Here's an initial list to get your planning started.

• Car seat - By law, you can't even take the baby home from the hospital without one.
• Crib - You want one that meets the highest safety standards.
• Bedding - If your baby's gender is going to be a surprise, consider getting neutral colors.
• Changing table - You could use the kitchen counter. But do you want to?
• Rocking chair - Many mothers feel a special attachment to rocking chairs after spending so much special time with their babies in them.
• Dresser - The baby won't be using it, so feel free to use a spare dresser you already have.
• Bassinet - One with wheels will add to your mobility around the house.
• Stroller - Consider getting one that's part of a stroller/car seat combo. It makes transitions easier.
• Diaper Bag - A diaper bag will be your constant companion. Get one you like.
• Baby monitor - You have to leave the baby alone sooner or later, and the baby monitor will become a necessity.
• Diapers - Decide on disposables or earth-friendly cloth diapers. If you go cloth, you might want to consider a diaper service.
• Bath tub - It's easier to bathe baby in his or her own tub than cleaning out the kitchen sink each time.
• Formula - If you decide not to breastfeed, formula can cost up to $1000 a year.
• Safety gate - As soon as your child is mobile (about six to nine months), it will be impossible to keep up with the little speed demon.