Gift Idea's

I like the idea of a weeks worth of prepared dinners (that's always nice after coming home with a new baby!) and/or a nice night gown and great feeling robe to lounge in!

My favorite gift when I became a mom was my Willow Angel. I later bought another one just like it to keep for my son when he got older and would leave my house.

I know exactly who got it for me and I'll never forgot. I wasn't a collector then, but I am now. I also like a DVD that is Baby Praise Songs. It was relaxing for both me and the baby.

It is so wonderful that you are maintaining a great relationship with the father and new step mom, I am glad you know how valuable that is for Lily.

I have often given new mommies convenient care packages (ie: predone face wash wipes, brush and go oral B tooth things). Just stuff to make being in bed or too exhausted to do much life easier. Antibacterial hand stuff and lotions are nice too for when guests come and want to hold the baby.

Hope this helps! Good luck. A. B

Maybe something like a certificate for a pedicure along with an IOU for some babysitting from you while she gets the pedicure (manicure, or haircut). If she is not into that, or if the IOU is too "mushy", or if those are too generic, as with the bath set, there are also really neat things out there like trees that you can plant that can grow with your child. What about a wagon for her and the baby's father to take the baby for walks in, or to the beach or park in? We use one now for our 4-yr-old, and have since she was a baby. We have a step 2 one, and it is great for her and her dolls, and for whatever else she thinks she has to have when we are going wherever that particular outing. We have also recently given one to a very close friend that lives on Emerald Isle for a baby gift, and hope that it's air-filled tires will negotiate well in the beach sand. It is a must for us, even now. Hope this helps, even though the wagon is really for the child, and not the mom. Best of luck!

I think a Willowtreee Figurine of a mother and baby would be a perfect gift. I always give one, at the hospital, to my daughters when they have babies. It is personal, something they will have for a long time to remember, simple (not over the top), and they are very sweet.

I say, dinner, kind gestures of doing things for her. That is so helpful and being a new mom it can be overwhelming.

you could get her gift certificate for a mani/pedi...what mom, new or experienced, can't use that. or maybe a nice set of pj's or night gown(buttons in the front is she's nursing), or fix a couple of casseroles that she can freeze and just pop in the oven for fast easy meals, maybe a gift card to a local department store so she can go buy herself a new outfit after she's getting back in her regualr clothes, or offer to watch the new baby for a bit when she needs a break.

K., Hey! Why don't you take her a meal, so she will not have to make dinner and get her a gift card for a pedicure. Even if she has no one to watch the baby she can still get this done for herself.

Goodluck!
D.

I don't have any suggestions, I just wanted to say how wonderful it is that you have such a great relationship with your daughter's stepmom. Coming from the point of view of the stepmom, that's a rare gift in and of it's self.

I understand your wanting somthing more personal and would remind her of her pregnacy I would consider a bracelett with a birthstone charm of her babys birth as with well as a charm with her birthstone or a nice summer gown becouse there will be days she just wants to relax while she heals.but thats totally up to you yet another idea is take her to lunch to give her some time out with or without baby in tow.

pj's are the best...get her comfy stretchy ones so she can relax

Dear K.,

You are all ready giving her a gift by being so accepting of her relationship with your daughter and with you! I loved the slippers I got sent from my cousin. I also really loved my robe. As a stepmom who has worked hard to have a positive relationship with my husband's ex, it is great to hear about a family that has made it work!

How about one of those bracelets with both of the girls birthstones. I know for me, comfort is a biggy. A very soft plush robe, a soft plush large blanket that I use on the couch, it is just for me, A neck warmer with aroma, A weeks worth of prepared dinners for the freezer, a very nice pillow or cushion for her back. These are things I have given and received and bought for myself. A beautiful shawl if she breastfeeds.

I just wanted to take a brief moment to applaud you. I am a stepmom (none of my own yet) and I was amazed to read of your generosity toward your daughter's stepmom. That you have such a great relationship with her is inspiring and wonderful. I wish you both the best.

