RESOURCES — Parenting Tips

We've been in the trenches lately. So many colds. So little sleep. So. Much. Mucus.

Too gross? Yeah, I would have to agree.

Even before I was pregnant, I dreaded cold and flu season for people with kiddos. I would see the zombie-esque parents trying to get mall shopping done with a crying toddler who's nose was red and raw. The nose was always runny and watching them wipe it on their sleeve made me want to bathe in hand-sanitizer. 

Fast forward to our 2nd fall and winter season with my toddler son and a head cold hit with full force. He was miserable and so were we...but his runny nose was under control!

Why? How? What magic fairy dust were we using?

Our Dribble Shield™ burp cloths came to the rescue! You might have thought that burp cloths would exit stage left when your little one hit their first birthday but now that I am knee deep in my 5th winter with littles - my Dribble Shield™ burp cloths are going no where anytime soon!

5 Ways I Use a Dribble Shield to Survive Cold Season

#1 - More Gentle on their Nose than any Tissue

The Baby/Toddler/Preschooler has a runny nose. If I used a fresh tissue every time I needed to wipe their nose - it would be dried out and raw and I'd be shelling out major bucks for each box of Kleenex. The soft cotton muslin of a Dribble Shield™ is absorbent without drying out their tender skin. My kids don't like having their nose wiped but the Dribble Shield™ doesn't make them cry like a rough tissue or rag would. And I don't have to feel bad about killing trees every time my baby gets a cold.

#2 - Teaches Little Ones to Wipe their Nose

My kids know what I mean now when I say, "Wipe your nose!" And because we always use a Dribble Shield™ for sniffles - they know what to grab to wipe their face. My baby girl is not even 18 months yet but she knows exactly what to do when I ask her to, "wipe her nose" (she was happy to demonstrate for the photos). Bonus is that she is also learning to blow her nose and she never uses her sleeve to wipe her face.

#3 - Assign Colors to Different Kiddos

Obviously, I have quite a few Dribble Shield™ burp cloths on hand in my house. When one of my kids gets a cold - it's almost inevitable that the other is quick to follow suit. So to try to keep germs at bay as much as possible - each kid gets their own color Dribble Shield™ burp cloth. Our morning routine includes distributing a fresh cloth for each kid and pointing out the color so they know which one is theirs for the day. It also helps us as parents because we know which cloth is used for which kid.

#4 - Bib Style Aids with Coughs and Sneezes

Even on sick days, kids still like to play. For these times, I snap a Dribble Shield™ burp cloth around his/her neck (travel bib style). Wiping their nose and coughing on something other than their hands and clothes is easy because it's just below their chin. It's also great for sneezes because it's never far away. (Just as a safety note, our kids do NOT sleep with their Dribble Shields™ snapped around their necks)

#5 - Quick Washing & Fast Drying

The Dribble Shields™ aren't made of magic germ-repelling fabric so yes, they will need to be washed...and probably more often when colds are rampant in your home. The great thing is that they can be quickly washed and dried. There have been more than a few times where I've pulled them from the washer at night before going to bed and just let them hang dry. Sure enough - the burp cloth is dry and ready to use first thing in the morning without needing to run the dryer every night.

So there are my mom hacks for sick days. What are some essentials you use to survive the cold and flu season with babies, toddlers and beyond? 

Good luck this winter...and grab a Dribble Shield!

In my humble opinion, there are 3 phases in life - BC, WC and GC.

1. BC = Before Children
2. WC = With Children
3. GC = Grown Children

If you're reading this then you are in phase #2 already or very nearly there (aka pregnant) and we can all agree that phase #1 becomes a blur when you venture into life with children. You can faintly remember what it was like to leave the house with a dainty cross-body purse and form-fitting (possibly non-stretch) denim. And it's likely you showered and did your makeup every day - especially if you planned on leaving the house.

Can you remember your BC (Before Children) life?

When it comes to self-care - taking time to re-charge, pamper and connect with yourself is almost a no-brainer when you're in the BC phase. Feeling stressed at work? Take a mental health day. Needing some alone time? Find a good book and stay in on a Saturday night. 

Even if you were in a relationship, it was easy to find time to breathe, de-stress and pay attention to how your were feeling. Self care happened often BC.

