learn more about Dreft.

A Travel Mug

This might sound totally weird, but a travel mug is your BFF during those baby days. Why? Because in the beginning, and even more when they begin to crawl and get into all sorts of trouble, you rarely have enough time to get to the bottom of your tea or coffee or hot cocoa without it getting cold. It’s a small pleasure, but you’ll love it. There’s nothing like sipping that last swig -- and it’s still nice and hot!

A Baby Wrap/Sling

Life with a baby, newborn or crawling, is a life without at least one of your hands. They should train us for motherhood by making us do everything with one arm -- or BOTH arms! -- tied behind our back. You can get a lot more accomplished and keep baby safe and cozy in a sling. Great for around the house or when you’re out and about!

Motherhood is the most incredible thing that has ever happened to me and I know I worried a lot more than I really needed to in those early days, months, and even years. I hope that this simple list will help you during YOUR baby days! Congratulations, friend!

What baby essentials have you stocked up so far?

Amy Bellgardt is the blogging powerhouse and media strategist behind MomSpark.com— a trendy blog for moms — and founder of her own social media marketing agency, MomSparkMedia.com.

Image ©iStock.com/BraunS

I was just looking at pictures from when Emmy was born. The feelings came rolling back to me. It feels like yesterday and at the same time a lifetime ago. I’m sure that we all feel that way.

And then when I think back to when I became a mom for the first time. I really get mushy. There were so many special first time mom moments that make my heart swell with joy. The newborn phase is such an amazing time. Thank you so much to Dreft for partnering with me on this post so that I can reminisce about all these wonderful memories.

One of my first favorite newborn moments was the adrenaline rush I got right when my babies were first born.

With my older two I had c-sections and after the numbness wore off I wanted to get up and do something. I remember pushing the girls around and around in a big loop at the hospital. I wished I could have slept… but my brain was going 100 miles per hour! I was so excited and just couldn’t sit down. I thought for sure it was hormones…but when my littlest one joined our family via adoption, I had the same feeling. And to be totally honest, I am so thankful for that burst of energy because those first few days (weeks, months) are pretty exhausting, so I learned after the first to make the best of that initial energy!

I also savored every single newborn snuggle I could.

In a blink of an eye they are big kids. I know that everyone tells you that, but it is so true. With Emmy, I knew she was going to be our last, so I took as many pictures as I could. I didn’t even correct the silly way she said words as early as with the other two. I just enjoyed being a mommy to a sweet little baby.

Another favorite thing for me about the newborn stage is all the milestones.

First bath, first smile, when they leave the hospital… there is so much to celebrate each and every single day.

I even loved the baby prep time. I totally think that is part of the newborn stage too.

With Emmy we had less than a month to get “baby ready”. So I nested in high gear and had the time of my life doing so. I had waited years to be a mom again and I already knew what I could expect as far as those first few precious months. I didn’t want to spend a second of those days doing anything but enjoying our new family of 5. To do that I bought a crib, changing table, diaper bag, car seat and all the other things in one swoop online. Then I went into the local store to get the rest. One thing I placed in my cart immediately was Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Liquid Detergent. Babies are messy little things. You need all the help you can get and the last thing you want to do is have to worry about irritating their sensitive skin.

The thing that is my absolute favorite about the newborn stage is the love.

Seriously there is so much love everywhere with a newborn. It’s the feelings that dreams are made of. If it could be bottled up I would totally recommend doing it…so that you could take a whiff of it when your sweet baby draws on your new white couch…or when your teen no longer wants to hang out on Saturday mornings. Don’t ask me how I know.

What was your favorite newborn memory? Or what are you looking forward to the most?

Heather Delaney Reese from It's a Lovely Life is an inspirational storyteller and lifestyle writer who loves food, travel, So Cal, tech, Disney & family adventures!

Image courtesy of the author

This post is sponsored by Dreft. All opinions are my own.

Before my first child was born I remember feeling SO unprepared. As a new mom, I had millions of questions running through my mind. With all of the baby gear on the market, what did I absolutely need? Were all of these newborn gadgets really necessary? Were particular items worth the investment? Through trial and error (and two babies later), I've come up with my Top 10 Essentials for Bringing Home Baby.