I really liked that idea of planting a tree; maybe you and your daughter could map out a spot in her yard w/ her and plan to plant it the same day the baby is born. Then the tree and the little one will grow, and she'll always look at it and think of you, too. :) There is a website called
craft-e-family.com and there's a lot of cool gift ideas there. We always buy the block for new/proud parents, and they always love it! we got the idea when someone sent us the block for one of our boys. good luck!

K.,
How about a willow angel. They look like hand craved angels and little primitive but they have many selections great for Moms. They are found in most card stores. Or there is the ever popular gift certificate for the Mother/child photos.A salon gift certificate for Mom and she can decide when she needs it the most. Your own coupons for babysitting.Gift certificate for a scrapbooking class/learn to do something with all those baby pictures. Just a few ideas.C.

I remember that my favorite gifts after my children were born were meals! If you want her to have something to remember you by you could prepare a meal and give it to her in a dish for her to keep. Otherwise - trust me - she will remember that you brought them a meal and appreciate it so much.

After giving birth, I really loved any type of pampering. Maybe a gift cert for a manicure/pedicure. You can find those pretty cheap on special. And you could offer to babysit while she went, that is always priceless!

Hi K.,

I am a pastor's wife and one of the things that I do for new mom's is take them a small basket either wicker or metal (they can use the basket later to hold bread at meal time) filled with "girly" items. I usually go and purchase most of these items at a discount or dollar store. I can't afford an expensive gift for every new mom and I want to be fair to all. I usually take it to the hospital and have a nice visit with each mom. Inside they always find body lotion, soaps, new body sponges, a manicure kit, different types of aromathereapy, simply things we use every day that get worn or need to be replaced often. I always include a nice candle and holder also. If I know they have had a difficult labor and have stitches, I include "DREFT" detergent. If you place some in a tub and soak in it, it really helps. It was a life saver for me. (My stiches were 3rd degree - can't recall how to spell epesiotomy and I am too tired to go and look it up). I have been told that the new moms always love to see me enter the room, because they know it becomes about "them" for a few minutes. (Of course I hold and cuddle that little bundle of joy, but I do love to pamper our ladies). Love, A. B.

A GC for a manicure or a piece of jewlery with the babied birthstone(charm, earrings, pendent).

A. M

Make it fun. Chocolate, twizzlers, popcorn or anything she can indulge in. Its for her, make it about her. What does she like and just fill a basket with that.

.

K.,
What a nice time to be able to offer her some pampering.
I sell Mary Kay products and I know that when I was in the post pregancy healing stage- I really enjoyed useing my Satin Hands Pampering set( its a great spa treatment for hands and feet), or useing the Microdermabarsion set to feel fresh and rejuvenated.
Check out my site for the great prices!!
www.marykay.com/kmiller06

i would get her some lotions for her body, feet and hands, face... and maybe a mani/pedi GC... I just had a baby 2 mths ago and i had a friend get me some lotions and brought them to me and i really used them, still am. but before i could take a shower after delivery i was rubbing it all over to at least smell decent.

Maybe you could get her a gift certificate to get a pedicure or manicure. I'd say it definitely needs to be a pampering sort of gift....but not necessarily something she has to do herself.

Hi K.~
One of my favorite gifts that a "practical" friend got for me was that she made meals for us. Believe me, your ex and his wife are not going to want to cook, clean, or do anything but care for the baby and sleep. So my advice is not really something you buy, except maybe the ingredients, but to make them some dinners or snacks. Also (depending how close you really are) you could help out with laundry or house cleaning. Just a thought! Good luck!

Paula G.

I agree with several others that meals are a great idea! As are certificates for a spa (ie for a massage), baby-sitting for time away to herself, etc.

But also, if she's breastfeeding for the first time, Ameda Hydrogels can be a lifesaver!

