Get your hospital bag packed—having this ready will prevent last-minute scrambles or having the task hanging over your head
Fill out hospital pre-registration forms
Change the beds
and organize the linen closet—you are bound to have visitors over the
first few weeks, and it will help to have everything ready
Do one of those once-in-a-lifetime spring cleans; you may never feel like it again, and the energy you exert will ensure that you fall into a deep, restful slumber
Consider inviting a few friends
for a day of spring-cleaning—you’ll get it done in a flash, and have
some company at the same time; what’s more, you can ask someone else to
do the heavy lifting and bending
Now’s the time to invest in natural cleaning products,
not only to ensure that your house is squeaky clean, but also so that
there are no chemicals around to endanger your new baby’s health
Open all the windows and air out the house; clean the rugs, and let the light in
Sort your baby’s clothes into sizes, so you don’t find yourself digging through piles to find something that fits once the baby is here
Give your cupboards a once-over
and check for anything that might be in low supply; chances are you
won’t get out much in the early days after the birth, so ensure that all
the basics are in stock
Do the same in the bathroom, and treat yourself to a lovely, soothing bubble bath at the same time
Prepare a few freezer meals:
there can be nothing better than having a prepared, healthy meal on
hand when your arms are full with your new baby and you lack the energy
to get dinner on the table
Stock your fridge with good postpartum snacks
Make a list of everyone you’d like contacted after the birth
Prepare your birth announcements—address
and stamp envelopes, or design something that can be sent via the
internet, slotting in your new baby’s photo and details at the last
moment
Produce something creative—paint
your baby’s nursery, cross-stitch a little pillow or picture, start a
scrapbook, or simply write a letter to your baby to put in a keepsake
box
Spend some time finding good online sources
for baby necessities, or create a new “baby” shopping list at your
favorite online grocer—when time is tight, all you’ll have to do is
press a button
Consider investing in a diaper service if you are thinking about using reusable diapers
Get your finances in order—pay outstanding bills, and budget for the coming months; you won’t want reminders causing you stress when you are busy with your baby
And don’t forget to make time for yourself—schedule a manicure, pedicure, or massage; not only will time be tight after your baby arrives, but money may be, too
