I read this in one afternoon. It was so good.

I read it as a provider who's cared for dozens of families. I read it as a fierce advocate for what I know the fourth trimester could look and be like, but know what it's actually like for many families. And I read it and wished I'd had this when I was pregnant because I didn't prepare for life after baby. And I should have.

This book is not only a resource and a guide, but a gift to the world. There are recipes for simple and nutrition-packed snacks and meals, there are journaling prompts, beautiful photos and quotes from parents who’ve been there, and done that. The authors and their shop, Mama Goodness, are located in Australia which is both wonderful and a bummer to me. I wish they were here, offering their sweetness to local families, but what I wish even more, was that this country was more equipped to offer this kind of caring approach to the postpartum period. WHY do we make things so hard? WHY do we expect people to bounce back so quickly after brining forth new life? WHY are we so harsh sometimes?!

Do yourself a favor and look for this at your local bookstore, library, or somewhere online. It’s a gift to yourself and would be a great gift for someone thinking about being pregnant or for someone already with child. If you read it, please let me know what you think!