2nd trimester: Week 26

Shopping

If you're decorating a nursery from top to bottom, plan on finishing it weeks before the baby arrives. Because newly applied wallpaper, paint, and glaze release potentially harmful fumes, allow for as much as eight weeks' aeration with the windows open.

Exercise

Your thighs help carry the weight of your uterus and baby, so consider giving them a break. Stretch your thighs by sitting on the floor and crossing your right ankle over your left knee. Keeping your right hand on the floor, pull the right thigh toward the left, and gaze outward over your right shoulder. Hold the position and then stretch in the other direction.

Relationships

If the everyday worries of expecting are getting to you and your partner, lighten up. Catch a comedy show, rent a sidesplitting movie, or simply make goofy faces at each other. You've only just begun the journey of parenthood, and your sense of humor will help you weather the ups and downs that lie ahead.

Siblings

What's in a name? A lot! The coming baby will seem more real to your firstborn if she has a name, so if you've chosen one, use it often to help your child bond early. If you're undecided, a nickname will do fine, but let your child know the name isn't set in stone.

Twins

Stock up now on any diapers, wipes, and creams that may be on sale: You'll need cases of them to keep your little ones clean and fresh, and buying in advance at bargain prices will save money and time. Purchase diapers of different sizes to anticipate your babies' growth.