Monday, June 6, 2011

The Hospital Survival Kit for new mothers (with printables)

Major life events tend to come in waves sometimes. After graduating from college, it seemed like everyone was getting hitched. I spent that summer working to afford the wedding gifts I needed to buy for the 7 weddings I attended and the 2 bridesmaid dresses I needed to buy for the ones I was in. (I have to say though, all that wedding food was delish. I think the treadmill and I spent a good deal of time together that summer working off all the wedding cake). And yes, it was totally worth it.

After the weddings, a little time went by, I got married myself, then those friends whose weddings I went to started having babies And within a month of getting married, I was pregnant myself. When I packed my baby bag, I tried to be as prepared as I could be since I was new at this whole baby thing. I had that bag packed like I was going out of town for a month. But there were a few things I wish I had brought with me.

After having 2 children at different hospitals, and spending a month and a half on hospital bed rest with my last (you can read more about that lovely experience HERE and HERE), I know there are a few things that new mothers don't necessarily think about packing for their stay. Since a good friend of mine is due with her first any day, I decided to put together a bag of some of these things for her. This is more of a supplement to the actual hospital bag, since I assume most mothers-to-be know to pack the essentials like a toothbrush and toothpaste, clothes for the baby, etc.

The Hospital Survival Kit - a bag full of those extra things that help make a new mother's stay at the hospital a little more tolerable. And I'm sharing the printables with you so you can make one for a friend too!


Just print out the "Hospital Survival Kit" label provided below on card stock, cut out, and use craft glue to glue to attach it to the front of a paper gift bag (don't overdo it with the glue or your label will wrinkle).

For the circular tag, cut out the provided tag and use a hole punch to punch a hole in the top, then attach to one of the gift bag handles with coordinating ribbon.

Then fill 'er up!


Here are some ideas for things to include in the survival kit:

1. Headband and hair ties: When you're focusing on riding out those painful contractions everything gets on your nerves, including stray hair in your face. Plus after being in a hospital bed for 10 hours, your hair tends to look like a troll doll's. When a hoard of family and friends show up to visit you and your little bundle, you're gonna want to tie that mess up.

2. A healthy snack: Many times, babies don't plan their arrival at a convenient hour. My first was polite enough to be born in the evening right before American Idol began, so no problem there. My son, however, was born at 12:37am. By that time there was no available food service for this hungry mama, so I ended up eating a handful of graham crackers and a packet of peanut butter. Unless you prefer to eat like you're in daycare again, snacks are a must. They're also a nice substitute for the hospital food if it turns out to be nasty.

3. A not-so-healthy snack: Chocolate. Because you just gave birth to a person. I'd say you deserve some chocolate, wouldn't you?

4. Face cleansing wipes: Facial wipes to remove makeup and dirt are so helpful to a mother who just had a baby because most of the time you can't get out of bed. Plus, something as simple as washing your face or brushing your teeth make you feel human again after having a baby.

5. Chap stick and other personal care items: How torturous is it that you're not allowed to drink anything when you're in labor? Forget the stinkin' ice chips, somebody breathe on my ice chips and melt them into water!! So of course since you're denied water, your lips tend to become dry and chapped. Take it from me, chap stick is a life saver. And it's even better when it's Burt's Bees pomegranate chap stick, because it's the best chap stick. Ever.

6. Breath mints: After hours of labor and ice chips, it's so refreshing to have a breath mint to suck on. Also, Who wants to waste time brushing your teeth when you have an adorable little bundle to snugglet?
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Click HERE to download and print labels to make your own Hospital Survival Kit. I included labels in pink for a baby girl, blue for a baby boy, and a neutral green as well.

(The labels are approximately 7 1/2" x 3")

How fun would it be to do a separate kit with essentials for the father-to-be? I know my husband would have loved some gift cards to his favorite fast food restaurant so he wasn't forced to eat the hospital food.

What would you add to your Hospital Survival Kit if you made one?

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195 comments:

  1. You did such a great job! Maria
    raising4princesses@yahoo.com
    http://caribbeanmissionarywife.blogspot.com/

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  2. I think this is a wonderful idea, and as someone who has never given birth, I'd never know what a gal needs in that kind of situation. Thanks for the great tips! And the adorable printables.

    Warmly
    Stephanie from Deviantly Domesticated

    PS I love how your linked up post has to do with helping others. It stands out in the crowd:)

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  3. This is a really cute idea, Jen. The hair gear is a must :)

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  4. I am SOOO glad I stumbled onto this. I wish that I could've found this tip a couple years ago when all of my girlfriends started having babies. I am so doing this next time! You are awesome! :D

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  5. What a great idea! Perfect shower gift!

    I'm adding it to my Pinterest board, too.

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  6. Great idea! Thanks for sharing!

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  7. I would add some sample or travel size shampoo, conditioner & cleanser - the fancier the better - for the days after the baby is born. I totally forgot to bring that stuff with my first, & vowed that no friend of mine would find herself in the same situation. =)

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  8. suckers were something that my daughter took to the hospital with her love this idea as anyone who loves the person can make this for them

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  9. so cute! I'll be featuring it on Everyday Celebrating!

