When my partner, Jake, and I discovered we were expecting our third child, we were taken aback. Prior to that positive test, we were convinced our family was complete, but now we couldn’t be happier to welcome another little one into our lives. As soon as we shared the news with friends and family, several of my closest friends began eagerly planning a baby shower for me.
However, before they dive into party themes and games, I have one heartfelt request: please, no new items. I genuinely mean this. After navigating two rounds of babyhood and the whirlwind of toddler life, I feel like I have a solid grasp on early parenting. I already know that we won’t be needing a wipe warmer or a fancy baby bidet for cloth diapering (which, to be honest, I won’t even be using). I understand that co-sleeping will be our approach, and a crib will likely just serve as a laundry basket—this isn’t my first experience.
I won’t require an umbrella stroller, bottle warmer, or bibs. Our space is limited, and I’ve learned that many of these items just won’t get used. To be frank, I’m no longer drawn to the idea of a Pottery Barn or Land of Nod nursery. Those decor pieces feel more suited for parents than for children. Who even considers a shag white carpet for a toddler’s room? I’ve moved past that phase!
What I truly desire are your old treasures. I want all those hand-me-downs—your favorite onesies, cherished books, and gently used toys that hold special memories. I would love to receive items that you no longer need but can’t bring yourself to part with. It warms my heart to think that your child once loved these items and that mine will also share that joy. I promise to send you pictures!
I want to hear the stories that come with each gift—the stretchy Moby wrap that calmed your colicky infants, the hand-knit booties that kept your little one warm in the NICU, or the baby blanket that has been through countless nights of soothing. Those tales will add a layer of love to my baby’s experience.
For each of my children, I have kept only a few of the most loved items—those that I couldn’t bear to lose. As worn and tattered as they may be, they’re carefully stored in a wooden chest for my kids to one day pass on to their own children. Old stuffed animals, blankets, and rubber ducks will be preserved forever.
With baby number three on the way, my wish is to envelop this child with the love of my cherished mom friends as we approach this final chapter of pregnancy and newborn life. We are transitioning into a new phase, with whispers of bigger adventures ahead. During this fleeting time, I want to savor every precious moment of babyhood before it slips away.
So, please, my dear friends, don’t purchase anything new. Instead, rummage through your old baby clothes, check the attic for forgotten gear, and pull out the quirky books and delightful toys. Find a new home for them in my house, where they will be treasured and honored. I can’t wait to celebrate this journey with you!
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In summary, as I prepare for my third baby, I’m reaching out to my friends for cherished hand-me-downs instead of new items. I want to create a space filled with love and memories, embracing the stories behind each gift.