The “Babymoon”

While many couples will experience a deepening of their relationship through their shared anticipation of baby-on-the-way, pregnancy can also be a time when a couple drifts apart slightly. In the past, it’s been “just the two of us.”

There are many things couples can do to foster togetherness during this season. Think about the things you would like to do, “just the two of you,” and do them – kind of a pre-baby bucket list.

A fun way to connect as a couple before the arrival of your baby is to take a “babymoon” – a getaway with your spouse to enjoy some romance and downtime before the baby comes. This vacation can be a memorable experience as you savor your last days exclusively as a couple.

For our babymoon, Kevin and I drove to a mountain town five hours away and stayed at a bed-and-breakfast. We spent a few days exploring the local attractions, dining in cute eateries, and enjoying one another’s company in a calm, beautiful environment.

If finances are tight, plan a simple overnight trip or even create a “getaway” feel at home. If you have a little more time and money, explore a new city. Much like your honeymoon, the babymoon can be a time for enjoying one another and dreaming about the future.

Here are a few ideas to make the most of your babymoon:

Pamper. Plan a luxury or two, such as a romantic dinner, hotel room service, couple’s massage or a pedicure.

Pictures. Take photos; it will be fun to look back on the special times you shared together preceding your baby’s birth.

Plan. Keep your schedule light and leave lots of space for quiet time and impromptu naps. When Kevin encouraged me to continue on an easy, uphill hike, I began to cry. This feat that normally would have been easy for me was just too exhausting and sparked an emotional spill. We took a drive through the mountains instead.

Primp. Purchase a new outfit, clothing item, or accessory to make you feel lovely and remind you of your special getaway.