How to Enjoy Your Final Trimester: Tips for Enjoying Your Pregnancy in the DMV Area

The Final Trimester

I remember when I was pregnant the constant thought in my mind was why is this taking so long. Getting to the final trimester took forever and I was very anxious and nervous every single day about carrying this wonderful bundle... my baby. The reality of having a baby had set in but the anxious waiting was overwhelming. It's both stressful and joyful at the same time. As you get to the final trimester, I'd love to give you some care and love infused advice on things you might want to do and some kind and simple ways to enjoy these last months, as you come to the end of a fabulous and special journey. These things are what I think some women sometimes forget to take the time to do...Do you. Here's my short and sweet list of things you can do for you to treat yourself with the upmost care and kindness.

Taking Care of Yourself

The last trimester of pregnancy often brings a handful of challenges, but it should also be a time of joy and anticipation! Living in Alexandria, Virginia, or Fort Washington, Maryland, offers a perfect backdrop for some well-deserved self-care. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or a refreshing pedicure. Not only will this pampering feel great, but it can also help ease some of the physical tension your body is experiencing. Your well-being is paramount; so, remember to take time to recharge your batteries.

I remember when I was pregnant the first time I really was preoccupied with making sure that things were ready around the house and that I was prepared with all the items I needed for the baby. What I was slow on addressing was the pampering, the fun, and important things I could have done just for me. URG!!!

Documenting Your Journey

One wonderful way to enjoy this period is through journaling. Write about your experiences, aspirations, and even your worries as you approach this significant life change. Reflect on the past nine months and the unfolding journey ahead with your little one. Your journal can become a beautiful keepsake to share with your baby when they’re older, helping them to understand their story long before they join the world.

Preparing for the Big Arrival

As the due date approaches, it’s crucial to ensure you have everything ready for your new arrival. Focusing on finishing the nursery can be a great project to dive into. Whether you’re getting creative with the decor or organizing baby essentials, having a cozy and vibrant space will make you feel more prepared. Additionally, think about planning your maternity leave and how you envision those first days home with your baby. This can help reduce some of the mental stress that often accompanies the final trimester.

Making the Most of Your Time

If you find yourself with a little extra time, consider planning a babymoon or a staycation around Alexandria or Fort Washington or Virginia, and the DC area. This special getaway or stay in your backyard away, can offer both you and your partner a chance to enjoy some quality time together before your family grows. Visit local parks, cozy cafes, or others favorites spots in the DMV area. You deserve to carve out moments just for you before the delightful chaos of parenthood begins.

Being organized and mindful of the upcoming changes helps ensure that expectant mothers feel ready and supported as they embrace the joys and responsibilities that come with motherhood.

Get Professional Maternity Portraits Done

Maternity portraits are such a special way to remember this amazing time in your life. Your body is doing something incredible- it’s growing and nurturing a new human being.

Maternity portraits are the perfect way to capture not only how you look on the outside during this time, but also the joy, love, and hope that you’re feeling on the inside!

These photos will be treasured by you and your family for years to come, and will be a beautiful reminder of this unique chapter in your life.

Professional maternity photographers know how to pose and light you in a flattering way, so that you can feel confident and radiant in your photos. They will also help you to relax and enjoy the experience, so that you can savor this precious time. Booking a professional maternity portrait session is an investment that you won’t regret!
Capturing memories through a maternity shoot can also be an essential part of this stage. Many local photographers offer experienced services to create beautiful keepsakes that celebrate the pregnancy journey.

These photos aren’t just about how you look; they also capture the joy, love, and hope you’re feeling as you prepare for this new chapter. They’ll be cherished by you and your family for years and serve as a beautiful reminder of this unique moment in your life.

If you would like to learn more about the maternity session experience I shoot in a studio as well as outdoors, surrounded by nature as your setting.

Enjoy the Ride!

While the last trimester can be quite overwhelming, remember it’s also a unique period to celebrate. By focusing on self-care, documenting your journey, and doing joyful things for yourself, you’ll not only make your days easier but also enhance your overall experience. Embrace this transition with love and joy. After all, very soon you’ll be holding your bundle of joy in your arms, and every moment spent nurturing yourself now will pay off immensely.

Sonia Greenaway Mickle is a senior photographer and portrait photographer based out of Fort Washington Maryland and Northern Virginia and serves the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. Her goal is to bring out every senior’s personality in their images and she's dedicated to making sure that every senior session is unique and different so that you enjoy your images that reflect you and only you, know that you're special and valued, and experience a fun time. Sonia is now booking the Class of 2025 students for senior sessions, as well as portrait sessions