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Modern Baby Showers: How to Host a Fun and Unforgettable Celebration Without Cliché Games

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Modern Baby Showers: How to Host a Fun and Unforgettable Celebration Without Cliché Games

by Michelle Heinsimer on Feb 23 2025
Gone are the days of predictable baby shower games that guests endure rather than enjoy. If you’re planning a modern baby shower, you want something fun, fresh, and memorable—without the awkwardness of melted candy bars in diapers or endless rounds of “Guess the Baby Food.” Today’s parents-to-be are looking for interactive baby shower activities that bring people together and make the event feel unique. Whether it’s a co-ed gathering, a virtual celebration, or a stylish soirée, these non-traditional baby shower games and activities will make your event stand out. Let’s break free from the usual and dive into fun baby shower ideas for guests that everyone will actually love. 1. Blessing Bear: A Keepsake of Love & Encouragement For parents who want meaningful baby shower activities rather than silly games, Blessing Bear is a perfect choice. This activity invites guests to pour love, prayers, and encouragement into a keepsake the baby can cherish forever. 🧸 How it Works: Set up a table with a Blessing Bear and small fabric squares. Ask each guest to write a blessing, prayer, or message for the baby. After the shower, these messages are sewn inside or placed in a hidden pocket in the bear, symbolizing the love surrounding this new life. 💡 Why It Works: Unlike traditional games, this faith-based baby shower activity becomes a lasting gift that the baby will grow up with—something far more valuable than a round of "Guess the Belly Size." 2. Baby Shower Escape Room Challenge If you want a creative baby shower game no one has played before, turn the event into an escape room where guests solve baby-themed puzzles. 🔐 How to Play: Set up clues and mini-challenges that require guests to "unlock" a final prize (like a gift for the parents). Example challenges: Solve a riddle to “find the missing pacifier” Match baby socks in record time Decode a parenting tip to get the next clue 🎭 Interactive Twist: If playing in teams, award prizes for the fastest escape! 3. "Mom or Dad?" Guessing Game This personalized baby shower game adds a touch of humor while celebrating the parents-to-be. 🤔 How to Play: Compile funny or interesting facts about the parents (e.g., "Who was more likely to sneak out as a teen?" or "Who sleeps through alarms?"). Guests take turns guessing whether it applies to Mom or Dad (or the non-binary equivalent for diverse families!). Whoever gets the most correct answers wins a small prize. 😂 Why It’s Fun: This is one of the funny baby shower games everyone will enjoy because it leads to hilarious stories and unexpected reveals! 4. "Baby’s First Adventure" Bucket List Instead of traditional games, this interactive baby shower activity helps parents create a bucket list of fun experiences for their little one. 📝 How to Play: Set up a station with small cards or a large poster. Ask guests to write down one thing the baby must experience in their first five years (e.g., “See the ocean,” “Have a messy spaghetti dinner,” “Take a family camping trip”). Present the finished list to the parents as a keepsake. 🌎 Variation: For faith-based baby shower activities, guests can include spiritual milestones like "First bedtime prayer" or "First act of kindness for a stranger." 5. "Who Said It?" Celebrity Baby Quotes Turn the baby shower into a pop culture trivia night! 🎤 How to Play: Compile a list of funny or heartwarming quotes from celebrity parents. Guests must guess which famous mom or dad said each one. The person with the most correct answers wins! 📺 Example Quote:"Having kids is like living in a frat house—nobody sleeps, everything’s broken, and there’s a lot of throwing up.”—A. Tina FeyB. Jennifer GarnerC. Drew Barrymore (Spoiler: It’s Tina Fey.) 6. Digital Baby Shower Bingo (Perfect for Virtual Showers!) For hybrid or virtual baby showers, Bingo is an easy way to keep guests engaged—without the old-school twist. 🎟 How to Play: Create Bingo cards with baby-related words (e.g., “diapers,” “nursery,” “kicks”). Distribute digital copies to guests. Cross off squares as common baby shower moments happen (e.g., someone says “adorable” or the mom-to-be rubs her belly). The first person to get five in a row wins! 💻 Bonus: This game works well for virtual baby showers, keeping remote guests involved in the fun. 7. Baby Photo Match-Up Skip the cheesy games and go for a nostalgic, personalized baby shower game that celebrates guests. 📸 How to Play: Ask each guest to bring a baby photo of themselves. Display all the photos on a board or slideshow. Guests take turns guessing who is who! 👶 Why It’s Special: This game sparks conversation, laughs, and adorable memories—without forcing anyone to sniff mystery diapers. 8. Baby Jeopardy! This best baby shower game for all ages turns classic trivia into a fun competition. 🛎 How to Play: Create trivia categories like: “Baby Animals” (What’s a baby kangaroo called?) “Nursery Rhyme Time” (Finish the lyric: "Twinkle, twinkle, little ___") “Mom & Dad Facts” (Where did the parents-to-be meet?) Guests buzz in to answer, just like in Jeopardy! 🏆 Prize Idea: The winning team gets bragging rights and a small baby-related prize. 9. "Emoji Baby Pictionary" A modern twist on a classic, this game is perfect for groups who love puzzles and wordplay. 📱 How to Play: Show a set of emojis that represent baby-related phrases. Guests must decode the meaning! 💡 Example: 🍼+🌙 = "Midnight feeding" 😆 Why It’s Fun: This is one of the funny baby shower games everyone will enjoy, since guests get creative with their answers. Final Thoughts: Baby Showers Should Be Fun—Not Forced Modern baby showers don’t have to follow outdated traditions. By incorporating non-traditional baby shower games, interactive baby shower activities, and personalized baby shower games, you create an event that guests actually enjoy. 💡 Want to take your baby shower planning to the next level? Explore our curated collection of unique, faith-based, and DIY baby shower activities that make celebrating even more special! Which of these fun baby shower ideas for guests will you try? Let me know in the comments! 🎉
7 Meaningful Baby Shower Activities That Create Lasting Memories

