10 Heartwarming Ways to Prepare for Your Little One's Arrival: Because Babies Don't Come with Instruction Manuals!

Hello, fabulous mamas-to-be! As you waddle your way into the wonderland that is your third trimester, you're probably juggling excitement with just a dash of terror. Yep, your new ‘labour of love’ is due to make an entrance any day now, and while babies might not come with instruction manuals, at least you’ve got this blog post! Grab your comfy chair (and maybe a tub of ice cream), and let’s embark on this giggle-inducing, heartwarming journey to prep for your little one.

Mental Prep: Changing Diapers Isn’t Rocket Science

You might feel like you're prepping to launch a spaceship, but relax, you don’t need a PhD to change a diaper! Just consider this a warm-up for parenthood gymnastics. What better time to start honing your skills than now? Watch a few YouTube tutorials while you’re stuck in an endless cycle of nesting, and watch how your poise raises as your fears subside.

Shopping Lists: More Complex than a NASA Mission

There’s all sorts of gear being thrown your way: strollers that fold like origami, onesies softer than your nursery rhyme playlist, and don't get me started on bottles! Here’s your chance to make “shopping list” your newfound hobby. Take it seriously because, spoiler alert, you'll never have time to lollygag down these aisles again.

Plan That Baby Moon

If you haven’t already, now is the time to pamper yourselves! Book that last minute baby moon, even if it's just a weekender to the nearest Airbnb. It’s one final hurrah for you and your partner before everything revolves entirely around someone that doesn’t even know the meaning of “self-care!” Take all the naps while you still can!

Draft Dramatic Birth Announcement

Let the world know that the future ruler of nap times has arrived by crafting an epic birth announcement. Try something cheeky, "Guess who finally decided to vacate their studio apartment!” or “Their grace, the queen/king of the cribs has arrived!”. Who doesn't want to start with a lil’ dose of humor?

Stock Up on Snacks: You're Eating for Two, Still!*

While you're making sure the nursery is done to Nordic perfection, don't forget pantry prep! Graham crackers, Nutella, the works — trust the avocados won’t go anywhere, but the chocolate might mysteriously disappear (*we all know who the guilty snacker is here). Pretzels and puddings are basically the secret nourishment broth of life!

Perfect Your "I'm Not Panicking" Look

Get your poker face ready. Master the art of smiling through the chaos, which is a skill you'll harness for years to come! Start with the small stuff like how you'll react when that diaper isn't exactly leak-proof. Hollywood could call you for acting tips!

Curate the Ultimate Playlist

Your baby’s first symphony awaits! Prepare everythi

ng from classical to rock, ambient to abba. Make sure soothing sounds of their wee dreams are curated into a cuddle-heavy symphony — complete with your own heartbeat because, hey, throwback to 9 magical months. This is, after all, gonna be the soundtrack of your new life!

Deep Clean Your Home—The Nesting Instinct Is Real

You'll suddenly feel compelled to clean everything, and I mean everything, even dusting the dust! Lean into it; even a little dust horde doesn't stand a chance against you now. And if you're feeling really brave, products with unpronounceable names (vinegar, anyone?) are right there in your toolkit. Live your best Marie Kondo life, mama!

Take Maternity Photos (If Only to Remember That Glow!)

Capture this magical, slightly chaotic, beautifully rounded moment in time. Get glamorous, get goofy, get you. You’ll want to look back at these in a few years, laugh fondly, and then use them as evidence of why that extra scoop of ice cream was totally justified. After all, this stage deserves a frame!

Get The Snug Legwear Ready

You might not miss baby feet hammering those ribs, but you'll possibly miss maternity leggings. Cozy, supportive, and never judgmental of how many cookies you've had; these are your best friends. Need a perfect pair to start or end your mommy journey? Check out the fabulous Emamaco maternity leggings for the “still-baking” days or treat yourself with “Mum Tum” leggings if the bun is out and about!

Remember, Motherhood Isn’t About Always Knowing The Right Answers

In the end, remember none of this is meant to be rocket science, and even if a few diaper leaks happen along the way, that’s what the washing machine is for! Take deep breaths and embrace this new chapter and always be open for more laughs, trial-and-errors, and joy.

Here comes a massive bear hug from afar, mama. You’ve got this, queen!

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