Way back when, families expecting a newborn did just that, they expected a newborn. They didn't worry with deciding on what items and brand names to buy. Life and times were simpler then. The world has changed and we have spoiled ourselves with convenience. Instead of making baby clothes and cloth diapers, we have the modern joy of loading up on all kinds of goodies.

I am the mother of three daughters and I have to say, I have learned a lot with each episode of bringing home baby. With my first, honestly, I had no idea what to expect. I had no clue what I needed and mostly just listened when other people made suggestions on the matter. When it came right down to it, we had EVERYTHING we needed and then some. Some of what we had aquired never even got used but, by the way, made good profit in a garage sale. :)

When number two came along, we decided we would go simple and just get the basics. We still had most of what we actually used with our first child but what was worn out, sold or lost we had to replace with new. When we brought our second daughter home, however, we realized we missed some of what we used with our first daughter (things that we told ourselves we didn't need with the second).

All of this made us better prepared for number 3. We went simple but threw a few luxuries into the mix. This was our best (and last) go. For anyone bringing home a newborn, this is my "advisory" list of things needed.

Emotional Needs

Love and support. When a mother and family are loved and supported, life is much happier and runs smoothly.

Feeding Needs (breast is best)

Breast pump, bottles with natural nipple feel, storage liners for pumped milk, nursing pads, nursing bras and tops, bottle brushes, breast feeding pillow (breastfeeding is hard, anything to make you and the baby comfortable helps), lanolin cream for your sore nipples (trust me!)

When breast is not the best, the right formula can be decided upon with the consultation of your pediatrician.

Everyday Needs

Diapers (newborns grow fast, so I recommend a small quantity of the newborn size diapers, I found size 1 came sooner than expected), wipes (unscented for newborns), protective ointment like A+D or zinc oxide cream, recieving blankets, burp cloths, bibs, PACIFIER!!! (LOL), safety nail clippers, baby hair brush, onesies/body suits, socks, sleepers or gowns, thermometer

Nursery Needs

Bassinette or crib, baby monitor, changing table, rocking chair (not a necessity, but it sure helped me)

Travel needs

Car seat with head support, stroller, diaper bag, diaper disposal bags, premeasured formula packs (convienent and awesome), bottled nursery water

Bathing needs

Infant safety tub, wash cloths, hooded towels, head-to-toe baby wash (lavender was my favorite, soothes fussy babies), baby lotion, baby oil (leave the powders, they arent good for baby's breathing)

Just for fun

Mobile, bouncer, infant swing, something that lights up and plays a tune and last but not least, a good quality camera (a must).

I don't think I've left out any necessity, but then again, I have three children and I hear there is such a thing as "momnesia"... so u never know. If I have, I hope I'm forgiven. Good luck and congratulations!