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  10. SO cute! What a great gift for a new mommy... I may include my FAV -- dry shampoo and some Medela lanolin nipple cream 'cause nursing can be a challenge... Just being honest!

    Thanks for such an awesome idea!

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    1. yeah I agree...no one can prepare you for the first stages of nursing when you have never done it before. I try to warn my friends because its so worth it but someone could be quick to give up during the first couple experiences :)

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    2. yeah I agree!!! I try to warn all my friends having babies that the first couple experiences can't really be explained with breastfeeding because some who may not realize this could easily quit....it was painful but we pushed through and so worth it :)

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  11. What a great idea! You may want to add a roll of toilet paper to the bag though. When I had my daughter I was so glad that I did. The stuff they had at the hospital was like sandpaper. Ick!

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  12. Actually going to use this for my g-ma who just had a stroke and will be in the hospital for three weeks. Thanks for sharing your work! jlrdlr@hotmail.com

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  13. That's really thoughtful, especially for those first time momma's.

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  14. what a great idea! and your little kit is to cute

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  15. What a great idea! I have some friends due soon and I'm definitely doing this.

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  16. Love this kit! Great idea for anyone having to stay in the hospital. I am going to post this on FB and Twitter to share - I hope you don't mind ;)

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  17. Genius! I'm definitely making this for my neighbor who's due on Friday. Too bad she can't have sugar. If you're looking for another party (which isn't why I'm here, but just in case...) I have one on Friday:) naptimecrafters.blogspot.com

    p.s. know what you mean with those middle of the night babies. No food and nothing on TV:(

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  18. What a great idea....I have a friend who is due a few weeks and I think this is something she would really appreciate.

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  19. i love this idea! I am going to be having a baby here in about 4 more weeks and think this is an awesome idea! thank you for sharing! I found your blog through a link party and i LOVE it! I am your newest follower and would love it if you would check out my blog and follow me too! thanks!
    -Nikki
    http://chef-n-training.blogspot.com/

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  20. You are so sweet & thoughtful! Thank you for sharing!

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  21. Since I will be having a baby soon, I would love one of these. How about including a slurpee in it? I'd love that!!!! I highlighted this at somedaycrafts.blogspot.com.

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  22. Love this idea, have a few friends preggers right now too!
    Kim
    @ tiarasandbowties.blogspot.com

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  23. I tried to download the link but it doesn't work. Can you send me a link to
    happydales@me.com?
    I love this idea, it's great.
    Thanks so much,
    Laurie

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  24. What a great idea! My best friend is having her baby next week via c-section, I will definitely be making one of these for her. =)

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  25. Oh, this is such a good idea. I have a friend that is a surrogate and is due in the fall. I would love to make her something like this so that she can have a few of her faves at the hospital or maybe a few things for herself when she comes home. Thanks for the idea!!

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  26. I love it! I would have appreciated this a TON with my first baby - good thing I'm having #2 so I can hint for a kit! LOL, I would say throw in a pair of socks or slippers. I love the dry shampoo idea mentioned. I had to stay 5 days with a c-section and it gets a little uncomfortable since showering is sort of an epic event.

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  27. Add a few magazines to that stash as well...

    :)

    Thanks for linking up to Creative Juice!

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  28. Great gift idea. Was surprised about the not drinking in labour though. I'm from Australia and we encourage oral fluid intake. Always intrigued by these differences (I'm a midwife). I make labour packs for my friends, I also do lpbalm and hair ties but add massage oil cause lots of women forget it and it,s essential for back rubs.
    Thanks again.

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    1. No eating or drinking incase of emergency surgery. However, the uterus is a muscle and needs energy and hydration to work effectively. Catch 22

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    2. I ate before going to the hospital and it came up when my water broke. Or maybe my water broke when it came up? Either way, my body didn't want it!

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    3. I was surprised by that, too. I'm in the UK and I think it's actually quite barbaric to deprive a labouring lady of water! How awful!

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    5. Nearly all hospitals allow laboring women to drink clear fluids (water, gatorade, apple juice, etc) now, and many of them are starting to allow them to eat as well. I ate and drank all though labor and simply cannot imagine making someone do without. It's an old fashioned practice that hasn't caught up to the evidence. (Or common sense!). But at least most hospitals are allowing it. I love this post, but I'd add a note to it to remember that as the patient, you can insist! :)

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    6. I was allowed to eat graham crackers, jello, and water/juice. I had McDonald's on our way there because I knew I'd be starving. lol It worked out fine for me but after he was born I wanted FOOD!

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    7. FYI- laboring women are not deprived fluids, it is just given thru an IV instead of being permitted orally. That way it is regulated in the case there is emergency surgery (as mentioned). But yes, it is annoying not to be able to eat/drink orally!

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    8. I'm from New Zealand, and both eating and drinking were fine, and drinking was encouraged. Actually that's something I'd add to the pack for a Kiwi/Aussie Mum... straws! Because if your hubby/birthing partner is holding a glass for you... any idea how hard it is to drink it without a straw?!

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    9. It is true in some cases that they are deprived of water. I didn't have an iv with my son. I was only allowed ice chips.

