Pregnancy Reads

During this pregnancy, I've enjoyed reading books and articles to really embrace everything that's going on and all that is in store for us.

And yet, I know that with all of this preparation, there's really only one way to find out what works best for us -- to experience it firsthand!

Regardless, here is a look at some of the books that I am currently reading, plan to read, or have enjoyed during the past several months of being pregnant.

Secrets Of The Mommyhood (here)

This book was a lighthearted and enjoyable read about all things baby -- from pregnancy to birth. I kept a little book of flags on my nightstand so I could highlight any tips and tricks that I really liked. As you can see, I flagged quite a few passages!

One of my favorite tips was this one: "Don't wear maternity shirts before you actually have a big pregnant belly. You will look like a tool."

PREACH!

So, so true, and hilarious!

I also took Heather's great tip for installing a dimmer switch in the baby's room. We love this idea. What a blessing that will be for 2am and 4am feedings ... no harsh light needed, just the dimmest amount to be able to see baby girl well enough to feed her and change the diaper.

The Happiest Baby On The Block (here)

I was loaned the book and the DVD for Dr. Karp's method, and Ian and I watched the DVD together one evening. He reviews the 5 S's philosophy for soothing a baby. Smart stuff! I will enjoy having the book around, too, for refreshing my memory and a little more in-depth information.

Like many people, I have also enjoyed What To Expect When You're Expecting (here) which basically has a cult following. It has a pretty good mobile app as well for your phone or tablet.

On Becoming Baby Wise (here)

This is next on my list to read after hearing a girlfriend who has had success with it recently. Lots of information about getting baby on a schedule.

In my job, we send out The Nursing Mother's Companion (here) and I've recently started reading it to prepare us for nursing. One tip I picked up from that book is to start using lanolin before the birth to prepare for feeding.

Other more fun and lighthearted books I've read have been The Zygote Chronicles (here), Jenny McCarthy's Belly Laughs (here), and blogger Melanie Shankle's book Sparkly Green Earrings (here) which I enjoyed while we were trying to get pregnant. She is a hilarious writer!

So there's what has been on my nightstand and what's currently in my rotation. Between the books and some of my favorite apps (BabyBump, WebMD Pregnancy, and the aforementioned What To Expect app), I have enjoyed boning up on my baby knowledge. 

Just ready to put it into practice and see what sticks!