In 2002, Catherine Newman began an online journal on BabyCenter.com chronicling the joys and struggles of parenting her son Ben. When Ben was almost three, Newman and her husband discovered they were pregnant with child number two, whom they nicknamed "Birdy." Waiting for Birdy is a collection of essays from Newman's column centered on the year encompassing her pregnancy and then parenting a newborn and young child.

Filled with laugh-out-loud, incredibly realistic vignettes about life, Newman's chronicle captures mundane moments that will have readers nodding their heads in recognition. For example, I thought I was the only one who could taste everything in the freezer in the ice cubes when I was pregnant! Waiting for Birdy is a poignant memoir that will help parents realize that no matter what they are going through, they are not alone. From bedtime troubles to not understanding a thing your preschooler is trying to say, it's comforting to know that you have a friend who is experiencing things right along with you.

I laughed, cried, and cheered as I read Waiting for Birdy. It should be required reading for parents, if only to share in the camaraderie of the situations. Newman's openness and honesty about her own shortfalls will let readers know they aren't the only ones going through the craziness and confusion (as well as the joy!).

I had never read Newman's column before, but now I am making a point to visit the site weekly to read her updates. I have even been inspired to write things down about my children so that I don't forget the sweet, and at times bittersweet, moments. Waiting for Birdy is a true treasure. I highly recommend it for all parents.