I am glad that we live in such modern times. Today’s forward thinking society has allowed us to blur the lines of traditional gender roles.
I say this because growing up I learned that Dad's are never included in the time honored tradition of the “baby shower”. I was sad knowing I would miss out on the finger sandwiches, baby bottles filled with jelly beans, in-depth discussions about breast feeding and remedies for diaper rash. Oh sure, I get to accompany my wife to my new favorite stores as we register for the shower. My opinion is necessary when deciding what color the “whatchamacallit” or the “thingamajig” should be, or how may wipey things we need. I didn’t think that I would rate an invitation the actual "party".
Imagine my excitement when I learned that our joyous event would now include couples. How great is it that all of my close male friends can join me in the frivolity? I hope that I don’t cry. That would just be embarrassing.
Anyway, I am not only new to the idea of parenthood, I am also still relatively unfamiliar with the idea of men going to a baby shower. I decided to do some internet research.
It's worse than I thought. Website after website offers suggestions on how to make the men feel more included in the shower. "Make sure the father-to-be has a seat next to the expectant mother when opening the gifts", "have the men race to change the diaper on a doll" or "have the guys try to drink juice from a baby bottle as fast as they can". One webpage had a message/suggestion board with some frequently asked questions on it. I saw one headline that read "How can I throw my husband an all boys baby shower?" (I couldn't bring myself to look.) Two words lady...you don't.
I have a co-ed baby shower game...have all of the ladies put their purses in a pile and see if the men can guess which one their testecles are in.
Allright, enough of my inner caveman. In all honesty I am glad that men are more involved in the pregnancy now. I want to be a part of every aspect of my wifes pregnancy and son's birth. (Even the ones that aren't my cup of tea.)
If our friends and family want to help us celebrate our first baby...then I am glad to have them as friends and family.
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2 comments:
Don't worry Dan-we plan on playing Quarters, poker, and other such manly games at the shower. Maybe we'll even have a stripper (pregnant of course):-)
Sorry Dan, I might have been a little responsible for events surrounding the shower, I hope all my ideas are not used , if so you might feel a little something in your eye before it is all done.
I have really appreciated reading the blog, are you sure that was with spelled with an i?
You both will make fine parents. Relax and enjoy the time of your life and the memories you are making.
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