Cloth Diapers

We have been exclusively using cloth diapers since S was 5 weeks old, and I am really happy that it has worked out as well as it has. Mr.A was never completely sold on the idea, but reluctantly agreed once I told him that I wouldn’t expect his help with the washing/drying/stuffing, and the change from disposables should be nearly transparent.

The majority of our CD stash are one size Bum Genius 4.0s (pockets), with a handful of sized 3.0s in small and medium. I also have a couple of Alva one size pockets which I use regularly and really like considering how cheap they were.

The majority of my CD stash are “Seconds” with minor cosmetic flaws, so I was able to buy the new diapers for about 50% off. I’ve come to learn that I love bamboo inserts, and have purchased both bamboo and microfiber/bamboo hybrid inserts from Alva for a very reasonable price. Some other items I’ve purchased are small, medium and large wetbags, a diaper sprayer (unused currently, will likely need to begin using when we start S on solid foods), as well as the diapers and inserts. I am unsure of the exact cost of all of my diapers and supplies, but am guessing that I’ve spent roughly $400 on everything.

Considering that a large box of Pamper diapers is around $45, and would last us approximately 2-3 weeks, we should break even with the cost of CDing when S is around 6 months old. I am hopeful that these diapers will last her through potty training, and that we will also use them for subsequent children therefore saving money and helping preserve the environment by not producing extra waste.

Some people argue that CDs aren’t any better for the environment because of the extra water and energy needed to wash them every 2-3 days. I completely disagree with this since we have a high efficiency washer which only uses a couple of gallons of water per load and we line dry.

Everyone thought I was crazy when I told them I wanted to do cloth diapers. I will admit that it has been a little more difficult keeping up with everything now that I am back to work, but I intend to keep it up and am thrilled so far with them.

Back to Reality

Maternity leave is officially over, and I am back to work and the real world. 

Samantha is growing like a weed! She is 10 weeks old, and already in 6m sleepers! She is in the 90^th percentile for height, and 60^th in weight, so even though 3m clothes are big around, her little toes curl up in the feet because she is so tall.

We are so fortunate that my mom was able to come stay with us and will be watching S during the day while I work until May. This will allow me to ease into being away from S, and help me get more comfortable with the idea of a nanny, in-home day care, or day care center. Thinking about putting her into day care makes me extremely anxious, but I know it is a necessary evil at this point in our lives.

I’ve said over the last couple of months that I would have to wait and see how the work transition went and then decide if I would want to stay at home. Well, I returned to work yesterday on a great day where the company announced their 2012 earnings and their plans for growth. I’ve been offered a promotion, raise and bonus structure; as well as an incredibly generous 401k match. In addition, while I was on leave, they sent a “new mom” package with baby clothes, blankets, towels and let me know that they had opened up a 529 account for my daughter and deposited the first contribution.

I’ve realized that I would be a fool to give up this career or this company. They provide a fantastic work/life balance, they challenge me, give me opportunity for growth, reward me and encourage me. They also have a positive impact on the community around us and give employees paid time off to work with charities around the metro area.

This company is aligned with my morals, values and beliefs, unlike anyone I had ever worked with before. I have decided that I am staying, now if I could convince them to allow me to bring S with me to work…..