Practice makes perfect, or so they say. Unfortunately, no amount of practice can prepare you for parenthood. But if you're pregnant, getting ready for baby is probably the first and foremost thing on your mind. If you want to make your pregnancy easier, there are some things you can do to get the house and yourself ready and keep you ahead of the crowd.

Start by getting the necessities ready for baby's arrival. Thankfully, newborns don't need much. But you'll want to have a diaper bag, diapers, a few baby outfits and somewhere for the baby to sleep (a crib, a co-sleeper, or a bassinette) on hand before the little one arrives. Bibs, burp cloths, sheets and towels are also necessities. Use baby detergent and have everything washed and ready to go, and you'll save yourself time once baby arrives.

Not only can you get the basics ready before baby arrives, but you can make room for baby in your house and in your life. Determine where baby will sleep, and if you need to rearrange rooms or furniture, start thinking about doing it now. Get the car seat installed in the car. Schedule maternity leave and talk to your boss about options for returning to work. Research paternity leave. Make a will. Taking care of these things before your baby arrives means less to do after your little one is here.

Once you've covered the basics and gotten things under control for the arrival of your little one, don't stop there. Read books about pregnancy and childcare, spend time with friends and family members and their little ones and get all the rest that you can. Each one of these things will help you feel more in control and ready, as well as making your entire pregnancy experience easier and less stressful.

If you want to make your pregnancy easier during the last few months, getting ready for baby's arrival and taking care of the details at hand is a great place to start.

Though pregnancy is an exciting and happy time in a woman's life, it still has its own fair share of ups and downs. From swollen feet to an ever expanding belly (and likely the rest of your body, too), getting comfortable may be one of the most difficult parts of your pregnancy.

Thankfully, clothing designers have realized that maternity clothing can be stylish, fashionable and improve your comfort level during pregnancy. By filling your wardrobe with a few maternity clothing basics, you'll help make your entire pregnancy a bit easier. By starting with your undergarments, you can assure that you get the support and comfort that you need where it counts the most -- close to your skin.

Start with the basics when selecting your pregnancy wardrobe. Purchase maternity underpants and bras, like the Nummies and Belabumbum lines. Nummies bras are also designed to serve as nursing bras, so it won't go to waste after delivery. If you need to purchase larger bras and underpants early in your pregnancy, consider leaving a bit of room to grow. You'll appreciate it when your third trimester is in full swing. Belabumbum also makes maternity swimwear -- a must if you'll be out in the sun during your pregnancy.

Add a belly wrap to your maternity wardrobe, too. Not only are these fashionable, but belly wraps, like those designed by bao bei, also offer increased belly support. For moms-to-be toward the end of their pregnancy or for women suffering from back pain during pregnancy, belly wraps can prove to be an invaluable addition to your wardrobe. Plus, they prevent unwanted belly exposure when your shirt shifts out of place.

Once you've got the basics of a maternity wardrobe in your closet, you'll be ready to make the move and expand your collection to pants, shirts, dresses and comfortable shoes suited for pregnancy. Dressing right can help make pregnancy comfortable and easy from the start.

Making room for the new addition to the family can be a fun and exciting experience, and you can get started by creating an inviting space for your little one. Toys, snuggle-worthy blankets and play centers are just a few essentials when designing a fun but comfortable baby room.

Whether you're counting down the days to your new addition or baby's already arrived, get started on decorating the baby room with some of these too-cute essentials:

Show 'em Some Love
If you're not around to hold and comfort your little one at a moment's notice, let one of the Tender Begginings Giraffes help you out. These plush giraffes are huggable, loveable, super-soft toys that will accompany your baby on any troublesome day. These toys are also equipped with a machine washable blanket so you can create the ultimate snuggle space.

Create a Comfort Zone
Picking the right baby blanket is a top priority for any new parent, especially since baby blankets tend to stick around well beyond the baby years. Pick up a stylish blanket from Hatley Kids; these designer blankets are made with cute prints on one side and a solid jersey and animal appliqué on the other. Their 100-percent cotton material means they're also easy to wash and maintain, so your baby's blanket can last for years to come.

