When I became pregnant with my first child I remember strolling off to Mothercare, buying copies of Mother & Baby magazine and browsing through catalogues from Argos and Boots.
I remember being horror struck at how horrendously expensive everything was and thinking how unnecessary it seemed to spend so much money on something which was going to get so little usage or wear. Especially as I didn't always like the designs that were on offer.
Thankfully, my brothers children had grown a little and so we were given their cot, outgrown baby clothes, some nappies and toys. The Grandmas-to-be and I knitted away making little jackets and trousers and everything was fine.
Four children later I realised just how much money is wasted on stuff that really isn't necessary and how much it mounts up. I sold all of my baby stuff, except for a few bits which had sentimental value. Then found out I was expecting baby number 5.
After the shock wore off I realised just how much I was going to have to do to prepare for this baby. Effectively I was going to have to start from scratch again and I begrudge paying out all that money. I decided that this baby was going to be a baby on a budget, but not any old budget. I knew what I wanted and was prepared to make it if necessary - This is one woman on a mission!
