Good Reads Part II

Now let's talk about books that save your sanity AFTER baby is born! Here are some of my favorites from this past year:

1. What to Expect the First Year: Another "must have" in my mind. This book takes you month-by-month through your baby's developmental stages. There is so much information for each month like what to expect at certain doctor's appointments, what kind of things your baby might be doing right about now, and answers to some of your timely questions. There's also a ton of information on general subjects like feeding solids, first aid, and details about sicknesses and symptoms. I turned to this book about 12 zillion times, especially in the first 7 or 8 months. Love it.

2. Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child: Oh my word. This one was (and still is) a total life saver. When Charlotte was around 3 or 4 months old, I started realizing that she needed some kind of napping schedule to start forming. I was struggling with the "how" the "when" the "oh-my-gosh-this-will-never-ever-happen." When my sister-in-law recommended this book, I ordered it 2.5 seconds later on Amazon, received it, and read it immediately. I can't tell you how much it helped me and educated me. Before I read the book I was pretty lost and nervous about naps and "making" Charlotte take them. After reading this book, I felt much more confident and prepared. Not that things always go so smoothly for nap times and bed times, but at least you know some techniques, the research, and that you're not alone!

Yet another use

So here's the thing... I love blogging, but you would never know it based on the fact that I post how often? Uh, like once a month? My problem is that I think of things that I really want to post. Then I wait and wait and wait until I have the "right time" to sit and write things like I want to. Any of you who have or have had little ones probably know that this is a crazy thought. When is it ever the "right time?" Exactly. So here's my new approach - just do it. I know I've heard that somewhere before... hmmm.

Today I'm thinking about how my love for cloth diapers runs so deep. They were right by my side for the many months that my lovely little girl dribbled and spewed out milk every other minute, they were there when my "milk factory" was overflowing and I needed a buffer from the storm. And now, even after Charlotte is beyond all that beautiful imagery, I'm still using these little gems every day. They have now become a staple during feeding time. Before I slide Charlotte's high chair tray on, I spread a cloth diaper over her lap so it covers the top of her legs, the smoosh-zone between her belly and the tray, and even the sides of her legs where peas are sure to get stashed. The result? Easier cleanup and not nearly as many banana-smear-stained pants. Hooray all around!