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    10. Current research shows that clear liquids is safe in labor. I'm an l&d nurse and encourage my patients to drink fluids.

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    11. I'll put that on my list of things to ask my doctor then! I want to be drinking water when I deliver, so I better make sure I find a hospital/OB that is on board with that.

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  29. That is such a great idea for a baby shower gift. If only I would have had something like this when I had my baby.

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  30. This is such a marvelous, practical and thoughtful idea! I shared it in my Saturday Seven lineup this weekend. http://www.positivelysplendid.com/2011/06/saturday-seven-no-15.html

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  31. Thanks for sharing. It is mighty kind of you. Cute idea.

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  32. Great idea! Is there anyway to change the colors to a neutral tone? I've got a few friends that aren't going to find out the sex until the baby is born.

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    1. Me too! So I am going to put the blue label on one side of the bag and the pink label on the other. It is 3 years later, so you probably figured something out ;-)

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  33. Great idea! This is something I did for my sister. I added magazines, gum, lifesavers, bobby pins and change for the vending machines.

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  34. Thank you so much!! I nmade one for my daughter and her hunbby.I am going to make a bunch more for local labor and delivery for single moms. Again, thank you!! =)

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    1. That's so incredibly thoughtful! What a blessing:)

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  35. I'm having a baby in three weeks and am going to make one for my husband... he doesn't think to bring much with him :) I may add some snacks in there for me as well! Thanks for the cute idea! I would add a cute pad of paper and pen so you can record your memories down.
    Liz
    http://projectnaptime.blogspot.com/

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  36. Super cute! A great idea and I am sure that any new mommy would appreciate this gesture.

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  37. Great list.

    I would add to it this postpartum spray (http://www.earthmamaangelbaby.com/postpartum-recovery/new-mama-bottom-spray.html) as it was really really good to have.

    I want to take dry shampoo next time as well.

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  38. Great idea! I would add a pair of socks - who wants to walk on cold hospital floors, yuck. LOL

    Also, a fun magazine or book is a good addition. As I had kiddos at home, my husband didn't stay with me all the time I was in the hospital after my son was born. There was times when I was bored (not much on a hospital tv) and couldn't sleep so the magazine came in handy. :)

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  39. so super cute idea, i wish i would of had one of these for when ihad my twins but they came at 28 weeks so when we went in i didnt have anything ready. chap stick is a must, my guy had to buy me some in the gift shop and it was $4 (ugh)! my "sis-in-law is due in jan so i am gonna make this for her and i'm thinking about adding a cheap pair of flip flops to shower in so she wont have to touch the shower floor, yuck!

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  40. I will be keeping this post for future reference, many of my friends are getting married, which means there may be babies on the way in the next few years...

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  41. Add a roll of toilet paper and you're done! Seriously, who can use hospital TP after having a baby? It's the first thing I pack.

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    1. I couldn't agree more! I always take a roll when visiting anyone (especially a new mommy) in the hospital! :) Also a small purell pump-as a nurse, I know-hospitals are the dirtiest places in the world...hello-it's where all the germiest, sickest people are!

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  42. I got a bag sort of like this from my in laws when I had my daughter almost 4 months ago. . . only they added pads, tucks to-go pads , disposable breast pads, a candle, bath soak ,tissues. and then they brought us a fruit basket for everyone meaning it even a had baby food fruits . it was so cute and lovely.

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    1. Sounds like your mother in law has a great memory of what it was like to birth a child! Those are AWESOME additions that most people would forget!

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  43. This is adorable! i'd love your permission to use it on my blog for my sister's upcoming due date?
    Mandy

    smallfineprint@gmail.com
    www.smallfineprint.com

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  44. I've been seeing this all over Pinterest lately and finally linked it up to my own blog! I love these ideas! I'm due in less than two months, so I'll be using some of these ideas for my own hospital bag packing, and I really liked the commenter who intends to do something like this for her husband! Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!

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  45. I love this!!! There are some really cute "designer" cooler/lunch bags that you could put the items in too! New Mommy can use it for bottles later and when the terrible two's hit-a chilled flask ;)

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  46. This is a lovely idea!

    How strange about the water in labour though, in the UK we're positively encouraged to drink lots, and even get given ice-pops too!

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  47. Thank you so much for this idea! I love it...I was able to take it a different direction for a friend getting married and did a wedding day survival kit with things like a tide stick, mints, camera, bobby pins, safety pins, tissues, nail file, deodorant, lotion, etc. It worked out fantastic! My sis-in-law is pregnant in Oct and she will be getting one of these too! :D PS. Found on Tip Junkie.

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  48. This is awesome!!! It's a fantastic gift for a baby shower!

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  49. I would add a foot lotion and/or minty spray. My feet were so swollen I would have loved it! Great idea, I have a couple friends who will be receiving this, thanks so much!

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  50. Oooh! Foot lotion is a fantastic idea! I remember how sore my feet were! They looked like elephant feet! Tomorrow I will officially be 40 days from my due date with my second. I'm celebrating by packing my bag! I had to come back here and check the comments section for ideas before I pack!

