To involve the family in the preparations for this unique time for the couple, have you thought about a baby shower? This is a traditional party where friends and relatives celebrate the pregnancy by gifting the baby before they are even born. These gifts are dedicated to hygiene and to completing the layette. The shower is organized with much affection and care by the future parents. In addition to tasty snacks and drinks, there will also be party favors and a lovingly made decoration. The host proudly parades her belly, several weeks pregnant, so everyone can admire, compliment and, of course, take pictures to record memories of this day of joy and celebration.

The name selection is also part of preparations for the baby's arrival. This may not be as simple a task as choosing the layette, unless the parents have already decided on a name before pregnancy. Friends and family may weigh in and the couple may receive many opinions. Choosing a name is choosing the legacy of a child who will one day grow up, and should be made with a lot of care, love, and attention.

However, the baby's arrival also requires preparations beyond material matters. The mother must prepare for sleepless nights, all the discomfort she will feel after the delivery, and also the challenges that this new life brings. For women, adaptation might begin even before childbirth, as she may need to take leave from work to await the baby's birth. Maternity leave is one of this new mother's concerns. She should check with her company how much time she will have to stay with her baby. Usually, companies offer 120 days of leave, and some women extend this period by taking accrued vacation days. Lastly, all that's left is to decide what to pack in the maternity bag and hope for a smooth delivery.

Photos: Kevin Conor Keller, Jorge Cruz