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7 Meaningful Baby Shower Activities That Create Lasting Memories

by Michelle Heinsimer on Feb 19 2025
A baby shower isn’t just about gifts and cake—it’s a celebration of life, love, and the incredible journey ahead. If you’re planning a baby shower and want to make it deeply meaningful rather than just another party with predictable games, you’re in the right place. The best baby showers create memories that last far beyond the event itself. Instead of the usual guessing games, let’s explore interactive baby shower activities that bring people together, spark joy, and leave the parents-to-be with something truly special. These ideas include a mix of faith-based baby shower activities, DIY keepsakes, and personalized baby shower games—because the best moments are the ones filled with love and intention. 1. Blessing Bear: A Keepsake of Love & Prayers If you’re looking for a baby shower activity that’s both interactive and guaranteed to make a lasting impression, Blessing Bear is a perfect addition. This soft, huggable bear becomes a treasured keepsake for the baby, filled with love and well wishes from family and friends. 🧸 How it Works: Set up a table with a Blessing Bear and a collection of small fabric squares (each bear includes enough space for 20 guests to write notes and you can add extra fabric for bigger parties.) Ask each guest to write a short blessing or wish for the baby. After the shower, the messages get tucked into the bear’s inner pocket as a beautiful reminder of the love surrounding this little life. 💡 Why it Works: The Blessing Bear isn’t just an adorable nursery addition—it carries the heartfelt words of loved ones, creating a tangible symbol of faith, warmth, and comfort for the baby. 2. Time Capsule for Baby Imagine your baby opening a box full of love notes, predictions, and small treasures on their 18th birthday. A time capsule is a meaningful baby shower activity that turns a single day into a gift that lasts a lifetime. 📦 How to Set It Up: Provide a decorative box or baby-themed container. Ask guests to write a note for the baby to read in the future—this could be advice, a funny memory, or a hope for their life. Include small keepsakes like a photo from the shower, a newspaper from the baby’s birth month, or a letter from the parents. ⏳ Variation: If the parents prefer something interactive, set up a video station where guests can record a short message instead. These heartfelt words will be priceless when the child is older. 3. DIY Baby’s First ABC Book This is one of the best baby shower games for all ages because it’s simple, fun, and leaves the parents with a keepsake their child will use for years. 📖 How to Play: Assign each guest a letter of the alphabet. Give them a blank page and ask them to illustrate a word that starts with their letter (e.g., "A is for Apple"). Bind the pages together into a book for the baby. 🎨 Creative Twist: For a faith-based version, guests can illustrate Bible verses or words related to kindness and love. 4. Baby Shower Prayer Circle & Blessing Beads For those looking for faith-based baby shower activities, a prayer circle is a beautiful way to cover the baby and parents in love and spiritual support. 🙏 How to Set It Up: Gather guests in a circle and invite each person to share a short prayer, scripture, or blessing for the baby. As each guest prays, they pass around a string of beads. After the shower, the beads can be made into a bracelet or keychain for the parents, serving as a daily reminder of the love surrounding their family. 5. Personalized Baby Blocks Looking for DIY baby shower activities for guests that double as nursery decor? Let guests design wooden baby blocks with messages, pictures, or scriptures. 🖌️ How to Play: Provide plain wooden blocks, paint, and markers. Guests can decorate each side with a letter, number, or special message. Once dry, seal them with baby-safe varnish. 🎁 Why It’s Special: The baby will play with these blocks one day, learning and growing while surrounded by love. 6. “Letters to Baby” Station Sometimes, the simplest gestures are the most touching. This interactive baby shower activity allows guests to write letters the baby can read as they grow up. 📜 How to Set It Up: Provide stationery and envelopes. Give guests prompts like: “When you turn 10, I hope you know…” “Here’s what your parents were like before you were born…” “My funniest memory with your mom/dad is…” Seal the letters and store them in a keepsake box. 💌 Tip: This is a great virtual baby shower activity, too—guests can email letters to be printed later. 7. Baby’s First “Bucket List” This is a fun baby shower idea for guests who want to contribute more than gifts—they can contribute ideas for life experiences! 📝 How to Play: Set out cards where guests write experiences they think the baby should have before turning 18. Examples: “Visit the ocean,” “Read a bedtime story under the stars,” “Meet your great-grandparents.” The parents can store these cards and check off experiences as their child grows. 👶 Bonus: This is a great way to involve older guests who may not want to play games but still want to contribute something meaningful. Final Thoughts: Create a Baby Shower to Remember A baby shower should be more than a gathering—it should be a moment of connection, love, and purpose. Whether you incorporate the Blessing Bear, set up a prayer circle, or create a time capsule, these ideas will make the celebration special for everyone involved. 💡 Want more baby shower inspiration? Learn more about how parents are using Blessing Bear to create memory filled baby showers here.

