When I consider our upcoming birth I always end up thinking about my older son Caspar. We are keeping our options open as to where he will be during the birth. Ideally he will be with us the entire time. With this in mind today I packed some new toys into my labor bag. 

• Model tractor
• Diggers and trucks snap cards
• Lyra Gel Crayons
• Lyra Modelling Clay
• Kaleidoscope
• Flap book
• Sticker book
• Animal stamps

I also included a disposable camera for him to use, a blank art book and some favourite snacks. I think he will be disappointed if he misses the birth. He has already told me that he will hold my hand if it hurts when the baby comes out.  

Having our bags packed makes our physical preparations complete. We still have a few weeks to go until the baby is due but we are officially ready.

I wrapped the toys to make them look more like presents. Even if we don't use them during the birth, I am sure they will be useful later.  

I love the sense of excitement, the festive mood that develops as the birth draws nearer. 

I am considering if we should record/video this birth. While I don't want any of the physical birthing recorded I would love to capture the moments we first meet and hold the baby.

How special it would be to relive this later.