First things first...

What do you need in preparation for a new baby? There's a frankly boggling number of lists on the internet and the various books I read, but what do you really need?

When I was pregnant, my lovely sister gave me a list of essentials I'd need once the baby came. This became a blueprint for a personal list that I've updated and subsequently shared with a number of friends. It's published with the philosophy that the shops ARE still open after you've given birth, but covers everything you'll need until you can brave a trip to Mothercare!

For the baby
6 vests in newborn and 6 in 0-3 months
6 sleepsuits
2 hats
4 pairs of socks
2 lightweight cardigans
2/3 newborn outfits
Snowsuit (for winter babies)
Sun hat (for summer babies)

Bottles
Steriliser
2 Lightweight blankets for swaddling
Cotton wool
2/3 packs of newborn nappies
Nappy cream
Moses basket
2 Moses basket sheets
Baby Gym
Blanket or quilt for the floor
Bouncy chair
Sling
Pushchair/pram
Car Seat
Changing bag
Travel changing mat (if your changing bag doesn't come with one)
Baby monitor
Baby sun cream
2 hooded towels
Changing mat
Muslins (lots!!)
Blanket for pram and car seat

For your hospital bag
Maternity pads
Cheap underwear
Dark pyjamas
Lovely toiletries

If you're planning to breastfeed
Breast pads
Lansinoh
Breast pump
2 sleep bras

First post: my blog idea

Since having my baby, over two years ago, like most new parents I've had my eyes opened to a whole new world. I've been forced to make decisions about things I'd previously either never considered or had taken for granted. I'm going to write this blog to express some of my thoughts and feelings and share some of the information I've found. Some of it will be light hearted, some of it more profound, but most of all it'll be an honest representation of my views. If you carry on reading, I hope you find it interesting! I'd be grateful of your honest views.