    (This will be my second kiddo. With my first, I was even a scheduled induction and didn't pack my bag on time! I almost got to the hospital late because of it! LOL! That is NOT going to happen to me again!)

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  51. great idea i am broke so i had no idea what to bring to the shower thank you so much. can i link up to you my blog www.asourtimegoseby.blogspot.com

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  52. Fantastic idea! Recently I posted this on my blog with a link to here!
    Thanks for sharing!

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  53. What a great idea! I love this. Thanks for sharing the printable labels.

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  54. After my son was born I was too out of it (pain med problems) that I couldn't read but I could stare at the tv. I would suggest some dvds and some super soft tissues for any tears. I like the magazine and change for the vending machine ideas too!

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  55. So cute! I recently did a breastfeeding survival kit for my friend. I included things like granola bars and almonds, lifesaver candies, lanolin, soothie and regular breast pads, chapstick, handcream, a nursing sleep bra, as well as the number to her local LLL, kellymom.com, and the National Breastfeeding Helpline.

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  56. GREAT idea. I went into the hospital suddenly many years ago and a friend brought me a nice hairbrush and some red lipstick. That MADE my day so I would include that as well.

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  57. If you are put on oxygen during labor, like I was, chapstick will actually burn your skin. i had no idea.

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  58. Thank you so much for posting this! I just came across it a few weeks back through a PIN I seen on Pinterest! I made my own kit for my friend and posted a link on my Blog (http://sprinkledwithlove-roya.blogspot.com/) of my kit and how yours helped inspire me! Thank you so much, my friend loved it so much and I really appreciate all your advice & post!

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  59. We were discussing this at a baby shower last night, and someone sent us the link to your blog. We were talking even more practical, for after you return home too... the stuff nobody tells you: pads of all kinds (maxi, Tucks medicated pads, breast pads) Fun blog!

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  60. So cute! My SIL and I are having babies a month apart, her first and my third. I will definitely be making one of these for her, and possibly for her husband too! :)

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  61. I've done something like this before, but I didn't do snacks. I also enjoyed what was available in the snack station at the hospital when I gave birth. Great Idea. If I were to add one other thing though, it would be nipple cream/soothers. I know tmi, but you never know how much that is going to hurt until you do it, and if you don't nurse they still need pads and soothers. :)

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  62. i love this idea for anyone who has to be in the hospital for a few days! everything is easy to pick up in a quick trip to target and could totally be put together! yay!

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  63. Just made one of these for a girlfriend who had her baby a week ago:

    http://mejiamamma.blogspot.com/2011/10/welcome-little-jack.html

    Such a FAB idea, thank you!!!

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  64. A few magazines or perhaps a book might be a good addition... I'm loving the chocolate idea. Ahem. I wonder if I can put cheesecake in my hospital bag? ;)

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  65. I love this idea! I actually am going to put a twist on it and make something similar for my fellow coworkers in the Labor and Delivery unit I work in. Youd be suprised how many times I wish I had a hair tie or a snack while im working in the hospital! I think it will be a great little christmas gift for the nurses on my shift! Thanks for the idea! So adorable!

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  66. Something like this would be great for ANYONE in the hospital! I'm 20 and have had 6 surgeries (ovarian tumors) and something like this would have been GREAT! Hair ties, dry shampoo, Chapstick, magazines, some nice slippers or fuzzy socks (with grips on the bottom, Bath & Body Works has lots of great ones!), some snacks, magazines, Crystal Light packets, the list could go on and on! Not just for new mommies :)

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    1. Agreed!! I have spina bifida so I have had a LOT of surgeries, and so have many of my friends. Seems like I always know someone in the hospital, and it's amazing how much the smallest comfort items mean :) Also ear plugs--hospitals are full of annoying sounds to keep you awake, when all you want and need is to sleep :)

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  67. love this! just made one up for my friend who had a baby this morning!

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  68. I would add some socks! Hospitals are usually cold!

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  69. I would suggest the same kind of a gift for a new bride! I made something like this for my sister on her wedding night. I noticed that she and her husband had barely eaten anything at their wedding. So after everything was done, I went around our little town and picked up a bottle of wine, cheese, crackers, and some other munchies for the hungry couple. I put them together in a cute basket arrangement, and then had the hotel knock and leave it outside of their room.

    My sister said it was the best gift because they were famished and didn't know where they could get a decent meal so late in the evening. :) For my wedding, another friend got me a brand new trashcan full of enough food to get us through our first few weeks as newlyweds, just learning to cook for each other for the first time. Again, we loved her thoughtfulness!

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  70. After all the excitement died down when I had my son in 2000 and everyone had left the hospital...all I wanted was some chocolate, my chapstick and a scrunchie...I had none of that!! So from that year on-I made survival kits for every Mom-2-Be I knew....mine include everything: shampoo, cond, mouthwash, travel toothbrush, toothpaste, mini hair brush, hair tie, qtips, chapstick, lotion, candy, chocolate, lollipops, tic tacs and gum all in a reusable clear makeup bag. I get everything at the beauty supply store and it only costs areoun $35 and is a HUGE hit at every baby shower :) It's great because Mom can just throw it in her bag with her clothes and be done!!

