Being a Sane Woman
April 28, 2009
A month or so ago Mary, from Owlhaven, offered me a copy of her book, A Sane Woman’s Guide to Raising a Large Family. I jumped at the opportunity, not just because I really like and admire Mary, but Lord knows I could use a little more sanity in my life.
I got the book and, as I often do, I opened it up to a random page and began reading.
I’d love it if my insides matched my outside all the time. I’d love it if I could feel serene all the time instead of just faking serenity. But despite what others assume about me, endless serenity is not my personal reality as a mother…
Maybe that’s the heart of patience: refusing to be sucked down into negativity and instead choosing kindness; not avoiding the negative emotions… but resisting them, rising above them, and prevailing over them.
This passage resonated with me. People often comment on how patient I am. And I always laugh. They want to know what my secret is. I tell them honestly, there is no secret, I am just better at faking it.
I tell my children that you can never go wrong with choosing kindness. This is especially important advice for those of us, ahem, who are quick to anger and something I really hope my teenagers take to heart as the walk out the door every day.
When faced with choice of lashing out, it is almost always a better idea to take a deep breath and to react with kindness. Even when you don’t feel like it. Even when you think you have been wronged. Even when you think you would feel better by cutting someone else down. In the end, you won’t.
After I read this passage I was hooked on the book. I closed it and started from the beginning.
Mary’s honesty is refreshing and the book is filled with stories of her own family that will make you laugh. Mary dispels the myth that you need to have endless money, space, or patience to raise a large family. I often found myself furiously nodding my head in agreement with what she has written.
Mary has chapters on breaking the Supermom myth, encouraging your children to be life-long friends, parenting hacks, affordable vacation solutions, extra-curricular activities, to name a few. She shares what has worked for her family and for other mothers with many children that she interviewed. Her practical advice will work for you whether you have two kids or twenty kids.
If you are tired of reading books by so-called experts, that advocate certain child rearing theories, but offer no concrete advice, this is the book for you. This book should be a must read for any new mother who is wondering if she will ever be able to handle more than the one baby she currently has. Or for a mother with several small children who thinks she will surely suffocate under the never ending pile of laundry. Or for those of us with large families who are already slugging it out in the trenches, but wondering if there might some new solutions to some old issues.
On that note, Mary is offering a free copy of the book to one lucky commenter. All you have to do is leave a comment and one winner will be chosen by the random number generator thingy. She will even sign it for you. Don’t you love having books signed by the author? I know I do.
Comments are now closed. Thanks!
RSS feed for comments on this post.
Hi, Chris! Well, now that I’m near the first commenter, I’m sure I won’t win…oops, that’s negativity.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:11 amJust kidding! It sounds like a great read. I really admire Mary as well.
Thanks for writing about this!
Sounds like a great book. Lord knows I could use more patience and serenity!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:13 amI need this book before summer break!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:14 amI love your blog and since I’m getting married this June and plan on having a large family of my own there was no way I could pass up on the chance to win this book! Especially since I was already debating buying it.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:17 amThis sounds like a great read, and the title just calls to you, doesn’t it? I dream of one day being a sane women…maybe this will help me get there!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:17 amgood golly, this book would be a godsend right now. Please pick me random generator thingy
April 28th, 2009 at 11:17 amI have been looking at this book on-line… I would love to win it. I could use some more sanity with my crew of seven.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:20 amI really enjoy your blog. I have a two year old and a new born and need all the advice that I can get!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:29 amI’d love to win!
Thanks Mary for the free book!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:32 amI think I’ll buy this book anyway, it sounds really good and I could use the motivation right now (even though I only have two kids!). But winning it would be EVEN better!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:33 amwow, I am the first to comment? great, now I will never win, “random” generators never pick #1
I guess I will have to buy the book instead, thanks for the great review.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:34 amSounds like a great book - I need it!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:37 amSign me up.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:44 amPlease enter me! I would love to read this book. I am expecting my third right now, but I hope to have a couple more. I would much rather read something by a woman who has raised a large family than a book by a psychologist with no kids on how to raise a family.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:44 amI’d love to have this book. You and Mary are two of my favorite blogs to visit! I only have 4 children, but the two of you are 4 times as patient as I.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:48 amWe’re working on number two after years of saying we wouldn’t. And I’m terrified. A little sanity would be a nice addition to the mix.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:50 amI would love to read it. Life is in fast forward here, and it is hard to be patient with so much running around to here and there and whining. Time for Operation Perpetual Vacation to be reinstated.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:51 amThis book sounds great. Hope I win!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:53 amI am forever working on my patience. It helps to know that the moms that appear to have it all together are trying hard every day just like me! :o) Sounds like a good read!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:56 amFabulous. She’s an inspiration.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:56 amWould love to have this book… I love Mary!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:56 am2 parents, 2 full time jobs (Me- work from home with 2 kids under 4- no day care), 1 husband knee deep in pursuing a college degree, 2 dogs, 1 cat and I want a bigger family. Seems daunting- I NEED THIS BOOK!!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:56 amserenity is my goal. I just returned from scrap camp where it was so peacefull and wonderfull that i can not wait to go back again next year. It made me realize that i can feel that way every day i just need to choose to be peacefull even it the midst of the most trying day. So this book comes along at a good time and i would love to win it.
Thank you for telling us about it
April 28th, 2009 at 11:57 amI would love to read this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:57 amThis sounds like something I need to read…. despite having “only” two children!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:57 amOh I would LOVE to win this…..we have 5 and are debating kid 6.
Yay for big families!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:58 amI’d love to read it! Thanks for the chance to win!!!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:00 pmWow. We’ve stopped at two kids, but I could use all the help I can get!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:02 pmI am getting ready to paint “Choose Kindness” on my kitchen wall.
I always tell my children to “Behave”. Everything that could go wrong won’t, if they just behave. “Choose Kindness” says the same thing,,,just more eloquently.