The best gift I got after I had both of my children was meals made by my friends. They got a book called Frozen Assets which is a cookbook that helps you make meals that you freeze and then prepare when needed. So, they made about a week's worth of meals, froze them, wrote cooking instructions on them (i.e. bake at 350 for 20 min.) and gave them to me as a gift so I wouldn't stress about making dinner in addition to adjusting to a new baby. It was fabulous. Around dinner time I would pull one out and pop it in the oven! You can find lots of those type recipes online by googling, "freezer meals," "cook for a day, eat for a month". I thought this gift was so thoughtful and personal, I really appreciated it. I now do this for friends who have babies, prolonged illnesses or deaths in the family. Hope this helps!

One of the gifts I got that I loved was a candle and a box of herbal tea. It was for when I was nursing, to help me relax. Another one was really good lotion that wouldn't bother the baby - I put it on my stomach for the stretch marks. If you get something lavender scented, then it will also have a relaxing effect.
I think your daughter's stepmom is very lucky to have an ex wife who is so caring and thoughtful. I hope she realizes how blessed she is!

Avon just came out with a new stretch mark cream, I know after my kids I would have LOVED some of that! Maybe even a gift certificate for a pedicure, since I can remember I couldnt reach my feet after the sixth month. I think its really great that you want to get your daughter's Step mom something. I remember when my son was born, my husband's ex-wife brought his two boys to see the baby and she bought him a time capsule. It was the greatest gift and made it special.

how about an offer to do a few loads of laundry, so the new mom can catch a nap while the baby sleeps, instead of feeling like she must do the wash? or a few pre-cooked casseroles that she can freeze, and reheat as needed. all you really want when you have a new baby, is time. and thats the best way to get it, have someone else do the chores so that she can sleep, or just be with the baby.

I would give her a "MOM" necklace with her babies birthstone...if this is her first child i have no doubt that would be very special to her...
Awesome that you all get along so well...it will make life much nicer for all involved especially your daughter...
take care!

I am a stepmom to a wonderful 13-year old daughter and just want to say that your attitude toward your daughter's stepmom is really beautiful. I have a similar relationship with my daughter's biological mother. It's very sweet that you're being so kind about her new baby. As someone in a similar position to her (we hope to have a baby soon), I think it would be really nice to receive something from her bio-mom that welcomes me in a way to the bio-mom world -- that is, some "new mom" gift that is still careful to acknowledge that I/we are already moms... but to acknowledge this precious new child and being a new mom in this particular way. I don't know quite what that would be, and you're already giving her so many nice things! Perhaps a really nice bouquet of flowers, or a simple piece of jewelry to remind her of this occasion and your thoughtfulness? Maybe this is a husband/family gift, but what about something with 2 charms to represent her two daughters, a necklace or pin or bracelet?

Good luck to you -- you sound like a great mom!

Give her something to pamper herself. I suggest a manicure, pedicure, facial or a massage. Those are also great Mother's Day gifts or special gifts for sitters.

After I had my baby my mother-in-law came over and helped out with the house . She did the couple loads of laundry I did not get to before and she mopped my floors ( 6 rooms of hard wood floors). That was the best thing anyone could have done forme . All mothers want a clean and neat home for their families but for the first couple months after you have a baby it is hard . Everything changes and you just don't have the time or energy. Maybe just find out what she needs done and help her out with that . It really is nice sometimes to have someone else do what you don't feel like or have time for . Also my mother-in-law would watch her for an hr a day for 2 weeks so I could rest . That was great . Good Luck !

K., first off, GOOD FOR YOU. I am pleased that you are keeping an open relationship with your ex. Even more so that you are including the new woman in your daughters life. You are setting a great example for your daughter. As for a gift idea, how about a gift certificate for a pedicure or manicure. A little pampering to make her feel pretty again can go a long way in her self image. God Bless, S.

When I gave birth to my daughter my neighbor bought me a really nice set of satin pajamas and slippers as well as a set of relaxtion teas. It was the most thoughtful gift I think I have ever recieved.

How about some great cotton pj's or nightshirts (button up tops if she is nursing)? I say cotton b/c after I gave birth, I was extremely hormonal and I could not wear anything but cotton to sleep in. Other fabrics made me very hot and uncomfortable.

