There are many divisive topics within the realm of parenting, and deciding whether or not to nudge your child into a routine is one of them. I continue to talk about this topic because I think dialogue about the most controversial topics is particularly helpful. Even reading something that we disagree with helps us clarify our own thinking and choices. At the end of the day, how we parent is a choice that each of us makes based on what we think is best for our children and what will leave us feeling proud of ourselves as parents. Those choices are definitely going to vary from parent to parent, child

I loved k.’s comment a month or so ago about making a small photo album for her child to take to school after the birth of a sibling. Matt and I have talked so much about the new baby for the past nine months and have tried to be really intentional about building Henry’s understanding and his enthusiasm. I’d like to keep that enthusiasm going for as long as possible.

 

My first idea was to buy a really inexpensive, small photo album from the dollar store and slide photos into it. Easy peasy!

 

But then I thought that it could be a really sweet keepsake, and it would be nice

Dearest Tate,

You will be one month old tomorrow! We will definitely celebrate, just like we celebrate every day that you’re in our lives.

You are such a sweet, sweet boy, and we are incredibly grateful that you arrived safely and in strong health. You were over ten pounds at birth, which means you are quickly outgrowing your newborn diapers and clothes! You have to eat a lot to keep up your weight, and you make the cutest little snorting pig noises when you’re hungry. You’ve also been incredibly strong from day one. You were born with amazing head control, and you seem to have a sixth sense when it