Remember when I said I had a big deadline coming up in June/July of what is arguably the biggest project of my life? Well, allow me introduce what said project is: my son.
Yup, I’ve added “mami” to my resume. Not that I wasn’t one when I got Lobo, but this time it’s for a human who I’m providing sustenance for from my own body. Lobo thankfully is happily content with assorted meats and canned food/kibble.
Anyways, I digress. We are head over heels in love with him (although I think Lobo is still trying to make sense of him constantly being woken up throughout the night instead of him doing the waking up) and each little sound, each tiny movement, fills our hearts with overwhelming love and pride. Not to mention we’ve got a good heaping dose of sleep deprivation. Ah, the joys of parenthood. Let me tell you, owning a puppy definitely prepared me for this part of the journey.
But yes! He’s here. His name is Leo and the birth was like nothing I expected nor experienced before. It truly taught me just how strong I am – and gave me a whole heaping dose of gratitude towards my husband for being there with me every step of the (painful) way. While some may be wondering the ‘secrecy’ around the pregnancy, there really was none… I just didn’t feel like making a big announcement on social media and instead let those who needed to know, know. It was nice to experience something to monumentally life-altering in real time without fielding probing questions or unnecessary advice from people.
Now that he is Earthside, we are so excited to nurture his curious mind and encourage his love for learning. In our home, books serve as gateways to new worlds, adventures, and discoveries. With this in mind, we’ve already started building his library with a selection of science books that we can’t wait to explore together. I figured I would share them with mi comunidad since I know many of you may be on the hunt for baby shower gifts or books to fill your own kid’s library. Here are a few titles that we’ve added to his collection:
Big Ideas for Little Environmentalists: Restoration with Wangari Maathai
This book introduces young readers to environmental concepts and the inspiring story of Wangari Maathai, a Nobel Peace Prize winner known for her work in environmental conservation and women's rights.
Bathtime Mathtime
Authored by Danica McKellar, this book creatively integrates math concepts into everyday activities like bathtime, making learning fun and accessible for young children.
Touch & Learn: Things that Go
Through interactive touch-and-feel elements and vibrant illustrations, this book by Becky Davies introduces toddlers to different modes of transportation, stimulating their senses and curiosity about the world around them.
Hello, World! Solar System
Jill McDonald's book provides a colorful introduction to the solar system, offering young readers an engaging overview of planets, moons, and other celestial bodies.
Baby University Four-Book Set
Authored by Chris Ferrie, this set of board books covers fundamental scientific concepts, including physics, mathematics, chemistry, and biology, in a way that is accessible and engaging for babies and toddlers.
Baby Robot: A beep-buzz, light-up story!
This interactive storybook by DK features sounds, lights, and engaging illustrations that capture the attention of young children, inviting them to explore the world of robots and technology.
STEAM for Babies–Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math
Written by Andrea Scalzo Yi, this book introduces babies to the concepts of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) through simple and engaging illustrations, fostering early interest in these fields.
Baby Loves Science Board Boxed Set
Authored by Ruth Spiro, this boxed set introduces young children to various scientific concepts, including physics, biology, and chemistry, in an accessible and entertaining format.
Connor and I believe that fostering a love for science from an early age will not only enrich his understanding of the world but also inspire him to ask questions, seek answers, and never stop exploring. These titles (amongst many more that we are buying) encompass a diverse range of topics and concepts, providing a rich foundation for his early exploration of our planet.
As we navigate the wonderful chaos of parenthood, I look forward to sharing bits of our new adventure here and there. In the meantime, gracias for your love, support, and warm wishes as we embark on this incredible journey together.