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Raising Christian kids on your own? 5 ways to make spiritual education for kids easier

by Michelle Heinsimer on May 20 2024
Being the primary guide for your children’s spiritual education can be both a beautiful and daunting responsibility. When your partner isn’t inclined or equipped to take an active role, it often feels like you’re carrying a heavy load on your own. But there's grace in this journey, and there are ways to make it easier on yourself, and enjoyable for your kids. The Weight of Responsibility When you’re the one fostering your children’s faith, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. The questions they ask, the values you want to instill, and the traditions you wish to pass on all rest on your shoulders. There’s a pressure to get it right, to ensure they grow up with a strong, loving relationship with God. Embracing the Challenge First, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s okay to feel this way. You’re not alone, and many parents are in the same position. Here are a few ways to make this journey more manageable and fulfilling: Incorporate Faith into Everyday Life: Find small, meaningful ways to weave God into daily routines. Say a prayer before meals, share a Bible story at bedtime, or talk about God’s creations during a nature walk. Use moments of discipline or guidance as opportunities to reflect on Jesus’ teachings about love, kindness, and forgiveness. Create Fun and Engaging Activities: Kids learn best when they’re having fun. Plan activities that are both educational and enjoyable, like crafting Bible story scenes, cooking meals mentioned in the Bible, or acting out parables. Use multimedia resources like faith-based movies, music, and apps that make learning about God interactive and engaging. Utilize Community Resources: Get involved in church activities or community events where your children can see faith in action. It’s a great way to provide a sense of belonging and show them different expressions of love and worship. Enlist the help of church mentors or family friends who can offer additional perspectives and support. Communicate with Your Partner: Have open conversations about your hopes and challenges in teaching the kids about God. Find small ways they can support you, even if they’re not leading the charge. Encourage them to participate in simple, low-pressure activities, like family prayer time or attending special church events. Build a Support Network: Connect with other parents who are in similar situations. Share ideas, struggles, and successes. A supportive community can make a significant difference. Don’t be afraid to seek guidance from your faith community. Pastors, Sunday school teachers, and other leaders can provide valuable resources and encouragement. Making Faith Fun Remember, teaching about God doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be a joyful, rewarding experience for both you and your kids. Here are a few fun ideas: Bible Treasure Hunts: Create a scavenger hunt based on Bible stories. Each clue can lead to a new verse or story element, making scripture exploration exciting. Faith-Based Games: There are numerous board games and card games designed to teach Bible stories and principles in an entertaining way. Storytime with a Twist: Act out Bible stories with costumes and props. Let your kids play different roles, fostering creativity and deeper understanding. Cooking and Crafting: Make unleavened bread, build an ark with Lego, or create a rainbow craft while discussing God’s promises. By incorporating these strategies, you’re not only lightening your load but also creating a rich, engaging spiritual environment for your children. They’ll come to see learning about God not as a duty, but as an adventure filled with love and discovery. And in the process, you’ll be nurturing their faith in a way that feels natural and joyous.
Creating Safe Spaces for Spiritual Growth at Home: A Guide for Progressive Parents

