As is much of the free world I'm sure, I'm anxiously awaiting news of TomKat's kitten. Not because I really care whether it's a boy or a girl or how much he or she weighs, but because I'm chomping at the bit regarding exactly how quiet the Kat of TomKat is able to stay while enduring childbirth. Like many, I'm worried about Katie Holmes. Instead of a Free Katie T-shirt, I think I'd like one that reads, "Scream, Katie, Scream!"

Since I am not going to give birth anytime soon—quietly or otherwise—silence and sanity are important to me. I recently came upon quite a gem of a book which, while aimed at providing strategies for new moms, has some interesting tidbits that will benefit second, third, and fourth time moms as well. While many postpartum nurses will merely toss you a pack of wipes and a few diapers once they learn that you have already been through the whole what-do-I-do-with-this-tiny-baby conundrum, the fact is that women could have a new baby each year for all the cool new information, equipment, and advice that hits the market annually (and still feel as confused as they did the first time around).

The New Mom's Manual: Over 800 Tips and Advice from Hundreds of Moms for Baby's First Yearprovides tips and tricks that I'd not yet heard—even after having four children. I mean, putting a piece of coal in a diaper pail to absorb odors? Brilliant! (It works to absorb odors in a refrigerator, so I don't know why this idea didn't occur to me sooner, but...) And while I consider myself quite creative (read: resourceful when necessary), I've never thought to use 3-D fabric paint to make regular socks non-skid.

Whether you have a newborn on the way, one (or more) in the family room, or are simply are curious about what new maternal inventions necessity has recently prompted, check this book out!

Back to the kitten watch...