Also, you could get some great comfy slippers. I needed those in the hospital b/c they wanted me walking around after my surgery. Needed them at home b/c I was a little unstable due to the pain medication and they helped when I was up late at night and walking on my cold tile floors with a screaming hungry baby! Just make sure you don't get any that slip off one's feet too easily!

Another idea is breast pads. I know they seem kind of personal but they are so inexpensive, you could give some to her with another item. I didn't nurse but I still leaked and needed the pads! One day, almost a month and a half after I gave birth (and having gone almost that long wrapping my breasts tighter than I ever thought possible), I was at home, luckily, wearing a sportsbra, t-shirt and strech pants. Went to the restroom and when I washed my hands, saw in the mirror that there were two GIANT circle leak stains on my shirt that had gone through my sports bra. From that moment on, I wore bra pads everyday for another three months just to be sure.

Another great gift is to give her some pretty stationery with stamps (could include a pen with matching ink) for her to write her thank-you notes. Practical but you know she'll use it!

I think you are doing a great thing by staying close with your ex and his fiancee. You are putting your daughter first, which is the way it should be. From experience, I know seeing your daughter with another woman or "mother figure" is one of the most difficult things to do. Keep your chin up and remember, it will get easier with time.

Good luck!

Hi K., How about a gift certificate to a local spa or beauty salon. Nothing makes you feel better then to have a pretty haircut and have your nails done. L. R

One of my favorite gifts was a gift certificate for a pedicure and a massage. I had to wait on the massage due to my c-section but the pedicure was heaven since I coudln't reach my feet let alone see them for the last couple of months.

After the birth of my daughter, my mother-in-law gave me a very nice robe. It was quite unexpected and very thoughtful. I was able to immediately use it and did for a long time afterward.

She may like a gift certificate for a manicure. A little time to herself and a bit of pampering might make her feel appreciated.

How about a gift certificate for a manicure or pedicure. It sounds like you are on good terms with her so maybe you could even babysit.

Have you thought about maybe a bottle of perfume?? I know that is what I wanted from my husband after our first child....only thing I had time to do for myself! Also what about a gift cert. to her favorite nail salon nothing like a mani and pedi after having a baby!! You could offer to watch the baby while she goes too. A Pandora charm bracelet would also be a great gift www.pandoracharmbracelets.com, then in the future if you have a tough time getting a gift you could always just buy her another charm to add to her bracelet. They are the "modern" charm bracelet, they are awesome very different. Hope you find something perfect!!

How about a gift certificate for a manicure or a pedicure? You can't get more personal than a stranger touching your toes! You could also give her a gift card to an adult type store like Bath & Bodyworks.

You know what I would have loved is a very comfy pair of pajamas. Something that isnt constricting around the belly. Find out what she likes the best and go with that.

When I had my son I was given a massage through the hospital. It was wonderful, because as you know, your muscles are very sore. Even after she leaves the hospital there are salons that give massages. Not only will it relax her, it will give her a little time to relax away from baby. Every new mom needs a little alone time. You could also give her a gift certificate to get her hair done. A little pampering goes a long way after childbirth, and if you are friends maybe you two can spend that time together and you give her advise if she needs it. Good Luck

You might think about a gift card for Starbucks or a manicure or pedicure, something that she can do all on her own. It wouldn't have to take long for her to "cash" it in but would give her a break to gather her thoughts or just relax without the baby for a little while.

if your taking it to her in the hospital take her a basket with magazines and candy with maybe some bath stuff that she can use later once she is healed. If it's after the birth and she is home i always wanted nice pjs that i felt good in. Just my ideas. Hope they help.

Hi K.,

Whenever a friend of mine has a baby, I like to buy the book "Guess How Much I Love You" It was one of my children's favaorties and I think I have given out about 20 times throughout the years.

Good for you, keeping a good relationship with your daughter's step mom! Although she will never replace you as a Mama, she will be an important person in your daughter's life and being on good terms with her and Lily's father will only make her life that much happier!

DINNER! DINNNER! DINNER! DINNER!
In the military we have a tradition that when someone in the unit has a baby we bring them dinner for a week. It is a great tradition and well needed! I usually bring dinner for that night and then extra for them to freeze and use later when needed!