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Creating Safe Spaces for Spiritual Growth at Home: A Guide for Progressive Parents

by Michelle Heinsimer on May 01 2024
For many progressive Christian families, the home is not just a physical space but a spiritual sanctuary where values of love, inclusivity, and acceptance are nurtured. Creating a safe space for spiritual growth involves more than providing a physical environment; it includes cultivating an atmosphere where questions are encouraged, doubts are welcomed, and exploration is essential. Here are practical ways to create such an environment in your home. 1. Establish a Designated 'Peace Corner' Create a special area in your home dedicated to quiet reflection, prayer, and meditation. This can be a small corner with comfortable cushions, inspirational books, and items that represent peace and spirituality, such as candles, icons, or natural elements. This space should be a technology-free zone, encouraging stillness and introspection. Here, children can learn to connect with their inner selves and God in a serene environment. 2. Incorporate Diverse Spiritual Resources Include a diverse range of books, music, art, and artifacts from various cultures to enrich your child’s spiritual perspective and highlight the universal nature of seeking truth and love. Include children's Bibles that focus on themes of social justice, love, and compassion, such as the "Children of God Storybook Bible" by Desmond Tutu. Resources reflecting the stories and spiritual practices of different communities can teach children the beauty of diversity in God’s creation. 3. Create Rituals Around Everyday Activities Transform ordinary moments into sacred experiences with spiritual rituals. Whether it's saying grace at mealtime, practicing gratitude before bed, or performing acts of kindness, these rituals can ground your family's day-to-day life in spiritual principles. Allow each family member to contribute their own thoughts and prayers, making these activities inclusive and meaningful. 4. Foster Open Conversations Encourage open discussions about faith, doubts, and beliefs. Use storytime as an opportunity to discuss the moral and spiritual lessons in biblical stories or other inspirational literature. Let your children express their doubts and questions without fear of judgment. These conversations can help them understand that spiritual growth involves an ongoing dialogue about values and beliefs. 5. Demonstrate Respect for Different Beliefs Respect for different beliefs is crucial in a progressive Christian home. Expose your children to different world religions and philosophies through books, documentaries, and community events. Discuss these beliefs at home to foster a respect for diverse viewpoints and teach your children that understanding and tolerance are foundational to their spiritual growth and human relationships. 6. Embrace Nature Connect your children with the spirituality of the natural world. Spend time outdoors, engage in activities like gardening or hiking, and use these experiences to discuss the beauty of creation, environmental stewardship, and the interconnectedness of all life. Nature can be a profound teacher, offering lessons on patience, resilience, and the divine. Conclusion Creating a safe space for spiritual growth at home is about cultivating an open, inclusive, and thoughtful environment. By integrating these practices into your home life, you provide your children with the tools to explore their spirituality confidently and compassionately. As progressive parents, our goal is not to prescribe a set path but to guide our children as they navigate their own unique spiritual journeys.
The Best Children's Bibles For Progressive Christian Families

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The Best Children's Bibles For Progressive Christian Families

by Michelle Heinsimer on Apr 30 2024
Finding the right Bible for your kids can feel like a full time job. The Bible stories we choose to share with our little ones can significantly influence their understanding of faith, God, and how they view themselves and others in the world. To make things a little easier, here are our favorite Children's Bibles to families who are trying to stay away from fundamentalist religions and literal translations of the Bible.  1. Growing in God's Love: A Story Bible "Growing in God's Love: A Story Bible" is an excellent choice for parents looking to introduce their children to biblical stories through a lens of inclusivity and equality. What sets this Bible apart is its unique format that encourages discussion, with each story featuring questions to help children reflect on their understanding and relate the lessons to their own lives. The stories are sorted thematically—like strong women and men, welcoming, and listening—which helps in highlighting values that are crucial in today's diverse world. This approach ensures that the teachings of compassion, kindness, and understanding are not just read but are lived.   2. Children of God Storybook Bible by Archbishop Desmond Tutu  Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and a beacon of hope and reconciliation, brings us the "Children of God Storybook Bible." This collection is beautifully illustrated and written in a manner that speaks directly to children's hearts. Each story emphasizes the message that every human being is precious in God's eyes, and that we should treat each other with respect and love. Archbishop Tutu's personal faith and commitment to justice and reconciliation breathe through these stories, making it an inspirational read for children growing up in a world where these values are more important than ever. 3. Shine On Story Bible The "Shine On: A Story Bible" is perfect for young minds eager to understand their place in God's world. This Bible shines a light on stories that promote a faith that is active and engaged in the world. The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, drawing children into the story and helping them visualize the lessons being taught. More importantly, this Bible encourages children to see how they can reflect God's love and light in their everyday actions and interactions, promoting a practical and hopeful approach to faith. Incorporating these Bibles into your family's reading routine can open up new avenues for discussions about faith, justice, and love. They provide a wonderful foundation for helping children grow into thoughtful, compassionate, and faithful adults. These stories not only tell of God's love but actively show how that love is all-encompassing and inclusive, reflecting the progressive Christian values that are vital in nurturing open-hearted and open-minded children.

