your tips & to do's:

Forgetful is, as forgetful does. Mind fog is normal during pregnancy, especially so in the third trimester, no matter how organized you once were. This mental nonsense will improve after the birth of your baby. And in the meantime, try to find the humor in your forgetfulness. You should also consider keeping a notepad on-hand or adopt the use of a note-taking app on your cellphone. For the most important of your to-dos, set an alarm on your cellphone.

Also, it's time to come to terms regarding if you'll use pain medication during labor and delivery. Many moms opt for a natural childbirth - natural meaning without the use of any pain medication - and many moms opt for an epidural at the hospital. If you are interested in learning more about the various methods moms use to deliver naturally, research the Alexander Technique, the Bradley Method, Lamaze, waterbirth, and Hypnobirthing. If you are leaning towards hospital medications, such as a local anesthesia or another common medication used to reduce anxiety and ease or lessen the pain of contractions, you should include this in your birth plan.

Have you selected a car seat for your little one? The most common choice for the first car seat is the infant bucket seat. These seats are often sold as part of a traveling system, with a matching stroller. They are widely available and can range in price from around $70 to $300 (price is influenced by color choices, added features, and brand names). Infant bucket seats are rear-facing only, and have a weight limit of 22 to 30 lbs.

Alternatively, you can opt for a convertible car seat. These operate in rear-facing mode until the baby passes its height and weight limits, and then converts to a forward-facing seat. Using a convertible seat from the beginning means only purchasing one car seat, but it also means sacrificing the convenience of being able to move a sleeping baby from car, to stroller, to house, without disturbing your little one's slumber. You also may face difficulties with a convertible seat if you have a preemie, or low-birth weight baby.

Regardless, all car seats are required to meet minimum safety standards; so, no matter which type of seat you choose, it is a great idea to get your car seat and its installation checked by a certified car seat safety tech. Your hospital or local fire department should offer safety checks. To find an inspection location in your area, visit seatcheck.org.

And don't forget to write in your pregnancy journal!