Shopping Assistance

Hello everyone!  I haven’t been here for a while, but that was because I was sulking while our friends in HCMC were wading through other applications before confirming receipt of my I-600.  Now that I’m able to count down the days on the 60 day meter (and I hope lots of you can, too, or have actually been approved!), I’ve decided I need to get serious about some shopping.

Since it’s been many many months since my referral, I’ve actually accumulated quite a few items for Oscar – you know, all of the cute / stylish / fun ones.  Unfortunately for me, I’ve kept the most difficult shopping decision for last.  I truly cannot decide which formula I should use.  Do I use the premium (super expensive ones) because I’m afraid that I won’t be giving the best option to my child (which, I’m sure is exactly what these formula makers want us to believe)?  Or, do I use the store brands (Costco, Target, etc.)?  From what I understand, the major difference is how finely the formula is ground (resulting in a smoother beverage for the more sophisticated palate).  The core contents of the formulas themselves are federally regulated, but that leaves the additives, which are not.  Are those in Similac / Enfamil that much better than those in the much cheaper brands? 

The odd thing here is that I’m not a penny pincher.  I splurge when I think a brand is superior to another.  I do, however, hate to be a fool and taken advantage of and I really hate to be manipulated into believing that I’m doing someone harm (whether it’s myself, my dog, or now, my son). 

After the brand decision, I’m going to have to come up with a decision on whether to use organic formula and what do I want added into the formula (ARA / DHA I take are a must).  Any advice on any of these things?

Easier questions:

• how many crib sheets do I need?
• where can I find plain white diapers (all of the diapers I have purchased have some sort of cutesy design – worst case is the Winnie the Pooh design, ugh)?
• is there anything wrong with using those Avent bottles with the disposable liners long term or do people simply use them for traveling?
• how many pairs of pyjamas do I need, or should I simply use those sleep sacks?
• any recommendations on baby sunscreen?
• do I need to wash all of Oscar’s clothes in Dreft or some other baby detergent before he wears them?

Any assistance (from the BTDTs and the first timers muddling through this with me) is much appreciated.

January 26, 2008 Posted by Oscar and Etta's mom | Adoption, Shopping, Single mothers, Vietnam, Waiting | Adoption, Shopping, Single mothers | 6 Comments