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How To Raise God-Loving Kids: A Guide for Unfundamentalist Christian Parents

by Michelle Heinsimer on Apr 29 2024
Do you feel a deep desire to give your kids a sense of spirituality and connection, but find traditional church settings to be restrictive and out of touch with your values? You're not alone. Many parents want their kids to grow up understanding the love and compassion at the heart of Christianity but struggle with the hypocrisy they often see inside religious institutions. Who is an Unfundamentalist Christian Parent? First things first, if you've never heard the phrase "unfundamentalist Christian" you might be wondering what it is - or at least what I mean when I use the term: An unfundamentalist Christian parent is someone who wants to nurture their child’s spiritual growth without adhering strictly to the conventional doctrines or practices of organized religion (typically they want to get away from religions that practice a literal interpretation of biblical, embrace purity culture, and / or hold anti-LGBTQ+ beliefs.)  Unfundamentalist parents prioritize the core values of Christianity—love, compassion, and kindness—over strict dogma. They aim to raise their kids to be open-minded, curious, and inclusive, embodying the true essence of what it means to be a Christian in a diverse world. By embracing a more progressive approach, unfundamentalist Christian parents create a faith experience that is personal, reflective, and supportive, ensuring that their families spirituality enhances their kids' sense of self instead of constraining it to fit "biblical" norms. Getting back to core Christian values At its heart, Christianity is about love. Love for God, love for oneself, and most importantly, love for your neighbor. It is these fundamental tenets that we want our kids to understand and embody as they grow into compassionate global citizens. But how do we share these lessons without the structure and rituals provided by conventional churches? As a former Catholic turned progressive Christian parent, I spent the last 8 years working through ways to show my kids a loving, inclusive God. I can't wait to share my favorite ways to raise spiritually aware children who understand and live by Christian principles—even if you never want to step foot inside a church again. Create A Safe Space For Faith In Your HomeEncourage your kids to ask questions about God, about what it means to be a good person, and about their place in the world. The last thing we want is to force our faith or personal beliefs onto our kids; instead, we can model open-mindedness and show our kids that people with strong beliefs are also excellent listeners and critical thinkers. And remember: it's okay to not have all the answers to their questions. What matters is that you're creating an environment where questions are welcomed and exploration is encouraged. Engage Your CommunityWhile cultivating a safe space for spirituality at home is crucial, don't forget about the importance of community involvement. Participate in community service projects to demonstrate the importance of helping others. These experiences will show your children that Christianity is not just about believing in God—it's about living a life of love and compassion. Seek out like-minded families with whom you can share experiences and learn from. Organize get-togethers where your children can interact with a diverse group of people and learn to appreciate the richness of human experience. They don't have to be faith-focused gatherings - inviting new families over to play on the playground or share a meal is just as meaningful when it comes to showing our kids what it looks like to welcome people in. Do Your Research & Be Smart About The Resources You UseThe number of people creating Bible studies, devotionals, and more for families with inclusive or progressive beliefs is steadily growing, but it's important to do your research before you "invite" them into your home. When they say "all are welcome" - what do they mean by that? Do they mean they're only welcome if they conform to their personal version of Christianity and have a "traditional" view of the family? Or do they truly welcome all who seek to know God, including the LGBTQ+ community and their families? Are there evangelical or fundamentalist undertones to the work they do? And is that something you're ok having in your home? It may take a little extra digging, but when you know the resources you're using are safe for your family, exploring faith together becomes so much more fun (and surprisingly freeing!) At the end of the day, spirituality isn't confined within the walls of a church. It's found in acts of kindness, in shared moments of understanding, and in the gentle guidance we give our children as they navigate their path in this world. When you embrace this approach, you're showing your kids that they are indeed connected to something much bigger than themselves—a connection forged by love, compassion, and understanding.

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6 Thoughtful Ways To Support a Friend With a High Risk Pregnancy

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jan 09 2024
Life has a way of surprising us, doesn’t it? And not always in the best ways.In moments like these, it’s not about finding the perfect words or solutions; it’s about being there, wholeheartedly and compassionately.Here are some thoughts on how to support a pregnant friend during this challenging time: Listen, Listen, Listen: Sometimes, the greatest gift you can offer is a listening ear. Let your friend share her thoughts, fears, and hopes. Offer a safe space for her to express her emotions without judgment. Don’t try to fix it for her. The reality is, you can’t 🤷🏻‍♀️ Be a Source of Unobtrusive Comfort: Send a heartfelt card, drop off a warm meal, or offer a comforting hug. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Offer Practical Help: Consider offering practical assistance. Whether it’s helping with household chores, accompanying her to medical appointments, or taking care of their other kids, these acts of support can ease the load. Respect Her Choices: Remember that your friend is navigating uncharted territory. Respect her decisions regarding treatment options and medical care. Offer your support without imposing your own views. Respect Her Privacy: Be mindful of your friend’s need for privacy. Some days, she may want to talk openly, other days she might need time alone. Pray or Send Positive Thoughts: If it aligns with your friend’s beliefs, surprise her with a Blessing Bear full of wishes and prayers from friends and family (or write a note and leave space for her to ask for prayers from anyone she wants.) Knowing that others are holding her and her baby in their hearts can be a huge source comfort. Supporting a friend through a challenging pregnancy is an act of love and empathy. Together, you can navigate the uncertainty and find strength in your friendship.
How to a Heartfelt Holiday Season with Our 25 Days of Kindness Calendar

