Just two more weeks to go!
We are a couple weeks away from baby boy joining our family! The induction date has been set for July 31st and we could not be more excited! Due to the global pandemic, this pregnancy has gone slow but fast at the same time. I have definitely tried to be extra mindful of my health during pregnancy.
Expecting baby #2 is very different
Expecting baby #2 is an entirely different experience than #1. We already have most of the baby basics and know what we liked and disliked the first time around. However, I do think that we missed out on a few items as first-time parents that I am excited to have this time around.
This time around I am doing things differently
I want to share a few things that I have gotten in preparation for baby boy. They may seem simple, but it took baby #1 and some lessons to realize how helpful they could be.
Hospital outfit for me and baby boy
First up, a hospital outfit for me and the baby. Lila’s labor and delivery was a bit traumatic so I did not get out of a hospital gown the entire stay, let alone touch anything in my hospital bag except my toothbrush. Lila even wore the hospital onesie home, we truly had no idea what we were doing! This time around I have high hopes that the labor and delivery will be a good experience and that I can attempt to unzip my hospital bag before returning home with a brand new baby!
I came across Kindred Bravely and immediately loved their positive and encouraging branding and messaging. I had also heard great things about their products.
Soft, roomy robe with matching shorts and nursing bra
The first thing I picked out was a black, extra soft and roomy robe for myself to use at the hospital with matching black shorts (During those first few weeks of breastfeeding a comfortable robe is critical!) Luck would have it that they also carry swaddle blankets and have an adorable black heart print. I plan on using both items at the hospital this time around!
Bamboo nursing pads instead of disposable
Next up, I discovered that they carry soft, bamboo nursing pads that are not only removable but machine washable! I am excited to try something that is not only more economical but kinder to the earth.
The last item I picked out is a nursing friendly sports bra. With Lila I always found it so frustrating to breastfeed while wearing a normal sports bra. This should make that entire situation more doable and convenient.
Diaper bag revamp
Diaper bags can make or break your daily routine. With Lila we had a really nice diaper bag from Nordstrom that had plenty of pockets and storage. However, we quickly realized we would have been much happier with a bag that had backpack straps. We were constantly trying to keep the bag on our shoulders and found it to be really irritating.
Backpack or bust
I came across Parker Baby Co. and immediately loved their name (same as my husband’s :)) The sleek design and backpack qualities. We picked out a bag that both of us are looking forward to using that not only has backpack straps but plenty of storage and a look that both of us are comfortable wearing.
Here are some suggestions from friends of items to take to the hospital
As for everything else going into my hospital bag, some friends reached out and suggested a few items I had never thought of like:
- Shethinx period underwear, instead of wearing the bulky mesh undies from the hospital. I am sure they are a million times more comfortable!
- My own pillow from home, with my own pillowcase on it so that it sticks out from the hospital ones and I don’t forget to take it home with me!
- Cozy socks like Stance or slipper socks and comfortable shoes like Birkenstocks or flip flops
- A hairbrush, completely spaced on this one last time haha
- Snacks, due to the virus we will not be allowed any visitors which means no yummy drop-off’s from friends and family. Friends suggested I pack protein bars, fruit, and other easy to pack snacks. I will definitely be missing the milkshake drop off’s I got after Lila’s delivery!
- And of course, onesies, swaddle blankets, and beanies for baby boy to wear!
How this experience will be different
So far, it sounds like Parker will definitely be able to be with me for labor and delivery, thank goodness! The doctor says that we will both be asked to wear a mask for the duration of labor. And all expecting moms are currently getting tested for the virus 3 days prior to their delivery date. Although these times are strange and have extra safety measures in place, I am so grateful to feel good and have a healthy baby boy that will soon be making his arrival. Thank you for all of your love and support, it means the world!
Leave a Reply