Seven very quick and random takes

Linking up with Jen at Conversion Diary again for Seven Quick Takes.  These will be random, and hopefully quick.  ;-)

1. Bought Clem a little potty-seat topper for the regular toilet instead of his potty-chair.  Too many poops getting dropped in the transfer (sorry if that was TMI).  It's time for poop to go directly in the big toilet.  We're also switching to Huggies Overnights after several nights of potty explosions in our Touch of Nature dipes (even after sizing up).  Here's to not washing the sheets every day!  OK, enough potty-talk...
2. The trees should bloom this week, I can't wait!!!  Love this time of year.
3. Clem has been skipping a nap every 2-3 days or so.  He seems awfully young to be dropping his nap (Gemma was past 4, and Kolbe was about 2.5), but he does fine (as long as we don't go anywhere in the car in the afternoon/evening).  Since we have early bedtimes here anyways it doesn't bother me a whole lot, it's just not worth fighting him to sleep.  Plus, on the days he does nap well bedtime can be difficult.  If there is one thing I have learned in six years of parenting it is that you can't make a child sleep.  That said, I kind of miss having a little break from him mid-day.  OH well, can't have it all. 
4. I have started meal-planning for breakfast (with the kids' help).  It was getting so hectic in the morning, trying to please everyone, waiting for everyone to decide what they wanted...and then change their minds.  After I had already made what they said they wanted.  BAH!  I sat down with the kids late last week and we planned a week out.  So far so good, and I am trying to have breakfast on the table before they are even up so that really cuts down on the morning crazies, which = a much happier mommy.
5. I have such a wonderful husband.  I am so glad we are a team.
6. I am reading (my purchased, used copy of) How To Talk so Kids Will Listen and Listen so Kids Will Talk.  I've checked it out from the library several times, read the first couple chapters, skimmed the rest, but never really read and took in the whole thing.  Plus, the first time I checked it out Gemma was all of 15 months I think and back then I already knew it all.  HA!    I am amazed at how practical it is, the communication advice it gives would be helpful in any relationship, not just the parent/child dynamic.
7. Sigh.  The laundry, the children, the homework, dinner, et al beckons.  LATER!!!

Journal: Hello March (and snow)

TODAY

Out my window:  Snowing.  On March 2nd.  poo.  This had better be the. last. blast.  

Clothing myself in:  Jeans, tank, sweatshirt.  Picked up some new tops at Maurice's, one dressier one and a handful of "mom" things.  ;-)  A friend posted some articles a couple weeks ago on mommy fashion (haha, I know, I can't believe I just typed that), and one of the articles I clicked thru to (not even going to attempt to find it) talked about dressing in threes.  IE- Jeans, shirt and shrug.  Slacks, sweater, chunky necklace/scarf.  etc.  For whatever reason this was very helpful for me.

Around the house: We got a new shower curtain for the master bath, but we have to exchange it because one of the holes was not slit so I couldn't put the ring (also new!) through it.  Annoying, but certainly a first-world problem.  I'll be anxious to get it exchanged and hung, it will look really nice.  

Gearing up for Lent.  My motto this year is to keep things simple yet meaningful, and to follow through.  I decided (rather last minute) to go ahead with the Lenten Cross Readings with the kids.  I tried this three years ago and it was too above them but I have high hopes for this year.  I went through the reading list and divided it up between reading from our regular (NAB) Bible and our Children's Bible (that I love) and refurbed the cross-board a bit.  Still trying to decided whether to do them after homework time or after dinner. Hmmmmmm...

 

The baby/toddler: Starting to repeat lots of words/sounds.  I ordered him some more prefolds from Green Mountain as ours are getting beat. up.  Part of this is probably because I am lazy and dry them in the dryer more often than on the rack (ahem, the rack is currently in the basement storage room).  They've gotten heavy use with 2 kids though, and a bit of use with Gemma too, so I can't complain.  Even buying more, I know they've saved us money.

 

The kiddos:  They've enjoyed playing with the dress-up clothes and our play instrument set/Gemma's keyboard lately.  Last week they put on a play called "Scared and Not Scared" that involved jumping over a booby-trap they made out of a pile of beads in the living room to various demo music played on the keyboard.  It was highly amusing listening to them running around saying booby so many times.  Yes, I don't get out much.  On Monday we ran some errands and acquired some balloons.  I have a rule in this house that says only one balloon can be blown up at once because I hate balloons.  Really, hate them.  There are currently like seven balloons in my living room, because apparently I suck at rules.  I also broke Gemma's heart when I broke down and told her that I do not like playing Candyland.  Just let me know where to mail my application for 'mom of the year'.