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How to a Heartfelt Holiday Season with Our 25 Days of Kindness Calendar

by Michelle Heinsimer on Oct 16 2023
The holiday season is right around the corner and if you're anything like me, it's a blend of mistletoe magic and, well, a bit of chaos (IYKYK 😅). The season has us all running between decorating the house, maybe making it to a church service, and somehow also trying to instill those deep-rooted values in our kiddos.That’s why I can’t wait for you to experience our 25 Days of Kindness Calendar.It's a cozy canvas advent calendar that does more than tick off the days till Christmas—it’s a daily exercise in sprinkling kindness like confetti.Using the Calendar is a Piece of (Fruit)Cake: Read on to find out how this little gem of a calendar can sprinkle kindness all over your December! FAQs About the 25 Days of Kindness Calendar What is the 25 Days of Kindness Calendar? It's a special advent calendar with daily kindness activities aimed to teach children about empathy, love, and acceptance in bite-sized lessons. Who is it suitable for? The calendar is perfect for children aged 4 and up. We've designed each activity to be simple yet meaningful. How long does each activity take? Each activity is designed to be quick and impactful, taking less than 15 minutes of your time. Perfect for busy families! How can I integrate this into our daily routine? You can pick a specific time each day to reveal the day's activity, whether it's in the morning before school or as a family activity after dinner. Make it a cherished daily ritual! What if we miss a day? No worries! The activities are self-contained, so if you miss a day, you can either skip it or double up the next day. So, are you ready to make this season the kindest one yet?   We can't wait to hear all about your family's adventures in kindness! If you have any more questions or fun stories to share, don't hesitate to hit reply.
10 Best Personalized Newborn Baby Gifts

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10 Best Personalized Newborn Baby Gifts

by Michelle Heinsimer on Sep 28 2023
Why a Personalized Gift is Meaningful When a newborn enters the world, we want to shower them with love, blessings, and, of course, gifts. But why do personalized gifts stand out? It's simple. Personalized gifts, especially for newborns, embody a unique blend of thoughtfulness, effort, and love. They carry a message of individuality and affirmation, showing the child they are recognized and loved uniquely. How to Choose a Great Personalized Gift Choosing the best personalized newborn baby gifts can be both fun and overwhelming when you're trying to decide between the 100s of options out there. Here are 4 tips to help simplify your gift picking process: Consider the Parents' Values: If the parents are committed to raising their child in a community of love-based faith, consider gifts that align with this philosophy. Look for Quality: A gift that lasts communicates a timeless message of love. Opt for high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Make it Useful: While a personalized gift should be special, it can also be practical. Items like blankets, clothing, or toys can serve a double purpose. Personalize It: The beauty of a personalized gift lies in its uniqueness. Adding the child's name, birth date, or a meaningful quote can make the gift truly one-of-a-kind. As a mom of 3 I know how hard it can be to find a gift that feels meaningful so I've pulled together a list of the 10 best personalized baby gift ideas to help you find the perfect gift - one that warms the parent's heart and helps them create lasting memories with their children: 10 Best Personalized Baby Gift Ideas Blessing Bear Personalized Baby Keepsake Organizer Box Personalized First Bites Gift Set Personalized "When You Were Born" Book Personalized Anywhere Chair Personalized Baby Blanket for Girls Personalized Baby Blanket for Boys Personalized Birth Stat Print Personalized Name Puzzle Personalized Wooden Toy Bundle Get the full details on all 20 personalized and sentimental gifts for new babies: Blessing Bear: This snuggly bear has the sweetest secret: they have a hidden pocket in their back to store handwritten prayers and love notes from family and friends, transforming them into a symbol of unconditional love and community for your little one. Personalized Baby Keepsake Organizer Box: Help parents keep precious mementos organized with a personalized keepsake box. It's the perfect place to store little treasures like the first lock of hair or the hospital bracelet.  Personalized First Bites Gift Set: Make mealtime extra special with a personalized first bites gift set. This adorable set includes a personalized bib, spoon, and plate, making it a practical and sentimental gift.  Personalized "When You Were Born" Book: Celebrate the baby's arrival with a personalized book that tells the story of their birth. It's a beautiful keepsake that parents and children can cherish for years to come.  Personalized Anywhere Chair: Give the little one their own special spot with a personalized anywhere chair. Whether it's for reading, playing, or just relaxing, this chair will be their cozy haven.  Personalized Baby Blanket for Girls: Wrap the baby girl in love and warmth with a personalized baby blanket. Choose a design and add her name for an extra special touch.  Personalized Baby Blanket for Boys: Boys deserve their own personalized baby blanket too! Opt for a design that suits his style and have his name embroidered on it.  Personalized Birth Stat Print: Commemorate the baby's birth with a personalized birth stat print. Displaying details like their name, birth date, weight, and height, it's a beautiful reminder of their special day.  Personalized Name Puzzle: Help the baby learn their name with a personalized name puzzle. It's a fun and educational gift that will bring joy and excitement as they piece together their own name.  Personalized Wooden Toy Bundle: Inspire imagination and play with a personalized wooden toy bundle. Engrave the baby's name on wooden blocks, puzzles, or a rocking horse, creating personalized toys that will be cherished throughout their childhood.    Choosing the best personalized newborn baby gifts is a meaningful way to express your love and support for the newest addition to your community and finding the perfect personalized gift doesn't have to be a challenge. With this list of the 10 best gift ideas, you can choose a gift that will warm the parents' hearts and create lasting memories with their little one. 
20 Best Personalized and Sentimental Baby Gift Ideas

