Cooperative Shower. This is an especially good idea for friends who've already had other children and have the basics covered. Ideas for decorations and invitations are not really influenced by this theme, however gifts are! The focus is on Mother rather than Baby! Guests are equal hosts of the party, which can be very casual. Ask friends to bring a small dish to share and a casserole or some other freezer-friendly food for the guest-of-honor. (She'll need advance warning to clear some freezer space.) Then, after the birth she can focus on the baby and not upon cooking!

Other great gifts would be coupons redeemable for babysitting and housecleaning. Some friends might choose to go together and get a gift certificate to a local spa-type place, or massage therapy clinic, etc. Games might be for people to share how they met the Mom-to-be, one reason they truly value or admire her, and a hope they have for the baby. If the baby's name has not yet been selected, they can make recommendations!

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