The ultimate pre-baby bucket list

You've likely heard it a thousand times: Once baby arrives, life as you know it is going to change. While you're eager for all the joy and wonder a new life brings, you want to send your pre-baby days off in style, don't you? We have six ways to do just that. Read on for fun, creative ways to spend your pre-baby days.

1. Lounge around

Sleep in, take luxurious afternoon naps and otherwise commit one day to lounging around your home. Once your little one arrives, sleep may come in fits and starts – at least until you and yours figure out a routine. Take some time now to relish in all that glorious down time. Put your to-do list aside and rest and relax.

2. Big, delicious meals

When baby makes his or her debut, you may find yourself grabbing fistfuls of cereal on the go – even for dinner. There's no way around it, new parenthood is hectic and confusing, leaving little time for sitting down for meals with your loved ones. For now, we suggest popping a bottle of sparkling juice, setting on some tunes and cooking up a decadent feast with your partner. Light candles, set the table and really take it all in.

3. Get out of town

Book a weekend away during your second trimester. You're likely to be over morning sickness by then and you'll have the all-clear from your doctor to travel. Hit the beach, stroll through a small town or just rent a fancy hotel room right in your own city. Whatever you decide, make time with just you and your partner a priority. When your little bundle of joy arrives, it may be tough to get time away.

4. Take a class

When you have a baby to attend to, it may seem like your own desires are thrown out the window. Before you become a mom, take some time to focus on you. So, you've always wanted to learn to knit or be a better photographer? Maybe you've dreamed of speaking French or becoming a pastry chef. Whatever your dream, now's the time to take action and dabble in it. Sign up for a class and dive in head first before baby comes.

5. Girls' night

Plan a girls' night out with your pals. Set reservations for a hot new restaurant in town, or plan to cook up a meal at home. Whether you're out in the city or more laid back at your place, nurture your friendships now before you're a mom – and revel in all the support and laughter good girlfriends bring.

6. Read

Step away from the baby books! We know you're doing your homework to ensure labor and new parenthood go as smoothly as possible. But sometimes you need a break from planning to enjoy some of your favorite things. Brew a cup of tea, snuggle in with a blanket and spend an afternoon tearing through one of your favorite reads.

What's on your bucket list to do before baby arrives? Share your thoughts with us and other moms-to-be in the comments below!

By Lizzie Goodman

Lizzie Goodman is a writer living in the Midwest. Since becoming a mom, she’s learned to do everything one-handed, often while letting her baby daughter pull her hair and poke her in the face. She believes in the strength and power of women – and really enjoys writing about pregnancy and motherhood.