The lovely yet ill-conceived baby book is almost a guaranteed shower gift. While we all love to keep track of the milestones as best we can, let’s be honest, those early days are exhausting. If you’re going to spend the energy keeping track of details, it’s not going to be things like "the outfit baby wore on her sixth day" or "the date he got his fourteenth tooth" A pleasing and practical alternative is Nikki McClure’s The First 1000 Days baby journal. It’s a gorgeously illustrated book that takes you through your child’s first days and years, allowing you to keep track of all the important stuff–from first words to first adventures. Plus there’s plenty of space to scribble your own thoughts and memories.Plus? No pink gingham. Now that’s a baby book I want. -Kristen
Not Just Any Book Will Do