In the kitchen: Pork cutlets, potatoes and either brussel sprouts or asparagus (fresh! a sign that spring will come!!); homemade pizza, tuna melts on Ash Wednesday and Fish Crisp on Friday.  Probably will find something special/fun to do for the kids on Mardi Gras.

Crafting: nada.  I apparently over-exerted my crafting muscle last week, haha. 

Learning:  Finishing up on a few "R" things this week with Kolbe and mainly focusing on Lent.

Reading: The Joy of the Gospel.

Watching:  The usual.

Bringing me joy: The coming change in Church seasons.  Even though Lent is "hard" and I'm not necessarily looking forward to that in the material sense, seasons like Lent and Advent are such beautiful opportunities for growth.  And the coming (hopeful) change in calendar seasons.  Also a whole afternoon and evening date with my hubby, complete with leisurely shopping and a taaaaasty dinner out at a nice quiet restaurant.

Thinking about:  A friend who was diagnosed with leukemia (after going through breast cancer/treatment a year ago).  My heart is so heavy for her and her family, she has kids that are my kids' age (and older, there are ten!!) and I just can't imagine...  I am praying that they can find peace and joy as they embrace this cross.

A few articles to share, first this one about "tough love" (I put that in quotes as it's not the 'usual' tough love that comes to mind).  I thought it was a beautiful reflection on love in general.  Even when it's tough.  And then this one, The One Thing Christians Should Stop Saying.  So good.  A few quotes:

First, when I say that my material fortune is the result of God’s blessing, it reduces The Almighty to some sort of sky-bound, wish-granting fairy who spends his days randomly bestowing cars and cash upon his followers...God is not a behavioral psychologist.

Nowhere in scripture are we promised worldly ease in return for our pledge of faith.  In fact, the most devout saints from the Bible usually died penniless, receiving a one-way ticket to prison or death by torture.
I’ll take door number three, please.
If we’re looking for the definition of blessing, Jesus spells it out clearly. (then he goes on with the Beatitudes).

It really was a thought-provoking article.  Go check it out.  (I linked it twice so you'd be sure to read it.)
 

Pictures to share:  

Journal: Christmas Eve

TODAY

Out my window:  Dark, cold, about 3 inches of snow on the ground.  Pretty.  It should be a white Christmas in these parts.

Clothing myself in:  Grey sweats, turquoise sweatshirt.  Since it's Christmas eve I will change later.

Around the house: Wrapped our last gift last night.  Well, except one I'm still waiting on to arrive...

 

The baby:  Sweet as ever.  He has been napping so much better the past month or so, it's been really nice.  I think he's ready for a big-boy bed, but we really don't want to buy one as the baby room is kind of a dedicated baby room (read: we wouldn't have anywhere else to keep it) and I don't feel like collapsing the crib, etc. etc.  I'd convert the crib to a toddler bed, but I can't lay in it with him and to me that kind of defeats the purpose. 

 

The kiddos:  Gemma got one of those bracelet maker Fun Loom things from her godmother for Christmas.  That girl is going. to. town.  I was kind of surprised she caught on so quickly.  The box says "8yrs and up" and even though she is into that kind of stuff I still thought it might be tricky for her.  I mean, when I was trying it out the night before (after kids were in bed) so I could help her with it the next morning, Aaron suggested I rename it the Dammit Loom.

Kolbe is so full of Christmas cheer, he is adorable.  He is my Christmas carol kid (LOVE hearing him sing) and Frosty the Snowman has hands-down been his favorite show of the season. 

In the kitchen: Spaghetti last night, which is a fave with everyone around here!  Aaron is carving up the Christmas Sushi today, and he'll be running the smoker on Thursday.  The rest of the week will work its way out and there will be no shortage of good things to eat I'm sure.

Crafting: ehhhhhhh, after the above comments about the loom I think I ought not claim anything here.  The salt dough ornaments are complete though, another successful year of ornament  making with the kids.