But now you have a baby...or more kids. In WC, life is hectic. Just the fact that your sleep patterns are based around the demanding needs of a small human being is enough to send people to the edge of insanity. We learn to deal with it because we love our babies. We would go to the ends of the earth for our little prince or princess.

But I'm here to tell you that you CANNOT give up self care for them. 

Don't do it. The results are never good.

The truth is, baby girl or baby boy doesn't want you to give up taking care of yourself. A happier, healthy momma = a happier baby. Self care is more important in this phase than ever. But it won't look the same as it did during your phase #1. It's trickier and you need to get good at scheduling it on a regular basis rather than waiting for the "check engine" light to come on.

Here are 5 Self Care "events" I follow that can help you schedule and create your own self care routine.

1. DAILY - As in every. Single. Day.

• When: Morning (like during baby's first nap)
• Time: 5 minutes
• What: Positive Affirmations

Being a mom is tough and you might have already noticed that it's easy to get down on yourself. It's easy to criticize and compare. To combat those negative feelings, you need to take a few minutes to say an affirmation like the one below (or your own version) out loud to yourself every day. (tip - save the image below to your phone) Read it to yourself until you have it memorized. How you speak to yourself matters. You will manifest whatever you tell yourself - so you need to practice being loving, encouraging and kind. Repeat it at least 3x.

2. WEEKLY - At least 1x per week.

• When: Middle of the "work week" (like Wednesday)
• Time: 30 minutes +
• What: Get Dressed & Leave the House

My husband works Monday through Friday so Wednesday is my middle of the week slump. It's also usually the day that I feel lowest because I'm resenting the grind of the routine (or lack of the routine I planned) but the weekend feels so far away. It's also usually when I discover that I am wearing the same clothes since Monday. For this self-care event - you need to get yourself dressed/ready to actually leave the house. Just doing this will make you feel better. Then get baby/kids in the car/stroller and leave. Where will you go? Wherever you need to. Go to the park. Go get drive-through coffee or lunch. Go to Target. Just drive. You just need to leave the house. Play your music. Wear sunglasses. Take selfie pictures of you and baby out in the sunshine. And when someone asks what you did today - you have something to say besides "naps" and "feeding."

3. MONTHLY - It takes a bit of planning

• When: Whatever works best for you but it must be completed by end of month
• Time: 2 hours +
• What: Do Something Just for YOU

There are just 2 rules involved with this event: (1) No kids allowed. It doesn't count if Dad takes one kid and you wear the baby while walking around a department store. You must be totally baby-free with no interruptions for at least 2 hours (no less) once a month. And (2) No checking off your chore list. It doesn't count if your parents watch the kids while you go to the grocery store. Or if your husband takes the kiddos to the park and you clean the kitchen. Does. Not. Count. You need to take at least 2 hours to yourself. Have a massage and get a pedicure. Go read a book at a coffee shop. Go shopping (for yourself - not the kids.) Find your hobbies and passions and make time for them. AND this will only work if you schedule it on the calendar. "It's the first of the month - I'm planning on taking my "me" time on Saturday, the 14th at 10am." And unless it is an emergency, don't skip it. 

4. QUARTERLY - Every 3 months.

• When: Whatever works but make sure to plan it ahead of time
• Time: All Day
• What: "Friends" Day

Believe it or not, just being with other adults is important for your own personal mental health. This event is all about planning to spend an entire day away from the baby/kids with one or more adults who are important to you. The "adults" could be close friends, a sister, a mother or even attending an event like a conference. The point is to get away from your daily routine and mingle with other people. You might notice that I didn't list your husband/partner as an option and that's because you see/talk with him on a regular basis. I highly recommend having date nights with your partner on a regular basis and taking vacations (see next tip) as just a duo but this tip is about having you connect with the other important people in your life. The ones who tend to take a spot on your back-burner when you're swamped in babyhood.

5. ANNUALLY - Make a Commitment

• When: Anniversary or same time each year
• Time: 3 days +
• What: Travel 

I am the biggest home-body you will find but even I like to get away. I'm not suggesting that you go into major debt to travel but you need to leave behind your regular routine for a few days and see another spot in the world. This could be a bed and breakfast in the next town or an adventure to another country. Do what works for you. Plus this is definitely the time to include your partner/spouse. I mention taking a trip around your anniversary because every year that you are together is a milestone worth celebrating. Don't let the mundane schedule of daily life drown out a more than worthy reason to reflect and embrace your commitment to one another. The best example you can set for your children about love is how you and your partner treat one another. You'll feel renewed and so will your husband. Remember the happier you both are, the happier your kids will be.

