I definitely recommend 2 strollers: 1 travel system for ease, comfort, and easy folding & 1 jogger for more rugged adventures. Make sure to get one with a movable sun visor (full mobility offers complete protection from sun and wind). Often we are out towards sunset and I have to put it all the way down to the tray to keep the sun out.

I opted not to get a changing table, but use the top of a short dresser with a changing pad attached. I thought it would be more practical for future use. Gliders are awesome, especially in the middle of the night. I agree, don’t spend to much because you will inevitably spill something or baby will spit up.

The travel system with the portable car seat is ideal for the first few months, but my second little guy didn’t like the carrier so he actually moved to a convertible car seat at 3 months. Whereas my first stayed in the carrier for 12 months. Sure keeps your arms in shape!

Just remember every baby is different and has their own personality. So all the planning in the world will never cover all your bases. Go with the flow… As much fun as it is to splurge and buy the best of everything for your baby, remember that baby is going to grow up and start asking for what he wants…they get much more expensive when they learn to talk and have an opinion! As much as I dislike ubiquitous commercial stores, Babies R Us has all the essentials. Shop decor elsewhere, but don’t go broke before college! Good luck, so glad it’s you and not me – LOL :)

Outstanding news for both of you, Erin you look great. From a male’s perspective, let me offer my thoughts:

Rocker/Glider: You want something comfortable, no doubt, but think about Macy’s or some other department store like Carson’s. We found a glider we could pick the fabric, it was Scotch Guarded so we could match the room, and you get a nice warranty with those stores, including on site cleaning. Also, if you get up in the middle of the night in your boxers and need to rock your boy, the last thing you need is cold leather pressed up against you. GOing with leather might also be just reconsider due to the potential fluids that WILL find their way onto that sucker. You don’t wanna break the bank on a glider. Cost – we spent about $450.

Great commentary on the crib, changing table, stroller, etc. With the stroller, I have found having two is the best bet. Granted you take on a little more expense, but no stroller meets every need. Find one with big wheels, I can’t recall the Bob, but we just got back from the beach. Our jogging stroller – Jeep – was awesome. Running, walking, on the beach, on pavement, getting over curbs, it’s a breeze. It is not ideal for shopping or tight maneuvering considering the front wheel is stationary, but would not trade it for anything. Our other one is a Peg Perego, and great for just about everything else…including packing up, putting in your car, or bringing on a trip. We struggled with getting the Jeep condensed enough in a rental car, and checking it plane side, but it was worth the frustration to have it on the beach.

Everything else is a learning experience. Don’t sweat the decisions because no matter what, you’ll find something you like and something you hate.

I really like the Orbit. Expensive, but it looks to save a tremendous amount of back stress getting the child seat in and out of the car, rotating them out of the sun, etc. We sold a few others on it, but nothing wrong with the Snugrider…we have and it’s great. They grow out of them before you know it.

No doubt as your friend mentioned, you can find some much better deals at some other stores…though the boutique’s make it more appealing with their more fashionable furniture.