To me, being a new parent is like trying to keep a bunch of plates spinning in the air. Books are a good resource, but so too are your instincts and those of other friends who have kids. But try to go to folks who are like-minded, and know that in many cases they'll be making things either sound much better or much worse than they really are, and YMMV.
Don't be hung up on milestones, yet do keep them in mind. You want you child to sleep and eat well, and later to be potty-trained, but there's no set formula for anything.
Try to multi-task whenever possible. Every time you leave a room, think what you can do on your way out, whether to pick something up or to help deal with laundry or dishes. The same goes with every time you leave the house - can you be getting something done while you're out?
I also agree with routine being key, and trying not to bend too often. Short term parenting shortcuts and taking the quick and easy way out can come back to haunt you big time. The story I always tell folks is my wife knew a couple where they seemed to be the picture of perfect parents, balancing work and home life and by all appearance were doing it all, and doing it well. Turns out the family had been reduced to eating their dinner while sitting on the floor under the table. Apparently one of the kids was acting out and they were so desperate for harmony that they bent their will to do what the kid wanted, figuring it would be a one time thing. But it spiraled from there and now they seemingly couldn't undo it. Of course in the end they did rectify the situation, yet it cost them a whole lot more time than they saved by not pushing back earlier. If your kids know the routine and that you're not a softy, things will go well. Of course I'm not saying you should rule with an iron fist; but kids want direction and routine when young. Help them - and you - by giving it to them.
More later if I get time.