[Crane13]

I was wondering if anyone had ever been to, thrown, or had an adoption shower. We are the almost new parents to three older children, ages 8 to 11. They will be here next month and will stay for a lifetime! A friend and fellow adopter would like to throw us a shower. Is this weird? It would be great to get ahead on household things along with shoes, clothing for the kids, etc. This addition will put us up to 7 people and 2 pups. (I count the pups because everyone I have to feed gets a number!) LOL

Anyway, I just need some feedback. It would be a blast, but is it, um, appropriate???

THANKS!

[bjhv5]

I say if your friend wants to do it then let her!!! So many people get nothing done for the new family.Sit back and enjoy!!

[gregorysparents]

I agree with Deb. It's nice that you have friends that want to go above and beyond!!

Maybe you can title the "shower" as something else - like maybe a "welcoming" party for your growing family. This might make the kids feel more comfortable. Furthermore, it might let people know what gifts aren't required (like a shower) but it also allows people the chance to "shower" your kids with gifts!!

Christina

[missw005]

I definitely agree on a Welcome Home Party instead of a "shower." However, I did register at Target (and had the friends just mention it to people who asked) for clothes, winter jackets/boots, books, videos, a few toys, etc. so people wouldn't have to guess about sizes or what the kids would really like. Obviously your friends attending the shower won't know your kids exceptionally well, so the registry will really help.

That and my first son J came with close to nothing. His foster mom stuffed his 2 duffel bags with old towels, then a small layer of clothes on top - but most were too small or too stained for him to wear. Also, no shoes, boots or coats - or a favorite book or toy! It was a joke.

It's GREAT that your friend wants to throw you a shower. Many people and their new children don't get recognized at all, which is just wrong in my book. A shower/welcome party is also about support for the new family, and gathering to share the joy of new family members. It doesn't happen enough, especially with special needs/older child adoption.

Sandy

[AmyAnne]

I would ask that instead of games or clothes, that people get you interactive family things... such as gift certificates to the movies, or whatever local attractions there are. At ages 8 and 11 your kids will have their own tastes in clothes and movies.