Who knew renovating another old house would lead to meeting someone who loves children’s books and theme parties as much as me?
When I created @smalltownvictorian on Instagram, I started following other people renovating their old houses. Like mine, the vast majority of their posts feature current projects as they DIY their way from old house to Home.
But a few days ago, a post by @thebrickandmaple caught my eye. Emily and her family are restoring their 1887 Queen Anne Victorian in Illinois, and her Instagram feed usually shows amazing photos of old house love. So you can imagine my surprise when I saw a post that was “out of place.” Perfectly out of place.
Emily spoke of hosting “the cutest little book-themed” baby shower for her sister-in-law and soon-to-be-nephew. When I saw her photos, I knew I had to give you a peek.
Emily graciously gave her permission and shared some of the back story as well.
In her words . . .
We paired snacks with children’s books, and then part of my gift to the mom-to-be was to gift her the books afterwards. Instead of cards, we encouraged guests to bring a book with a message to baby written inside.
We also downloaded a personalized “Baby’s First ABC” book from Etsy, and each guest colored a letter instead of signing a guest book.
We played the Guess How Much I Love You game. (Person guessing closest to the number of kisses in the jar got to keep the jar and kisses).
I just love the way Emily took her children’s book theme and ran with it! And I love the books she chose. I’ve read most of them with my grandsons—and a couple of the “old classics” to my daughters when they were little.
As I see it, few things are better than curling up with a good book and a little one and reading. And I think it’s a safe bet that Emily is going to enjoy reading to her little nephew when he arrives, don’t you think?
Emily’s game idea — and one I’ve used myself
As if all of these ideas aren’t enough, I’ve got one more treat for you: the recipe Emily used for her “Goodnight Moon” cookies. They sound delicious, and you can be sure I’m watching for a good opportunity to try them!
Emily, thank you for sharing with My Place to Yours readers! This is such a wonderful community of friends, so I feel sure I’m not alone in wishing your brother and sister-in-law all the best as they await the arrival of their “sterling” bundle of joy.
To you readers . . . What’s your favorite children’s book? Do you like to give children’s books to new parents (or grandparents)?
One of all-time favs is Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey. Here’s another children’s book that grabbed my heart a few years ago.
—————
If you love reading to little ones and need a good laugh, check out this video.
Susan, I hosted a book themed baby shower for my niece in 2014! Here’s a link to mine, and TJ e books/foods we used:
https://wvpanoply.blogspot.com/2014/02/book-inspired-buffet-baby.html
It was so fun, and to start the baby’s library was even better! We asked guests to provide a book in lieu of a card to accompany their gifts.
Rita, I remember you sharing that wonderful shower! So many great ideas. 😀 I, too, love starting the library for a little one. Such a fun and thoughtful gift!
My first book to give is Goodnight Moon. The second is Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things that Go.
Patricia, I know many, many families, including ours, who have been on the receiving end of your wonderful book gifts! Always appreciated.
Oh, yes! Books are my “go-to” for gifts for new baby! I kept our grandchildren supplied, especially when they were infants/toddlers! Such a wonderful theme shower! I’ve recently heard of a book titled “Wonky Donkey.” It sounded like such a funny book for little ones. I have many favorites, so it’s difficult to name just one. “The Velveteen Rabbit” is a wonderful classic story. “Goodnight Moon” was a favorite when our girls were young ones. There are never too many books, just not enough bookcases! Happy reading to everyone! – Nellie xoxo
The Wonky Donkey is the video at the end of this post! Go watch it. Sooo funny!
What a cute idea! I love the snacks matched to the books! My favorite children’s books are the Frances books. I always give the older sibling A Baby Sister for Frances, because it perfectly captures the feelings firstborns may be having about sharing their parents with a new baby.
Tricia, I love Frances, too! And I’m going to remember your idea for older siblings. 👏