Category: Motherhood Inspiration

Not only is being pregnant a brand-new experience for first-time moms, but it also carries a brand-new language. Expectant mothers find themselves discussing everything from breech birth to breastfeeding, Lamaze to labor, and ultrasound to uterus.

For definitions, details, and tips on pregnancy — mixed with some humor from women who have been there — here are some great books to read when you’re expecting.

1. What to Expect When You’re Expecting. Heidi Murkoff
This is the classic pregnancy book, named by USA Today as one of the 25 most influential books of the past 25 years. You’ll find everything about pregnancy — the good, the bad and the ugly — infused with humor throughout.

2. Let’s Panic About Babies! Alice Bradley and Eden M. Kennedy
Looking for some humor to help manage the scary things happening to your body? Recognizing both the joy and terror pregnancy brings, this book takes a lighthearted look at the miracle of birth.

3. Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. Mayo Clinic
This book from the world-famous Mayo Clinic offers an organized layout chock full of information. Resources include week-by-week updates on baby’s growth and month-by-month changes for mom, a symptoms guide, and answers to all your questions.

4. Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth. Ina May Gaskin
Known as the nation’s leading midwife, Gaskin draws on over 30 years of experience to share everything you need to know about preparing for childbirth. In addition to her stories and wisdom, you’ll find a thorough list of resources.

For more tips and advice, sign up for our newsletter — or browse our selection of maternity greeting cards.

Happy reading!

Changing dirty diapers … helping with homework … providing shuttle service … coping with teen angst … offering advice on everything from romance to finance. A mother’s duties are 24/7, 365 days a year. For life.

But, oh the rewards and joys of motherhood! Here are six awesome quotes to remind you just how important and loved you are, Mom.

• “There is no way to be a perfect mother, and a million ways to be a good one.” ― Jill Churchill

• “There will be so many times you feel like you’ve failed. But in the eyes, heart, and mind of your child you ARE Super Mom.” — Stephanie Precourt

• “A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.” ― Washington Irving

• “A mother’s arms are more comforting than anyone else’s.” — Princess Diana

• “I would say that my mother is the single biggest role model in my life, but that term doesn’t seem to encompass enough when I use it about her. She was the love of my life.” — Mindy Kaling

• “Love as powerful as your mother’s for you leaves its own mark … to have been loved so deeply … will give us some protection forever.” — J.K. Rowling

For more tips and advice, sign up for our newsletter — or browse our selection of maternity greeting cards.