1. Swaddles: Investing in quality swaddles is essential. Swaddles can be used for EVERYTHING - nursing, swaddling, tummy time, and a car seat cover. Not to mention, because they are so light weight, they don't take up much space in your diaper bag.

2. Freezer meals: I can guarantee when you return home from the hospital, you're not going to feel like cooking a meal. Before the baby comes, be sure to stock your freezer with easy meals that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. Better yet, ask your friends to bring prepared meals in lieu of gifts when they come to visit you.

3. A swing: There is nothing like snuggling a newborn. However, for your sanity, it's important to have some "you" time after your baby arrives. Investing in a good swing really makes all the difference.

4. Dreft Stage 1: Newborn: Life with a newborn entails many extra loads of laundry. Finding a quality detergent that is gentle enough for your baby's delicate skin is absolutely key. Thankfully, Dreft Stage 1 is formulated specifically for newborns. Recommended as the #1 detergent choice by pediatricians, Dreft Stage 1: Newborn's hypoallergenic formula truly is a must for every new baby. Click here to learn more about Dreft.

5. Quality nursing bras: If you choose to nurse your babies, nursing bras are the way to go. They are SO much more comfortable than regular bras. Not to mention, they make nursing SO much easier. 2-3 quality nursing bras should do the trick.

6. Diapers/wipes station: Before baby arrives, stock your home full of diapers and wipes. My personal favorite for newborns – Pampers. They’ve worked the best with both of my babies. Something that helps me immensely is having a diapers/wipes station easily accessible in our family room. This saves MANY trips back and forth to the baby’s room.

7. Bassinet: To be honest, I didn't even need a crib with either of my babies until they were a few months old. Not only are bassinets less money than cribs, but they fit a lot easier in your bedroom; if you choose to keep your baby close.

8. Pads: Be sure to stock up on nursing pads and feminine pads.

9. Entertainment: Have some form of entertainment that you can look forward to each day - favorite TV shows, movies, books, etc.

10. Nighties: I feel like my children lived in nighties and onesies the first few weeks of their lives. My favorite kind of PJ's are the kind of nighties with the elastic at the bottom - they make nighttime diaper changes a breeze.

What's your top baby essential?

Meagan Ivie of A Mom’s Take loves being the mother to a toddler who thinks he's a puppy and a chocolate lab who wishes he were human. When Meagan isn't pulling her son from the doggie door or fishing dog food from his mouth, Meagan enjoys decorating, crafting, cooking, thrift shopping, and eating at unique restaurants.

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This post is brought to you by Dreft. All opinions are ours.

Do you have any idea how much stuff little human beings need? I’m not even kidding! These tiny people require way more than you’d think! By now, I’m sure you’ve heard about all the basics: diapers, crib, clothes, some sort of feeding system (be it bottles or your own natural feeding system). Well, I have a few other things you might not realize you need but will thank me for when you are using them!

A fan: Now, I am not suggesting you blow cold air straight at your baby while he sleeps so peacefully.  I never did this with my first baby, but with my second, I have a fan going every time I lay him down.  I find he actually sleeps better with white noise.  If I forget to plug it in (which is next to never!) either the noise from the dogs wakes him or he wakes himself up because it is so quiet.

Vibrating furniture: Ok, that sounds a bit weird, but I’m talking about a swing or a bassinet that vibrates a bit.  Movement is what you are going for here.  You would think with my second child that I was a brand new mom all over again (they are only 5 years apart!)  With my daughter, I had all sorts of moving furniture to help soothe her to sleep.  Not knowing when #2 would come along, and between many moves, stuff got sold and donated. Unless you want to try and soothe your baby to sleep rocking a bassinet with your hand or foot (like I did this time around) I highly suggest you invest in some batteries and something that moves.