I want to make sure to mention that I am not a mental health care expert and if at any time you are concerned about Post Partum Depression, Anxiety, etc - PLEASE talk to your doctor right away. Ask for help. You are not alone in your feelings and there are so many resources to help you.

So what do you think? Can you make some extra room in your life to take care of yourself? Please do! Hang in there Momma - you are doing an awesome job!

Have a magical day!

I absolutely adore baby costumes! They can be precious or funny, whimsical or a tad dark - and baby can pull them off! I also love to sew...so my kiddos have had to endure my (sometimes elaborate) handmade costumes. I love getting creative and trying something I don't imagine many people have seen (cue my son asking to be a snail last year). Whether you decide to go anywhere with your little one on Halloween or not - these costumes are sure to make for some lasting photo moments.

Please note - I am not affiliated in any way with any of the makers of the costumes below. I've tried to link to original sites when available.

1.  Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz [No Sewing Required]

A gingham onesie and some adorable red shoes sell this one. Take it to the next level by gluing sequins or glitter to the shoes. Perfect for: Photos and visits

2. Burrito [No Sewing Required]

This can be easily made with a velcro swaddle sack, some felt and tin foil. Look for a swaddle sack in a cream or tan color and add a little bit of your own highlighter powder makeup or fabric paint to get the usual "brown" spots of a tortilla. Perfect for: Photos and trick-or-treating in a pram 

3. Super Mario or Luigi or Princess Toadstool [Front Pack Friendly]

This is a great way to make use of the front pack. If you have older children who want to go trick-or-treating, this is an awesome (and easy) costume for your littlest sweetie. Perfect for: trick-or-treating

4. Butterfly [Could Convert to Front Pack]

I love how photo-amazing this costume is! Find the most beautiful pair of costume wings (hang on to them because your little girl is going to love them as she gets older too!) plus a black swaddle cloth or piece of knit fabric and make a headband. I also think you could work this with a front pack - especially if baby is small and facing in. Perfect for photos (and possibly trick-or-treating with modification)

5. Jurassic (Baby) Dinosaur [Stroller Costume]

This one takes a fairly standard costume to the next level. I also like that this could works for a newborn to infant or even toddler - especially if you have a wagon to use for trick-or-treating. First, buy or make a dinosaur costume - check! Now outfit the stroller to look like a dinosaur enclosure with a bit of cardboard, tape and greenery. Mom and Dad can dress up too. Epic first halloween and totally perfect for mobile fun! Perfect for: trick-or-treating

6. Mouse Trap [Wagon Costume]

This is one of my favorites that went around Pinterest a few years ago - but I love it so much I had to include it. This one is made with a wagon and a bit of creative know-how. The wooden board is cut and painted and the metal spring piece is spray painted PVC pipe. A little bit of craftsmanship but an awesome costume! Perfect for: trick-or-treating

7. Harry Potter [Fan Club Worthy]

I totally admit to being a fan of the world famous wizard. This is such a great costume that is totally photo-worthy and also classic Halloween style. And these are not difficult pieces to find! Perfect for: photos

8. Gumball Princess [Because Tutus rock!]

I couldn't wait to put my baby girl in a tutu! This is a beautiful and colorful costume that looks great in photos but add a long sleeve onesie and some tights and it could be worn trick-or-treating. Be careful hot gluing those pom poms though! Perfect for: photos or trick-or-treating

9. Classic Pumpkin [Because why not!]

Full disclosure - this is my own kiddo/costume. I wanted a chubby pumpkin costume and totally got it with some fleece and felt (plus a mouse cat toy). This is the perfect costume for cold weather...unfortunately, we had record high temperatures and my boy was pretty much done after 10 minutes. But we got amazing photos and I loved every minute making it. Perfect for: photos. 

