As a soon-to-be new mom, you’re probably feeling a bit overwhelmed with your growing to-do list. From deep cleaning the house to buying all the baby essentials, there is lots to get done before the baby arrives. Being prepared for your newborn is essential, but don’t let your pregnancy flash by. Instead, take time to celebrate! Here are six ideas to help you make these nine months special.
1. Take Maternity Photos
Embrace your baby bump and that pregnancy glow! Whether you choose a professional maternity shoot or bump progression photos, be sure to document your pregnancy with lots of pictures. Seek out a photographer in your area with maternity shoot experience. Take a look at her prior work and consider recommendations and price. You may also want to take monthly (or weekly!) bump photos to show off your growing belly. Search for an app that adds cute backgrounds, sayings, and milestones (i.e. baby is the size of a blueberry!) to make documenting fun and easy.
2. Create a Heartbeat Keepsake
Hearing your growing baby’s heartbeat is no doubt a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Capture that moment and sound with a heartbeat keepsake. My Baby’s Heartbeat Bear uses a recording of your baby’s heartbeat placed in your choice of bear or other stuffed animal. Simply take the recorder to your ultrasound appointment to capture 20 seconds of your baby’s heartbeat. Place the recorder in the animal, and that sweet moment and sound will be remembered for years to come.
3. Write in a Journal
Document your pregnancy in words. Try journaling each week to remember milestones during pregnancy. Consider purchasing a journal specifically for expecting moms to guide you. Or, you may choose to document this time by writing letters to your baby. One day you and your future child can look back on the journey that brought him or her into the world.
4. Purchase a Stylish Maternity Wardrobe
Buying some maternity clothes is a necessity during pregnancy. Not only are they comfortable, but they will flatter your growing belly. However, it isn’t necessary to spend a fortune on your temporary wardrobe. Instead, choose a few key maternity clothing items that will work with a variety of outfit combinations. Consider spending a bit more on a special occasion dress (baby shower, babymoon, etc.) or on clothes than can be worn postpartum, perhaps ones that are nursing friendly. Overall, find clothes you love because looking good will help you feel good during pregnancy.
5. Have a Party
What better way to celebrate than with a party! Many first time moms have the privilege of having a baby shower. Set yourself up for a great shower by creating the perfect baby registry and embracing the fun (and perhaps cheesy!) baby shower games. Not your first baby or can’t wait until your shower? Host a popular gender reveal party to announce whether your baby will be a he or she. No matter the exact occasion, you and baby will undoubtedly feel loved by all party attendees.
6. Pamper Yourself
With the focus on the baby, it’s easy to forget about yourself! Pamper yourself by booking beauty appointments (hair, nails, etc.) to prepare for baby’s arrival or before your maternity shoot. Splurge on a luxurious prenatal massage to relax before delivery. And don’t forget about your overall wellness: regular exercise, a healthy diet, and plenty of sleep are imperative during pregnancy. No matter the activity, make a point to spoil yourself while you have the time.
Don’t Forget to Celebrate Your Pregnancy
While you anxiously await the baby’s arrival, make a point to enjoy your growing bump. Pregnancy is a unique period that doesn’t last long. Be sure to find fun ways to celebrate and honor this special time in your life.
