We're packed!

I'm the type of person who always tries to be prepared for any event, situation or circumstance within my control. Lots of research goes into all major decisions. I'm just not a "fly by the seat of my pants" kind of person.

Therefore, I'm a little surprised that I didn't have the hospital bag packed at, oh, 20 weeks. I don't know what has been holding me back. Perhaps a bit of denial that a hospital is going to eventually factor into this whole equation?

I can only put aside so much stuff. A lot of stuff (glasses, cell phone charger, PJs, pillows) will have to be thrown together at the last minute. But I have been stocking up on travel-size toiletries, and there are some clothing items that could be put aside ahead of time. I guess I just kept feeling like it was too early.

Then a couple of women I know started telling me their stories last week about going into labor at 34 and 35 weeks and being completely unprepared. I was 36 weeks. Uh oh. As I was driving home from work on Friday, in pain from false labor contractions, I couldn't believe I'd let myself go this long without packing. Me. Not packed. Totally unprepared. Oops.

In all likelihood, I'll have hours of labor at home anyway, and it won't really be an issue. But still. You never know. And maybe I'd rather spend that time taking a shower and eating pasta! So on Sunday, I got down to business. The result:

I even have a list written up of all the last-minute things we need to throw in the suitcase before we head to the hospital. And I think I can safely say that I didn't over pack (by much).