Thank you!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:02 pmYou really sold the book. I may buy it if I don’t win it. I could use more patience and could learn to be kind more often.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:05 pmOooh! I was thinking as I was reading, how do I get this book? Especially when I read “two kids or twenty” (I have two, but could use some help with my sanity.) = ) Then, I get to the end & she’s giving one away? Is this a trick? I hope I win! If not, I’ll be sure to track one down to purchase. = )
April 28th, 2009 at 12:05 pmEnter me!!! I have 6 kids (4 bio, 2 step) and could use a refresher on patience from time to time, especially as summer approaches.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:08 pmI would love this oh pretty number generator. (And pretty Chris too!)
April 28th, 2009 at 12:09 pmI’m 40 and pregnant with my first. After 20 years of adulthood and doing things my way, it’s daunting at times to try to imagine how this baby is going to change my life (and, of course, my husband’s). I would love to have more than one child, if time doesn’t tick away on me. I’m interested in this book because it sounds like it addresses some of the fears I have of the unknown, even though it will be one child and not many.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:10 pmI usually hate books on parenting, but this one sounds like a real gem.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:11 pmI am not entering, I just wanted to say I absolutely LOVE Mary’s book so far (I am half way through and reading it in every stolen moment.) She is so encouraging and I just love the words she writes.
Steph
April 28th, 2009 at 12:24 pmI would love to read Mary’s book! Hope I get to be the lucky commenter!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:26 pmSounds like a great book - it’s the practical (vacation solutions) combined with the less tangible (siblings being friends)!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:26 pmI would love to have a copy of this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:29 pmI only have two kids, but the quote from the book will be one that I think about for a long time. I need some inspiration to be more patient and to choose kindness!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:29 pmI could use some serenity right about now… thanks for the chance to win!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:30 pmI am going to run out and buy a copy…I don’t think I can wait for the giveaway…but I throw my name in the hat anyway. Thanks for the offer!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:30 pm6 kids. Short in the sanity dept. Frequently struggling in kindness as well. Obviously, I will have to BUY the book if I am not picked by the random number generator!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:31 pmI am intrigued. This sounds like a great read. Sign me up for the contest!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:32 pmI’d be honored to win this book.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:33 pmI could really use a book like that. I’ll have to add it to my wishlist!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:35 pmThrowin’ in my number! I’d love a copy…and if I don’t get lucky with the random generator thingy (I know, that’s the technical term right Chris? :)) I’ll just have to go and buy it myself.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:35 pmI’d love to win a copy! Thanks for the giveaway.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:36 pmI would love to have Mary’s book even though I do not have a large family - just two kids. I have been reading her website forever and find her such a blessing.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:41 pmMe too. And I could use some sanity as well.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:42 pmI would love to read this book, enter me please.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:44 pmChoosing kindness is always the best idea. I would love a copy of the book.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:45 pmMore sanity? Yes, please!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:46 pmWho doesn’t need an extra helping of sanity when child rearing? Count me in, please!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:46 pmSounds great!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:47 pmIt sounds like a great book. I’d love a free one but will pick it up if I don’t win!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:50 pmI really need to read Mary’s book. If I don’t win I am going to buy it.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:57 pmWhere do we leave a comment, here or Owlhaven? I checked out Owlhaven but didn’t see a post referring to the book over there.
Chris says: Right here.
April 28th, 2009 at 12:59 pmThis book sounds really great! I’ve been to Mary’s site a few times, and it’s always had something wonderful for my mommy brain to digest.
I hope to have a big family one day, I’ll need all the help I can get!
April 28th, 2009 at 12:59 pmIt sounds like a great book.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:06 pmI love reading. I love books. I love big families. I’d love to win Mary’s book.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:07 pmOh, I’d love to win this for my SIL–she’s expecting babies number 5 & 6 and I know she’d appreciate it! (I’d borrow it & read it too, though my 2 kids is not a larger family, but I’d still love to read her tips!)
April 28th, 2009 at 1:11 pmI need that book, where do I leave my comment?
April 28th, 2009 at 1:13 pmI would love to read this book if for nothing else than the patience part. I feel like I fail miserably in that department and I’m sure my children would agree. I only have two, however once dreamed of having much larger family. I didn’t realize how hard it was and I guess I stopped early.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:13 pmThat responding with kindness is something I’ll have to work on with my kids and myself.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:13 pmYes, please! It sounds great.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:17 pmWhat a great passage! I’d love to read the book. I have (only?) three kids, 6 and under, and I’ve heard similar comments. My dad stayed with us for a month this year, and complimented me on my patience. I told him it’s a lot easier to keep from screaming at the kids when there’s another adult in the house to observe!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:17 pmThat sounds like great advice, and a great book. In a world full of ambivalence (don’t talk to strangers! unless it’s police, or a doctor, or a teacher, or somebody else we want you to talk to, why are you being so rude, say hello to Mr.Smith!)(sorry, small tangent there), it’s nice to have some advice that doesn’t come with twelve caveats.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:19 pmWhat a great idea for a book? I have three kids…not a large family, but I could always use tips on how to treat each child as an individual. I need help in that zone.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:20 pmThis book sounds great. I adore humorous, real life reflections as opposed to those preachy, obnoxious books that tell me how I’m supposed to be doing things. I would adore a copy of this!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:23 pmI’m not the only one faking patience?
This sounds like something I should read. Sign me up to win…
April 28th, 2009 at 1:24 pmSounds great! I need all the advice I can get!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:24 pmI would LOVE to have a copy! I have three boys and am thinking about MAYBE having another baby sometime within the next year. Any and all tips are appreciated.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:25 pmOh, Chris! I would just DIE for a copy of this book! (That sounds really melodramatic…) We’re “starving students” for a few months more but after graduation and the start of the “big job” we plan on trying for kids. He’s from a big family, and I am not… but we both like the thought of having more than just one baby. I saw Mary’s book at the bookstore yesterday, and really, *really* wanted to buy it. Unfortunately, I am (as mentioned) flat broke thanks to paying for school. I would be SO excited to win a copy!
Here’s to hoping!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:29 pmjust for the record I was nodding my head as I read this post that you wrote about what she wrote (does that make sense?)
Anyway, I would LOVE to read this book.
