Sleeping...

So we're working on Samantha's sleeping skills. I think it was partially my fault, but a few weeks ago I realized I was quite irritated during the day because Sam would only sleep in my arms. She'd fall asleep there, I'd try to lay her down, I'd stay and pat and shush and she was asleep. So I thought. And then I'd walk out of the room only to find she'd wake up after a few minutes. It was wearing on me and she wasn't getting adequate naps because I was always trying to put her down and she would wake up quickly. Or I'd give in and let her sleep on my chest but then something would happen - phone, doorbell, dog, etc and I'd get up and she'd wake up and wouldn't settle back down.
So I should have started a better routine awhile ago and then maybe right now she'd be a great napper. But we're starting this week and in an effort to get her routine in place, I'm not doing much of anything else. Don't want to leave the house because I might stay out too long, she'd fall asleep in the car and that's not how the routine should work.
I know there are many theories out there, but I think what I'm trying will work for me. And already she slept wonderfully last night because she got a good late afternoon nap (ok it was later than it should have been and was an early evening nap) But bedtime was only about half an hour later than it usually is.
So hopefully this goes well and whether it was me not having a good routine or her not learning to sleep right, at the end of the week I'll let you know if I have a better sleeper on my hands.