I know that gift cards may seem generic, but they can also be great. What about a gift card to get her nails done, or go see a movie, or even just Target or Wal-mart or a store you know she likes.

I would get her a gift card for a manicure or pedicure. That is something moms don't normally spend on themselves but enjoy. You could get her a gift card for a massage, hair cut, etc. Get her a gift card to a rest for her and her husband and tell her you will babysit that night. Give her a book and a candle. If you can afford it, the best gift would be a gift card for a house cleaning. I bought a friend a charm bracelet with a baby charm on it and each year I will build on it. Birthdays, friendship, etc This way her step daughter and new baby can build on it over the years. They are not too pricey, you can go to a mall kiosk out in the center and get a silver one or a jewelry store, buy silver and it won't be too much. That is more sentimental. Give her a plant, a mixed batch of indoor or outdoor things are always pretty and they last. I got a peace lilly when my son was born and 5 years later, I still have it and think of his birth everytime I water it. Give her a frame of her and your daughter and her new baby pic in it. Make a scrap book w/ pages decorated but no pics in it and she can fill them in. Make her a weeks worth of meals that she will not have to cook. or give her a gift card to one of those meal places where she can choose her meals and they make them.

Make up a basket of goodies, a CD, a book, a DVD, gift cards, candles, bath stuff, etc drink mixes with glasses, give her a bottle of wine with 2 stemless wine glasses.....etc You can get some ideas from this or think of some others with these ideas!

W.

Hey K.! Very nice of you to think of your daughter's step-mom. My mom and step-mom have a very cordial relationship and most people think it is strange. BUT, for me, it was GREAT growing up with a family who got along so well!! Kudos to you!!

Anyway, the gift. This may be more than you want to put in it since you've already gotten other gifts, but how about a massage. I participated in a prenatal massage program while I was pregnant and it was great!! I had quite a bit of back pain this time and the massage really helped. The program includes a postpartum massage, which I am waiting to schedule because they require waiting until 6 weeks after baby. If someone wanted to give me a pedicure that would be nice, too!

Good luck!!

Hi K.,

I Have given friends including my two daughters the book titled "Baby's First Year". It is a great book for first time Mom's. My daughters use to call it thier Baby Bible and referred to it daily.

M.

Hi K.,

I have to agree with Kathy's suggestion. The Willowtree figurines are beautiful and meaningful and there is one to fit nearly every scenario! Now, I have to say that I am NOT a knick-knack kind of person. I hate clutter (and consider most such items to be clutter) but when I was given a Willowtree of a mother, father, and brand new baby after the birth of my son, I was very touched and intend to get another one after the upcoming birth of my daughter. They are just beautiful keepsakes of an even more beautiful event.

After my 3rd child I received a gift certificate to a day spa. I was able to pick out the 4 items in the spa that I would enjoy such as a massage, hair, manacure/pedicure, and makeover. What mom doesn't need to feel pampered especially after having a baby? The best part is she can go when she feels the need for some extra TLC.

The gift of growth......
Buy a nice fruit tree, rose bush, or small pine tree and offer to help plant. They can track the growth of their new family and the new plant. Attach a nice poem about growth.

I have planted many a tree over the years for special occassions - and it's alway fun to revisit that occassion and see the growth from that point (with me and the tree).

Hi K.,

Give her a night of babysitting when she is feeling ready enough to go out! I know that is something I could have used, and it doesn't cost a thing but your time. Maybe a day at the spa. I think there is a site called spafinder.com.. you can get a gift certificate for a spa near you. She will enjoy that as well. Maybe even with the stitches. Maybe some pretty lingerie for when she is feeling more herself again. You know how unsexy us new moms feel, right after giving birth..lol, that would be something for her to look forward to. Even a comfy bathrobe or something.. my mind is in overdrive with ideas.. I hope some of these help.. if not, I will be back! lol
ah.. but I see plenty of grat ideas below.. I think you are going to find the right thing here somewhere..GOOD LUCK!!!