Getting Ready for the Hospital: Pack early and smart, here is a glimpse of what I did to prepare:  My bag contains the following: My VIACORD KIT, hospitals rarely have them on site so if you forget this you could be out of luck. My own pillow.  If the hospital is over crowded or you really want to rest try bringing your own pillow. Sleepwear (especially nursing sleepwear if you are nursing), specialty bra, robe, socks, toiletries  (don't forget moisturizer), underwear. Camera Your infant book to get the babies feet stamped in there Clothing for the baby, if you are a first time mom take it from me, you won't want to put on those fancy little outfits, go with a converter gown. Hats, booties, blankets, onesie and a jacket or fleece if it is the winter. Maybe a Nuk or some pacifier for the newborn Calling list or your cell phone with your numbers A picture or something for labor Quarters/money for snacks, the television and phone in the room. Put the infant car seat in the car and even have it checked at your local fire department for safety.  No seat, no bringing the baby home in many areas. If you have a child already: Write out your list of instructions on feeding/sleeping/calming/emergency numbers/schedules etc.  I even included a translation list of words my 17 month old says to make life less frustrating for both the person watching him and he.  I gave this list out prior to going to the hospital and kept one handy. Make sure you have phone numbers of the people that will watch your child and plenty of back-ups if possible.

Disclaimer: This is not a ViaCord sponsored web page