I love getting good books about REAL LIFE things and passing them on to friends. Sign your name on the title page and keep it moving.
I already know who I’m passing it on to after I win….I mean if I win
April 28th, 2009 at 1:30 pmOh, pick me and I promise I will make time to read it (just brought home baby #4, who joins his 6, 4, and 2-year old siblings)!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:39 pmI would love to read this book. I have always judged myself way too harshly on my quick temper when it comes to my kids. They are just kids and would benefit from just a little bit more info I could gather. I love them that much.
More even.
Amanda
April 28th, 2009 at 1:40 pmSounds like a book I could use! Consider me entered!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:43 pmI would love to have a large family and I try to read everything I can on the logistics of making it all work, so sign me up for the book drawing, please. Thanks!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:43 pmThis book sounds great, I’d love a copy.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:45 pmI struggle with the 2 I have and wonder how I can possibly manage a third. Maybe I need this book more than I realized!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:46 pmI NEED sanity! Sign me up.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:48 pmI’d love that book. Pick me, please.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:51 pmI would love a copy.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:52 pmI love books.
How many children do you have to have to be considered a “large family”? I have three. I love them. I do not think I could handle any more. Haha.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:54 pmPick me! Pick me! Oooo, pick me! I would love a copy of the book.
April 28th, 2009 at 1:56 pmI love Mary’s blog and have read (and immensely enjoyed) her book. My copy was from the library so I would love to win a signed copy to keep. I
April 28th, 2009 at 1:57 pmPick me! pick me!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:57 pmPatience is not one of my talents. I love the passage you printed. I should write it on the ceiling above my bed!
April 28th, 2009 at 1:59 pmSounds like a wonderful book! I could use any ideas out there in keeping the sanity.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:01 pmI could really, really, really use some sanity in my life right now.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:04 pm“you can never go wrong with choosing kindness”
That is wisdom indeed.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:07 pmI wonder if the book extends to mothering adult (define that word…) children. Sounds like a good read.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:07 pmI married into four kids, and I would LOVE to read Mary’s book. Thanks to both of you for this great contest!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:09 pmAs a mom of four (and maybe more), I NEED this book! I live in an upscale part of the country, and people are constantly amazed that I have “so many kids” and live in just a two bedroom house. Siblings sharing rooms? Unheard of. Feeding a family of six on a teacher’s salary? Impossible. Yet we do it. I’d love to read about more families that can and more tricks to keep on doing what we’re doing.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:11 pmChris,
April 28th, 2009 at 2:14 pmI’ve been reading your blog for awhile now. I enjoy your style and especially like the pictures. You have a beautiful family! The book you just reviewed sounds like some inspiration I could use!
This book sounds great. I definately prefer ideas from seasoned moms over “experts” any day!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:16 pmI read Mary’s blog also and would love a copy of her book.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:16 pmI’d love to read this book - we have three girls (so far) and I will take whatever advice I can get to gain a little more sanity.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:17 pmAs a short-time follower of both yours and Mary’s blogs, and having 5 children (4 teenagers) myself, I would be THRILLED with any additional wisdom thrown my way!
Bring it, sista!!
Like Mary, our family has also expanded through international adoption. We are in an exciting, as well as exhausting season of life- (just a different type of exhausting than when they were toddlers & preschoolers)
Chris- I enjoy your frankness and dry wit-(aka the Snark Factor) I sometimes picture our boys meeting on the baseball field- 2 of our three are ultra competitive!
Happy season!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:19 pmNancy
I just mentioned your family to a lady I met in town which sales organic meats at our town’s fruit market. She is expecting her 10 child and looks amazing. She knows I am always VERY excited for her when I see she is pregnant. She was commenting how refreshing it is to have me tell her I am happy for her. I only know her by name and I am not a “friend” at all. But I told her I am on your site all the time and you have a big family and people say negative comments to her all the time too. I would love to give her that book and give me a reason to call her. haha
April 28th, 2009 at 2:20 pmOh, I would love a signed book! I’ve never really read a parenting book before but would love to find some suggestions that work for me.
I think the advice about acting in kindness is spot on!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:20 pmI would love to win this book. Not for myself, because at 17, my youngest is beyond all help, but for my niece who has 3 week old twins and is having a tough time. Can’t say I blame her, I had mine one at a time and still couldn’t handle it some days.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:26 pmI need to learn to fake it. I think sometimes I just react instead of taking that much needed breath.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:26 pmLove Mary. Love her blog. Would LOVE a book!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:29 pmI have 2 kids and a disabled husband, so trying to work full time and get all the other stuff done like (groceries, laundry and sports) can be overwhelming. Pick me! Pick me!
Thanks for the giveawy!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:33 pmBring It On, Mary (& Chris!)
April 28th, 2009 at 2:34 pmAnd as I read your note, my impatient children are fighting over a book which belongs to the one HOLDING the book. Yes, this is the time to pretend to be calm and patient when all I really want to do is scream at them to “stop arguing!” This sounds like a wonderful book!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:38 pmThis book sounds amazing. I am a mom of two and everyday I still feel like I am a “new” mom, because everything seems overwhelming, and I am never on top of all the things that need to be done. My mom, the mother of 10, always seems that she has everything together. But as I have gotten older, she has felt more free to share how challenging everyday is for her as well.
Maybe we need two copies.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:41 pmThat’s one I’ll be reading for sure, whether from my local bookstore or my library.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:43 pmThe book sounds wonderful!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:44 pmI’m am delurking just to get a chance at this book….I could use all the help I can get
I have two boys and another little one on the way…….so please, please, please….let me win! 
April 28th, 2009 at 2:45 pmThis sounds like a great book! I’ve always admired woman who can handle more than one child. I only have one and feel crazy half the time from just her! And I love how you talk about kindness. Really, if more of us remembered this tip and actually followed through, this world would be a kinder place. I would love to read this book.
April 28th, 2009 at 2:45 pmThanks!
That passage is great! I can’t wait to read the book…a free one would be perfect
April 28th, 2009 at 2:56 pmjust reading your description sounds like a book right up my alley. I know all about faking serenity but I think I’d want to know your secret for being able to do it because I sure can’t all the time!