10. Rose [Sew-tastic]

And of course, I can't forget last year's costume of baby girl as a rose. I loved making the tutu and the felt body portion was super fun giving the costume volume without being uncomfortable for baby. I think adding little details to costumes can really elevate it beyond what you see in-stores so I made a bee out of pom poms for her head piece. This was a cozy costume but not too warm since I could use a long or short-sleeve depending on weather. Perfect for: photos

Final Tips

1. Plan for (a little) growth spurt

If you are making baby's costume - leave yourself a little wiggle room on size. Both of my kiddo's costumes started out big and were just about perfect by the 31st. Babies grow faster than you think!

2. Don't put all of your photos in one basket!

Babies are notorious for having good days and bad days. Dress them up several times to snap photos. if you wait until October 31st, you may end up with a moody and uncooperative little one.

3. Layers are your Friend

Will it be windy and rainy on Halloween - or will it not? Have some options (like long or short sleeves - shorts or pants) to use with little one's costume. This way you aren't stuck with an un-happy baby who is too warm because you make everything out of fleece.

4. Easy on. Easy Off.

No joke - you will have to change your little one's diaper when they are in costume. It. Will. Happen. Whether it's just for photos or for full on trick or treating - just wearing the costume will trigger baby to let go. Be prepared my friend and you'll be fine. 

Happy Halloween Momma!

Do you sing to your baby? If you do, it’s likely that you are among a smaller and smaller number of parents who sing lullabies to their little ones. There have been several studies over the past few years in both Europe and the U.S. that show that the younger a parent is, the less likely they are to sing to their child. 

One study of 2,000 households revealed that only 38 % of parents sing to their kids who are 5 years old and younger and mothers are twice as likely to sing to kids over fathers. (source: The Bump Magazine)

While it is difficult to pinpoint exactly why the decline in singing has occurred, there is a consensus between hospitals and parenting groups in regards to the benefits of singing to babies and young children. Not only do studies site emotional well-being and better sleep patterns as benefits but one study even found that infants born with respiratory distress did physically better when listening to their parents sing a lullaby.

1. PICK A SONG YOU LIKE

• Want to incorporate singing into your baby’s routine? You don’t have to be Beyonce or Josh Groban to get started. Pick a song that you know. Can it be a classic like “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” or “Rock-a-Bye Baby?” - sure but don’t feel like you have to use the standard “lullaby” from generations before. You are more likely to sing, and sing often, if you enjoy the song and know it well.  Think Frank Sinatra, Bruno Mars or Carrie Underwood.

2. DON'T TRY TO SING A WHOLE SONG

• There are no rules and you’re baby will pass no judgement if you only sing the chorus of a song on repeat or make up words for sections you forget. The point is to sing! Your baby will like to hear the same tune over and over anyway because it establishes a predictable rhythm which lowers stress levels. It doesn’t matter if you can hit the high notes either.

3. TURN DOWN THE LIGHTS

• Most of us have a small amount of stage fright so to make it easier, sing in a darkened room with just you and baby - this is why nap & bed time is perfect! Feel free to use your body to establish a rhythm (a slight rock from side to side or front to back) and start with a light humming. 

We all want to give our children the best “ingredients” for success in life - consider adding singing to your ongoing parenting “recipe.” 

It’s fairly common knowledge that leaving children in the car on a hot day, even for a few minutes, is a big no-no but as temperatures soar this summer, there’s a good chance that a common stroller mistake could be putting babies at risk. Covering a stroller with a blanket to shield your baby from the sun can have a furnace-like effect, according to a recent study done by Swedish researchers. While parents and grandparents believe that they are keeping the child shielded from the sun, adding a blanket over the stroller can cause the temperature inside a stroller to skyrocket to dangerous levels.

It gets extremely hot down in the pram (stroller), something like a thermos,” pediatrician Svante Norgren told the Swedish newspaper, Svenska Dagbladet. “There is also bad circulation of the air and it is hard to see the baby with a cover over the pram.”

The newspaper decided to do a stroller experiment of its own, just to see what would happen. Here’s what it found:

• Without a cover: The temperature inside the a stroller left out in the heat was 22 degrees Celsius (71.6 degrees Fahrenheit.)

• With a thin cover: In 30 minutes, the temperature rose to 34 degrees Celsius (93.2 degrees Fahrenheit.) And after an hour, it was at 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.)

The biggest increase in temperature occurred when the blanket was a solid weave (such as cotton or fleece) and the stroller or bassinet insert was completely covered so that air flow was stifled.

