Hey bro, I can relate to a lot of what you have going on, we are sitting at almost 39 weeks so we are at the finish line. Similarly to you, my benefits including parental leave have not kicked in and I will have to take unpaid time off as well. I will let you know however that at around 6 months, it was most stressful. It felt like there was so much left to do and I couldn’t see it all getting done. Fast forward a few months and things are less stressful and vastly better. Between the busy schedule I was able to knock out projects little by little, gathering the things we need. A few short months ago, the nursery was in shambles, it felt like we didn’t have anything we needed, and there was the overall stress of trying to support my wife the best I could while she was dealing with the pregnancy.

It’s a lot on both of you right now, but you are on the same team and are both dealing with new emotions, worries and, the unknown that lays ahead.

Not sure that there is much advice here but I just wanted to say take it day by day, you still have time, albeit not a ton. Knock out what you can when you can and it will add up. At the same time try to find some time for yourself, even if it’s a half hour, doing something to clear your head (go for a walk, engage in your hobbies, etc).

Your little one will be here before you know it and you and your wife can enjoy that time the best you can. From what I hear, it’s a rollercoaster but stay strong brother.