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  71. I was wondering if I could get an editable version of this, I have half sheet label paper and so it has a seam down the middle and I'd like to print it so each is on half if possible. Let me know!!! I'm excited to do this for all my friends having babies in the next few months. My e-mail is kendrad.goodrich@gmail.com Thanks!

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    1. I have the same label paper - I would love an editable version also. magiclady852000@yahoo.com
      I just made one today for a shower gift - such a cute idea!!!!

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  72. Great idea, I will keep this in mind for any friends :) Thanks for sharing. I am a new follower. I would appreciate it if you followed me back at http://milliemorganmedia.blogspot.com!

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  73. I love your idea! Thanks for sharing!

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  74. What a great idea-I'm your newest follower-stop by for a visit!

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  75. Someone mentioned earlier that if you are put on oxygen, chapstick will burn your skin.

    It is true the SOME brands will burn your skin, but natural brands (like burt's bees) don't do that. So make sure to pick brands that won't cause any problems!

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  76. I have done this a few times and the Moms always say it was nice to be thought of at this time because, so much attention goes to the baby or babies in my case (twins).

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  77. Definitely doing this tonight! A friend of mine is being induced on Monday morning, so I plan to be there bright and early for when the little guy arrives!

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  78. Such a cute idea! I did this for a friend, but also included some magazines, gum or suckers, and some fun socks...my feet were always cold when I had my two! Come visit me at www.palmettosandpigtails.com
    Shara

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  79. Great idea. I would include a 'wallflower' or glade plug in. I always took them with me when I delivered. It made a huge difference with the room smelled nice :-)

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  80. My aunt and cousin gave these to my husband and I at our baby shower. We loved it! They definitely made the trip with us to the hospital

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  81. The one thing that I would add is linen spray! We took a small bottle of Bath & Body Works aromatherapy linen spray and it was so nice to have a sense of home. My 2 favorites are Sleep vanilla & lavender and Stress Relief eucalyptus and spearmint.

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  82. Love this!! Working on one for my sister who is expected her first! Having difficulty getting to label template to print it. Could you send it to my email sgenin@ma.rr.com?! Thanks so much. I love the label. Makes it official!

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  83. I made this for my friend and I added magazines, tissues (the hospital tissues are not soft), deodorant, lotion, nuts, hand wipes, gum, gummy candy, breath mints, crossword puzzle and pens, hair ties and chapstick :)

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    1. I didn't even think of tissues or hand wipes--great idea!!!!!

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  84. A friend sort of did this for me. She included two empty travel bottles, and told me to put my own everyday shampoo and conditioner in them. I was so grateful, because the hospital had none! My other suggestion: some kind of fiber snack, to keep things moving down there where there's been so much trauma. I found that out the hard way.

    I can't afford to spend TOO much to get everything I'd like to for friends--maybe a few good things with a gift receipt, and a list of other suggestions of good things they can add if they like?

    Any chance you could edit the post to add some of the commenters' suggestions at the end? Thanks!

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  85. I cannot get anything to download. It's very cute, and I wish I had had something like this with my first child.

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  86. i was in the hospital in labor not allowed to even sit up for 5 days with nothing but juices, water and broth to eat and drink. by the time i got to sit up, or even go to bathroom without a tube, i felt and looked horriable. i hadnt planned on being in labor, didnt have a hospital bag packed yet (was only 22 weeks pregnant) so this would have been great advice!

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  87. Just found your post on Pinterest. I felt the same way & have created a hospital labor bag - the Push Pack.

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  88. I love this!! :D perfect gift for soon to be mommies!

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  89. Love this idea and wanted to add one more thing that I used when my daughter was born! For every mother out there, you know abt the next couple of days to weeks after childbirth. I suggest grabbing a pack of "adult diapers" for yourself at least while in the hospital bc you dont want to ruin your own underwear! Perfect bc they are disposable!!! (As long as your comfortable with the jokes from Daddy years later about the time you had to wear Depends!!!!)

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    1. I whole-heartedly agree. It was seriously wonderful not to have to wear the crummy hospital pads/net underwear and not worry about ruining anything or leaking all over. I bought them big too because I knew I would probably be having a c section and they worked perfectly.

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    2. I did the same thing. I also misted pads at home, put in a Ziploc & froze them for perinal ice packs. They were a huge comfort those first few days. Plus the dermaplast numbing spray!!!

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    3. THANK YOU! I discovered this last time I was pg. I was going to suggest it to my friend as well who is soon having her first. Glad to see I am not crazy and that I am not alone w/thinking this is a GREAT idea!

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  90. I agree with Fiona Harrison... so strange they dont let you drink water during labour. Im from Australia too and gave birth to my 1st son 4 months ago and they encouraged me to drink as much water as I wanted to stay hydrated.
    I have about 5 friends all due really soon so will be making this for them... LOVE the idea!!! I would add something to read and pawpaw ointment for dry lips and sore nipples =)

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  91. Thank you so much! My aunt is going to have her fourth in a week and when I saw this I just had to do it!!!!! Although I did add slippers and a book. I love the printables also! It is super easy and cute, I am only 13 and I think I did a pretty good job! I will be doing this for the rest of my relatives!

