Packing for the unexpected

Image courtesy the Life Photo Archives

Before having Sammy, I would regularly leave the house with only three things--my wallet, keys and cell phone. Now if I'm going out, I have to make sure that I have several diapers, a wet bag, wipes, at least one change of clothing for Sammy (and maybe a spare shirt for myself), two bottles of formula, burp rag, the baby bjorn, and possibly the stroller. It's amazing how something so small can require so much stuff just for a simple trip to the store.

One thing to keep in mind is that, with babies at least, it's always better to be over-packed than under-packed--unless you happen to visiting people who also happen to have a baby on hand and you can borrow stuff if need be. I've learned this through trial and error and now know to bring practically everything but the kitchen sink if I'm going to be taking Sammy on any sort of day trips to visit friends or family. Take this weekend for example: I packed enough diapers and formula to more than last us the day at Stratford Hall. I wasn't planning on spending the night down there, but on a whim I also packed the pack 'n play, sheets and a blanket, as well as pjs and two spare bottles of "emergency" formula. My forethought paid off; Sammy surprised all of us and went down for the night at 6:00 pm. I didn't have the heart to wake him by loading him into the car seat, so we were able to hunker down for the night without any worries of running out of diapers or food. I think I'm finally starting to get the hang of this parenting stuff.