Traveling in Style

Good Morning! I wanted to say thank you to everyone who left comments, emailed me or left comments on Facebook regarding my stroller purchase. I didn't think we'd be ready so soon for a new stroller and was overwhelmed by all the choices!

Let's review my list of wants in a new stroller:
-Lightweight
-Easy to fold by myself
-Reclines for her to nap
-Not going to break the bank

I thought that I was going to find 3 of the 4 items after doing some research. Everything that fit the first three categories was way above my price limit. We already have one stroller and someday....far down the road, we are more than likely going to have to purchase a double stroller.  After looking through everyone's recommendations and SCOURING the web, I decided to purchase....

The City Mini!!

I was so excited to find a used one on Cragislist for only about $125 but that fell through pretty quickly.  I kept searching and finally my hard work paid off.   I ended up purchasing a brand new, black and pink City Mini on http://www.albeebaby.com/ for only $149 plus shipping!!  I was hesitant about shipping and didn't know if it would make it in time for our trip. I purchased the stroller on May 4th and yesterday, in the smallest box ever, my stroller arrived!!

I obviously haven't used it yet...but nonetheless I'm LOVING it! I wanted to give everyone a quick overview of the features and when I get back I'll give it a full review.

I'm probably starting backwards here but this is the stroller put together. I literally unfolded it out of the box and popped the wheels on. Easy assembly!

I love how upright the seat is. We are so used to the travel system that doesn't sit up all the way.

I didn't mention this above, but an extra large shade was also on my wish list for naptime. This one is HUGE!

Plus it has TWO viewing windows on the top that have covers.

There are actually two pockets here but I couldn't get a picture of the first that's actually on the inside just above her head. It will be a perfect spot for my phone and keys.  I also love this pocket and all the storage space underneath.

This is the stroller full reclined. I love that it goes all the way down. Many of the lightweight or Umbrella strollers didn't.

And even better?  Shade protection!! You can also see in this picture I had some helpers coming to join me.

Shade closed and full reclined...ready for nap mode!

Apparently it's also a great place to play hide and seek!

My favorite part? Folding it!  There is one handle on  the seat, right underneath where her little bum goes. You pull up and voila! Folded stroller! Look how compact!

I can NOT wait to use it! I hope it's as great as all the reviews. So far so good!!

As far as luggage, I wanted to minimize what I bring. My plan is one medium size suitcase plus a carry on.  Her diaper bag is great, but it just fits her stuff...I need a little room too!  We stopped at the mall the other day to check out some new Vera Bradley bags and I ended up getting this one:

This is the Vera Bradley Weekender. It's a tad bigger than my diaper bag but still has lots of pockets and a great strap! Hopefully it will arrive in time...I'll take some actual pictures once it arrives!

I hope you enjoyed my review of the City Mini! Coming up next...a special post for the ladies!