Friday's Favorites

Here's some of the best momformation I've found this week:

Pregnancy:  Lindsay writes about essential baby gear in Preparing for a New Baby.  Earlier in the week, she wrote Practical Preparation Tips for Postpartum.  Both posts are great if you're expecting a new one, especially if it's your first.  I really didn't give any consideration to the idea of experiencing the "baby blues" until my first was born and I was a basket case for a few weeks.  I cried over everything, happy or sad.  It was nothing serious, just normal baby blues, but since my emotions are typically pretty steady and level, I had no idea my emotions could be so overwhelming!  And don't get me started on my emotions after everything with Andrew!  That's for another post. You know you're hormonal when you find yourself boohooing during the song "Puff the Magic Dragon!"

Doorposts has a great list of Time-Saving Ideas.  One that I've done many times is cleaning the bathroom while the child bathes.  Lately, Damian takes care of Izzy's bathtime, but when I do it, I usually clean the bathroom while she's in the tub.  Even when the rest of the house is in chaos, I love for the living room and guest bathroom to be picked up.  This way, my home feels peaceful when I walk in, and unexpected guests can drop by without me being too terribly self-conscious (just don't look at the rug that needs to be vacuumed desperately!)

I liked Smockity Frock's list of Needs vs. Wants.  Her husband is out of work, so this humbling list helps keep it all in perspective.  She says "Butter is a want.  Electricity is a need."  Wow.

Forget about child labor! Put those babies to work! Seriously, it builds character. Here's a great list of Age Appropriate Chores for Kids if you're wondering what your little ones can do to participate in the housework.


And finally, Nancy Wilson's post today, The Long View, is a great encouragement for mom's of little ones.  It's easy to feel that we're just spinning our wheels when we're constantly repeating the same instructions to our toddlers.  It's a wonderful reminder that our labor is not in vain, especially on those days when the wooden spoon is our best friend.  Of course, I don't have bad days.  My two year old is an angel. 

When she's sleeping.

Have a great weekend!

Gabby