April 28th, 2009 at 2:56 pmI could so use some lessons on faking patience better. Also, I’m all about truth telling, and would like to read a book that isn’t all about blowing sunshine up you know where. Raising these 5 kids is life-threatening hard sometimes.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:06 pmSounds like an incredible book. And I need all the help I can get parenting the 5 kids in this house!!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:19 pmi would love this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:24 pmOh, me please!!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:25 pmsounds wonderful! since I missed the boat on the wireless printer (drats!), I will be sure to throw my name in here.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:27 pmthanks!
I have an almost-three-month-old baby boy (my first) and I’d love to read this, especially since I’m convinced Kyle wants to be an only child.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:28 pmWe have 4 children (age 5 and younger). Any encouraging advice would be appreciated!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:28 pmat this point, I would be happy to just fake patience.. . . . .
April 28th, 2009 at 3:33 pmI’d love a copy of that book!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:33 pmlol, I love the “Im just better at faking it” I think I need to work on my acting skills….
April 28th, 2009 at 3:40 pmI’d love a copy of this book! It sounds like just what I need.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:43 pmOh, I’d love a copy of that!
Melanie (mom of 5)
April 28th, 2009 at 3:43 pmCould I BE do lucky as to win two things. I know a girl pushes her luck right! But I would love to hear some large family tips. As for right now…we are blessed with three “spirited” daughters. If we were to expand, which is what I wish for, then I should do some pre reading!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:47 pmthanks for the chance!
xoxo
ronee
I’d love to be entered — I’m the mother of four under five and could use all the help I can get!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:48 pmI seriously NEED this book. It’s like that caption was written for me.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:48 pmThis sounds like an awesome book and I’d LOVE to win! And i could use some help with my sanity!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:49 pmThat would be wonderful. If I don’t win, I think I’ll pick up a copy on my own. Thanks!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:54 pmI’d love to read Mary’s book. I, too, have such great admiration for her and I know that anything she writes is worth reading!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:54 pmWhat a fabulous sounding book! Winner or not, I WILL be reading it. A year ago, I was a mom to three high-spirited young boys. Add in a wonderful new marriage, two amazing stepchildren and the 8-week old currently snuggled in my arms and, TA-DAAA! I’m co-leader of a large family. Not as large as some, but still….
Thanks for the tip on the book!
April 28th, 2009 at 3:54 pmI would love to get this book.
April 28th, 2009 at 3:56 pmNice….If I win I can pass the book around the family.
April 28th, 2009 at 4:01 pmL.
I would love to read the book!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:08 pmI “only” have three children and they are older so the damage is alredy, mostly done. However I can always learn new ways to incorporate kindness into my day! I also have a friend that I would love to gift this too (once I’m finished reading it)!!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:13 pmHere’s my comment.
Keeping my fingers crossed that the random number generator smiles on me.
April 28th, 2009 at 4:14 pmOh please, oh please, oh please! We have five kids from 1 1/2 to almost 13. We’ve just begun the “is it time to by a 12 passenger van?” discussion. Yoiks! Serenity now!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:20 pmOh, Please~OH, PLEASE!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:25 pmPick me damn it! Pick me!!!!!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:30 pmI would love to read this book. Having a signed copy would just be a bonus!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:30 pmOh please me. I love free books and I only have three kids, but it feels like seven on many days.
April 28th, 2009 at 4:32 pmOh Lord knows I would love this book..if I dont end up winning I will surely go buy it! Just the passage you posted draws me to it!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:37 pmMy fingers are crossed! I’d love to win Mary’s book!!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:43 pmMaybe if I win the book you’ll finally get around to calling me back…I had a tax question for you! Yes. Go look on your cell phone…April 14th…that was me. Good thing I wasn’t in jail and you were my only call…
Chris says: Yes, that would have been most unfortunate!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:47 pmChris’ review makes me want this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 4:52 pmSounds like a great book. I’d love to read it!
April 28th, 2009 at 5:03 pmI think this book *could* change my life, because of what you said about “Mary dispels the myth that you need to have endless money, space, or patience to raise a large family.” My husband and are are each one of 3, and we’d love to have a third child - BUT. There’s the economy, the fact that we can’t seem to put anything away with just 2 kids, and the stress, and the childcare question… and yet, wouldn’t it be a shame to have ANY of these reasons prevent us? I think Mary’s insight would be truly helpful to me.
April 28th, 2009 at 5:14 pmI think this is the book I need; well either it or a long vacation.
April 28th, 2009 at 5:22 pmI confess I already purchased this book on my Kindle because we are contemplating adding 2 more kids via adoption to the 3 we already have. I loved it. I thought it was full of advice for any mother of any number. If I win, I will pass this book on to my friend who is a mother of 4. Thanks, Chris!
April 28th, 2009 at 5:31 pmI wish I had read the book half an hour ago. I’d probably be having a nice dinner with my honey instead of being on the computer.
April 28th, 2009 at 5:44 pmI need this book. Please, random generator thingy, pick me!
April 28th, 2009 at 5:47 pmsounds good–love the quote!
April 28th, 2009 at 5:54 pmDid you read my mind? I have been thinking lots and lots about how I need to be a bit…well more pleasant. I need to live in the moment and not plan and worry about the small stuff (my house being cleaned and orgnanized).
I was just with a friend and she said I was the happiest person she knew. I felt sad for her if I was her happiest person in her life. I am grouchy. I need to let things go. I need to realize my kids are people now and not just worry about the people they are to come. Easy to write it not so easy to become that person. I have three kids. Not a lot to some but a lot to others. Lately it feels like a lot…
If I don’t win this I will be checking her book out at the library this week. Thanks for the tip. I would love for you to post books you love and read.
April 28th, 2009 at 5:58 pmI hope I win! I’d love to have this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 6:01 pmThis book sounds like something I really NEED!!
April 28th, 2009 at 6:02 pmOoooh, I would love this book! Ok, I need this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 6:04 pmAbout two weeks ago I found out that I am pregnant and quite nervous as to how I am going to handle life plus baby. I will probably go out and buy this book regarless but it would be really great to start saving money for the baby by winning it instead!