Learning:  Each day over break I'm having Gemma choose two things (her choices are math, reading and handwriting) to work on during homework time.  I googled "Common Core Kdg Math Worksheets" and was thrilled to come up with a ton (click here) that align with the standards, so I printed all stuff I know they've worked on at school.  (Strangely?) she has really been liking those and has chosen one every day.  I figured we'd just keep our regular routine (which includes hw each afternoon) over the break, and that seems to be working out well.

The little elves wrapped all the salt dough ornaments and got them labeled correctly (I hope!) so we are good to go! 

Reading:  I started A Certain Small Shepherd with Gemma, and hope to finish it sometime soon.

Watching: We started a special on The Vatican last night on H2.  I was a little dubious, because I do not typically trust the History Channel's angle on things that involve the Church and Jesus Christ.  The first part of it was interesting enough, but then I fell asleep.  Lame.  So the jury is still out, indefinitely probably.

Bringing me joy: Advent.  I love this season so much.  Family.  The snow.  Parish Mission.  Playing with the kids.  Coffee with a friend.  NPR Christmas music and my Advent at Ephesus CD.  Cozy fires in the fireplace.  Bedtime, I love the kids but I love when they go to bed too and the house is quiet...and then I pass out of exhaustion before I can really truly enjoy it.

Thinking about: Getting the kids up for the day.  Time to sign off!!

Pictures to share: 

We have some construction going on near our house, the kids thought the dirt piles were awesome!

Anyone need some size large Thirsties diaper covers?  $30 for the lot of six, excellent condition (they have just never fit my kids quite right).

Diapers for sale

UPDATE: All but the two bG AIO's (first pic) have sold.  Let me know if you'd like the bG's!!!

With the addition of little Clem to our family I have revisited our cloth diaper tubs and decided that maybe I sort of overbought.  It's the boyscout (?) in me...or maybe just an inborn (disproportional) need to be prepared for every possible scenario.  Who knows?!  ;-D  But as I age, I am beginning to find that less is more.  SO, I've been thinning out, and thought before I consigned these items I'd try to sell them on my blog.  I've done this before with pretty good success.  Let me know in the comments or via Facebook if you're interested, and feel free to pass the word!

Two bumGenius 3.0 size large all-in-ones.  They actually don't make these dipes anymore, so I'd don't have a direct link.  These are in rougher condition (namely the elastic) but I'll sell the repair kits with them, they're pretty easy to use. Colors are ribbit and grasshopper.

$3 each

One Kawaii Goodnight Heavy Wetter one-size cloth diaper with one insert.  Snap fastener and adjustable rise.  Very gently used (only a handful of times)

$4

Seven Green Mountain size small (yellow edge) unbleached prefolds.  These were used quite a bit with Kolbe but really don't show much wear.  These prefolds are incredibly durable, they are by far my favorite.

$1.50 a piece or $10 for all of them

Four Green Mountain premie (white edge) prefolds (work well as inserts/doublers).  Gently used.

$3 for all

Five premium size unbleached Indian prefolds.  Very gently used.  

$1 each

One Thirsties duo size 2 cover.  Color is storm cloud.  Elastic in double gusset fairly worn, otherwise pretty good condition.

$2

One Thirsties size large cover in white.  Good condition.

$5

Eight bumGenius infant inserts.  These are similar to the ones I linked, but do not have a fleece top, they're just microfiber.  Never used.

$6 for all

 

Six Kissaluvs size NB/small unbleached contour diapers.  Very minimal use with Kolbe.  Picture is of back (left) and front (right).

$3 each 

Let me know if you're interested in any of this!!!

