Start of mat leave ideas and tips

[singme]

So it’s just under 3 weekS until I start annual leave running into mat leave. Will be 36 weeks. Is there anything I should try and get done before baby comes?

I was thinking of batch cooking but I’m a terrible cook, so was going to use the time to work through a recipe book to at least practice making some dinners even if I don’t manage to batch them. Other than that, wash baby clothes, keep house tidy, try and get out for walks and swims that I have neglected by working! Also read a book and obligatory Netflix.

Could all be scuppered by early baby or tiredness but will do my best!

Don't plan anything big. Just relax and take a day at the time. It'll come around so quick!

SLEEP! relax, rest, spend quality time with your OH because your relationship will never be the same again (not in a negative way). Treat yourself, book a pregnancy massage, get your hair and nails done, enjoy hot food and drink 😂.

Practical things - clean as much as you can, things like kitchen cupboards/ tile grout and other things that get neglected. I didnt batch cook and managed fine but it is a good idea in hindsight. Get some comfy clothes for when you have had the baby, nothing better than a brand new set of lounge wear when you are feeling exhausted. Make sure you and your OH are on the same page with responsibilities. If you chose to breastfeed make a little basket so you can have it within reach as feeding takes up a LOT of time in the first 6-8 weeks, of things like muslins, bibs, nappies, wipes/cotton wool, tv remote, phone charger, pain killers, nipple cream etc. Netflix subscription or similar. Educate your OH on demands of bf if he doesnt already know.

Good luck!! Being a mum is amazing. Feels like 2 mins since I was asking these questions and now my DS is doing his first day of nursery today and ive been sobbing all day 😭😭

If outside it's nice, try to sit in the garden under the sun light reading, it's something you might not have time to do for a bit after baby comes. Plus the sun helps with vitamin D and serotonin.

Thanks! Oh yes booked the massage and hair! OH looking to book a day or two annual leave in March to spend just us (probably )
Good shout on the basket!
I’m so excited!

@addictedtotheflats sorry you’ve been upset! I’m sure your little one is having a great day at nursery though!

Don’t watch Netflix wait until you are cluster feeding.

I spent time visiting family and going for walks. Rest as much as you can!

Something little bit make the most of being able to just 'pop' somewhere like the supermarket, it's something that's now a military operation with a small baby!

I started maternity leave this week too. Bit different for me as I have 2 primary aged DCs but while they've been at school I've met a friend for coffee, met a friend for breakfast, (I don't normally get to see these friends that often as we work opposite shifts) enjoyed some nice walks with the dogs, washed some baby clothes and done some other housework. Oh and of course, I've had a nap nearly every day!

Cinema if that's a thing you enjoy? I love going to the cinema and really miss it now!

Oh yes cinema! Used to love a daytime trip to the cinema on a day off

Have a pamper day, spend lots of time relaxing and build up series/shows to binge on when you're trapped under a baby - enjoy!