Have More Fun Before Baby Arrives

Aside from growing a tiny human, you’re probably spending these nine months busier than ever. We investigate what you’re up to.

- Liz Krieger

When I was expecting my first child, the only thing that calmed the chaos swirling inside my head was to go into nesting mode, which meant stocking up on the essentials: Toothpaste, bottled water, batteries (the kind that power a baby swing). So in between doctor’s appointments, childbirth classes, and trying to set up a Interest-worthy nursery, I dutifully raided the drugstore aisles, buying enough shampoo to outlast what remained of my husband’s hair.

“Pregnant women today are aware that their life is about to change forever, so they want to make sure they get ‘enough stuff in’ before they have a baby,” says Jill Lewis, a psychotherapist in New York, US. Whether a mom-to-be accomplishes this by shopping for household supplies or garnering ‘experiences’ such as concerts and vacations doesn’t matter. “It’s about regaining control,” says Lewis. You might not be able to do anything about your rapidly changing body, but you can savour your hours of sleep or book a dream vacation. So what are you waiting for? Find out how other moms-to be are spending their nine months, and get inspired.

Organize Your Plans

Many women approach their impending motherhood in a manner that they handled their wedding day. “They’re used to having a checklist,” says Becca Amirault, a birthing assistant who works with St. Luke’s Women’s Center, San Francisco, US.