Whoever said that the hard part — nine months of picky pregnancy cravings, frumpy maternity frocks and an ever-bloated belly — is over once you get through 20-odd hours of labor has some serious explaining to do. It doesn't take many M&M's up the nose to know that being a mom is a test of endurance. And chances are you're just getting warmed up. From cradle to college, you've got quite a lot to handle. Here, we present the quintessential kit of must-haves for any mom. You'll wonder how you ever survived without it.
MODern meals
by Kate Schweitzer
Sure, a home-cooked dinner is ideal, but let's be honest: Your haphazard pile of "recipes" consists mainly of take-out menus and pizza delivery coupons. So why clunk up your kitchen with that blender you haven't used since, well, ever, when you can make room for this bright box? Manage the menus so your family's next meal is easy to "prepare." Although we love the hand-painted design of this latch-closed unit, other boxes — including an open bin modeled after a Chinese take-out container — are available. MOD Circles Take Out Menu Box, $28 at InvitationsAndCelebrations.com.
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