Flip reviewed...again, AND Econobum

I reviewed the Flip diaper cover/system here about a year ago, but in revisiting Flip, I don't think I was using it exactly for its intended purpose, so I thought I'd review it again.  For quite some time now, Kolbe has been in a very "in between" stage in regards to potty-learning.  He poops on the toilet exclusively, and potties there with very irregular regularity.  Not enough to wear training pants yet, but enough so that putting on a prefold, snappi and cover each time he goes or tries is a bit tedious.  When he hit this point last Fall, I started using my bumGenius 3.0's and 4.0's exclusively with him namely for their ease of use.  And it's been really nice.  But after 6-8 months of fairly heavy use and washing (I have around 18, and launder every 2-3 days), I can tell that as much as I like the bG diaper, it just doesn't hold up (or absorb) like prefolds do.  At all.  Oh, they still have plenty of life in them - don't get me wrong - and I've refreshed the elastic and aplix in (almost) all of the 3.0's,  I can just tell they definitely have more of a life to them.  One thing I've done that I think will extend the life of any diaper (or cover) is started buying diapers and covers that fasten with snaps vs. aplix (velcro).  I was a tough sell on snaps, took me a long time to even try them...I was convinced they wouldn't work well.  But I tell you, I am now a firm believer.  I like 'em a lot.  But even so, I was wanting something to ease the use on my bG's a bit so I decided to revisit Flip.  I picked up another cover on sale, and as per some recommendations I read in other reviews, I grabbed a 3-pack of Econobum prefolds as well.  This has proven to be a very economical and fairly easy alternative to all-in-ones (like bG).  The Econobum prefolds are different from a regular prefold in that they are the same thickness all the way across.  Plus, they are sized smaller/differently than regular prefolds.  So all I have to do is fold one in half, lay it in the Flip cover (there is a place to tuck it under in the front and back) and put the diaper on Kolbe.  The same cover can be reused multiple times before washing.  Like I said, a little more work than an AIO, but definitely an acceptable alternative.  And I like the Flip cover over other similar covers (like the Econobum cover for instance) because it has two rows of snaps where it fastens instead of just one, which makes for a better fit IMHO.  This cover also has an adjustable rise.   If you're looking for an economical alternative to all-in-ones, I would definitely recommend the Flip/Econobum combo.  There is also a variety of inserts made by Flip, including disposable inserts.  Click here for more details.

**I did not receive anything in return for this review.**

New dipes for Kolbe

I know I've talked several times over the past 4-6 months about Kolbe's potty progress.  He's plateaued out at pooping (pretty much) exclusively on the toilet ("Melmo" as he calls it...his new big-boy potty seat has Sesame Street characters, including Elmo, on it) and pottying on the toilet maybe 1-3 times a day, just depends on the day.  It works, I'm very pleased with where he is.  It will be nice if he learns to use the potty full-time (or at least during the day) by the time baby arrives (he'll be 2.5 then) but we'll see.  I'm not going to push him, but I may "encourage" a little more actively come this spring/early summer.  Since he started using the toilet on a more regular basis, I switched him to bumGenius diapers.  So much easier on and off than a prefold and cover.  I had a decent amount of bG's already that I'd gotten as seconds or on sale over the past few years, but with using them exclusively I decided it would be nice to have a few more, just to ease the wear and tear they go through being worn and laundered so regularly.  I've tried a few other kinds of AIO's (a very few) and I've always had good luck with the bG's so I decided to just stick with that brand.  But then, I tend to be a comfort zone type person.  ;-D  A few days before Christmas, Cotton Babies offered a special sale on bG 4.0's in a few prints they were discontinuing.  I'd had my eyes on the Artist Series prints before, and was thrilled to get three brand-new, first quality diapers (with snap enclosures!! ...I think I'm converting to snaps...) and inserts for just under $12 a piece.  Aren't they handsome on my handsome little guy?

And speaking of diapering a toddler, before I discovered my affinity for the AIO on my toddlers, I purchased about a dozen and a half toddler size Green Mountain Prefolds that I thought I would use and I'm just not.  I never have.  They are pre-washed (in Rockin' Green) but have never been worn.  If you're interested I am looking to sell them for $3 a piece, or if you want them all I'd sell all 18 for $50.  Let me know!

bumGenius refresher

I finally got around to repairing some of my bumGenius 3.0 diapers and I am very pleased with the results.  I ordered some of these refresher kits from Cotton Babies.  A very long time ago.  And they sat and sat in my sewing room.  Finally I decided to tackle the project and it didn't take long at all.  The kits came with new aplix and elastic.  I just used the aplix, as the elastic in my bG's is still in relatively good condition.  I will definitely use the elastic in the future though, for these or something else!  The directions said to use a seam ripper to remove the old aplix tabs, but that just wasn't happening.  First, I hate seam ripping.  Second, those things were on there good.  There was no way I was getting them off without destroying the diaper and I really didn't want that to happen, so I just cut the ends off and then cut as much of the aplix off of the attached part as I could (I should have taken a picture) and then just sewed the new tabs over the old part.  The laundry tabs I sewed over the old ones (per instructions).  Worked like a charm and it has really breathed some new life into my diapers (which have been used on and off for over a year-and-a-half now by both Gemma and Kolbe).  I think these kits would work well with any diaper or diaper cover that uses aplix, not just the bumGenius brand.

