Graco’s Monthly Nods – April

I love reading through all the nod posts when they are “submitted” to me by all of our contributors. I’ve often discovered new blogs this way and there are some great ones this month. A couple left me in tears, some made me laugh but they always remind me about the privilege of parenting. Our April Winners…

Lindsay Lebresco - The Spohrs Are Multiplying – Known
If you were online in the month of April, you could hardly miss the passing of dear, little Maddie Spohr. It was difficult to read anything discussing the devastating turn of events but it was nearly impossible to avoid it. I read and cried and read and cried and I still do. Heather’s words are beautiful and her spirit strong and every post is more touching then the next. The post I am nodding is her post about this community- the online parenting (and non-parents) community. The way people come together at times like this, no matter how you came to “know” someone, we will be there for each other in times of need. It’s a beautiful thing to see…

Kristin DeLoach- 16 Balls in the Air – Breakfast: Waffles and Cash
This post, while the shortest post I’ve ever nodded was one of the funniest I’ve read lately. It captures the sheer innocence, ingenuity and genius of kids at work!

Jon DeHart - Joeprah – Dads Deal with Miscarriage too
This post about the effects a miscarriage can have on dads is particularly poignant. While relating his own highly personal story, he also raises a good point and most importantly reveals great insights that may help other dads better cope with similar circumstances.

Erin McHugh – Total Mom Haircut – An Inner Voice of Compassion
I love this post. I agree with Beth 100% – “I/you deserve the same compassion and kindness that you/I show to others.” It made me think: why don’t I use the Golden Rule on myself? Why don’t I treat myself as I treat others? In order to find inner peace & happiness, you must be kind to yourself first and foremost. I am a very happy person for the most part, but I do think that acting on Beth’s words could help with my insecurities and confidence.

Melissa Parlaman – Chicky Chicky Baby - So I Sing a Song of Love
I love reading these types of posts. I had written one to my daughter when she turned 2 last year. I totally related to this post since I feel that I can butt heads a little with my 3-year-old since she is a lot like me too. Very sweet post–check it out!

Karen Hartzell - Picklebums – A Rod for my back
After reading this post I felt connected to Kate. The “I made my bed and now I have to lie in it” rang so true, especially when I was the one to upset the Hartzell house sleeping routine in the past. However, on that note…it is sheer torture for me to have to share my air while trying to sleep with DH!  Too bad Kate ran the other way when I mentioned I like to touch DH’s arm as I fall asleep! Some days are so busy it’s the only way I feel we can reconnect to do it all over again in the morning.

Amy Trice – The McMommy Chronicles – Coffee Shorts
My April nod goes to McMommy. This story is just too sweet.

Amy Sleep - The Diaper Diaries – Top Ten Reasons I Love Being a Mom
This blog made me think about all the things I love about being a mom myself. And every time I thought my list was complete, I found other things that I love. Good to remember this info – especially when it’s a tough day   The other thing I loved about this blog is it made me realize that there are so many more things to come that I will also love about being a mom. Every age seems to have so many amazing moments!