Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth

Tag: pregnancy

  • My Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby

    My Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby

    If you’re anything like me, packing your hospital bag feels equal parts exciting and “wait… what am I forgetting?” Whether this is your first baby or you’ve done this before, it helps so much to have a cozy little plan so you’re not tossing random things into a tote at 2 a.m.

    This is the hospital bag checklist that kept me feeling prepared, comfortable, and a little more like myself in the middle of a big, emotional, beautiful whirlwind.

    (Quick note: every hospital is a little different, so it’s always worth checking your provider’s list too.)

    The “Don’t Leave Home Without It” Stuff

    1. Birth plan (if you have one)

    Even if it’s just a one-page note with your preferences, it’s so helpful to have something written down. In the moment, it’s nice to not have to explain everything from scratch.

    2. Phone + long charger cord

    You’ll be taking photos, texting updates, and probably scrolling when you can’t sleep. A long cord is a small thing that feels like a luxury in a hospital room.

    3. Important documents

    If you want to be extra prepared, tuck these in a folder:

    • ID + insurance card
    • any hospital paperwork you’ve been given
    • your birth plan (if using one)

    Comfort Items for You

    4. Cozy socks or slippers

    Hospitals can run chilly, and warm feet just make everything feel a little less stressful.

    5. Flip-flops (for walking + showering)

    These are especially handy in the bathroom/shower situation. Easy, practical, and they can be washed later.

    6. Toiletries + “feel like a human again” basics

    This is the stuff that helped me feel refreshed after everything:

    • toothbrush + toothpaste
    • shampoo/conditioner + hair ties
    • face wash + moisturizer/lotion
    • deodorant + lip balm
    • any personal hygiene items you love

    7. Your own pillow (optional but amazing)

    Hospital pillows can be… not great. Bringing your own can make resting feel a lot more doable.

    8. A comfy robe

    Perfect for staying warm, feeling covered, and shuffling around the room without feeling exposed.

    9. Loose, comfy clothes for the hospital + going home

    Think: soft, stretchy, and not restrictive. (You’ll want comfort more than anything.)
    A simple going-home outfit you actually feel good in is such a win.

    Baby Must-Haves

    10. Baby outfits (and one extra!)

    Bring:

    • one outfit for photos or meeting family
    • one comfy going-home outfit
    • an extra outfit (because leaks happen, and babies stay humble 😅)

    Optional: “picture outfits”

    If you want those sweet first photos in the hospital, packing one special outfit makes it easy. For me, doing photos at the hospital felt way less stressful than trying to do it at home — you’ve got help nearby, and you’re not juggling everything alone.

    Quick Printable Checklist

    • Birth plan / preferences
    • ID + insurance card + any paperwork
    • Phone + long charger
    • Cozy socks/slippers
    • Flip-flops
    • Toiletries (toothbrush, hair ties, lotion, lip balm, etc.)
    • Pillow
    • Robe
    • Comfy clothes + going-home outfit
    • Baby outfits (2–3 total)
    • Optional: photo outfit(s)

    Wishing you all the best! What was your “so glad I packed that” item? I’d love to hear it in the comments.

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  • My Pregnancy Favorites: What Truly Helped Me Along the Way

    My Pregnancy Favorites: What Truly Helped Me Along the Way

    I’m so excited to share a few of the things that made my pregnancy journey just a little smoother (and a lot more comfortable). Whether you’re expecting, planning, or simply curious, I hope my experience gives you a few ideas to tuck away for your own path.

    🌿 Ritual Prenatal Vitamins

    If there’s one thing I’ve stayed consistent with from pregnancy through postpartum, it’s my Ritual Prenatal Vitamins. They not only helped me feel confident that my baby was getting what he needed, but even my lactation consultant noticed them during my hospital stay! She was so impressed that she said she wanted to order some for herself — and honestly, I wasn’t surprised.

    I still take them now because they’ve become part of my daily wellness routine. The ingredients are clean, thoughtfully sourced, and backed by science — which makes me feel good about what I’m putting into my body.

    🧼 Norwex Cleaning Products

    I have to give a little nod to my Norwegian roots here — my grandpa was Norwegian, so discovering Norwex felt a bit like coming home. I love their mission to reduce harmful chemicals in the home. During pregnancy, it gave me such peace of mind knowing I could keep things clean without worrying about what I was breathing in or touching.

    I still use their cleaning cloths and products daily. They’re effective, long-lasting, and honestly kind of addicting once you get started.

    👟Dr. Scholl’s Leather Kiltie Tassel Slip-on Flats

    Oh, these shoes! I wore them constantly during pregnancy — and still do. The memory foam made them so comfortable, and not having to bend down to tie or buckle anything was a total game-changer. I loved them so much that I ended up buying three pairs (yes, three!).

    Sadly, this exact style isn’t available anymore, but Dr. Scholl’s has some similar slip-ons that are just as comfy and practical. If you’re expecting or chasing a toddler around, trust me — your feet will thank you.

    📖 Bringing Up Bebé

    This book was such an interesting read! While I haven’t put much into practice just yet, I found the differences between French and American parenting styles fascinating. One chapter that really stuck with me talked about how daycare in France is seen as a positive — a way for children to grow independent and social, not as something to feel guilty about.

    Now that I’m back at work after maternity leave, that perspective has been comforting. It’s a gentle reminder that independence can be a gift, even from an early age.

    Pink Stork Nausea Sweets

    If you’ve ever experienced morning sickness (or in my case, all-day sickness), you know the struggle. I came across Pink Stork Nausea Sweets early in my pregnancy, and even though I couldn’t use them as often because of my diabetes, they were such a lifesaver.

    They’re gentle, effective, and actually taste good — a rare combo when you’re feeling queasy. Keep a few in your bag, along with some trusty saltine crackers. Your future self will thank you.

    Aveeno Baby Cleansing Therapy Moisturizing Wash

    During pregnancy, I developed the PUPPS rash (and wow, was it uncomfortable). This Aveeno wash, along with Benadryl, offered much-needed relief. It’s soothing, gentle, and helped calm my skin during those long, itchy nights. If you’re dealing with something similar, I hope it brings you some comfort too.

    🏊‍♀️ Fitness: Swimming

    Swimming was an absolute godsend for me during my pregnancy! I’d get in the water and feel my aches melt away.

    As a diabetic, I also found it helped regulate my blood sugar throughout the day, which was a huge plus. Whether you’re pregnant or just looking for a gentle way to move your body, I can’t recommend swimming enough. It’s restorative in every sense of the word.

    Every pregnancy is different, and what worked for me might look a little different for you — but I hope these little discoveries make your journey a bit easier. 💕

    If you have any favorite products, books, or tips that helped you, please share them in the comments below! I’d love to hear what’s worked for you (and maybe add a few things to my own list).

    Let’s cheer each other on and make this season as calm, joyful, and supported as it can be.

    ☕ Until next time — sending love, strength, and maybe a warm cup of tea your way

    Send me a tea ❤