Adventures in Registering

I've often heard Baby's R Us described as the "7th Circle of Hell". And more than a handful of women have warned me about the perils of registering, however, nothing could have prepared me for what it would actually be like.

Last Sunday, thanks to a 3pm Bears game, Todd joined me on the epic journey to register for baby gifts and supplies. I armed myself with a highly calculated spreadsheet, cross referenced with the following:

• 4 separate lists from past General Mills mothers
• Baby Bargains (9th edition) - a cult favorite that is basically the "bible" of baby supplies and brands
• Reviewed by current moms - to make sure that I wasn't "missing anything"

I was convinced that this was enough to make the process a breeze. I was so naive. I projected that setting up all 3 registries would take us 2.5 hours, MAX. Boy was I wrong... 5 hours later, we were finally "done". I use quotation marks because I still had to go back online and edit and refine all three registries (add on another 1.5 hours).

Luckily, I brought snacks, and thankfully, Todd was up to the challenge. He eagerly weighed all the baby product options, tested out strollers, and even patiently listened as I explained the difference between a baby sling and a baby carrier.

Alas, another key baby prep item has been checked off the to-do list. We even went off script and purchased the baby his own Christmas stocking. Notice it's the only one hanging on our mantle, this kid is already ruling our roost!