For the Future Movie Buff
Prepare a media center for your toddler-to-be with a set of classic children's movies and animated films. From Alvin & the Chipmunks to the Harry Potter movies, you can spark their imagination and give them a chance to enjoy a chuckle or two. Playing animated movies throughout the day provides some extra stimulation for that growing mind and may even ward off a temper tantrum when stress levels run high.

Make Room for Playtime
Give your baby a chance to play after a busy day of sleeping, eating and crying. The Gund Spunky Playmat features special toys and attachments to let their imagination soar. It's also easy to clean and maintain in case of a "baby emergency," and will give you a chance to take a break from keeping baby busy on any given day.

After the excitement of bringing the newborn home subsides, and you're preparing for a life with your new addition, getting organized can help you get back into your daily routine. Your days are now filled with lugging diapers, stocking up on baby formula and building a new wardrobe for your little one, so you'll need some tools and supplies to keep everything in order. From diaper bags to organizer totes, there are plenty of ways to keep track of all the essentials as you embrace and enjoy this new change in your life.

First, tap into your fashionable ways with a trendy child carrier. The MetroMamma child carriers are a stylish way to tote your little one along on that next errand run, giving you a chance to carry your newborn with flair. Take your pick of camo, dragon or crown designs with rhinestone embellishments or glitter for an extra touch of glam. These versatile child carriers are a must for any mod mommy who wants to show off her little one in style!

Next, pick out your favorite color and style of diaper bag. You can spread the word of peace with the DanteBeatrix Diaper Stroller Tote, a trendy messenger-style bag with plenty of compartment space, or just share your love for metallic with this eye-catching silver bag from Diaper Dude. These diaper bags are made with comfort and versatility in mind to help you carry around all those baby essentials with ease.

When it's time to hit the road for a weekend of traveling, don't forget to pack your own must-haves and accessories in a chic tote. Mom needs her own travel tote to carry books, magazines, snacks and perhaps a fresh set of clothing on those overnight stays. Pick up the spacious Hurley Ace of Spades to show off your trendy side or go for a laid back and casual look with a sherpani tote in bold colors.

Staying organized in the midst of chaos is one of the best ways to overcome the challenges of change and get into your regular routine. Pick up any of these essential accessories when baby comes home so you can adjust to your new lifestyle with ease!

Ah, the baby blanket, a cozy piece of cloth wrapping your newborn tight into a cocoon and protecting them from the world at large. The blanket many kids keep close by their side through the toddler years and beyond. A safe and snuggly accessory, which unconditionally offers warmth, comfort and protection.

Wrapping up your little one is a top priority no matter the season, and there are plenty of ways to mix the practical side of things with a little creativity. Baby blankets made with double layers, velour trim and luxury furs are just a few variations on the old-fashioned knit and cashmere blends. Investing in a quality blanket from the start means your little one can cuddle up in comfort for months to come.

One of the first things to look for is a hypo-allergenic filling; today's baby blankets may be made of synthetic materials such as rayon and polyester but don't have to be the source of health problems for your youngster. The Shootsie Puppy Ear is a good example of a simple, hypo-allergenic blanket that is plenty snuggle-worthy. The blanket is made with blue satin, a rayon-polyester blend, and is free of dyes and formaldehyde.

Choosing a double-layered blanket can also provide that extra-plush feel. A double layer of cotton and polyester traps in the heat and keeps your baby safe, warm and cozy for hours on end. It's an ideal blend for overnight bedding, and blankets such as the le top Plush/Velour Double Layer Blanket are accented with cutesy designs, satin borders and embroidery for an extra touch.

And if you're looking for ways to pamper your tot in ultimate luxury during their early years, a baby blanket made with exotic fur may be a better choice. The Dolce & Gabbana Junior Rabbit Fur Wrap Blanket is a hooded blanket which means creating that cocoon is a cinch; this one's made with 100-percent rabbit fur and a cotton-elastane blend. The best part? There's a detachable pompom right on the blanket so baby has something to play with after nap time.

