By SARAH WELCH and ALICIA ROCKMORE, getbuttonedup.com

Book excerpt from "Everything (Almost) In Its Place," by Alicia Rockmore & Sarah Welch:

You've no doubt got a handle on the fundamentals you'll need for your new little one: crib, bassinet, stroller, changing table and glider or rocking chair. And your family and friends have probably showered you (or soon will) with sweet gifts like fashionable clothes, plush toys, DVDs and soft blankets. But what else is essential to have in place before you head to the hospital?

While nothing is more rewarding than being a parent, having some grown-up-only getaways is important if for no other reason than to keep you from baby-talking 24/7.The first thing you need to do is get an idea of what kind of outing your circle would like to go on: just how adult is this to be. That will have a huge impact on the choices you need to research and options available.

Everyday life is getting downright expensive these days. Prices for staples like coffee, bread, milk, fresh tomatoes and other produce items have gone up in recent months. And let's not even get started on the prices at the pump!

Late spring and summer is the time when most people move, for obvious school and weather reasons. The feeling of shaking off the old and launching into the new can be exhilarating but also quite intimidating. There will be an enormous amount of responsibilities and headaches accompanying your move.

Summer vacation is coming, and that probably means flying with the kids. Industry analysts say that this summer will be the toughest in years for airline travel due to security concerns, more people flying instead of driving ($4 gas, anyone?) and airlines overbooking on every flight.

The key to organizing a great birthday party for a child -- with your sanity intact -- is keeping it simple and remembering that the most important thing to your child is having fun. If you aim for the perfect party, odds are you'll only stress yourself. Stress is the opposite of relaxed and enjoyable, which is what every good party needs to be.

It doesn't take much to inject a little life into your yard. Start small, with one well-defined area or task, like prepping one flowerbed or clearing all debris from the lawn. You might just be amazed at how "big" the impact can be.Alicia on "Dress Appropriately":

Earth Day (April 22) should be a jumping-off point for inspiration -- and action -- throughout the year. There are many things we can all do, both as individuals and as communities. No matter whether your goals are modest and incremental or life-changingly huge, just the fact that you do something will make all the difference.

Now that winter is rapidly receding, it is time to ensure your home stays well maintained. While a top-to-bottom inspection is required every spring and fall to check for any damage and prepare for the upcoming months, it is important to think of this as a year-round necessity.