I bet you've done your research about other moms who have shared their pregnancy and birth stories. But don't forget that you're the one starring in your own story at the moment. The precious life you carry will have a special bond with you - and that bond you share is more powerful than any else's bond, especially in their first few years of life.
However, there are few things you need to do before that special day arrives. You'll look back after the baby comes and be so grateful you crossed these 13 things off your to-do list:
1. Sleep
Go to bed early, stay up late then sleep in or have mandatory afternoon naps - just get plenty of sleep. Do you know that most babies wake up between 6 and 7 a.m. every day? They also have no idea what weekends are apparently, so those extra few hours of shut eye are vital.
2. Go with the flow
Women like control. Mothers want to welcome a baby into this world at just the right time, at an ideal age, at the right time in their education or even during a specific time of the year. If it didn't happen as planned, relax. What you should focus on is delivering a healthy baby.
3. Take "bump" shots
Your pregnancy will be an experience full of memories you will never forget...but pictures help fill in any gaps in your memory. Buy an album and stock it with pictures of your belly bump; you can document the baby's growth ever single month until you deliver. You can also have a belly cast painted - trust me, soon you will forget just how big you got to accommodate your precious jewel.
4. Have massages
Pregnancy does things to the female body that only we understand. A massage is an amazing way to not only help you relax, but it also helps relieve pains and aches. If you can't afford a prenatal massage, you have a do-it-yourself spa night at home.
5. Check your health
Getting your health in order should be at the top of your to-do list the moment you find out that you're pregnant. Cut out smoking and alcohol to birth a healthy baby. Go for a full body check-up to see if your babe is developing correctly.
6. Eat right
Eating right should be a no-brainer. Your baby is using the nutrients you are eating so eat fruits and veggies, and drink lots of water to keep your body hydrated. Say goodbye to fries and those tasty but unhealthy burgers you love so much. You'll have cravings, but it helps to remember why you are staying away from junk food; stay focused on your healthy bundle of joy.
7. Childcare
Now is the perfect time to start thinking about childcare. If a family member has volunteered to help out, talk about specifics as soon as possible. If you are looking into daycare, check it out early; some centers are booked months before conception due to the high demand.
8. Get away with your partner
Pack a bag and just go somewhere beautiful. When the baby arrives, nights away take lots more planning and your time alone with your spouse will be more limited. If you already have children, you can arrange a family vacation and spend time together before you welcome your new baby. They like the thought of a smaller brother or sister, but they will surely miss the attention.
9. See a movie
If you can, get a VIP ticket to your favorite theater and watch a movie you have been waiting for. It doesn't sound like the most exciting thing to do, but the time will come when the only thing you'll be watching are baby care programs and cartoons.
10. Read
There is something about reading that is so calming. You may argue that you'll be able to ready plenty of books on maternity leave, but I can assure you that most of them will be baby books. Find an excellent novel and read it outside under a tree or in the evening while taking a bubble bath. You'll feel the stress melt away.
11. Catch up with friends
After the baby arrives, time with friends will be limited. Take the chance to meet them at a favorite restaurant; after you baby comes, you'll be hosting at your home more often. So call your friends, boost your morale and stock up on memories before you deliver.
12. Have date nights
Getting away with your husband is one thing but date nights are another. Date nights strengthen your relationship - which your relationship needs, considering the responsibility on the way. A healthy relationship will boost your chances of delivering a healthy baby and help your marriage survive this new challenge effortlessly.
13. Host a blessingway
I know you're thinking about a baby shower already, but before that, you need to host a blessingway. This small gathering of friends will prepare you for motherhood. By the end of it, your ribs will be hurting from all the laughter, and you will be comfortable knowing that your friends will be there to lend their support when you need it.
