This week I came across two articles of interest on a parenting site that I frequent called Mother (website).  I was made aware of Mother while searching through a friend's Instagram and thought it would be a good resource during my pregnancy as well as postpartum.  I started following Mother's Instagram for insight, fun resources, and other helpful tidbits.  I check back with their website often as it obviously has more useful content on it than their Instagram provides. 

The first article I read brought a smile to my face because it's about a place that I have been to recently that is one of my favorites - Newport Beach, California - our honeymoon spot!  Before my honeymoon, I was practically unaware of Newport Beach, but after having spent time there I wondered how it could be that I was ever unaware of it!  Besides it being one of my favorite places because my husband and I went there on our honeymoon, Newport Beach has so much more to offer.  Asa and I had a great time exploring this city in Orange County and hope to make it back again someday with our babes to explore even more!  When I saw this article on Mother, it made me so happy.  It was wonderful to hear from a mom who lives there everyday and loves the city just as much as we do.  Here is the article to check out for yourself: (article).  And if you have any questions about my experience at Newport, feel free to ask!

The second article I read deals with a topic that I didn't even know existed until my sister-in-law was pregnant this past year.  After hearing her opinion on the subject and doing more independent research, I have become passionate and gained more knowledge about (co-sleeping).  

When my sister-in-law first began discussing the idea of co-sleeping I was very concerned and thought it sounded like a bad idea.  However, I didn't realize that there are other forms of co-sleeping that might be more "acceptable" or better suited for different families.  Once Asa and I found out we were pregnant, I decided that co-sleeping would be the best option for us.  My in-laws practice "traditional" co-sleeping as a family in their bed, while my husband and I are opting for what the Mother article calls "room sharing."  The baby will sleep next to our bed in his/her own bassinet for the first six months.  After that, we hope to successfully transition to a crib in the other room.  The topic of co-sleeping is one not too common, but I think it's coming around again; especially with an increase in women breastfeeding their babies and taking notice of the positive effects these two elements can have on them.

I hope the co-sleeping article is useful for other parents out there.  Does your family practice co-sleeping?  Would you consider it an option when you start your own family?