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  92. Thank you so much! I am only 13 and I wanted to do something for my aunt who is due in a week. When I saw this I just had to do it! ( What would I do without pinterest)! It is so cute and easy! Great idea and very cute printables! I will be doing this for all of my relatives! Thanks again!

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  93. White socks are a must for hospital stays. Hospitals are so cold...

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    1. I highly recommend bringing your own fuzzy socks--those things they give you in the hospital are ugly lol. A friend of mine just had surgery and I found some really cute pink, white and brown ones on clearance, and she loved them :)

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  94. I want to print these for a bag I am making. But the link doesn't work anymore... Help please?

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  95. Oh, I love this idea! You were cracking me up about the troll doll hair and wanting to "put that mess up!" I couldn't have said it better myself! HA!

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  96. Thanks for this wonderful idea!!! I just did something very similar thanks to your idea...but I gave it to her at her baby shower and it was a picnic basket that she can use later...with a bath robe for herself a bag with nipple cream, chapstick, hair ties and so forth, then a section with candies and snacks for daddy! Along with a book for the baby!!! Mama's always get left out so I think she is gonna love this gift :)

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  97. I really enjoyed your thoughts on the items that went into your survival kit! It was realistically funny, because no one really delves inside the thoughts of a woman in labor. I don't have any, I'd probably have the same sense of realistic humor you have/had, thanks for the uplifting laughter.

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  98. Great idea! Maybe some flushable wet wipes. I know I was sore down there and toilet paper was not fun. The soothing coolness from the wet wipes were nice

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  99. Thanks for the great idea & labels!! My sister is going to love this gift for her baby shower!

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  100. So glad I came across this great add-on essentials, idea and printables. So cute! I am due with my second in June and was already planning on adding some of these items to my bag this go round. It's amazing the things we think we'll need vs. the things we actually need. I am going to do an add-on post featuring your wonderful post, and include some of the items I would also include, like dry shampoo (use until you can shower), fuzzy socks/flip-flops, and journal/pen to jot down thoughts/feelings those first moments.

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  101. Fun idea! I don't know if this was suggested before, but something for the dad to eat too. I was never that hungry in the hospital, but your guy will be if it's a long labor and you need him to be 100% when he's helping out! :)

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  102. Great idea!!! Hair bands and mints please!!! :P Thanks for sharing! xoxo-rachel

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  103. It seems like I always know someone in the hospital, either sick or having surgery. I'd add a small notebook and pen/pencil, maybe a puzzle book, fuzzy socks (the hospital ones are hideous lol), and ear plugs--ear plugs are a MUST for anyone in the hospital for any length of time!!!!!

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  104. Great! Absolutely Great...can't wait to make it for a mom to be!

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  105. Thanks for this idea!! My sister and friend both loved their survival kits!

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  106. I would add a package of adult wipes. they help so much with all the bleeding that goes on.

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  107. Link for printables won't open can you send a be link to
    Debbiegalo1@gmail.com
    Thanks so much. Sooooo cute

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  108. Link for printables won't open for me either.
    Could you send to me at: hamiltons@mindspring.com ?
    Thanks so much.

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  109. Thanks for including the printables! This is a fabulous idea (thanks Pinterest!) I plan to do a family one (stuff for mom, dad, and baby) I plan to add in socks for mom, a water bottle for dad, and vaseline for baby (it helps with getting those first few sticky poops cleaned up better)

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  110. A friend at work was having a kidney transplant and was going to be in the hospital (and later staying near the hospital) for several weeks before she could come home. She was out of state, too, several hundred miles from home. We had a "shower" for her and everyone contributed all kinds of stuff for her to use during that extended time in the hospital and rehab. We gave her lotions, mints, crossword books and pencils, nighties, magazines, playing cards and things for her husband, too, like extra change for the vending machines. We did coordinate with one another to some degree but mostly let everyone get whatever they wanted ranging from really inexpensive things to some nice bath sets and nightgowns. She was so surprised and we had a blast having the "shower" for her and collecting a huge assortment of things that would make her time there more bearable.

    So your idea is easily transferrable to a different type of hospitalization.

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  111. This is so perfect for every mom giving birth! First time or a veteran... thanks for sharing!
    Kate

    *I linked up at www.domesticindixie.blogspot.com*

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  112. What about a home birth survival kit ;) hehe!

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  113. Not a bad idea :) What about a kit for those having a home birth? :)
    http://jumping-jellybean.blogspot.com/

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  114. hello...love this idea and want to make a few for my girlfriends who are expecting however I am unable to print the labels for some reason. I managed to get the blue survival kit label to print but the pink one doesn't print and I can't get the smaller circular labels either. I have tried everything I know to do..(changing fonts, landscape, etc). Is it possible to have the labels emailed to me. thanks

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    1. Hi Stefanie! I'd be happy to send you the labels if you would please give me your email address. Thanks!

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  115. I love this and plan to use some of your ideas have a very young friend who will be having a boy in July thank you so much for sharing this. I will share mine once it is done!! :)

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  116. ♥♥♥ this idea! I'm having a baby shower for my daughter-in-law this weekend. I just went grocery shopping & picked up everything I needed. I even bought a trial size bottle of dry hair shampoo.

