A New Trend: Couples Showers

A baby showers for couples is a fast growing new trend. These showers differ from the typical baby shower in that men are invited as well as women. When we were invited to our first couples shower, my husband said, “Since when do men go to baby showers?” He was very unsure about the idea, but ended up having a good time. When planning a couples shower, be sure to include the information on the invitation. Many people still assume that showers are for women only. You’ll need to specify that the men are invited too on the invitation. Choose … Continue reading →

Baby Shower Games

Whether you are planning a shower or having one thrown in your honor, you will probably be playing some games. Shower games are a tradition at most baby showers. Even if you think they are corny and out of date, you will want to join in the fun. Here are some common games played at showers I have attended over the years. Baby Shower Charades: Divide guests into two teams for this game. Write baby related things on slips of paper and place these in a bowl. Some examples include changing a diaper, taking the baby to the doctor, giving … Continue reading →

Planning a Baby Shower

A baby shower can be planned by any friend or relative of the expectant couple. In general, the couple should not host the party. This is not considered proper shower etiquette. Often the mother to be’s best friend, sister or mother will host the shower in honor of the couple. The first step in planning a baby shower is to set the date. There are no hard and fast rules for the timing of a shower. Most of the time, they are held in the last trimester or last month of pregnancy. In some cultures, such as Jewish people, showers … Continue reading →

Planning a Vacation Before the Baby Arrives

Many couples choose to take a vacation during pregnancy. This will be your last chance to get away alone for quite some time. Once the baby is born, planning a vacation gets much more complicated. As the baby grows, vacations are often centered around kid friendly destinations, such as Disney World. Some travel companies offer vacation packages targeted at couples expecting a new baby. Most of these aren’t much different from a typical couple’s vacation. You may want to use this service, or just plan your own trip. The choice is yours. Browse the internet for the best deal on … Continue reading →

Should I Take My Child to a Sibling Class?

Sibling classes are offered at hospitals around the country. Your hospital may offer a class to help prepare older brothers and sisters for the arrival of their new siblings. You may be wondering if you should sign your child up for one of these classes. I took my oldest child to a sibling class when I was pregnant with my second daughter. Since she was only 21 months old at the time, I don’t know how much she got out of the experience. She did have a lot of fun at the time, so I guess it was worth it. … Continue reading →

Can I Love Another Baby This Much?

This question is very common among women pregnant with their second child. You love your child so much; it can be hard to imagine having the same strong feelings about another baby. This worry can become real fear and can even cause guilt. I remember feeling this way when I was pregnant with my second daughter. Your relationship with your second will be different than the one you enjoy with your first baby. After all, they are two unique individuals. This doesn’t mean the love is less, it isn’t. It’s just different. Your first baby made you a mother and … Continue reading →

Let’s Talk About Who to Include at Your Homebirth

Giving birth is no doubt a personal and intimate time for a woman. Perhaps you already have an idea of whom you would like present at the birth of your child. Even more important is to decide whom you do not want present, for your comfort is the most important factor to consider. Sometimes there are people that are very eager to be present, but you aren’t comfortable with them being there. You will have to determine the best way to explain this to them, and remember that it is ultimately your decision who is there. If there are certain … Continue reading →

Pregnancy Family Fun

Your tummy is expanding and your toddlers, along with the other kids already ruling the roost, are excited to meet the brand new addition to the family. Consider getting your kids involved early on in, and throughout, your forty-week journey into motherhood. Doing so will enhance your experience as you share your pregnancy with the kids already in your life. Start by showing them their own ultrasound images and reading to them from the pregnancy journal or baby book/album that you kept for them. Then, take your children along with you to an ultrasound (if you have several kids, maybe … Continue reading →

Let’s Talk About Dads and Pregnancy

For most women, switching into mommy-mode seems like an overnight process. One day, you’re body is yours to do with what you will, and the next day it’s house and home to another being. You feel the snap intensely: You’re part of an intimate duo now. Everything you do has certain implications on the growing baby inside you, and you bring this baby with you wherever you go. Now imagine that you are equally excited, concerned, confused and anxious about the great change that is taking place in your life, except that you aren’t carrying this baby. Imagine instead that … Continue reading →