did you feel any symptoms other than contractions before giving birth?

Hi,

i’m due on the 8th of January but I feel like my body and mind is already starting to preparing for the birth. I haven’t had any painful contractions yet — just Braxton hicks. However, I have a feeling that the baby is gonna pop before the estimated due date

How many days ahead before the labor did you know that the time had come? Did you notice any other symptoms than contractions / losing water or odd changes in your body before giving birth?