1. So You're Getting Ready to Have A Baby...
As if the prospect of becoming a parent is not scary and challenging enough, there
is so much preparation that needs to go into getting ready for labor and delivery. It
is the unexpected and the unknown for most new moms that can send chills down a
relatively balanced person's body. There are so many checklists, i.e. the baby
registry, baby proofing the home, what to do and what not to do, and finally, what
to bring to the hospital when that big moment arrives.
In movies and television, we often see the expectant mom yelling for their hospital
bag or their partner grabbing said bag in the midst of all the commotion. So, what
should be packed for the trip to the hospital for delivery? We have you covered.
Nowadays, you never can really guesstimate how long you will be vacationing on
the labor and delivery floor; some moms leave within a day while others can spend
up to a week so you really need to be prepared for anything.
First off, make sure that you have all your paperwork in order, even if that means
leaving a note on the fridge. License, insurance card(s), credit card(s), and
anything that your doctor may have had you fill out at your last appointment. This
may even include a birthing plan so make sure that this is easily accessible at the
very end of your third trimester. Now that all that is in place, new mommies should
most definitely pack something comfortable that reminds them of tranquility and
peace. That could be an iPod filled with favorite music, a laptop with all your
favorite television shows/movies in the queue, or just a good book. It is also
recommended that you pack a "distraction" puzzle book or magazine so that you
can find another place to focus stress, anxiety, and/or pain prior to delivery. Along
with that, a comfy pair of slippers or socks is super important to stay warm and
fashionable.
Planning on nursing? Better have the nursing bra with you along with any breast
pump equipment that you plan on using once home. The nurses will be more than
happy to help you navigate how to use these somewhat newfangled objects if you
are having any trouble. You should also pack a loose-fitting shirt in case you grow
tired of the hospital gown and just want something that is your own. If you are a
contact-lens wearer, we recommend that you ditch those at the hospital and bring
your own glasses. Keep them by the bed if you wear them at night or have them
already packed if you solely rely on contacts as you never know how your body
will feel and if you will care to put them in. Throwing on glasses will be ten times
easier and more functional for the time being.

2. Extra phone chargers are a must as many people use their cell phones as multi-
purpose objects. They can duplicate as a camera, video camera, and a way to let
the world know that your bundle of joy has arrived. Nothing is worse than having a
phone but a dead battery so pick one up and pack it. While you are picking up your
back-up charger, head to the travel section of any drugstore to get overnight
toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, trial shampoo and conditioner, and
deodorant. You may be getting some visitors before and after delivery so you
should feel your best. After all, you are bringing a new bundle of love into this
world.
Comfy yoga pants, a nice but loose shirt, and underwear should also go into your
bag along with a few cute baby outfits. Why? Because you and your newborn will
need something to leave the hospital in. Make sure you have a hat, gloves, and
booties packed for baby and a hairbrush and some cute clips for mommy. Partners
should also have a small bag packed as well with a few changes of clothing and
toiletries for overnight stays. Also have a "goody" bag for yourself, new mama
which can consist of your favorite snacks. Yes, hospitals have food and vending
machines but after a work-out like birth, you may want to grab your own munchies
and snack away. Go ahead; you deserve it.
Finally, you should have the car packed just like you would your hospital bag.
There are a few essential items that have to come to the hospital with you but will
most likely not fit into the overnight bag and the big one is a car seat. Definitely
pick up your car seat at least two-three months pre-birth so that you can get
adjusted to carrying it as well as picking it up and putting it and out of your car.
With that in mind, purchasing a stroller when you get the car seat is definitely
advantageous. Why? Because not all car seats work with every stroller so you want
to make sure the one you chooseis compatible.
So here is your quick checklist: paperwork and ID; nursing bra; change of clothes
for you and baby (and partner); toiletries for you and partner; snacks; spare cell
phone charger; magazines, books, music; glasses (if needed); money; and carseat.
Some of these items can be purchased at Magic Beans, like the car seat, stroller,
clothing for baby, and nursing items so stop by and let one of our beans help you
get ready for the delivery of your new bean. Good luck and congratulations!