About baby showers.

A few things to keep in mind when buying a baby shower gift.

Back before I was a mother myself I was invited to witness my friend give birth to her second child. This was the first time I would see a baby be born and I offered to take photos. I didn't want to arrive on birth day empty handed so I perused a local store for a gift to bring with me. Like many, my ovaries just about exploded when I saw all the darling, soft baby clothes, blankets and accessories. Since they were having their second girl, I sadly opted to not buy a cute new outfit but picked out a plush new blanket instead. All babies get cold, right? How could I go wrong?! Fast forward a few years and a few children later. I have apologized on a few occasions, shaking my head that I brought her a blanket instead of something else. While she assures me that it is still Sami's favorite to this day, I didn't realize how many blankets one receives when they have a baby.
Many first time moms have no idea what they will or won't need when they have a baby. The baby registry is twenty pages long and has some of us raising our eyebrows. Subsequent babies, the list probably reads more like "Diapers, sleep, coffee". It's really a game of trying to figure out what suits the needs and flow of the family. What some women couldn't live without, others have no use for.
As the baby shower invites come in the mail, it may be hard to contain yourself when you get to the store. Bow ties on a newborn are super cute but not super practical or comfy. (My brother suggested that he get our son some matches and a pocket knife as those are natural items every little boy should have. I had to let him down gently.)
A few things to keep in mind when you are looking to bless a family as they welcome their newest addition are:
Stick with what is on their registry. The parents took time and thought into what is on there. Respect that. If you must deviate, pair it with something from the registry or a gift card.
Diapers are always welcome. If they aren't strict on using cloth, disposable diapers are always a good idea since babies go through many and you will usually run out when you least expect it. Newborn sizes are great. It never hurts to have the next size up.
Parents need presents too. Newborns really don't need a lot stuff. After baby, mom and dad kind of take a back seat and luxuries and self care go out the window. If they say that baby has everything they need, get her a massage, coffee shop gift cards, gift cards to Amazon for when they unexpectedly run out of something, or offer to pay for someone to come and clean the house. You can offer to watch the baby while they go on a date. With this one, offer to come to their house. It may be less stressful for new parents to leave their baby if they know the surroundings.
Food is always welcome. Meals that keep in the freezer are a lifesaver, especially after maternity/paternity leave ends. Snacks that can be eaten with one hand are great for breastfeeding moms.

Any gift is much appreciated for sure. Just keep in mind that it's about blessing the parents and helping them get off to a good start.