Young children are especially at risk for overheating and even heatstroke. Signs of heatstroke can include hot, red, dry skin; rapid pulse; restlessness; lethargy; rapid, shallow breathing; vomiting and unconsciousness. Make sure to dress your baby in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and give more fluids on hot days. When in doubt, keep your child in the shade or indoors and see care from your doctor if you are concerned that your child may suffer from overheating.

If you do need to cover your stroller to prevent the sun from getting into your child’s eyes, use a light colored, breathable cloth that leaves space for air flow. Check on your child regularly to make sure they are not over heated. Feeling the back of the neck is a great way to assess baby's core body temperature to see if it is to warm. Please seek emergency medical attention if you believe your baby is suffering from heat stroke or other heat related illness.

Have a magical day momma!

Data Source: Baby Center 

Packing a diaper bag is one of the key skills you quickly master as a new mom (right between snapping up pajamas in the dark and pulling off a onesie after a blowout). A diaper bag should have all of the essentials for on-the-go adventures. A SUPER diaper bag has these 3 secret weapons that make it easier, cleaner and more fun when leaving the house with baby. (Plus scroll to the bottom for a promo code)

Please note: we are not affiliated with any of the companies of the items we show as examples. These images and trademarks are retained by their respective companies and are only used for references.

"When we leave the house - we call it an "adventure." In every sense of the word - as parents - we are in "survival" mode; there will be challenges, bruises and a fight to keep the tiny humans alive, clean and fed. But adventures can also mean lots of fun because you are experiencing something new." - Ashlei

Power Up #1 - The Interest Catcher (not just your ordinary toy)

Over-stimulation, boredom, tiredness all occur on adventures so its imperative to bring something for baby to focus on. Focus is key for keeping a meltdown at bay because it helps baby ignore other stimuli that might be overwhelming them.  This interest catcher toy should be:

• Special - he/she will only see it on car trips. This keeps the toy interesting and different from other toys. 

• Bold - leave the neutrals at home. This toy should be colorful and fun for baby to engage with. Buttons are a HUGE plus as they enter the infant/toddler phases.

• Noisy - I hate to say "the noisier the better" so I'll put it this way - the toy should be loud enough that baby can hear it over the radio or buzz of the mall when sitting in their carseat or stroller. 

• One Piece - this is not the time for removable parts. If it can come apart - pieces get lost.

Power Up #2 - The Taste Bud Activator (irresistible edible)

Remember how I said that focus is key for keeping a meltdown at bay? An edible treat is awesome at this! Think about your most stressful day and the relief you experience when you decide to have a favorite comfort food for dinner instead of cooking. Food makes us happy and it will make little ones as well. Here are a few suggestions:

• Gripe Water - Before baby has started solids, this is an all natural, herbal supplement that can help with gas and fussiness. Just a few drops can help distract baby before they get worked up.  We also love the Wubbanub pacifier because it stays in place and offers comfort and color for baby to focus on.

• On-the-Go Friendly Baby Food - Once you have started solids - there are a variety of baby food options but we like Happy Baby organic pouches for on-the-go. No spoon required! If you make your own baby food - we like the Kiinde Foodii option to make your own travel-friendly food pouches.

• Fruit & Veggie Melts - once your baby is doing well with light chewing - we LOVE taking melts on our adventures. My 4 year old still loves them! They don't make a mess and dissolve quickly in the mouth so it's less of a choking hazard!  Perfect as a treat!

Power Up #3 - The Dribble Shield (for mom)

While the first 2 power ups were for keeping baby happy - this last one is for mom! We created the Dribble Shield cloths specifically to handle on-the-go adventures. I wanted a burp cloth that effectively kept the spit-up off me, was comfortable for baby’s sensitive skin, helped me out during breastfeeding or pumping sessions and didn’t weigh down my already loaded diaper bag. And thus the Dribble Shield was born. We call it a burp cloth but it does so much more, goes anywhere and grows with your child.
  Why we love it:

• The Perfect Size - The Dribble Shield is 3 sizes in every cloth. This means that you can go from a travel nursing cover to burp cloth to bib in less than 2 seconds. 

• Snap It & Go - Messes happen and because the Dribble Shield can easily snap onto a stroller or diaper bag - it's on hand when you need it. 

• Loop On - The elastic loop at the corner lets you connect it to a pacifier or stroller belly bar or hook or even our travel toy, the Dragon Squire. Easy to use and more playing ground patrol.

