by Al Louis

Created on: July 13, 2008   Last Updated: July 14, 2008

Here I go, packing to go to the hospital to have baby number eight. I have had the complimentary subscription to American Baby Magazine for so long, I could write it. As I packed, I checked their list... and laughed. You see, we all watch TV and movies and see the much anticipated celebrity pictures in the tabloids. The new mothers usually look as if they spent their time in hair, make-up and wardrobe and then stood outside on a hot day to get that "glow" of a woman who has spent twenty seven hours in labor. Here is a real list, for real moms, in the real world who are really having a real baby.

When you start packing, remember to pack light. You will be coming home with more than you took. A baby, whatever goodies the hospital gives you, flowers; maybe even a gift or two.

When it "is time" make sure you are wearing something comfortable and, if you will be nursing, something with easy access. You will not loose those twenty to fifty pounds (yeah, in the real world some of us real moms do gain fifty) in the first forty-eight hours so you may as well wear your maternity clothes home. If you wear flip flops to the hospital you don't have to pack slipers. If you wear contact lenses, take them out before you go. You may want to just leave them home because you will be in and out of sleep for much of your hospital stay. If you choose to take them, don't forget to pack your case and solution. If your husband wears contacts, he may want to take them out to pull an all nighter as well.

Things to pack:
Insurance card
A camera with film or a good memory card and fresh batteries.
A beverage for the daddy (or coach) because you don't really want to be left alone because he is parched. Caffeine is great for the all nighters. He should grab a quick bite before you leave if he can because he won't really want to leave you but it could take a while.
Several pairs of socks. A pair for the delivery room, it may be cold. And a couple of pair for walking around afterward. The more you are vertical, the more you will need to change them because they may get really... let's say yucky.
Panties. Old and comfortable. You will be throwing these away.
A supportive or nursing bra. Even if you aren't nursing, your milk will come in and you will need the support. If you are nursing bring a few nursing pads, your milk probably won't come in until after you are home but if it does you will want to be prepared. If you aren't nursing, don't invest in nursing pads, if you need something for the milk,

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