April 28th, 2009 at 6:13 pmthis book sounds Perfect to me.
April 28th, 2009 at 6:13 pmI am a first time mom of a two year old, and work full time at a college as a faculty member, so i am able to swing the mommying full time and woring full time gig…whcih is CRAZY.
but most of all, i always worried i would be a good enough mom, since i justw as not born with that natural patience gig…but have found i have been able to muster up so much for my now two year old with love…but also a lot of “faking it till i make it” type action.
the THOUGHT of having another child at age 41 makes me terrified, do i have the energy, patience, AND DO I HAVE ENOUGH LOVE?
so this book sounds like an awesome one for me to dive into and get soe tidbits to take along with me on this journey.
ALOHA
When my partner and I moved in together the size of our my family more than doubled. I acquired two sons who live with us, as well as John’s older son, his wife and children who live in another state. At times I have felt a great need to run for the hills screaming (with gin bottle in hand) but for the most part having a larger family has been a great joy.
I could certainly use some suggestion & advice though at times. I’d love a read of this book…I have a friend with 8 children who I’d pass it on to as well.
April 28th, 2009 at 6:17 pmI DO get a kick out of a signed book. But I also love a good read. So, this would be the best of both! Thanks to you and to Mary.
April 28th, 2009 at 6:20 pmBoy, I could use some good parenting advice right now.
April 28th, 2009 at 6:20 pmAs I was reading your entry, I was thinking I should pick up this book, even though I’ve only got one right now and only ‘plan’ to have two. (’Plan’ is such an optimistic word!) But I wondered if it would seem silly to have the book when I don’t even have the second kid yet.
But we’re sort of having the second kid debate right now, and my husband has a lot of the fears you mentioned, particularly the one about money. And then you mentioned it would be good for those with two kids, and so… this is my long-winded way of saying I’d like to enter!
April 28th, 2009 at 6:33 pmPick me! Pick me! I have 6 kids and can take all the help I can get . . .
April 28th, 2009 at 6:43 pmI’d love this book!!!
April 28th, 2009 at 6:53 pmI love books. enter me please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 28th, 2009 at 6:55 pmChris, I have been a long time reader of you blog and have always loved your pictures and writings about you and your beautiful family. I am leaving my first comment because this book sounds like something I could use right now. My husband and I are trying to have our first child and we are scared to death we won’t be able to handle being parents. However, the pull to have one of our own is just too strong to ignore. Keep writing Chris, I look forward to your posts every day.
April 28th, 2009 at 7:02 pmI only have two children but I am sure that my youngest is trying to break my will. Maybe Mary’s book would help me. I really like the passage you quoted above. And your words about kindness - good advice!
April 28th, 2009 at 7:06 pmgreat review! i’d love to read it.
April 28th, 2009 at 7:08 pmI would love this book! I only have three children but I wish I had more! I would love to get some tips for helping them remain close throughout their lives
April 28th, 2009 at 7:08 pmI do love books signed by the author, especially those that sound just wonderful. I love your post by the way. Such a good way to put it–it’s never wrong to choose kindness. I think that will be my new mantra because so often I think the world pushes us to judge and “teach a lesson” rather than just be kind.
April 28th, 2009 at 7:14 pmAs a mom of three, who feels “less than” as a mother almost everyday… I need this book!
THanks
April 28th, 2009 at 7:20 pmOnly two kids here, but sometimes seems like fourteen…
April 28th, 2009 at 7:21 pmI am a mother of 6 (one married and one grandchild) who has been slugging it out in the trenches for 23 years and is in need of some encouraging laughs and some fresh perspective! I would love to win this book. Some days I feel like the longer I have been parenting, the less I now what I am doing!
April 28th, 2009 at 7:22 pmSounds like a fun read and we could all use a free book or two.
April 28th, 2009 at 7:24 pmOh man, I would LOVE a copy of this.
April 28th, 2009 at 7:32 pm“… for any new mother who is wondering if she will ever be able to handle more than the one baby she currently has…” That’s SO me. OK, I’m not that new — my kid is 2– but some days I think if I had another baby, I would literally die and crumble to dust. For all the joy my son brings me, parenting is a job from which there is no respite… but I guess we wouldn’t have it any other way.
April 28th, 2009 at 7:34 pmI like free!
April 28th, 2009 at 7:43 pm[...] Notes from the Trenches (new today) [...]
April 28th, 2009 at 7:47 pmThe book sounds great!
April 28th, 2009 at 7:49 pmFeeling lucky here! Thanks for the opportunity Chris.
April 28th, 2009 at 7:52 pmSounds likes a great book!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:00 pmI would love a copy of this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:02 pmSounds like a wonderful book! So pick me!!!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:05 pmi’d love to read the book!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:08 pmhurrah hurrah
count me in
Pick me, random number generator, pick me!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:12 pmI have four children and would love to read this book. thanks for the chance!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:20 pmsounds like a great book - I’d love to win it.
April 28th, 2009 at 8:20 pmThis sounds like a great book. I could really use some serenity - even the fake kind - right about now.
April 28th, 2009 at 8:20 pmI would love to win!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:29 pmdear random number generator. please pick me. thank you.
April 28th, 2009 at 8:33 pmI’d love this book!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:38 pmI can use - and will take - any help I can get. Hope I’m a winner!
April 28th, 2009 at 8:52 pmDoes it help that I have a daughter named Mary?
April 28th, 2009 at 8:55 pmI would LOVE this book. I have a medium family of 4 and would enjoy reading about how to find sanity.
April 28th, 2009 at 9:00 pmI would love a copy of this book, because I have two children under five and I often feel like I actually have, say, five children under two. Help save me from the overwhelmedness!
April 28th, 2009 at 9:01 pmI’m the mom with little children suffocating under the laundry– pick me random humber generator!
April 28th, 2009 at 9:04 pmI’d love to have a copy, even though I don’t have kids yet!
April 28th, 2009 at 9:12 pmI’m ready to win
April 28th, 2009 at 9:13 pmsounds like a great book!!