Cloth diapers for sale

I have been going through my cloth diaper stash, and have a handful of gently used items I am no longer in need of.  I thought I'd try selling them on here before going through one of the cloth-diapering websites.  If you or someone you know is interested, comment on here with your contact info (or message me on Facebook) and we can work something out.

First, I have 19 size 2 kissaluv contours.  These are fastened with a snappi and need a cover.  They are very versatile when it comes to fit.  These are gently used, some have a few spots, most still look new, just some signs of wear.  I will sell these individually for $2.50 a piece or the whole set for $40.   These are nice, easy to use diapers.  They're not quite as easy-on as a fitted or all-in-one, but they are definitely easier to put on a child than prefolds. (NINE LEFT)

I also have five Thirsties version one covers (size medium) that have quite a bit of wear but are still functional.  Some of them have had the elastic repaired, some could use some attention.  There are three white, one celery and one butter.  I will sell these for $2.50 a piece or $10 for all five. (SOLD)

I have an Econobum and prefold insert.  The cover has been used once, the insert has never been used.  This was a second from Cotton Babies.  I will sell this for $3. (SOLD)

I have a size large prorap classic that is essentially new.  Will sell for $4.

I have two size medium Bummis Super Whisper Wraps that are very gently used.  Will sell for $3 each. (SOLD)

You're welcome to take a look at any of these items before committing.  Just let me know if you're interested.  THANKS!!

Review: Flip Diapers

I recently decided to purchase a Flip diaper cover and give it a try on Kolbe.  My favorite cloth diapering website, Cotton Babies, was running a special on some seconds (and honestly, any "second" I have ever bought from them - meaning there were minimal defects in the way it was sewn, not that it is used - has always been just as high-quality as their "first quality" stuff), so I figured for $10.95 I would give it a try.  I've always used covers that have aplix (velcro) closures, and was honestly very doubtful about all the good I'd heard about snaps.  I just couldn't believe you'd get a snug, good fit from them.  Well, I was wrong.  I really like this cover (which does also come in aplix FYI).  It is a one-size cover (meaning there are also snaps to adjust the rise) and fits Kolbe very well at 13 months completely unsnapped.  I don't think I'll use it with my prefolds, they're just a bit too bulky and the legs of the Flip are not double-gusseted (like my Thirsties are for example), but it works very well with my homemade fitteds, and looks super-sweet on him as well.  I would definitely recommend this cover if you are using fitteds, contours or a hybrid type diaper, probably not so much if you're using exclusively prefolds.  They also sell stay-dry inserts and other items specifically for the Flip system that seem quite affordable. 

I also purchased some of their Flips disposable inserts to try at night.  They are a bit cheaper than the disposables I've been using at night since Kolbe was around nine months (either Earth's Best or Seventh Generation) and probably a little "greener" as well.  I tried them with a bumGenius 3.0 one-size stuffed with a stay-dry doubler and he didn't leak.  In fact, the cloth doubler was hardly wet.  I'll probably go back and forth between using these and regular disposables at night.  I would definitely recommend them for a heavy night wetter though (Kolbe seems to be fairly moderate in that department).  I'm guessing (from reviews I've read) you could even use them inside a disposable if you're having leak issues overnight.  Whatever the case, they are a nifty little invention for sure.  Overall, I'd give the Flip system two thumbs up.  If you're thinking about cloth-diapering I think this would definitely be one of the more economical (and easier) ways to go.  And if you're curious about cloth diapering and the environmental impact of disposables, check out the Change 3 Things project that Cotton Babies is conducting this year.  Definitely a good way to get your feet wet if you're curious about cloth.

Small successes XXII

1. Scored a great deal on some bumGenius diapers. Theses are great for overnights (when my babes are younger) and on-the-go. Or for daddies and grandmas who may not be as adept at the prefold!!

2. After a seemingly rough patch with my dear Gemma (now a big THREE year old!), things have been going very well (namely less tantrums and the like) the past week or two. I take no personal credit for this (although I have been working on my mood and patience), but it makes me happy. Very happy.

