It had been my intent all along to document our preparation process here, but the symptoms of being pregnant have gotten the best of me lately. I’m mostly just tired….all. the. time. They say I’ll turn a corner any day now. I sure hope “they” are right.

So, inspired by Krysta, here are the books we’ve added to our collection recently:

What to Expect When You’re Expecting I’ve had about ten people ask me if I already have this book. Yep. First one I received (thanks, Krysta!). It really is chock full of good information as you prepare for pregnancy and for the baby itself. I’ve referenced it many times for quick answers to questions like, “My head is killing me, is Tylenol really the only thing I can take?” (The answer, unfortunately, was always yes.)

 Your Pregnancy Week by Week, 6th Edition This book was recommended to me by my friend, Cheryl. What a great reference to know how big our little one is each week (at 15 weeks, he/she’s a softball this week, in case you were wondering). The book is also helpful in knowing what kind of symptoms you can expect each week, how much you should be growing, etc. It also includes a “Dad Tip” every now and then. Which reminds me…Ross, I haven’t gotten my foot rub yet. To make up for it I think you should take me to see Julie & Julia. I’m just sayin’…

Baby Bargains, 8th Edition How could I not love this book? I’m married to a minimalist and my newest hobby is clipping coupons. It’s a match made in heaven. My cousin-in-law sent this to us immediately upon hearing the news of our pregnancy (thanks, Erin!). I plan on it being my registry bible. It contains a LOT of information (even more on the author’s blog), but the three things I like most about it are:

1. It compares the different kinds of stores that are out there where baby items are available (i.e. specialty – mom and pop type, chain – Babies R Us, discount – Target, etc.) and what general costs and experiences you can expect from each depending on the items you’re planning to purchase.
2. For the big ticket items, like cribs, the authors provide a summary of the “good”, “better” and “best” options they would recommend based upon their own experiences and those of their faithful readers.
3. The general idea of the book is: here’s what’s out there, this is what is good to spend more money on and this is what isn’t worth it (i.e. diaper stackers…who thought of that anyway?). This is good information for people like us who have absolutely no clue what they’re doing (yet!) and want to spend their money wisely. Because one thing we are already very aware of is that kids cost money!

So, now all we have to do is figure out which items we want and where’s the best place to buy them (or register for them)!

The Jesus Storybook Bible We received this as a gift from my best friend, Elisabeth. Her mom was the one who recommended it (she’s seen her fair share of children’s Bibles as a pastor’s wife) because as the tag line suggests, “every story whispers his name” and draws you back to Jesus and his resurrecting power from where salvation comes. I hope we can create solid traditions of reading Bible stories and praying with our kids every night. This will be a great start.

In addition to the books, I’ve also registered on BabyCenter.com and theBump.com. Both send weekly emails to tell me what’s going on inside of my belly and other useful information like what to bring to the hospital or birth center, how to cope at work during pregnancy, are you gaining the right amount of weight, etc. All good information. However, no matter what I read, whether it be in a book or on a website, I’ll usually back up the information with my midwife, Mary.