Gentle Laundry detergent: As a new mom, you worry about a lot of things, your baby’s new skin being one of them! You shouldn’t have to worry about harsh chemicals on his clothing. Thankfully, with Dreft Stage 1: Newborn Liquid Detergent, you don’t have to worry!  When I was a new mom, I never really thought about what laundry detergent I would use.  That is until someone bought me Dreft.  I knew my baby’s skin would be sensitive and I needed something gentle. You should know it’s the #1 choice for pediatricians when it comes to gentle detergents for your newborn.

First Aid Kit: I have decided that the next time I get invited to a baby shower or find out someone is pregnant, I am going to put a basket together of medicines, a thermometer and other first aid items you need when baby gets sick.  As sad as it sounds, almost all babies get sick at some point.  And it is not fun.  It was something I didn’t think about and when I was running to the store in the middle of the night for some fever reducer, I wished someone had thought to gift me a first aid kit!

Music Player: You REALLY want a tablet or something where you can continuously play music.  Again, I didn’t do this with my first, but with my second I play classical music or ocean sounds on my favorite streaming music service.  Every time I lay him down for a nap, he gets ocean sounds (and a fan).  It is actually really soothing!  After a few hours, the service likes to know if you are still listening, so for 3am feedings, I just say yes, and the music starts again, soothing both of us.

I feel my job as a mom is to help new moms know the ins and outs of the stuff they don’t tell you about when you have a new tiny person to care for.  I don’t want to keep these goodies to myself!  If it helps me out, I want to help you out.  After all, we’re all in this together!

Click here to learn more about Dreft.

Do you have any other new mom must-haves to share? 

Tabatha Pariseau is a pregnancy & family life writer for OurFamilyWorld.

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Congratulations to Kristin Cavallari! The 28-year-old Fabulist host and her husband, Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, welcomed their third child today, November 23 -- and it's a girl! The new addition joins her brothers, 3-year-old Camden and 18-month-old Jaxon, and she has a name as unique as her siblings'!

Are you ready for this one? It's ... Saylor James Cutler! Adorable, right? A classic, nautically inspired name that's equally fitting for a boy or a girl, with a modern twist on the spelling (which is clearly something Kristin and Jay are into, if Jaxon's name is any indication). Check out the too-sweet Instagram announcement:

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Saylor James Cutler was born today at 132pm!! ��

A photo posted by Kristin Cavallari (@kristincavallari) on Nov 23, 2015 at 1:58pm PST

More from The Stir: Kristin Cavallari Flaunts Her Baby Bump in Formfitting Little Black Dress (PHOTO)

Awww! It's a party of five at the Cavallari/Cutler house! And how awesome that this little girl (who of course is gonna be gorgeous) has two big brothers to look out for her! (You know, or beat her up. Kids will be kids!) Plus, Kristin is gonna have a blast dressing little Saylor up! I'm sensing coordinating outfits à la Beyonce and Blue Ivy in the future, aren't you??

Image via kristincavallari/Instagram

You've probably heard the term GMO thrown around a lot on the news by health advocates and organizations, but what does the acronym really mean and how does it affect the well-being of your family?

GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organism and, according to the Non-GMO Project, is defined as organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in a laboratory through genetic engineering, or GE.

The science behind GMOs is still fairly new, and because of this, little is known about how these manipulations of our food will affect our well-being down the road. That's pretty frightening for parents who are trying to do right by their children and give them food they know is healthy.

More from The Stir: 9 Baby-Bottle Hacks to Make Feedings Quicker and Easier

What should we, as parents, be concerned with in regard to GMOs? Most importantly, we need to become educated and observant consumers.

"There is not enough evidence to indicate that GMOs are a direct threat to human safety simply as a result of eating foods that are made from ingredients that are genetically engineered," says Sharon Palmer, RDN, the Plant-Powered Dietitian, author of Plant-Powered for Life. "But there have not been enough long-term studies to know for absolute sure, and it's important to look at the safety of GMO foods on a case by case basis."