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20 Best Personalized and Sentimental Baby Gift Ideas

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jul 18 2023
As a mom of 3 I know how hard it can be to find a gift that feels sentimental and thoughtful. I've pulled together a list of the 20 best personalized and sentimental baby gift ideas to help you find the perfect gift - one that warms the parent's heart and helps them create lasting memories with their children. Let's dive in! 10 Best Sentimental & Thoughtful Baby Gift Ideas Blessing Bear Baby Keepsake Organizer Box Keepsake Baby Book DIY Baby Handprint and Footprint Keepsake Pad My Little Book of Blessings Personalized Book New Parent Care Package Who Loves Me? Storybook CAMP Bedtime Baby Gift Set Deluxe New Mom & Baby Gift Box Personalized Baby Milestone Chalkboard 10 Best Personalized Baby Gift Ideas Personalized Baby Blanket for Girls Personalized Wall Art Set Personalized Baby Keepsake Organizer Box Personalized First Bites Gift Set Personalized "When You Were Born" Book Personalized Anywhere Chair Personalized Baby Blanket for Boys Personalized Birth Stat Print Personalized Name Puzzle Personalized Wooden Toy Bundle Get the full details on all 20 personalized and sentimental gifts for new babies:   Blessing Bear: This snuggly bear has the sweetest secret: they have a hidden pocket in their back to store handwritten prayers and love notes from family and friends, transforming them into a symbol of unconditional love and community for your little one.  Baby Keepsake Organizer Box: Similar to the personalized version, this keepsake box provides a special place for parents to store cherished memories of their little one.  Keepsake Baby Book: Help parents document every precious moment with a keepsake baby book. From the first smile to the first steps, this book will hold treasured memories for years to come.  DIY Baby Handprint and Footprint Keepsake Pad: Create a sentimental keepsake with a DIY handprint and footprint kit. The baby's tiny hands and feet will be forever captured in a unique and personalized way.  My Little Book of Blessings Personalized Book: Personalized Book: Share the love and wisdom of a loving God with a personalized book filled with blessings and prayers for the baby.  New Parent Care Package: Show your support and care for the new parents with a thoughtful care package filled with essentials and treats to make their journey a little easier.  Who Loves Me? Storybook: Teach the baby about the love that surrounds them with a personalized storybook that includes the names of their family and friends.  CAMP Bedtime Baby Gift Set: Create a soothing bedtime routine with a gift set that includes a personalized blanket, bedtime book, and a plush toy to snuggle with.  Deluxe New Mom & Baby Gift Box: Spoil the new mom and baby with a deluxe gift box filled with personalized and thoughtful goodies, from skincare products to baby essentials.  Personalized Baby Milestone Chalkboard: Capture the baby's milestones in a creative and personalized way with a milestone chalkboard. Parents can fill in the details and snap adorable pictures to treasure forever.  Personalized Baby Blanket for Girls: Wrap the baby girl in love and warmth with a personalized baby blanket. Choose a design and add her name for an extra special touch.  Personalized Wall Art Set: Add a touch of personalization to the nursery with a beautiful customized wall art set featuring the baby's name and birth details. Personalized Baby Keepsake Organizer Box: Help parents keep precious mementos organized with a personalized keepsake box. It's the perfect place to store little treasures like the first lock of hair or the hospital bracelet.  Personalized First Bites Gift Set: Make mealtime extra special with a personalized first bites gift set. This adorable set includes a personalized bib, spoon, and plate, making it a practical and sentimental gift.  Personalized "When You Were Born" Book: Celebrate the baby's arrival with a personalized book that tells the story of their birth. It's a beautiful keepsake that parents and children can cherish for years to come.  Personalized Anywhere Chair: Give the little one their own special spot with a personalized anywhere chair. Whether it's for reading, playing, or just relaxing, this chair will be their cozy haven.  Personalized Baby Blanket for Boys: Boys deserve their own personalized baby blanket too! Opt for a design that suits his style and have his name embroidered on it.  Personalized Birth Stat Print: Commemorate the baby's birth with a personalized birth stat print. Displaying details like their name, birth date, weight, and height, it's a beautiful reminder of their special day.  Personalized Name Puzzle: Help the baby learn their name with a personalized name puzzle. It's a fun and educational gift that will bring joy and excitement as they piece together their own name.  Personalized Wooden Toy Bundle: Inspire imagination and play with a personalized wooden toy bundle. Engrave the baby's name on wooden blocks, puzzles, or a rocking horse, creating personalized toys that will be cherished throughout their childhood.  Finding the perfect personalized and sentimental baby gift doesn't have to be a challenge. With this list of the 20 best gift ideas, you can choose a gift that will warm the parents' hearts and create lasting memories with their little one. Whether it's a personalized keepsake or a thoughtful gift, each of these options will show your love and support for their growing family.
Tips to Help You Print Wall Art Like a Pro (At Home or Online)