April 28th, 2009 at 9:25 pmI would love to take a peek at this book. I only have two, but some days even that feels like more than I can handle. I’m done with the “experts” and ready to hear more from actual REAL people who have been there.
April 28th, 2009 at 9:26 pmI would Love to read Mary’s book…
and we are having a heatwave up here in New England!
and I am happy for it as I have been so Jealouse of the kids wearing shorts since you headed south ~
However I do not envey your year round baseball thing…a few months is enough for me…80 degrees on opening day in April and we are all sporting the Bleacher burn…much like golfers tan, with no golf!
April 28th, 2009 at 9:27 pmI am always trying to work on having more patience or as I like to think about it grace with my son.
April 28th, 2009 at 9:28 pmI’d love to read this book, please! With three kids, we’re one too many to be “normal” and not enough to be “large” but our family is a fan of sanity. True story.
April 28th, 2009 at 9:32 pmI want, no I need this book. My daughter and her husband have 9 children all under 13 years of age (2 sets of twins). I need some insight into how that family ticks-and I am curious what is that sanity thing of which you speak. Thanks for your blog–I love reading about your family.
April 28th, 2009 at 9:49 pmBoy do I want this book. That’s all I have to say. Oh, I mean, “Please may I have this book?”
April 28th, 2009 at 9:53 pmI would love to win this book for a dear friend who is a Mother of six, who is facing the most difficult challenge of her life, caring for a son who is battling Osteosarcoma, during his Senior Year of highschool.
April 28th, 2009 at 10:01 pmSounds like just the thing I need at the moment!
April 28th, 2009 at 10:02 pmI doubt 3 kids count as large, but some days it might as well be 13 because of the insanity. Sounds like a great read. And why yes, I do love having signed books. I even keep them on a nice shelf all to themselves, never to be mixed with the lowly unsigned books.
April 28th, 2009 at 10:05 pmSounds great to me. Who can’t use a little good advice?
April 28th, 2009 at 10:08 pmWould love the book- Sounds like good old fashioned-street smart advice…
April 28th, 2009 at 10:32 pmI would love to get my hands on a copy of this book. I love Owlhaven and can’t wait to read Sane Woman’s Guide.
April 28th, 2009 at 10:34 pmSounds like a great book, one that I will have to check out regardless of whether or not I win. Thanks for the offer. (First time commenter - your photos and stories are wonderful and your kids seem amazing. Thank you for sharing parts of your lives with us.)
April 28th, 2009 at 10:34 pmOh gosh - I can’t think of a comment more appropriate than any one of the 200 plus names here would so appreciate her book…. (and because we all want to know how she got time to write it!!!) Amazing woman - I think everyone could learn something from her. Real mum, real issues. Hooray!
April 28th, 2009 at 10:36 pmI would love this book. I have 5 boys and would love some ideas.
April 28th, 2009 at 10:38 pmOh, I would LOVE to have a copy of this book. Four kids isn’t huge, but we’ve had some surprises this past year (not necessarily the pleasant kind of surprises!) and life is harder right now in some ways than it’s ever felt before. I could use a little encouragement!
April 28th, 2009 at 10:50 pmWould love to read her book - sounds great!
April 28th, 2009 at 10:56 pmSounds like a wonderful book, I would love to read it
April 28th, 2009 at 11:06 pmI can use all the help I can get!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:07 pmI’d love a little more encouragement from the real world!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:09 pmSounds like a good book. I plan to check out her blog. I love a good parenting book. And boy, could I use some inspiration right now.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:12 pmI love owlhaven and I’ve been thinking about getting this book. I’d love to win it!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:14 pmOops, it looks like my previous post went through already. It is probably “illegal” to submit my name more than once for the drawing. Sorry ’bout that. And, wow, you have a lot of readers!
April 28th, 2009 at 11:14 pm0,2,4,6 and 8 may all try to point out in their own special way that I don’t have time to read another book, but I sure would like to try
April 28th, 2009 at 11:21 pmFive kids.
April 28th, 2009 at 11:37 pmSingle mom.
Love me some serenity.
Wow this book sounds really good. I have 3 children and 2 steps and I feel as if I am drowning everytime I have them all.
April 29th, 2009 at 12:24 amI love Mary’s blog. And, I would love to read this book, and then pass on copies to my sisters with large families. I’ll wait and see if I can win this random number generator contest. If not, I’ll be raiding the change jar to purchase a copy.
April 29th, 2009 at 12:45 amSounds like a great book!
April 29th, 2009 at 12:48 amI would love to read it!
April 29th, 2009 at 1:16 amPick me I love Owlhaven and would love to read her book!
April 29th, 2009 at 1:21 amSounds like a great book.
April 29th, 2009 at 1:35 amPick me.
April 29th, 2009 at 1:38 amI only have one young daughter. But help. I feel like she is here to open wide my every flaw and pour in the salt!
April 29th, 2009 at 2:01 amI’d love to win. If I don’t win, I’m buying a copy.
April 29th, 2009 at 2:59 amsounds great - i would love to win a copy
April 29th, 2009 at 3:23 amHi Chris, I would love that book! I am in (hopefully) my last childless year. DH and I are moving back to America from China in a few months and I was SHOCKED to see that health insurance costs will equal what we earn in China. That’s taking some adjusting, and I’m wondering how we’re going to afford kids. Some encouragement in that area would be wonderful! We hope to have a large family.
April 29th, 2009 at 3:24 amSounds like a must read.
April 29th, 2009 at 4:42 amI could use any advice I can get. I had 4 babies in 5 years and am still wondering what the hell I was thinking!
April 29th, 2009 at 6:17 amLurker here.
April 29th, 2009 at 6:35 amDon’t let the blog name fool you, I’m Lutheran.
Oh random generator- choose me! 7 kids, a hubby and Nursing school- I NEED the tips!
Thanks ~
April 29th, 2009 at 6:37 amSounds like just the book for me! I would love a copy!
April 29th, 2009 at 6:43 amAs a mom to many I would love to read a book and get insight from another mom of many. I hope I win!
