Help refresh my memory...

[slsurface]

...what should I put in my "nursing basket" to keep on hand?

I'm expecting my 2nd in just a couple weeks. I nursed DS1 for two years, but it's been another two years since I nursed him and I can't remember what is handy to have nearby while nursing DS2.

I'd also love any strategies or suggestions you have for me to keep my 4yo DS1 entertained or busy while nursing the baby.

TIA!

[PatioGardener]

water - lots and lots of water! I have 4 refillable bottles - all with straws. Never before have I needed so much water!

Snacks are nice too - and the remote if you are near a tv!

[DaniMama]

You can include things for your DS too...books and toys that he only gets to play with while you nurse your little one.

[kismetbaby]

*Some sort of water/drink bottle with a straw! I don't drink so much anymore, but the first month I just drank and drank and drank. Along those lines, I had a nice nursing/PP tea. . .not absolutely necessary but nice to have. Also cut juices with sparkling water sometimes, to have some variety.
*Snacks! Easy healthy snacks are so good to have at hand.
*Books or DVDs (this might not be as easy with a 2nd though)
*Soothies--not sure how it went for you the first time, but those gel soothies you can buy were really nice when I got super sore and cracked nipples.
*Nice nursing pads--the thick and soft ones were the best for me early on.
*Soft cloths--burp cloths, CDs, etc. . .I leaked a lot at first and always needed cloths at hand for me and for spit-ups.
*Nipple cream--lansinoh or another natural cream for sore nips is good to have at hand

As for your first child, maybe a special toy that you can give them after the birth and they can play with while you nurse. Maybe a "baby" of their own to take care of? I know you have a son, but a dolly of his own might be a nice way to include him. A 4 yo is old enough to want to be helpful too. . .so maybe you can have things for him to be in charge of while you nurse (like holding your water or a burp cloth).

[slsurface]

Thanks for the suggestions! I'm happy for more ideas too, so keep it coming!

[slsurface]

bumping...