• Soft & Fast Drying - The muslin cotton gets softer with every wash, is super absorbent and fast drying. The last thing you need is a wet burp cloth in your bag.

FYI - I am not a medical professional or nutritionist so please always check with your doctor is you have questions about your baby's nutrition and follow all guidelines on baby gear & toys.

Have you gotten a Dribble Shield yet? Use the code TRYTWO to save 50% on a set of 2 Dribble Shields! Free U.S. Shipping. Limit one set per person. 

Shop at everafterbaby.com

Alright momma - go out there and have a magical day. 

NEWBORN STAGE - 0 TO 3 MONTHS

• Swaddle Blankets - Whether you like the muslin basic or the easy velcro option doesn't matter. Get more than one! We had 4 of the large muslin blankets and used them constantly. My husband voted for more (he was the swaddle king!) but 4 blankets can get you through 3 days before you have to do laundry.
• Burp Cloths - Babies burp and spit up throughout the day, in any and every location. We had 9 Dribble Shield burp cloths hanging around the house - in essential places like near the crib, changing table, kitchen plus one in the diaper bag at all times etc. 
• Changing Pad/Mat - This will depend on the size of your home and where you plan on spending your time. We had one cushioned pad in the nursery on the dresser next to the crib (for middle of the night changes) and one in the main area of the house for easy changes during the day.
• Pajamas - During the early months - especially on days where sleep was fleeting - our baby lived in pajamas all day. Not only are they super comfortable for baby (nothing around the waist especially while your waiting for the belly button to heal), we didn't to worry about lost socks or complex clothing changes. A set of pajamas as a backup in the diaper bag is also perfect for those inevitable messes that happen when you're on-the-go.

INFANT STAGE - 3 TO 18 MONTHS

• Bibs - Depending on how often you want to do laundry, bibs whether for teething drool or baby food feedings are ESSENTIAL! They. Get. Messy. I don't want to say that you should go overboard and get dozens but if you did, you won't regret it. When it comes to what kind of bib - your baby might have an opinion. My son hated the stiff, plastic backed bibs and tried to pull them off during meal times. I'd recommend soft bibs while baby is little.
• Spoons - You won't want to look for them. Keep them where they are easy to grab (plus one in the diaper bag).
• Diaper Cream - We didn't have diaper rash during the newborn phase (we felt like we were changing the diapers so often, it never had time to form) but as they get older and stay in the diapers for extended periods, it happens. Having a tube of diaper cream at every changing station in the house and in the diaper bag made life easier.
• Crib Sheets - Picture it: It's the middle of the night. Baby is crying. Diaper and outfit are soaked. The sheet is soaked. 3 AM is not the time to do laundry. Get more than one crib sheet and make sure everyone knows where they are kept.

TODDLER STAGE - 18 TO 24 MONTHS

• Shoes - In this case, we suggest just 2 pairs of shoes. This is purely for convenience because it will be inevitable that your child will take off his shoes (or just one) and it will be impossible to find as you are rushing to leave the house. You will thank your stars that you have a 2nd pair of shoes available. However, don't go overboard on shoes because you'll be shocked at how quickly their feet grow. We have 2 pairs of shoes plus a pair of sandals and boots for this stage.
• Favorite Toy - My son adores a Disney Pluto stuffed toy we got on his first trip to Disneyland last year. Pluto goes most places including trips to the mall and to bed. Pluto gets dirty but washing and drying in between nap and sleeping is tricky. And sometimes, Pluto goes missing. Not cool Pluto! So I ordered a 2nd plush toy on eBay. It's been wonderful! I change them out often so both get played with and wear equally and it's been all happy days and unicorns since. Once you know what your child's favorite toy is - get a 2nd one.
• Backup Outfit - Obviously, you'll have more than one set of clothes for your child but in this case, we're specifically talking about an outfit that goes in the diaper bag when on-the-go. Messes happen - anytime and anywhere (ask us about our "naked baby" experience on the plane to Hawaii sometime) so when it happens - you'll be happy to have that backup outfit.

