Even if you don't enjoy reality T.V. (though I would like to know who that is because I bet there is at least one show in the last 5 years you have been hooked on!), you will like this reality book. The Mommy Chronicles by Stephanie Triplett and Sara Ellington is a reality check on motherhood. Stephanie and Sara share their experiences as first-time mothers in a way that sheds light on the true daily events without scaring the bejesus out of you. After all, if you are already pregnant or just had your baby, it's not like you can return him or her, but Stephanie and Sara understand there are days when you might have that feeling! They come from opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of their mothering ideas and that is what makes this book unique. Each perspective is shared. I wish all moms understood that everyone has their own parenting style. New moms know everyone is giving them advice on how to do things. While, at times, it is needed and appreciated, sometimes people don't know how to give advice without sounding like "You do what? No, no, no. You need to do this..." If you are the advice-giver, my advice to you is to say something more delicate to moms like, "I know this technique isn't for everyone, but what worked for me to get little Johnny to sleep was..." If they are interested, they will ask you questions. OK slight tangent, sorry!
Back to the book. You will find yourself laughing and crying while reading their stories. I also appreciate the talk about postpartum depression. While the stigma has decreased, I think we still have a long way to go before moms can admit it and dads can deal with it (without thinking something is wrong with their wife).
The Mommy Chronicles website has a load of information. Stephanie and Sara also host a radio show every Friday where they find experts and ask questions every mom is wondering. These women are seriously busy because they also do podcasts and a blog.