DISCLAIMER: After writing this post earlier in the week, she actually had quite the meltdown when we were at my parents' last night. Still not sure what it was over. Sigh. But overall we're doing better.

3. Sewed a birthday surprise (library bag, shhhhh don't tell her) for my sweet little gal.

Head on over to Faith and Family Live! to share in others' successes.

Cutest pumpkin in the patch

Small successes X

1. Gave the blog a much-needed makeover! I had been slow to jump on-board with the new blogger templates (as I always am with new things), but am glad I finally did! There was way more variety than I originally thought, and I was happy to find a new, original look.

2. Have been including my two-and-a-half year old daughter more and more in cooking/baking projects and such in the kitchen, and even staying relatively patient with the inevitable messes which ensue (this is very tough for me). I know this time spent together is very important for her, and good for me as well. And I've been enjoying it. (And so has she!)

3. Finished five more (size large) cloth-diapers for my sweet growing baby son.
Gee, thanks mom! They are so soft and fluffy, I think I will use them for a pillow! (He did this completely on his own!) This one is fleece-lined!
Rock on with your "mom" successes over at Faith and Family Live!

Cloth diapering 101

Funny as it sounds, I really do love cloth-diapering (in a nerdy sort of way I suppose). I get lots of questions about it and I'm always happy to help out, (that's how I learned the ropes in the first place! Thanks especially to Erika Marie and Erin.) so I thought I would just do a blog-post on the system that works for me.

First off, why do I cloth diaper? It's three-fold:
1. earth-friendly
2. budget-friendly
3. baby-friendly

I really couldn't say about which of these reasons I feel more strongly, I'm equally passionate about each I suppose. I really do like the idea of soft fluffy cotton up against my babe's bum though. But anyways... Here are my favorite products:

Hands-down these Green Mountain prefolds are the best prefold out there. I have about two-dozen of the newborn (orange-edge) and small (yellow), and a dozen-and-a-half of the red, brown and green-edge each (Kolbe is currently in the brown-edge at almost 9 months with plenty of room to spare). I also have a handful of their premie-size prefolds, which work great for doublers, especially when they are teeny-tiny. I fasten the prefolds with a snappi, which is super cool and way easier than pins.
The red-edge medium size prefolds also work great to embellish/use as burp-cloths.
I also have a handful of homemade fitteds that are nice, especially for on the go. Read more about how I made them here (or click on the "cloth diapers" label to see more posts about these).
I made this one (a large, which Kolbe is just now starting to fit) fleece-lined for a softer, drier feel.
I have tried several covers including Bummis Super-Whisper (not a huge fan) Bummis Super-Brite, which I like okay, they work best for a slender baby/toddler (in my opinion), but my favorite is definitely Thirsties or Thirsties Duo. Kolbe is currently in the Duo size 2 with all the snaps undone. The size large in the regular Thirsties is just a bit bigger than the size 2 duo (and still too big for Kolbe by quite a bit), and the mediums in the regular Thirsties are a bit snug on him now but work in a pinch. I like to have 4 or so covers on-hand in any given size, and they wear well. I typically use the same cover all day. Or you can rotate covers between diaper changes. Here are some pics of the children in various covers.

Gemma and Kolbe in large and small Bummis Super Brites. Gemma at 8 months in Thirsties medium. Kolbe at four months (stripes) and eight-and-a-half months (orange) in Thirsties Duo size 2. I also have a handful of smaller, homemade (by some friends) wool shorties and longies which I used on occasion with Kolbe. Wool is very absorbent/waterproof, it just takes a little more care. But it is oh-so sweet looking.
Now on to nighttime diapering! I used disposables at night for Gemma (who switched to cloth around 7 months), but really wanted to figure out a nighttime cloth solution for Kolbe. And after trying a handful of things, I have found something that works (at least for now). I have about a half-dozen bumGenius 3.0 size larges (which have fit him since he was 4 or so months). These already have a bit of built-in absorbency. I stuff them with a BG stay-dry doubler and then use one of these inserts from Green Mountain. Scroll down towards the bottom and find the one that is an hourglass shape (night stay-dry doubler). These are amazing. This diaper is usually on him for around 12 hours (no, he doesn't sleep that long, but I like to avoid middle-of-the-night diaper changes if I can), and the polar fleece on the doubler keeps his little bum nice and dry. It is honestly not even red in the mornings. And no leaks!! Seriously. I switched Gemma to the bumGenius towards the end of her night-diapering career (she's in underpants now) and that seemed to work well. I like these diapers a lot. I think the aplix (velcro) is going to need some attention after the fairly heavy use they get, but I'm sure I'll figure something out (they make repair kits you can purchase for around $1).

