As I dream of traveling and am going over my packing lists and starting to think about what I will pack for our trip to Ethiopia to get Solomon, I thought it would be a fun idea to start doing some product reviews and recommendations on things I have on my packing lists.

Today I am going to recommend this awesome fleece pouch from Kangaroo Korner.

I have been a believer in slings and carriers for a long time, and I believe that with newly adopted babies and toddlers they are an excellent tool to promote bonding. Being able to carry your child safely and securely and also having your hands free is a wonderful thing! In 11+ years of parenting we have tried out a whole bunch of these contraptions, and I am happy to say that I have a new favorite.

I wanted a carrier that would hold Solomon on my hip. The front carry position is not realistic for a toddler, and while I love backpack type carriers, I think that for bonding, having him on my hip where we can make eye-contact and interact and he can put his head on my chest, is ideal.

I tried the Ergo carrier which is a favorite of many, and I really found it uncomfortable on my neck when used in the hip carry position. I tried the "Over the Shoulder Baby Holder", and while I found that one much more comfortable (love the way it cups the shoulder), I found the strap of fabric awkward hanging down and difficult to adjust with a toddler in arms.

Then I had a friend recommend this pouch, and I adore it. It is the first thing I bought when we decided to adopt Solomon, and I cannot wait to use it. I have let Marcus and Belane take a few test runs in it and they both LOVE it, and I can comfortably carry both of them, even though Belane is 37lbs and Marcus is over 40lbs.

This pouch goes on literally in seconds and there are no straps or buckles to fuss with. There are four rows of straps that adjust the length before you put it on and I found it very easy to find the right setting. It's simple to get the kids in and out, and it is very comfortable on my shoulder. The fabric is super snuggly and soft. It comes in a huge variety of colors and prints, and the costumer service is fantastic.

I also love that it is very lightweight and rolls up simply, and will be easy to shove into a backpack or diaper bag when not being used.

I think that this pouch is going to be a life-saver in airports and walking around Addis, and I know it will be a great way to help promote bonding with Solomon.