1. Bottled water. You'll be amazed at how thirsty you are when BF, especially during the warmer months. You don't need spring water, but should use a couple of spring water bottles that you refill yourself. Chill them if you like, but I prefer room temperature water when I know I'll be drinking a lot all at once. The top benefits of using (and reusing) bottles is that 1) you can keep track of the amount you're drinking to ensure that you're getting enough, and 2) you're much less likely to spill a capped bottle than an open glass when you knock it over, as you inevitably will while shifting baby around. This is a major consideration when you have a hungry infant in your arms.

2. Burp cloths. I generally suggest using cloth diapers for this purpose. They're cheap, convenient, and easily laundered. And they're not just for laying over your shoulder or for catching a sudden spit-up. They're also very handy for staunching the spray of milk if baby turns away abruptly, or for catching the inevitable trickles and dribbles if baby can't keep up. It's nice to be able to dry off.

3. Lanolin ointment. Each woman's physical response to BF is different, but most can expect at least a little chafing and irritation. The directions on the tube of Lansinoh suggest applying it after each BF session. Take that advice, especially early in the process. You'll be glad you did.

4. Spare breast pads. Your body may respond enthusiastically to baby's cries, and you may not be able to re-insert the same pads you started with (especially during early BF). Save yourself a scavenger hunt after nursing, and have some spares handy.

5. Tissues. Allergies, mood swings, tears of joy. Need I say more?

6. Lip balm & hand cream. You will be surprised at exactly how much BF will deplete the moisture in your entire system. Be prepared, and try to apply lip balm and hand cream each time you sit down to nurse. It will make a huge difference, and you'll prefer it to staring at your ragged cuticles and licking your chapped lips.

7. Reading materials. If baby isn't too distracted, this might be a good time to catch up on your junk mail, catalogs, and magazines. Toss some into your caddy or basket.

8. Finally, before you rush to pick up baby and sit down, use the bathroom! And be sure to grab your portable phone (you do have one, don't you?), TV remote, and boppy pillow. It could be a while before you get up again.