EDIT: I switched Kolbe to disposables at night when he was around nine months. I use Earth's Best and they seem to do a very good job overnight.

Gemma (2.5 yrs) and Kolbe (7 months) in their bumGenius night dipes. They are both size large (Gemma's is actually a one-size, but it is the same size as the large at its biggest).
Some great (but not absolutely necessary) accessories to have on-hand for cloth diapering are wet-bags, a diaper sprayer, a diaper pail (okay, this one is necessary) and some wash-cloths to use as wipes. I have a handful of these cheap ones from Target, and also some of these homemade flannel wipes. I just get the wipes wet at the sink before a diaper change and then toss them in the pail along with the diaper. They seem to work great.
It is also nice to have some sort of non-chemical spray with which to spray your diaper pail between launderings. I like this product from BioKleen, and get it in the natural section at the grocery store. I use this for other various uses around the house as well, and even add a bit to my diaper laundering on occasion.

There are so many different approaches to laundering (just like there are multiple approaches to cloth diapering in general) so again, here's what works for me. I launder every 2-3 days, and just keep the wet/dirty diapers in the dry pail in Kolbe's closet in the meantime. See below for directions on rinsing the poopy ones, I don't rinse the potty ones. They do fine and the smell really isn't bad. My laundry routine goes like this:

1. Dump diapers in washer and run one short wash/rinse on cold/cold (this rinses away most of the gunk and funk).

2. Do a long wash/rinse on hot/cold using a small amount of detergent. (I use Arm and Hammer Free and Clear powder and only use about half-way up to the "1" line on the scoop. You don't need much. Detergent residue contributes greatly to stink, especially from potty. Anyways, the big deal with detergents is to chose one that is natural/free of dyes, perfumes, whiteners, brighteners, etc. There are tons out there from which to choose, you just have to find what works for you and your babe.) I digress.

EDIT, I have switched to Rockin' Green Detergent (as of Nov. 2011) and LOVE it! You can order it directly from them or from various cloth diapering websites. I have started using it for most all of my laundry and been very happy with it. They make versions for soft and hard water as well.

3. Do a short wash/rinse on warm/cold to rinse away the rest of the detergent and that should be good. I always double check that the suds are essentially gone on the last rinse. If not just do another rinse.

4. I go back and forth between using the dryer and drying on my collapsible drying rack. If it's sunny and warm and not terribly windy, I love drying outdoors. The sun does wonders for stains and smells! If I dry in the dryer, I NEVER put my covers or bumGenius in. The covers air-dry very quickly, and the dryer is hard on them and will shorten their life considerably (learned this one from experience). I store my diapers in a laundry basket under the changing table, so they are contained and just an arm's reach away, plus I have several other baskets on the shelf of the changing table where I keep covers, doublers, etc. It's handy.

If you breastfeed exclusively, poopy diapers can be thrown directly into the diaper pail and into the wash from there with no additional rinsing. Formula-fed poopy-diapers and ones after your baby starts solids need to be rinsed (the diaper sprayer comes in handy for this) before washing.

My favorite cloth diapering website is Cotton Babies (great selection and free FAST shipping no matter how big or small your order, plus they are really nice and their customer service is fabulous), but I really like Green Mountain as well (and that's the only place you can get the Green Mountain prefolds), you just pay a little more for shipping (around $7/order I believe).

So there you have it! As I said, this is what works for me. Everyone has different preferences and ways of doing things, but I know I learned a lot (and still do) just talking to others and seeing how they did things, what they use, etc. I hope this can help you out! Cloth-diapering is wonderful. It's good for your baby, your pocket-book and the environment; and quite honestly it is just fun. If you have any inkling at all to give it a try I would highly recommend it, I promise you won't regret it!

And if you already cloth-diaper, please share some of your tips and tricks in the comments. I always enjoy reading about others' methods as well!!