When it's time to bring the new addition to the family home, a fun and inviting place to sleep and play is sure to give the newborn a grand welcome. You've probably spent weeks, even months decorating before baby's arrival, but you can still freshen up the baby room regularly to keep your newborn happy as a clam. Whether you pick up a set of Uglydolls to make them giggle or fill up the room with creative toys to nurture a future genius, you have dozens of option for creating a fun and inviting place for your little one.

Dolls and stuffed character toys will easily become your baby's new best friends, so choose wisely; most of these will carry them through their toddler years. Uglydolls are ready to share their story and will make great companions for bedtime stories. Pick up Ice Bat, Uglydog or Abima as a set to get started. Newborns might also find comfort in an oversized stuffed animal; pick up a friendly Chimpanzee or Giant Sea Turtle for some extra TLC during those days of growing pains.

Decorate the room with some vintage ABC blocks, and you'll be creating a nostalgic baby or toddler room. Oversized cushions and pillows emblazoned with the alphabet are a few ideas for building a classic toy room. As your newborn gets older, you can make learning the ABCs fun. Wooden blocks are large enough for kids as young as two years of age, and the blocks sit neatly in a tray when it's time to clean up. Some oversized puzzles and games are another way to encourage a little early learning. The Melissa & Doug Jumbo ABC/Numbers sets are great for decorating a room and playing with when your baby gets older. Decorate the room with a few sets of these blocks scattered on shelves or baby furniture - a surefire way to get your little one on the fast track to learning!

Themed blankets and bedding accessories can also help you create a unique and attractive spot for your little one. Pick up a plush pink blanket for your little princess or a simple reversible jersey cotton blanket for the little prince.

Preparing an elder child for a new baby is quite a challenge. Though your older son or daughter may be fascinated by the changes in your body during pregnancy, he or she may be less than thrilled when a real live baby shows up and demands Mommy's attention 24/7.

There are a few things you can do to make her feel better about the whole thing. Give your older child the role of "big sister" or "big brother" as soon as possible, so they start to think of the baby as theirs rather than as an interloper. If she's old enough to do it discreetly, tell her first and give her the opportunity to tell the rest of the family.

Reassure her constantly that her place in the family is special, both before and after the baby is born. I tell my kids that there's no one who can replace my firstborn in my heart, and no one who can replace my baby in my heart. (I only have 2 kids, so if you have more you might want to just call them by name...no one can replace my 2nd and 3rd kids just doesn't have the same ring to it!)

When you bring the baby home from the hospital, it's helpful to have the dad bring her in so the mom can give some extra attention to the elder child. I told my older daughter (completely truthfully) that I missed her terribly the two nights I was away from her in the hospital and it made her feel much better.

Above all, don't get upset if your normally sweet-natured, older child throws tantrums or starts regressing. A new sibling is a big adjustment and this behavior is normal.

I breastfed my younger daughter for exactly one week due to the fact that my older daughter would run in the room and bounce on the bed every time I tried it, which caused me intense pain. In retrospect, I might have solved this problem if I'd thought of a way to include her in the procedure.

Your little one deserves to be the center of attention, so why not dress them up in the picture perfect onesie for that upcoming event? One-piece suits, also known as onesies, make great matches for newborns and preemies who need a sometimes-hourly diaper change, and today's unique styles and color combos can turn your little one into the star du jour.

Onesies made with terry cloth and light cotton are a great match for daytime activities. You can find a very comfortable jumpsuit that gives your little one freedom to play. The more deluxe styles are designed as miniature polo dresses, hooded jumpsuits and even faux bodysuits, which might be the best fit for those Sunday celebrations.

When you're heading off to a luncheon or dinner party, let your kid sport something like the le top Kids Buttons & Bows jumpsuit; it's decked out in a rhinestone bow and ruffles, adding a touch of sophisticated style to their ensemble. This one is also great for holiday revelries. If you just add some patent leather shoes to the outfit, she'll be well on her way to charming everyone's socks off.

For boys, the cachcach Mini Animal Safari Tiger Suit is sure to make the crowds roar. This wild outfit features a hood with ears, giving him a chance to play tiger for the day and look oh-so-cuddle-worthy for any passerby. This is another great fall/winter onesie, because it seals in the heat. You won't need to wrap him up in an extra blanket for too long, and it has a super-comfy, casual style that suits nearly any occasion.

