It was the same in my workplace - had to finish at 36 weeks. I actually found it boring too, but I finished then because I couldn't wait to leave work behind for awhile!

With no 3, I planned to finish 3 weeks early but she decided to come the very night I finished - yep, went into labour at my last team meeting!

I think 3 -4 weeks before you are due is optimal, but the best thing to do is leave some of the planning for those weeks. Most of the time we go nuts and have everything ready by the time we finish work, leaving nothing else to do.

The weeks before baby comes can drag on a little, but its also wonderful time to really slow down, enjoy the anticipation, wash and fold those tiny baby clothes and finish off the nursery. Try not to get everything done too soon ifkwim? Enjoy the pre baby rituals.