Parent-2-be Tip-of-the-week: Take a vacation before baby is born

Your friends and family may have mentioned this to you, but you shrugged it off. We'll say it again, take a vacation, even a weekend getaway, before baby is born. You will enjoy the relaxing time before the stresses and sleep deprivation of new parenthood set in. Many couples fear traveling with baby and often avoid it so you will be glad you took the trip if you don't think you will be traveling again for a while.

If you have children already, you may choose to take your children to spend some great family time before your new arrival debuts or you may choose to travel as just a couple. Parents often forget to take that very important couple time after they begin having children. If you have reliable, trustworthy child care, take advantage of the couple time. If strengthens your relationship and offers you time to focus on each other without the daily demands of caring for a child/children.

Of course, as with anything, check with your doctor to confirm it is okay to travel. If you are traveling by car, stop every hour to stretch your legs and walk around so you reduce the risk of blood clots. If you are traveling by plane, choose an aisle seat so it will be easier to excuse yourself when you need to use the restroom and will also allow you to walk, again to reduce your risk of developing blood clots in your legs. Mommy-2-be should also drink more water than usual to keep yourself hydrated.

Now, book a room and relax--it will be your last time to do nothing for several weeks!