by Laura Falin posted in Life

I will never, ever forget my first baby's first illness.
He had a mild fever and was generally miserable, but it passed within 24 hours and he was fine (thank goodness!). Of course now, after weathering all kinds of sicknesses with four babies, I would know not to panic and I probably wouldn't call the emergency pediatrician hotline in the middle of the night. I might, though. Because you know what" It doesn't matter how many times my kids get sick, or even how old they are -- I still worry every time. I still check on them when they're sleeping. And I still don't really sleep well myself until they're better.
One lesson I've learned the hard way -- after countless times stumbling into the drugstore in my pajamas in the middle of the night -- is to take inventory of my medicine cabinet every fall. Of course, kids get sick year-round, but I really want to have the essential cold & flu remedies on hand this time of year. Here's what I make sure I have in stock:
1. Humidifier
We always get coughs and sore throats, and a good cool-mist humidifier is key. Be sure to clean and dry them regularly so bacteria and mold can't grow. We have used these animal-shaped humidifiers for several years - in fact, we have a frog set up right now in one of the kids' rooms!
Buy it: $44.74

2. Nasal Aspirator
Snot sucker. Booger bulb. Whatever you want to call it, this thing is so cheap and simple...and so worth it. Keep on hand for babies and little kid...