April 29th, 2009 at 7:30 amI love reading Mary’s blog. I bet this is a super book.
April 29th, 2009 at 7:35 amYes, I love books signed by the author!
April 29th, 2009 at 8:17 amI’m dreaming of a big family…two already, more to come?
April 29th, 2009 at 8:44 amI would like to win the book, it looks great!
April 29th, 2009 at 8:45 amI have been wanting to read this book. 4 kids in 6 years here and life is definitely crazy at times.
April 29th, 2009 at 9:14 amoh please, please, let it be so. and i’ve only got six.
April 29th, 2009 at 9:16 amI would love a copy of the book! I have 2 kids and can always use advice on how to handle different situations better. Looks like a great read!
April 29th, 2009 at 9:18 amI have been treading water for quite some time. I could use a book from someone who has been there and done that!
April 29th, 2009 at 9:43 amEnter me! Feeling a bit winded in the middle of the parenting marathon (2 married, 3 more at home) so this could be a great pick-me-up for the back stretch!
April 29th, 2009 at 10:01 amSeems as if many people would love this book, and I am one of them. Count me in, and thanks for the chance to win!
April 29th, 2009 at 10:10 amI have 8 kids, and I still need good advice myself, much to everyone’s disbelief. So, I am entering…
April 29th, 2009 at 10:16 amI only have 4 children and I don’t consider that a large family, though I guess in this day and age many people do. This book sounds very practical. Thanks for all your great sharing of the ups and downs of parenting.
April 29th, 2009 at 10:24 amI need to post that passage on my fridge. It would help every member of our family, maybe the teen the most.
Would love to win and/or read the book! Our family of five is considered large in our community and I don’t think we’re near done yet.
April 29th, 2009 at 10:28 amI definitely need some help in the sanity department!!
April 29th, 2009 at 10:33 amThis sounds like the perfect book for me. I hope I win!
April 29th, 2009 at 10:40 amSounds like a good read! I could use one right now…
April 29th, 2009 at 10:44 amYou have always struck me as a very kind person, Chris.
I am going out to buy Mary’s book today! Thanks for the great review and for more: By the tone of your excerpt, I had a feeling I might know this Mary. After clicking on her site, I knew it for certain. Your post reunited me with an old family friend; I knew Mary as a girl, the eldest daughter in my pastor’s family, whose precious mother midwifed a few of my children.
Thank you!!!
April 29th, 2009 at 10:48 amI have been wanting this book!! I would love to win it!
April 29th, 2009 at 10:52 amPick me!
April 29th, 2009 at 10:55 amI would love to win the book. I only have one child, but who knows? I keep hoping for more.
April 29th, 2009 at 11:01 amSix kids in 7 1/2 years. No twins. Need the book.
And love your blog!
April 29th, 2009 at 11:03 amI’m just now struggling with how to let them all try different extra curricular activites, find the time to do so and still keep some shred of sanity. Maybe I can find the answer in this book! Thanks!
April 29th, 2009 at 12:34 pmI’ve got the four kiddos now…with probably two more in the future. This book is on top of my Amazon wish list.
April 29th, 2009 at 12:41 pmI didn’t know she had a book coming out! I guess I should be better about reading blogs, lol.
April 29th, 2009 at 12:43 pmI hear that I have a lot of patience too, and it isn’t true, I have self control. I DO get mad and frustrated and want to get away, but I don’t give in, at least not often. LOL
We are in shock right now that just was we thought God had shut the door on our fertility, we were surprised with #8’s impending arrival. I’d love a book to encourage me.
Sign me up please. Sounds like a great book.
April 29th, 2009 at 12:56 pmI would love to read this book!
April 29th, 2009 at 1:02 pmI would LOVE to win this book. I could see something like this making a difference in my kids lives. I am constantly stressing to myself (n my head of course!) to be nicer to my son. It can be sooo hard to do sometimes. Like when he does the same thing, over and over and over and…you get the point. By the fifth time of telling him something, I have lost my patience.
Please, please, please let me win!!
April 29th, 2009 at 1:22 pmSerenity Now!! I need some! Thanks for letting us know about this book.
April 29th, 2009 at 1:45 pmAs a homeschooling mom of six I think I *need* to read this book!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 29th, 2009 at 1:52 pmThis is my lucky number! (Pick Me! Pick MEEEE!!!!)
April 29th, 2009 at 1:57 pmThank you! Thank you! Even if I don’t win (but of course I hope I do), I plan to read this book. What mom doesn’t need more sanity?
April 29th, 2009 at 2:05 pmWe’re a homeschooling family that just added baby #6 in March, so I think I could really benefit from this book. It would be nice for some reassurance that I will, in fact, survive this! lol
April 29th, 2009 at 2:30 pmHoping that I get a chance to own this renowned book!
April 29th, 2009 at 2:31 pmI just got into reading your blog…and now I have added to my “must read” book list too! what a good week!! I have a 1 year old little boy and am wondering how I will make it work if we were to have another one in the next year. Do I pray for a boy–so hand me downs are useful, do i pray for a girl bc it would be different… what if i get morning-sickness, how do i care for my current baby? ahh… this book would be super helpful, as you can see. and if i’m the winner for a free copy…even better!
Thanks! ~kelly from MN
April 29th, 2009 at 3:17 pmI will admit that my knee-jerk reaction is to lose it instead of taking a deep breath. And I only have 4 kids! That sounds like just the reading material I need-especially with summer right around the corner!
April 29th, 2009 at 3:29 pmAs the homeschooling mother of a semi large family, I would very much like to read Mary’s book. Please enter me to win!
April 29th, 2009 at 4:49 pmI would love this book! I have 4 kids and would adopt some more, but space & money have been my issue - if that is dispelled …who knows?
April 29th, 2009 at 5:15 pmI would love to read this!
April 29th, 2009 at 5:33 pmcrossing my fingers!!
April 29th, 2009 at 6:07 pmthis sounds like an amazing book!
I could certainly use some sanity! We have 4 children, soon to be 5. I am anything BUT sane these days.
Thanks!
