When my first son came along, almost 13 years ago, I read through book and list after book and list: "What do I need for the baby? Oh my gosh! What did I forget? Holy cow. I need THAT?! I had better go buy it!"

Most baby sites list out countless "must have" items from cribs and blankets to diaper genies and special bottle nipples. Thousands of dollars can easily be spent trying to keep up with the latest and greatest do-dads and diddies. Here's a sample: new baby list Here is another: new baby checklist

I'm now expecting baby #4 and gosh, how things have changed. I was lying in the bed the other night thinking about our house, the space, the full rooms, my three kids, the toys and books and games and puzzles and food and furniture and.......

Here's the new checklist that I came up with in the middle of the night. I hope it helps you, too. Your're welcome. 

1. Love. Check.
2. Somewhere for the baby to sleep. Check.
3. Some blankets and sheets. Check.
4. Some clothing. Check.
5. Some toys and books and music. Check.
6. Our arms for holding. Check.
7. Diapers. Check.
8. Stroller. Check.
9. My boobs for eating. Check.
10. Knowing that everything else will come, as needed. Check.

Done. I'm ready. Bring it.