New Mama Survival Kit

A co-worker of mine had a baby two weeks ago. As a group, eight of us bought her a desinger diaper bag and a matching blanket. I also wanted to send her an e-mail of the items I couldn't have done without those first few months of motherhood. I've come up with some favorites, but before I share my list, I'd love to hear your input and send her a robust, informative list she can reference. Cost isn't too much of a consideration (insert wink here).

Here's my must-have list (in no particular order and thanks to those who emailed me with suggestions):
* Baby Carrier/Sling. My personal faves: Baby Bjorn; Kangaroo Korner Adjustable Fleece Pouch; New Native Carrier; Maya Wrap; Sling E-Zee; Rosado.
* Breastfeeding Supplies: Lansinoh cream and disposable pads; Soothies; electric double pump; Mother's Milk Storage Bags; Avent Isis Hand Pump
*My Brest Friend or Boppy to help newborn nursing sessions
*Gymini or other activity blanket
*Anita, Bravado and Medela nursing bras
*Tiny Love Symphony Mobile
*Taggies or other cute blanket for baby playtime
*Stroller & carseat footmuffs: Eckert and Bundle Me
*Baby Einstein DVD collection
*Lamaze My First Mirror and other Stage 1 toys
*Kolcraft Universal Carseat stroller (if your stroller doesn't accept carseats)

Comments

[Valerie]

I know I couldn't have survived without
my avent breast pump. It is small and easy to
take along with you. I found the gerber ultra-
thin breast pads a lifesaver as well.

[Ann]

ITA with most of those (of course I've had most so I'm biased). I'd also add - a pack of cloth diapers to use as burp cloths - invaluable if you have a spitty baby (I did).
I'd also throw in a vote for a bouncy seat with vibration to use in those moments when you need to do something with both hands that precludes carrying or wearing your babe (i.e. cooking at a hot stove). Jack sometimes liked to nap in his when he was small and found the vibration soothing for some reason.

[Sandie]

Ooh! Fantastic additions. I will add them to the list. This way if anyone wants to cut and paste it for a friend, they can have a more comprehesive index. Thanks for stopping by, Ann.

[Sandie]

Valerie: I forgot about the ISIS, which I loved as well for times when you don't want to deal with the electric pump. I added it to the list!

[Ergo Baby Carrier]

I absolutely second the recommendation for the Ergo. Put him on your back, it's so comfy for everyone. You can also use the Ergo as a front carrier or a sling.