Mega snowstorm Jonas kept many of us inside for days straight. It's precisely these conditions that result in most babies being born in the fall-- yup, about 40 weeks later. It's not too early to start thinking about maternity leave. Here are some thoughts to consider...

Inventory and institutionalize your work

Now is a good time to take a look at the process and product of the things that you lead or contribute to in the organization. What things can be transferred? What things need to be written and described for others to take forward? Reflect on the roles and responsibilities of your position and how that work can be addressed in your absence.

Figure out your “stay connected” plan

This isn’t to suggest that you shouldn’t fully be invested in your maternity leave. You should, but you must also identify how you will stay connected to the work that occurs in your absence. Communicate your intentions to check email, periodically respond to issue or answer questions, and how you will stay connected to the work, albeit in a modified or remote fashion.

Interview daycare providers

Research and then physically go and check out a couple of different daycare options- Even if you think you know what you want, I found it worthwhile to go visit an in-home daycare and a daycare/preschool center. Seeing the set-up and getting a feel for the places really helped me imagine what it'd be like to drop off this little person that I hadn't even met yet myself. I also talked with a handful of nannies, moms with nannies, dads with au pairs, and grandmas doing a second tour as daytime caregiver. The experience will either make you feel more confident in your choices or help you narrow down the range of options.

Congratulations on this big, impending change. Good luck!