When my partner and I discovered we were expecting our third child, the news took us by surprise. We thought we were finished expanding our family, but now we’re overjoyed at the prospect of welcoming another little one. As soon as we shared our news with friends and family, the excitement for organizing a baby shower began to bubble up.
However, before anyone starts planning games or selecting a charming theme, I have a heartfelt request: please, no new items. I genuinely mean it. After navigating two baby stages and the chaos that comes with them, I’ve learned what I truly need. I know that a wipe warmer or an intricate baby bidet for cloth diapers (which I won’t be using, to be honest) won’t find a place in my home. I’ve come to realize that we’ll likely co-sleep, and the crib will serve more as a laundry basket than a sleeping space.
I recognize that I won’t require things like an umbrella stroller, a bottle warmer, or bibs. Space in our home is limited, and the truth is, I have no desire for brand-new items. The charm of a Pottery Barn nursery has faded for me; I’ve become far too practical to invest in such luxuries. Seriously, who buys a plush white carpet for a child’s room?
What I truly desire are your hand-me-downs. I would love to receive your cherished onesies, beloved books, and gently used toys that carry their own stories and memories. I want the items you no longer need but can’t bear to part with. It would bring me immense joy to know that your child loved these items, and now mine will too. I promise to share pictures of my little one enjoying them.
When I unwrap your gift, I hope to hear the stories behind each item. Whether it’s the stretchy Moby wrap that soothed your colicky baby or the hand-knit booties that kept tiny feet warm in the NICU, I want to feel the love that has permeated these objects. Each piece will become part of my baby’s journey.
For my previous children, I’ve saved only the most treasured items, those that hold a special place in my heart. These beloved mementos, no matter how worn or old, will be preserved in a wooden chest for their future families. Old toys, blankets, and rubber ducks will remain cherished keepsakes.
As I prepare for my last child, I want this baby to be surrounded by the love and memories from my closest mom friends. We’re all in a similar stage of life—nearing the end of our child-rearing days. I can feel the anticipation for new adventures that await us as our children grow, and I want to savor these fleeting baby moments with all my heart.
So, dear friends, please dig through your old boxes, sift through that pile of baby clothes, and unearth those funny books and quirky toys. Find a home for them in my household where they will be appreciated and honored. I can’t wait to embrace this journey with all of you.
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Summary
The author expresses a heartfelt wish for hand-me-downs instead of new items for her third baby shower, emphasizing the sentimental value of used items and the love behind them. She reflects on her parenting journey and the meaningful connections that come with sharing cherished belongings from friends.
Keyphrase: hand-me-downs for baby shower
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