This lack of information can be unnerving for new parents who want to know if GMOs are more harmful to their newborns. But Deborah Malkoff, a registered dietitian, pediatric nutritionist, and owner of New York–based City Kids Nutrition, offers this if you're on the fence about whether to eliminate foods containing GMOs:

"With infants, their bodies are developing so quickly. Their brains, their digestive track, everything is growing," Malkoff says. "We don't know what's going to happen 30 years from now with the GMO generation."

So many parents are trying to avoid giving their babies GMOs where they can. If you're aiming to follow in their footsteps, here's what you can do.

1. Give baby whole foods.

"Only very few GMO crops have been approved, such as soybeans, corn, sugar beets, canola, cottonseed, Hawaiian papaya, and a small amount of summer squash," says Palmer. "Typically, GMO corn and soy is grown only for animal food and processing (i.e., making oil and high-fructose corn syrup), sugar beets are used for sugar, cottonseed and canola are used for oil." In other words, not too many fruits and veggies you find in your local grocery story are genetically modified. "If you eat whole foods -- soy (i.e., tofu), an ear of corn, a beet -- you would rarely be eating a GMO. This is a huge misunderstanding among most people."

2. Make your own baby food.

Since you're more likely to find GMOs in processed foods, fresh is best. "Make your own applesauce, which would yield more [than what you'd find in a jar]," says Malkoff. "Or buy grass-fed beef, cook it in a pan, and blend it with something else. You can make it yourself and make extra portions. You don't necessarily have to buy baby food in squeeze pouches. They actually make squeeze pouches that you can fill with your own purees." The bonus is that making your own can often save you money.

3. Become a label reader.

The best way to know what foods you're bringing into your home is to look at product packaging. "Read the ingredients list and avoid highly processed foods," says Palmer. "Look for the Non-GMO Project Verified label, which certifies the food is GMO-free."

4. Go organic where you can.

Not sure whether a food could contain a GMO? Buy organic, since certified organic foods are regulated and cannot contain GMO ingredients by law.

Many of us have balked at the prices placed on organic foods, so Malkoff encourages parents to make the investment for items your baby or child consumes the most, like formula or milk. Also, packaged baby foods and cereals are good to buy organic.

By following these tips whenever possible, you can feel confident you're taking steps to avoid GMOs in baby's diet.

Photo via iStock.com/YsaL

There are few things as satisfying to the parent of a baby as the sound of a well-fed little one letting out a loud burp. While burping in public might be considered rude for adults, for babies it's both adorable and a sign that hopefully everything is nice and settled in baby's tummy. Now, a restful nap or happy playtime can ensue.

But sometimes those good burps are hard to come by from the standard "put baby on your shoulder and pat the back" method, so read on for some of the more creative ways to get a frat-guy-style belch out of your little angel!

Image via iStock.com/skynesher

As parents, we want to make sure we're feeding our kids healthy foods, but we realize it isn't all that simple. There are some fruits, veggies, and meats that are best bought organic in order to steer clear of pesticides, growth hormones, and antibiotics.

Make no mistake, says Jennifer Glockner, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and creator of Smartee Plate, "overall, organic foods are not more nutritious than conventional foods," but when you feed baby organic food, you can feel confident it's not a GMO and that it has less pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics than its non-organic counterpart. "Just because fruits and vegetables are organic doesn't mean that they don't have any pesticides," she explains. "Some pesticides, unfortunately, exist environmentally."

An organic label means that fertilizers used in farming that food isn't synthetic, and it's not irradiated. The amount of pesticide residue "varies by geography and year," says Glockner. "Washing and scrubbing produce removes some pesticide residue from the outer surface but cannot remove residue that penetrated the produce during growth." It's also good to buy domestically grown produce, since imported produce may have a different pesticide profile.

Wondering why this is important for baby? Babies have different metabolism patterns, which means toxins are able to stay in their bodies for longer periods. Because they're young and their organs are still developing, exposure to chemicals and pesticides may affect development. Glockner says, "Kids eat more food relative to their body weight than adults do, so they get a higher concentration. And studies show that GMOs may cause more allergies in kids."

So if you're trying to limit baby's intake of bad stuff, but you can't commit to going completely organic, here's what you can focus on. 

Image via iStock.com/David Sucsy