A Shower of Best Wishes

My Grandmother (Yiayia), left, and my Mother Katherine, right, at her baby shower.
My Grandmother (Yiayia), left, and my mother Katherine, right, at her baby shower.

The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time. James Taylor

For the last couple of months, I’ve been planning a baby shower for my son and his partner. It’s this weekend and I’ve had so much fun working with Jessica on a theme and figuring out the decor, invitations, and yes, a good game. What would a shower be without a game or two?

Some of my friends are not big fans of showers but I am. I will tell you why. Showers are a rite of passage just like graduation parties, sweet 16 birthdays, weddings, and bar/bat mitzvahs.  A rite of passage is described as any important act or event that serves to mark passage from one stage of life to another.

So that is how I look at showers. I do my best to shop for a special present, be there, and participate. I know the few hours that a bride or mother to be is in the spotlight will likely never come again. Even though it may sound stereotypical, all women should enjoy this time as special. These days, men are frequently featured at showers too so it’s not always traditional! (and that is fine!) I asked my son John to participate and be there on this special day.

I have some very fond memories of my baby and bridal showers. For my bridal shower, it seemed as though my mom invited every single woman from the church – and they came. I was kind of slow opening my presents because there were so many awesome ones! I don’t remember what my mom made to eat that day but I can guess. There was probably her delicious pastichio, spanakopita, greek salad, feta cheese, and maybe chicken or roast beef. She likely had Peppridge Farm rolls on the table. Dessert was probably her famous finikia, diples, coffee, and of course a box of Russell Stover miniature chocolates.

Yiayia and I at my Bridal Shower.
Yiayia and me at my Bridal Shower.

Mom probably used every single piece of silver she had from her own wedding- trays, serving utensils, you name it. I love this picture (above) I found of me with my yiayia. I don’t know where that pink and white umbrella came from but I’m wondering if my sisters might have created it. 🙂 It’s a classic, isn’t it? I bet it is made of pink and white kleenex flowers! I remember the dress I wore like it was yesterday.

I had two baby showers- one from my husband’s family and one from my own. Since Michelene was born in August, I’m sure they were both in the heat of summer. Here’s a photo from the one my mother in law had for me. Once again, I remember this like yesterday, including the dress that was so comfortable and I loved so much.

Me and my Sister In Law Katie
Me and my Sister In Law Katie

I went to a friend’s daughter’s baby shower last weekend and it was beautiful. It was fall themed, in a park setting with (no kidding) cows outside in the field! There was a chili bar with all sorts of toppings, different kinds of cornbread, s’mores for the favors, and acorns and pinecones in glass vases for centerpieces. I said to my friend Shelly, “Well, the shower next week won’t have cows!”. (She really took the cake on that one!)

As Shelly’s daughter Hannah was opening her presents, I thought of the head start she as a new mother will have. Baby blankets, diapers, clothing, undershirts. How would you do it all without a shower? And what a wonderful opportunity to bestow love and best wishes on a couple who are ready to open a new chapter on their lives together.

Of course I’ll share the pictures of the shower with you! Check back in a week or so and they’ll be here!

It's nice to share. Thank you.

10 Replies to “A Shower of Best Wishes”

  1. Congratulations to your son and Jessica! Is there anything more exciting that becoming a grandma?♡♡♡ Congratulations to you and the rest of your family also! How awesome you have memories of your baby shower with your children who are having their own! (somehow it makes it more special). You look like your grandmother (Yiayia) in that very first picture! Enjoy and celebrate this special “rite of passage” today! I am sure it will be a “beautiful” celebration ,Joanne, because you have planned it. “Life starts all over again” when we become grandparents!

    1. Hi Cindy, I think I look so much like my yiayia too! Thank you for noticing! I’m sure it will be a wonderful celebration and I am so looking forward to it. Love, Joanne

  2. I so enjoy your blog Joanne! It makes me feel like we never lost touch. So many of my favorite memories include you and your family.

  3. Joanne, you are a thoughtful, generous and loving person in all that you do. I love the generational shower pictures in this post! They tell a beautiful story of numerous women (including you, now, looking forward to this newest baby) who know how to celebrate life and future lives. Lovely post!

    1. Thank you Marylin! I have had great teachers in my grandmother, mom, and aunts. They have set a wonderful example for me as I blend the old with the new. Stay tuned for the pictures!
      xo Joanne

  4. I love this! It’s extra special for an event planner to get to plan such a special and memorable event for new family. Jessica is a lucky girl!

    It’s meant so much to me that you’ve attended my bridal and baby showers. Your presence is always welcoming and uplifting.

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