New Dad’s First Mother’s Day

Congratulations! You are-a-new dad – “It’s a girl!” and “It’s a boy” still ring loudly and proudly-in your ears. You’ve been kissed and hugged by every aunt, uncle and cousin and your place is packed to the rafters with balloons and baby gifts. You are excited, but won’t quite admit to anyone that you are extraordinarily overwhelmed and slightly confused. Your wife is crying one minute and laughing the next. You’re being hugged by your mother-in-law, who expects you to know exactly what to do in order to make your wife feel loved and appreciated. Your buddies suggest buying her a present. Thinking they may be on to something, you head to the nearest mall in search of the perfect “thank you for bringing my child in to the world” gift.-

But what kind of gift do you get for a new mom? Most women will appreciate just about anything if they see you thought of them. But tread carefully in your selection process. I highly suggest staying away from clothing items. Your significant other has probably gained at least 25 pounds-during her pregnancy and will not feel quite themselves for a while. They will-most likely prefer loose-fitting clothing for several weeks. But one item that is generally guaranteed to bring a smile to any new mom’s face is jewelry, a seven letter word that means so much. A beautiful bracelet or ring with your new child’s birthstone would have a deep meaning, especially if it is engraved with the baby’s name and birth date. A locket to keep the baby’s picture in would also be perfect.-Hearsmith.com is a website devoted to lockets. You can pick out a beautiful piece in gold, white gold or platinum. The Evangeline Three Picture Window Locket in 14K gold is one of my favorites. This locket has room for three captivating pictures of your new arrival that any new mother would be proud to wear around her neck.

It’s also a safe bet to buy her a picture frame or mini photo album. This will allow Mom to show off the new baby when she returns to work or goes out to lunch with friends. Find one that is purse-sized and can slip in and out of a bag with ease.-On-line services such as Snapfish and KodakGallery can take your photos and turn them into portable albums that are bright, vivid and capture cherished moments with your new child. A beautiful picture frame is another perfect gift, especially when you place your baby’s first picture in a platinum or crystal frame. Prop it on the table beside along with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and you’ll be guaranteed to make her smile.

Books are wonderful gifts.-There is such a wide assortment to choose from for new moms. The What to Expect series is chock full of useful information. What to Expect: The First Year saved my sanity during the first few months of my son’s arrival. The book provides information on everything from feeding and getting your child to sleep, to innoculation information and what to do in emergency situations. The book makes you to feel like you finally have some insight to the world of babies. For example, if she can’t figure out what a specific cry means, these books allow new moms to read other mother’s stories and realize that they are not alone.

Another great gift is a visit to a spa or salon. New moms need pampering. Any mom will appreciate the opportunity to soak in a bubble bath and have a day of pure relaxation. Get together with another new dad and offer to babysit the kids. Hand the moms gift certificates for a day at the spa and a lavish lunch or dinner. They’ll be so thankful.

If you pass Godiva or another sweet shop, don’t hesitate to stop in and bring your favorite new mom some treats. Have the shop create a treat in the shape of a baby bootie or a rattle. Don’t forget to snap a picture of Mom sinking her teeth into the sweet treat to add to the baby book.

Show new moms just how excited and proud you are to have the newest member of your family living in your home. Gifts from the heart are the most appreciated. Enjoy making every day Mothers’ Day and cherish every moment with your new arrival – they grow up so fast!

– Jessica Gold