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 a 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.
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.
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!
