Preparing for a Little One: Packing for the Hospital

I'm not going to lie, I packed my hospital bag like 100 times. I wanted to be prepared in case I went into labor early and especially after my pre-term labor scare at 26 weeks, I had no idea when it was going to be. 
I definitely overpacked because I was unsure how I would be feeling, what I would be doing (I mean you never know when you're going to have a photo op, right?) and how "deflated" my belly would be after delivering. Well ladies, unfortunately you don't "deflate" that much. Be prepared for that!
I purchased a nightgown to wear during delivery so that I would feel more comfortable, however I just ended up just wearing the hospital gown they provided. It was much easier for nursing purposes, as well as all of the checkups the nurses kept doing. I also purchased a few pairs of clearance pajama pants at Kohls to wear after delivery, which ended up being SUCH a great addition to my hospital bag. This way, I wasn't worried about bleeding or ruining any of my good clothes post-delivery. 

I wanted to look my best for photos before we left the hospital, so I packed a blow dryer, straighter, and even my hair extensions (which my husband thought I was crazy for, and looking back, I was). You don't need all of that. I took a shower and dried my hair, but there was no time or need to do all the other things. My plans for a cute outfit? Also not an issue. I ended up wearing a white maternity shirt and a pair of the pajama pants home and didn't think twice!
So here's what I would definitely recommend for the mommy:-Pair of slippers-Pair of pants to leave the hospital (preferably stretch or sweat, yoga pants are restricting)-Top to leave the hospital-Phone, camera, and video camera charger-Phone, camera, and video camera-Shower shoes -Shower essentials-iPod and iPod dock-Toiletries-Snacks for after delivery

That's it. I packed 3 bags (2 for me and 1 for Bubba) and it was such a waste. You may be wondering about the iPod and iPod dock but for us, this was such a relief while I was in labor. I made a playlist of calming and relaxing songs to help me through the pains and take my mind off of what was going on. 
 I put makeup on when I had visitors and to feel like "me" in the morning, but not everyone feels the same way. Do whatever is going to make you feel comfortable after giving birth and running on 0 hours of sleep.   

For baby, I thought I would pack a few different outfits. Also a big mistake. There are doctors coming in and out of the room ALL the time; giving them shots, checking this and that, and of course they're pooping and peeing like woah. Not to mention, they're swaddled in receiving blankets most of the time anyways. They will give you a t-shirt (onesies aren't good until the umbilical cord falls off) hats, and diapers, so you don't need to pack any of that
. *The only time a newborn should have a hat on indoors is at the hospital. They regulate temperature though their head!*

For the baby:Outfit to leave the hospital inReceiving blankets (optional)Car seat

They'll give you extra diapers and wipes in case you need to stop for any reason on the way home. But seriously, don't pack too much for the little one. 
Everyone is different but for me, if I wasn't nursing I was sleeping. If worst comes to worst, you can have someone run out and get you something you need or have forgotten.
 Honestly though, you'll be so overwhelmed with joy that all you'll need is him or her :) "Check out this month's featured blog, Life According to Kenz"