And of course, when it's time to just romp around and play for the day, the boys will look ever so naughty in the Small Paul Skurvy Onesie, sporting skull and crossbones to show their might. And the curious girl who wants to explore the toy chest? Dress her up in the Hatley Summer Garden, a 100-percent, cotton onesie that will keep her looking plenty sweet no matter how much trouble she gets into.

Remember, the best thing about onesies is the easy snap closure. You can change out those diapers in a flash, which gives you more time to enjoy the moment, and let everyone ogle and praise your little star!

Whether you're traveling with a feisty toddler or a newborn that needs some extra special care, heading off to that next destination with an organized tote can save you a few headaches along the way. Instead of investing in a giant black-hole-of-a-bag that leaves you rummaging through dozens of accessories in an emergency situation, a tote equipped with compartments and zippers can help keep things organized and accessible.

Tote bags made with extra-cushioned handles and support straps are also excellent ways to save your back from unnecessary stress. Here are some absolute musts when it comes to selecting the right carryall for your busy travel days ahead:

1. Take a Sweet Escape. If you're looking for something simple and versatile, the O'Neill Sweet Escape might be your ideal match. This one's designed with double shoulder straps and a stylish faux leather trim; with two front pockets and plenty of zipped pockets for the cell phone and other gadgets, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the trip with your day's worth of supplies.

2. Spice up the Diaper Bag. Diaper bags that look like a structure-less bucket are cumbersome to tote around and hardly fashionable. Get your hands on a chic and stylish number from Sally Spicer for a designer look without the fuss. This one features a sturdy platform bottom and multiple slip pockets to keep you organized.

3. Power up the Stroller. The ultimate in versatility, the DadGear Totes are perfect for days when the stroller is going along the travel route with the family. This handy tote features two super-size pockets and small zippered compartments for easy storage. You've also got stroller straps right on the bag for easy carrying when the stroller is a necessity, but the bag can serve just as well as an independent carryall.

Whether you're heading out on a weekend picnic or battling through the crowds at the grocery store with kids in tow, a sturdy tote bag is all you need to make it a smooth-sailing trip. Just fill 'er up with diapers, toys, extra bottles and handiwipes so you're well-prepared for any mishap or temper tantrum along the way!

DadGear Totes

Choosing the right baby stroller can be a challenge for many new parents, but you'll find several efficient, multi-functional and super versatile models to choose from. The days of the traditional pram and baby carriage have given way to stylish, lightweight models that help you and baby get around town with ease. Many are now equipped with weather-resistant materials and durable tires, so you can take on that upcoming adventure with ease!

Multi-Purpose and Versatile
Strollers designed to accommodate for different positions, terrains and built with folding technology are stylish and versatile for families on the go. The City Classic stroller is made with 12-inch, all-terrain tires and a convenient rear parking brake. Padded seats and quick release wheels make this a versatile and multi-functional stroller that's sure to last for years to come.

Fashionable and Sharp
When you want to make a fashion statement at the park or take your tot on a stylish ride through the neighborhood, strollers like the Baby Jogger City Elite are eye-catching styles that offer a comfortable ride. This stroller folds easily and is designed with a padded 5-point safety harness for extra protection. If you're the type of parent who likes to pack several accessories, this one offers plenty of room with its six storage compartments.

Double the Fun!
Whether you're managing twins or just want some extra room for accessories and toys in the stroller, a double baby jogger might be the right match. The Baby Jogger City Classic is designed with an adjustable 5-point safety harness and efficient folding and locking system. Whether you're tackling city parks or heading out for a spin around the neighborhood, this one's ready to take on any challenge with its 12" all-terrain pneumatic tires.

Other Accessories
If it's time to just tote along your baby or tiny tot for a day outdoors, a comfy crib designed to withstand nature is an ideal match. The Bassinet Baby Jogger is a hard cased pram designed with its own adjustable sun canopy and can sit easily on top of the stroller - or just carried around.