The Three Martini Gift

For anyone who is a new parent, you know that you have to just sit back and laugh at what your new life is throwing at you. The craziest things will happen to you when you have a new baby. You'll answer the door in your nursing pajamas, possibily with a breast still hanging out. Showering isn't a top priority anymore. And it's amazing at the number of stop signs you will roll through at 3:00 a.m. trying to get your little one to sleep. As new parents it is our responsibility to pass on this insider knowledge to other soon-to-be parents, of course in a fun loving way. The best way to do this is to give one (or all) of these great books to them: The Three Martini Play Date: An Essential Guide to Happy Parenting. Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay: And Other Things I Had to Learn as a New Mom. Naptime Is the New Happy Hour: And Other Ways Toddlers Turn Your Life Upside Down. I'd Trade My Husband for a Housekeeper: Loving Your Marriage after the Baby Carriage. Your friends will thank you for passing along your new parent wisdom.

Fashionomics

Fashionomics; the art of being savvy with your wardrobe. If you are expecting during these tumultuous economic times you certainly should be savvy, but if you are anything like me you don't really want to sacrifice your amazing fashion sense to do this. This is where you have to apply fashionomics. Calculate the cost per wear; if you are going to wear that piece again and again the usability far exceeds the cost. Buy fashions that are classic, comfortable and excellent quality. Mix and match for a variety of looks. Ensure these pieces bring you all the way through each trimester, including the 4th. My final savvy fashion tip is to buy some fantastic pieces on sale. Check out the Haute Mama website for some great fall buys (but you better hurry, they are quickly disappearing!)