1. PRE-PACKING FOR YOU

• ID Card & Insurance Card - make sure both are in your purse and if possible, make a photo copy for your hospital bag just in case. While you're at it, go ahead and start memorizing your medical ID number now. They'll ask for it over and over and over again in the hospital.
• Comfy Robe - most people suggest you bring nightgowns which can be more glamorous than hospital gowns but personally, I didn't want to have to stress about bodily fluids getting all over my own clothes (and I definitely didn't want to do laundry later) so I stuck with what the hospital gave me and instead, used a very comfortable robe. This is great if you get cold easily plus it gives plenty of coverage/privacy yet is still easy to breastfeed in. Go for a dark color because again - it won't show any stains or spills. 
• Nursing Bra or Sports Bra - the more comfortable, the better. Bring 1-2 sets of nursing pads. The hospital can give you nipple cream if you need it.
• An Outfit for Traveling Home - Make it super comfortable and loose. You will be close to the same size as before birth (sad truth) and heavily bleeding from your nether regions (don't worry - they give you disposable underwear and super-sized maxi pads). Go for comfort and ease.
• Movies - Most hospitals will have a television and DVD player in the labor & delivery rooms. You can load your tablet as well but don't count on having Wi-fi access. You can also bring books or magazines but those require more focus to enjoy. Movies can offer a welcome distraction from the early stages of labor.
• Birth Plan - While few births go according to "plan," it can be helpful to have a hard copy of your birth plan to review with your partner, family and doctor. 

2. PRE-PACKING FOR BABY

• 2 Outfits - While in the hospital, your baby will spend a lot of the time either wrapped in a blanket (provided by the hospital) or skin-to-skin with you. The more skin-to-skin contact, the better. You will need an outfit for baby to travel home in. Bring 2 outfits that are warm (we had our baby in early June and he went home in a long sleeve set of pajamas.) The baby is used to 98.6 degrees so they will appreciate being cozy. And in case your baby is larger than expected - bring an extra outfit that is a size larger (like 0-3 months).
• A Cute Hat or Headband - You'll want to take a few early pictures of your little one and while they'll look adorable being wrapped in their blanket, a cute hat or head band can add some flair for pictures.
• Nursing Pillow - You'll be exhausted so a nursing pillow is going to make the art of breastfeeding a bit less hassle. If you are bottle-feeding, a nursing pillow will still take the strain off your back and neck.
• Car Seat - By law, you need to have a carseat to take your baby home. Don't expect anyone from the hospital to watch or help you install it, though. Make sure you know how it latches in to your vehicle or seek out a local check point (like your fire department) that can help.
• A Dribble Shield - perfect for nursing & burp time dribbles and it can drape over the car seat to keep germs and light at bay. Click here to see how
• Don't worry about...diapers, a basinette, front pack, diaper bag etc. 

3. PRE-PACKING FOR YOUR PARTNER

• Non-perishable Food - When you're in labor, you're not thinking about food (I didn't eat at all during my 24 hours of labor) and afterwards, the hospital provides food for you (I was STARVING!). Your partner will have to rely on the hospital cafeteria (if available) and nearby fast food for larger meals but having snacks on hand will make the hours in between bearable. Think protein bars, pretzels, jerky...anything than can be packed ahead of time.
• Extra Change of Clothes - My husband would have never guessed that he would need a sweatshirt in June but I was so overheated during labor that our room was like an ice box. He was very glad he had extra clothes.
• Pillow & Light Blanket - Sleeping conditions for your partner are pretty slim. They will appreciate these small comforts.
• Reading Material - This can help pass the time if/when you're sleeping.

4. LAST-MINUTE PACKING

• Your Purse - You need your ID, insurance info and possibly a credit card. You can also make it easy and pack only a few essentials in a wristlet and leave your purse at home. Leave as many valuables at home as possible. Lots of people told me to leave my wedding rings at home however, it's nice to take pictures of your hands holding the baby and it's sweet to have your wedding ring on for those shots. If you do bring valuables, make sure your partner has a safe place for them.
• Toiletries - for you & your partner. These are basic items you use everyday
  • toothbrush & toothpaste (for both of you)
  • hair brush & hair ties
  • face wash & moisturizer
  • contact lens items and/or glasses
  • beauty products - such as make up
  • chapstick - you do a lot of deep breathing and the air is dry in the hospital
  • basic hair products 
• Digital Devices & Charging Cords
  • Camera
  • Phones
  • Tablets/Laptops
  • Wall charging plugs/adapters and cables