I was surprised to learn that moms-to-be are actually hiring baby planners to help organize all the stuff, and do all the "research" to buy the right stuff, that comes with a new bundle.

I guess that on one hand it's not really that different from having a planner for your wedding, or a coach for your parenting skills, or a college-prep specialist to counsel your teenager on how to handle college applications.

But on the other, there's a lot to be said for trusting your gut as a mom. Even before you're officially one. Throughout your life, many, many people will claim to tell you what's right for your child. But it's your opinion, and the father's, that's most important.

It doesn't need to be this hard, does it? Our moms and grandmothers would have laughed at the idea of paying someone money to make these decisions.