    I had a clear plastic pouch with a zipper that originally had a pair of curtains in them & filled it up b/c of the small items.

    Gluing on the survival kit sticker to the gift bag now.

    Thanks so much!

    P.S. Your children are beautiful.

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  117. Thank you for the wonderful idea. I have a friend who is having double knee surgery next week and I have made her up a bag. We put miniture games, dominos, crossword puzzles, gum, tissues, etc. Thanks again!

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  118. Best idea ever! A few ppl did this for me when I had my baby and it was the best! :)

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  119. How do you print just the one label and make it bigger, any suggestions?

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    1. If you have Photoshop, you could easily resize the PDF. If not, I think you could also play around with it by placing the picture in a microsoft word document and changing the sizing. I hope that helps!

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  120. Thanks for this!! It's a great idea! My sister and my sister-in-law are both due their babies in August...I think they'll love one of these!!

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  121. I would add baby announcements,I had envelopes read and addressed just filled in the blanks and had my husband mail them.

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  122. Having had three children of my own...I think that I would include: healthy snack, non healthy snack, lotion (something good smelling and self-pampering), fuzzy socks (it gets cold in hospitals), and if the Mom is planning to breastfeed, I'd throw in some Lansinoh for good measure (as well as a list of all the things that Lansinoh can be used for BESIDES sore nipples).

    Such a good idea, I've never really thought about gifting something like this to someone. I always revert to a few frozen meals :-P

    -Sarah
    http://familybugs.wordpress.com

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  123. Love this idea! I would maybe add an eye mask. sleeping in a bed away from home, sometimes you don't want to get up and monkey around with their blinds. And maybe a magazine. I found some mini disposable tooth brushes with toothpaste on them already. I'd throw in a couple of those for good measure.

    I still rave about the fruit basket my parents brought us. We lived off of that thing for a couple of days. SOOOO worth it! I will never knock the gift of a fruit basket or call it old fasioned ever again!

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  124. I would add socks to the list. I remember absolutely freezing once they put the IV in. (My son was born in August, so I was wearing flip flops when I went into labor.)

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  125. Add Hand sanitizer cause new momma doesn't want to get up every few minutes to wash her hands and also I would add a disposable camera. There are always so many people coming in and out taking their own pictures of your little bundle and 9 times out of 10 you never even see them . Just suggest that each guest that visits take a few snapshots with your disposable camera as well.

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  126. Just found this post via pinterest. Love it!

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  127. For some reason when i click on this it is not working for me. I'm not sure what i'm doing wrong.

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  128. ADD - a SLEEPING MASK. I brought one for my fourth child (finally figured it out) and it was the best when mom needs to take naps during the day. makes those light rooms DARK to sleep.

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  129. Thank you for the templates!!!!

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  130. Thanks for the great tips! And the adorable printables.I know I was sore down there and toilet paper was not fun. The soothing coolness from the wet wipes were nice..

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  131. Awesome idea!! Two of my friends are giving birth in a couple months and this will be wonderful for them. In echo of the comment above, a friend told me Preperation H wipes were her lifesaver! (Hope it's not TMI, but who has any modesty left after just giving a human their exodus?!) :)

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  132. very cool idea. although i wouldnt suggest the chocolate. if a new mom is nursing, this would be something that would upset the babies stomache.

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  133. The two things I wish I had taken with me to the hospital are Lifesavers and Tums. All that pushing really churns up the stomach acid and it takes an act of God to get a doctor to write up orders to issue you a simple antacid. If you bring your own, your nurse won't care if you eat a few Tums. Same goes for Lifesavers or other hard candies.

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  134. I love this idea. One of my best frieds is having her baby in a week so I deffinatly plan on making this for her and even one for her husband. I'm having problems loading the printables as well and was hoping you could email the green ones to me please. Angel191306@aim.com. Thanks a bunch and I loved the additional tips.

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  135. Would add one of those reusable hard plastic cups with straw and lid to have a big glass of water nearby during breast feeding. And a handful of change for parking for the hubby

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  136. My son was born six weeks premature, so I did not have a hospital bag packed. I had to stay in the hospital for several days and the items I wanted most was chapstick, deodorant, and a razor.

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  137. This is such an awesome idea! Thank you so much for sharing. I actually having three baby showers to go to and these will make great added gifts!

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  138. This is a GREAT idea! I'm going to do this for my SIL, who's going in to have her third. I might also make a bag up for her two boys. They're 6 and 4 and will get bored fast so a bag with some treats and a few things to do will probably be helpful to my brother so he can stay awhile! Can you email me the links for the printables? sarag94@yahoo.com thanks so much!

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  139. This is such a great idea! I am going to make this for a friend whose shower is on Saturday. Could you please send me a link to the printouts? bethanypoore@gmail.com

    Thanks!

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  140. I once made a rice sack (scented with vanilla) for a mom of a preemie. They can be heated in the microwave and then wrapped around your shoulders & neck. My hospital actually gave me one (in a sewn up sock) at one of my birthing classes and I loved it. It was such a help months down the road when I got mastitis! They are pretty cheap to make and last forever! You can find tutorials online if you want!

