It’s getting to be about that time. With 24 days to go, I’ve decided to take the plunge and pack a hospital bag. I know it’s likely that said bag will sit, lonely in the nursery for a bit longer–and I’ll probably add things to it between now and delivery day, but I’m just kind of in that mode.

Our diaper bag arrived on Monday, so it seems like the right time to get them both ready–something for me, and something for the peanut. There’s not a whole lot to pack for a baby whose gender remains to be seen, but coming home outfits for a boy and a girl, a blanket or two (one to bring home to Kruger for acclimating before baby comes home), a pacifier (maybe?) and a few other items will serve nicely for the time being.

As far as my bag goes? I’ve shopped for pj’s, a new robe, flip flops for walking and wandering, nursing tanks, and the like, and of course will be packing staples like hair ties and gum, lip gloss, toiletries, and an assortment of energizing snacks to tuck away. I’ll work on lists this weekend…people to call and text, last minute things to remember, and most importantly, birth preferences and relaxation techniques. We’ll leave the stopwatch and coaching jersey at home, as we’ve worked to reset our minds to the idea of birthing companion vs. “coach.” As our doula reminds us (and I love this!), “After all, it’s not a sporting event.” 🙂

When the big day comes, Jason will only have to worry about things like phone chargers, the camera and video camera, batteries and the like–or at least this is my hope. I have no doubt that we’ll have plenty of time to pull a few other things together, but it feels great to be prepared in advance and to know that we can worry less about those details when we’re focused on enjoying the birth process together.

It’s hard to believe I’m packing a bag, really. I remember so clearly the morning I found out I was pregnant, telling Jason, celebrating in D.C., just us. Sharing the news with family and friends. Making initial plans for paint colors and rearrangements in the house. Watching the belly grow. And now we’re here, in a whole new segment of this process–one where we wait and anticipate and continue to ready ourselves as best we can while enjoying the very real possibilities that are just around the corner.

Yep. I’m packing my bags. And it feels good.

can’t wait, can’t wait!

mm