If you know anything about me, then you are fully aware that along with the realization of any impending life changes comes a frenzy of list making and preparation. So, I went bezerk researching what books I should begin reading in preparation for becoming a family of three and mommy to one.
If there’s one thing about me that remains consistent, it's my desire to be prepared. Yes, I’m fully aware that reading books will not make me into the perfect mommy or even hold all of the answers that I seek. Nevertheless, I find comfort in seeking the expertise and advice of those who’ve forged pathways before me.
I also am fortunate to be studying Marriage and Family Therapy, which has lended me a bit of guidance when choosing books to read (as you will see by my 2nd book choice).
Here’s my "to read" list:
Instead of opting for the popular What to Expect When You’re Expecting, I decided to give this book a try. The main reason why I chose this one is due to the many fabulous reviews that it received on Amazon.
Note: I'm an avid book review consumer, so keep posting those reviews on Amazon. They help me out, at least!
As for my opinion, I like how The Mayo Guide is written by doctors & professionals who deal with pregnancy on a daily basis. I'm also a fan of how the Mayo Guide is organized. It has an entire section devoted to symptoms of pregnancy, which is handy when you start wondering why your hips are hurting or if it's normal to fall into bed at 7:30 p.m. due to uncontrollable fatigue.
The Mayo Guide also includes bonus chapters on: the weekly development of your baby or anything that you might be curious or confused about (i.e. labor, pain relief during labor, childcare). There's even a special chapter for your spouse to read!
Note: I'm an avid book review consumer, so keep posting those reviews on Amazon. They help me out, at least!
As for my opinion, I like how The Mayo Guide is written by doctors & professionals who deal with pregnancy on a daily basis. I'm also a fan of how the Mayo Guide is organized. It has an entire section devoted to symptoms of pregnancy, which is handy when you start wondering why your hips are hurting or if it's normal to fall into bed at 7:30 p.m. due to uncontrollable fatigue.
The Mayo Guide also includes bonus chapters on: the weekly development of your baby or anything that you might be curious or confused about (i.e. labor, pain relief during labor, childcare). There's even a special chapter for your spouse to read!
This book is absolutely wonderful, and I wish that I could sing it’s praises to you with as much skill & heart as Etta James.
A bit of backstory for you...I'm a lover of good research. In fact, one way that Mr. Mister can get me excited about anything (and I mean anything, including socket sets) is to begin spouting off the research behind whatever it is we are discussing.
Am I a major nerd? Yes.
Do I care? No, I decided to embrace that odd little part of me a long time ago.
With that being stated, Gottman is the research based guru that your Marriage & Family therapist is reading. He has been doing research on marriages for over 30 years. Gottman is not a rookie; he knows his stats.
Note: John Gottman wrote this book with his wife, Julie Schwartz Gottman. It is intended for couples to read. So no worries, this isn't a textbook for MFTs; it's simply a book that you and your spouse can read together.
Naturally, Mr. Mister and I decided to order this one right away. We've been reading it aloud to one another, which has been a very productive experience. Gottman & Gottman are honest about the transition into parenthood & how it impacts the marital relationship. They discuss how some couples are "masters" during this transitional period of life while others are "disasters." Gottman & Gottman examine what the masters do differently & teach couples how to implement these skills. I plan to post a complete review on this one once we’re finished with it.
A bit of backstory for you...I'm a lover of good research. In fact, one way that Mr. Mister can get me excited about anything (and I mean anything, including socket sets) is to begin spouting off the research behind whatever it is we are discussing.
Am I a major nerd? Yes.
Do I care? No, I decided to embrace that odd little part of me a long time ago.
With that being stated, Gottman is the research based guru that your Marriage & Family therapist is reading. He has been doing research on marriages for over 30 years. Gottman is not a rookie; he knows his stats.
Note: John Gottman wrote this book with his wife, Julie Schwartz Gottman. It is intended for couples to read. So no worries, this isn't a textbook for MFTs; it's simply a book that you and your spouse can read together.
Naturally, Mr. Mister and I decided to order this one right away. We've been reading it aloud to one another, which has been a very productive experience. Gottman & Gottman are honest about the transition into parenthood & how it impacts the marital relationship. They discuss how some couples are "masters" during this transitional period of life while others are "disasters." Gottman & Gottman examine what the masters do differently & teach couples how to implement these skills. I plan to post a complete review on this one once we’re finished with it.
3. Baby Wise by Gary Ezzo & Robert Bucknam
Although I’ve heard conflicting opinions on the book, I decided to give it a try. While some refer to the Baby Wise plan as too rigid, others cannot stop talking about how useful this book was to them. My attention was drawn to this book mostly because the individuals who have recommended it to me have infants who started sleeping through the night within their first few months. My hope is that if Mr. Mister & I can get some rest then we can provide the care our new little one needs.
For you skeptics and current parents who are laughing aloud at my bold declarations and plans: please allow me to be naive and hopeful while I still can. I'm fully aware that parenthood is tiring, but I'm hoping for the best.
I’m still reading this one though, so I’ll update you on my thoughts when I’m finished.
What parenting, pregnancy, and baby books have you found to be useful?
For you skeptics and current parents who are laughing aloud at my bold declarations and plans: please allow me to be naive and hopeful while I still can. I'm fully aware that parenthood is tiring, but I'm hoping for the best.
I’m still reading this one though, so I’ll update you on my thoughts when I’m finished.
What parenting, pregnancy, and baby books have you found to be useful?
:) What to Expect When You're Expecting :)
ReplyDeleteThe rest just stressed me out....remember though-the earth in me only goes so far! Lol.