Rock the Cradle Find the best Mother’s Day gifts for the new mom or mom-to-be in your life

It seems every time I turn around, someone tells me she’s having a baby. Even my TV heroes – Sydney Bristow of “Alias” and Dr. Bailey of “Grey’s Anatomy” – just had babies. I’m completely in awe of these women. I can barely cook dinner when I get home from work, let alone entertain, feed, bathe and comfort a newborn. And then there’s the whole waking up in the middle of the night thing.

This year’s installation of ShopGirl: The Mother’s Day gift edition goes out to these fearless females and their badass bellies – or, babies, as the case may be.

For those about to rock (the cradle): We salute you.

ShopGirl would love to hear from you! Send questions, comments or suggestions by e-mail to: kandresen@bangordailynews.net, by U.S. mail to: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor, ME 04402-1329, or by fax to: 941-9476. Tune in to ShopGirl at 5 p.m. Fridays on WLBZ-2.

. A diaper bag that isn’t heinous. These sassy satchels prove they don’t have to be. Brocade messenger bag-backpack, $48, Metropolitan Soul in Bangor (This has a matching belt, as well, which adjusts to fit a growing or shrinking waistline). Pink over-the-shoulder or over-the-stroller bag, $50, The Grasshopper Shop in Bangor and Searsport.

. An alternative to the mother and child necklace. These sterling eternity necklaces by Calais designer Heather Perry ($62 each) suggest the shape of a female form. They’re a sampling of Perry’s perfectly momworthy offerings, which include a strand of ringed pearls ($225) or a sterling “Radiant Heart” or “Brilliant Star” pendant ($66 each). For information or to order, visit www.hperrydesign.com or call 454-7338.

. A cast that lasts. This kit from Brewer-based Your Birth Connection allows moms-to-be to enshrine their bump forever in plaster – and decorate the cast to create a colorful sculpture. The kits cost $34.95 and are available by calling (866) 927-3278 and online at www.yourbirthconnection.com. They soon will be available at The Grasshopper Shop in Bangor.

. A way to mark milestones. A small journal will allow new moms to write down their feelings and chart baby’s first step, first words, first restful night – OK, that one may take awhile. This one came from Metropolitan Soul, but you can find nice journals everywhere from Rite Aid to Borders.

. A way to keep hair safe. Babies love to grab things. And pull things. Such as hair. Let new moms keep their long locks away from baby’s grasp with this bone hair clasp from Metropolitan Soul ($20). Claire’s at the Bangor Mall and Molly’s in Winterport also carry an interesting selection of hair ties and barrettes.

. A celebration of the ankle. Mommy hasn’t seen her ankles or her feet in a few months. A beautiful – and affordable – anklet, paired with a gift certificate for a pedicure, will soothe her soles and her soul. Anklets, $4.50 each, Metropolitan Soul.

. A growing concern. One new mom I know suggested a tree or shrub that grows along with her new child. Check with your local nursery or greenhouse to choose a variety that will do well in your zone.

. A day of relaxation. Offer to baby-sit and give mom a gift certificate to a spa. Want a preview? Visit River City Therapy and Wellness Center on State Street in Bangor, which is holding an open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today – with mini-massages and other services. For information, visit www.therapyandwellness.com or call 990-0188.