Everywhere I go, people tell me, "They grow so fast!" Seeing is believing! Between the age of birth and their first year is when you see the most drastic growth as they double their birth weight within the first 6 months alone. I did not know the sex of our baby before she was born so did not purchase many clothes at all. We picked out a favorite take-home outfit  of our choice if we had a boy or a girl. We also picked up a few neutral sleepers to start us off. Although tempted, I didn't want to waste when I didn't know what to expect!

I was so appreciative to the clothing I did receive from family and friends when Abigail was born. Not only did it save us a lot of money we needed for the MANY diapers she went through those first 3 months, but also saved me time and energy of taking her out to shop for clothes. As fun as it sounds, it took a lot of effort the first few weeks at getting out of the house in a timely manner! I can't remember a time I went out with as little make-up as I have since March. However I did have everything in my diaper bag I could possibly need if the car broke down for some random reason. We do think of everything don't we...even at our own expense!

I cannot believe all the clothes I have packed away so far. Sentimental too, because I know who gave her what. I packed a bin for newborn and 0-3 sizes. I have also started packing away her 3-6 months. Anything with feet do not fit unless it's 6-9 months.  On top of that, it's mostly a very summery wardrobe. I'm holding out another few weeks to put away her adorable summer jumpers, jean shorts, and onsies that were washed so many times over again and others hardly worn. It's so odd to think that unless we have another girl...I will never see these sweet clothes on my children again...and as I benefited from family hand-me-downs I have ready and waiting for Abigail to grow into, another child, if not my own, will possibly benefit in turn. It's a pretty neat cycle.

She is not old enough to argue or care about what she wears, and I always do the hands and feet test to make sure she's the right temperature. There is also something cozy about putting an item on her that I know was worn by one of my nieces or a memory it brings back. I can tell she is starting to slow her growth down slightly. Week to week I didn't know if something would fit. Now..at least a few weeks pass before she outgrows a item that runs on the smaller side because all manufacturers vary.  I am all about comfort though. Of course I love her looking like a little lady...but if that comes at the cost of being a rough material, bows that stick in her back if sitting in the carseat, or snugger than I would wear myself, it doesn't get used...and before you know it, outgrown.

The best advice I can give with the clothes you have is USE them. Don't save your NICER outfits for when you are out and about...because if wait long enough...the opportunity will pass you by. Also, if it isn't worn and already outgrown and you don't have women in the family who could use them for their children, you can donate them or sell them to consignment shops, where moms like myself, like to find a great deals on brand new items with tags still on. And then you see yourself packing away items that are precious, brand new also, yet too small.