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  141. "Chocolate. Because you just gave birth to a person."

    If my son is 9 months old can I still use this excuse? LOL!!!

    Great gift bag, and very helpful things indeed!

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  142. My girl friend is delivering her 4th baby on Thursday of this week. I plan to copy the survival bag and take it to her on Tues. afternoon. I will substitute York Peppermint Patties for the M&M's, as I know they are her favorite! I will also include some aloe infused socks, a small candle (she LOVES candles) and a small bar of shea butter soap and some body spray that I know she likes. On other posts, I saw a reference to some kind of nipple cream. I'll probably add that too. She has family coming for about 3 weeks, so I will give her an IOU, or 2, for meals when they leave. I am excited to put this together for her and thankful for the free printables - too cute!

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  143. The printables aren't working for me. Will you email one for a boy and girl
    Shelby5555@aol.com

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  144. Add chapstick to that bag! I was glad I had some... after laboring, your mouth is not only dry, but your lips are too!

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  145. I was not able to open the printables either. Could you email them to me? I would like the blue. I would really appreciate it! This is a great idea and I love the printables! Jenniferwheeler@comcast.net. Thank you!

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  146. Can you email me the printables? For girl and boy. Thank you so much!! This is a great idea. Jenniferwheeler@comcast.net

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  147. What an awesome idea. Thanks for sharing. Unable to download the printables. Can you email the links? Dotsie14052@yahoo.com

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  148. Cute idea.... my daughter was also born at 12:37 am!!! There was only diner's open!!!!!!

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  149. Can't wait to put all these things together for my daughter!!!

    can you please sent the links I can't seem to get it to work.

    Thank you!!!
    .

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  150. Hi. Just wanted to say thanks for the labels. I had such fun putting a bag together for a close friend of mine.

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  151. I think this is such a great idea. I love giving unique gifts and I definitely plan to make this for a friend who is expecting. I'm thinking of adding a small crossword puzzle book and/or magazine so she'll have something to do/read during any down time (hopefully she gets some lol).

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  152. What a wonderful and thoughful gift idea! Our fourth grandson is due in August and I am pinning this to my Pinterest board so I will have it when the time gets nearer. Thanks for providing the tags which make it even more special! I see where some people are having trouble printing the tags. I'm going to give it a try and see what happens! You must be a very special friend to have!

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  153. Thanks so much for this gorgeous idea :) My best friend is pregnant and I'm definitely making this for her!!!

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  154. I just love this Hospital Survival Kit. Its an awesome gift idea for a new mother. Thanks for sharing.
    Health Management

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  155. I have done a gift like this and I try to think after hospital as well with Tucks Pads and the numbing spray stuff because the hospitals aren't very generous with those and they are your only saving graces when you get home if you had a rough delivery as I did.

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  156. I will add a bag of good quality coffee...that's for mommy and/or daddy! It is not actually a "day in hospital" necessity but oohh yes! after couple of sleepless nights a good coffee does wonders!

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  157. I'll be giving birth to my first child, a little girl in 3 to 4 weeks and this definitely sounds great :)

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  158. We should all spend more time thinking about what to give as baby gifts, these are excellent suggestions, all too often people just re-gift a lot of junk that nobody really wants.

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  159. Great idea Melissa! I always find trying to decide on baby shower gifts a little overwhelming, this is really sweet!

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  160. this is such a great idea! i found this on pinterest and discovered your blog and am really enjoying it. thanks for such a creative idea. i can't wait to put a bag together for my best friend who is due with her first baby soon! i remember being starving and the kitchen was closed after giving birth! i would have loved having some granola bars or chocolate! what an awesome and thoughtful idea to give snacks! thanks.

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  161. I do something similar to this when a family member or friend has a baby. A couple extra things I've included in the past: a blanket for mommy. Baby gets ALL the attention, but mommies like new soft blankets too! ;) The same goes for comfy socks. The ones with the grippies on the bottom are best. I also like to include one of those novelty books that are about mommy-hood. I've also included before an issue of Parenting magazine or something like that, especially if it's their first one! I brought a gift basket like this to my sister-in-law and also included a little something for dad too! (he is my brother after all!!) Even still, I kept the focus on mommy and baby. :)

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  162. This is such a great gift idea. I want to give a gift to a colleague I'm having lunch with this week and couldn't remember the baby's gender. This is her 3rd child and I like the idea of something more focused on Mom. Thank you!

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  163. What a thoughtful gift! Every mother should have this hospital survival kit. I love giving gifts and one of my friends is having a baby and this is really perfect for her. Great! Thanks for sharing.


    http://newbabyzone.net

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  164. This is such a great idea ... I'm going to give as a baby shower gift. I will put it in a small overnight bag. It will include PJ"s, slippers, what to expect book, a subscription to parents magazine, hair tie, head band, chap stick, gum, mints, deodorant, pkg. make up remover face wipes, .... and what ever else I can think of! Thanks!

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Thanks for all of your wonderful comments! I try to respond to each of them through email so please make sure you leave an email address or have your profile set up to include your email address if you want me to respond :)

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