April 29th, 2009 at 6:17 pmIs it too late to enter!? [...sending good karma to that random generator thingy...]
April 29th, 2009 at 8:51 pmI have read Mary’s blog for a long time, but haven’t been organized enough to sign up for any of the giveaways there. I guess I will do it on your blog now. Aren’t you lucky? ^^
Karen
April 29th, 2009 at 9:32 pmI’m in! The book sounds great. Thanks for your blog - I’m a bit addicted to it! Ok, a lot addicted to it.
April 29th, 2009 at 9:33 pmWooHoo! I love giveaways:) and I love your blog! Thanks for writing.
April 30th, 2009 at 12:05 amI WANT this book!! I think I might need it too
April 30th, 2009 at 12:48 amI don’t know if I’m too late for this or not but…I would like to have a shot at the book too. I have 4 kids and could use some sound advice on how to be better at the whole mom thing. Thanks.
April 30th, 2009 at 2:11 amI would love a copy of this book. I have three kids and work three outside jobs and am studying for a degree on top of that. I frequently feel as if I am raising ten kids.
Sometimes people say to me “I don’t how you do it” and I don’t know what to say to that. They don’t see the chaos that comes with it. The crumb covered kitchen floor, the couches covered in clean laundry for a week (and subsequently covered in cat hair) the vaccumming that is always a month overdue. They don’t see the “supermom” subsisting on four hours of sleep a night who has put together a decent dinner, helped with homework, chatted to her kids, taken care of a three year old, changed clothes, decluttered, paid bills, and checked the online banking (only to be confronted with a balance in the double digits) in her two hours between jobs only to completely lose the plot because the trash wasn’t taken out and shout at everyone before slamming plates down on the table and going upstairs to cry.
I sometimes feel beholden to the expectations of the “experts” and the perfect mommies and sometimes a bit of real world, realistic advice on raising a family is the only medicine.
April 30th, 2009 at 4:52 amThanks for posting this. Right now, I’m having a very hard time choosing kindness with my son, and this post gives me much to think about. I’d like to say I’ll read the book sometime, but I’m afraid I’d be intimidated.
Blessings on your journey.
April 30th, 2009 at 7:01 amOh! Great contest! My four feel like a big family, and I could certainly use some tips on staying sane
April 30th, 2009 at 7:51 amI’d love to read Mary’s book! Enter me please
April 30th, 2009 at 8:52 amSounds like a great book!
April 30th, 2009 at 9:45 ambeautiful. I’m going to get it today.
April 30th, 2009 at 10:06 amxoo steph
I would also love the chance to win this book! Sounds like a wonderful read.
April 30th, 2009 at 10:17 amI would love to own this book. It sounds amazing. I will have my first child at the end of June; it is never too early to learn how to be a better parent.
April 30th, 2009 at 12:49 pmOooh, oooh, oooh - please oh please pick me! I need a drop of sanity. Just a drop. Or a word. Just one.
(Struck a chord? Hmm…maybe.)
April 30th, 2009 at 2:33 pmYay Mary! This sounds like a great read…
April 30th, 2009 at 2:34 pmIt is so true. Being Kind always wins in the end. Even though sometimes it is really hard.
April 30th, 2009 at 2:38 pmAw Hellz Yes I need this book.
April 30th, 2009 at 2:59 pmI love Mary’s blog, I’d love even more to have a copy of her book!
April 30th, 2009 at 4:14 pmDuring the week before my third son’s first birthday, which is the same week after my first son’s ninth birthday and about four weeks before my middle son’s sixth birthday (yeah we weren’t thinking too much about the timeline there)and I am going, going, going and feeling like I’m getting nowhere the quote from the book was very calming to my chaotic and just nearing overwhelmed mind. Thank you. I’d love to have a copy of that book.
April 30th, 2009 at 7:06 pmSounds like a great book - definitely useful - esp. when my youngest is a four year old boy (need I say more!)
April 30th, 2009 at 9:14 pmI’d love to read this book!! I know I don’t have a large family by many people’s standards, but for me - well, four kids in five years is a big family!! I’d like a copy of this book too!
April 30th, 2009 at 9:41 pmI have been hearing about this book, and would love to win a copy! I am on my way to a large family, with three children 3 and under, and expecting our fourth in August. Thanks for posting your review. The book sounds great!
May 1st, 2009 at 1:02 amsounds like a book I need.
mom of 4 boys.
May 1st, 2009 at 4:40 pmI would love to win this, have been contemplating buying it anyway. I might still buy it and hope to win this one for a friend with a heap of kids.
May 1st, 2009 at 4:49 pmPeople are always commenting on how serene and patient I am–which makes my kids want to vomit–they’ve seen all the times when the “faking it” cracks. Sounds like a great book.
May 2nd, 2009 at 4:37 pm“This book should be a must read for any new mother who is wondering if she will ever be able to handle more than the one baby she currently has.”
That’s me! Most days I look at my 2 year old and swear he’s going to remain an only child. I’ve always wanted more than one baby and at 38 I don’t have much time left to decide.
May 2nd, 2009 at 6:21 pmHi, I would love to enter the contest. If I win, I pay for the overseas shipping. Thanks!!
May 2nd, 2009 at 6:56 pmI hope I’m not too late to enter. I would love to read this book. And wining it is better than buying it…so here goes!
May 2nd, 2009 at 11:28 pmI would love to read this and if I don’t win it I will buy it (prbably)
May 3rd, 2009 at 8:53 amSounds like a good one! I could use a little inspiration, the laundry and the dishes are getting me down!
May 3rd, 2009 at 11:33 pmLove your blog & would love the book! Thanks!!
May 4th, 2009 at 12:54 amthis sounds like the perfect book for my wife and i, we only have a 3 year old and one due on July 8th, but we are already having some anxieties about raising the both of them right and being able to provide for them.
time to check the library shelves.
May 5th, 2009 at 1:19 pmi have a mere 2 children, but would love this!
May 5th, 2009 at 3:32 pmMy family is ready for a new perspective and this book aounds like it could offer a nice fresh one. Thanks for the info!
May 6th, 2009 at 1:38 am