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Tips to Help You Print Wall Art Like a Pro (At Home or Online)

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jan 16 2021
Love the idea of downloading high quality nursery art but not sure how to actually print them from home? Have no fear, it's actually super simple and there are multiple options depending on the size you want and your budget. In just a few minutes you can download and print beautiful wall art to decorate your child's room. It doesn't get much easier (or faster) than that!  I setup this handy guide so you can find the perfect option for you and if you still have questions afterwards don't hesitate to leave a comment below or shoot me a note so we can talk it through together. How to print 8 x 10s   Option 1: Print from home This one is definitely the easiest and cheapest. All you need to do is download the 8 x 10 nursery print(s), choose your printer and then make sure to select "Scale: 100%." Do not select "Scale to Fit," that will stretch the image to fill up the printer sheet which is 8.5 x 11 and make result in funny looking images. Depending on the frame you chose you may need to do some minor trimming along the edges for a perfect fit.   Option 2: Print at a place like Shutterfly or Costco This option is just as easy but a little more expensive (around $3-6 per print + shipping) and you'll have to wait for them to print and ship (or pickup) your nursery art. Shutterfly.com and Costco offer high quality printing at very reasonable prices. If you go the Shutterfly route make sure you look for a promo code on their home page; they are almost always running a 40-50% off sale. You'll need to upload your images to their website (or bring them on a USB if you want to order in a store), select your size and paper (I prefer matte photo paper or cardstock) and wait for them to ship straight to your door! They won't need any trimming and should slide right into any frame you choose. Need some instructions to help you navigate Shutterfly? Click the button at the bottom of this screen to download my free guide to printing on Shutterfly.     How to print anything larger than an 8x10   Unless you own a large format home printer (lucky you!) you'll need to use a professional printer for the larger sizes but that doesn't have to be scary (or expensive.) Here are my two favorite ways to print large format nursery art on your own:   Option 1: Print at a place like Shutterfly or Costco Just like with 8 x 10s, Shutterfly.com and Costco offer high quality printing in larger sizes - don't forget to look for a promo code if you go the Shutterfly route. You'll still need to upload your images to their website (or bring them on a USB if you want to order in a store), select your size and paper (I prefer matte photo paper or cardstock) and wait for them to ship straight to your door! Again, they won't need any trimming and should slide right into any frame you choose.   Option 2: Print at a local print shop A true print shop should be able to manage just about any size you want and they'll offer several high quality art papers to chose from. Not sure which is best? They'll be happy to help. This is a great option if you supporting local, small businesses and want the highest quality possible. They'll likely need PDFs - if that's the case just shoot me a note and I will happily send them to you!   Need a little extra help? I put together some simple instructions on how to print using Shutterfly - one of my favorite options for easy, budget-friendly printing (FYI I am not getting paid to say this, I truly love Shutterfly!) You can download the guide by clicking on the button at the bottom of the screen.   Still not 100% convinced that printing from home is easy? Let me print for you! I use high quality matte art paper and archival inks and I am always happy to print and ship to customers. You can find the "Print & Ship" option in the listing for any of my prints here. Just choose the size you want, order and then sit back and wait for your personalized nursery prints to arrive!   Still have questions? Leave a comment below or email me and we can figure it out together.  
How to Incorporate Wallpaper Into Your Home

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How to Incorporate Wallpaper Into Your Home

by Michelle Heinsimer on Oct 05 2020
Originally shared on Redfin.com Written and Published September 30, 2020 by Julia Weaver   If you’re wanting to add a little pattern to your home to refresh your space, wallpaper is one way to step outside your comfort zone and make a statement in any room. This versatile design trend has returned full force and with more patterns than ever before. Still hesitant? We’ve asked experts, from Atlanta to Sacramento, to share their best tips on how to enhance any room with wallpaper.   Try covering wood or styrofoam panels One of my favorite ways to add wallpaper is to cover wood or styrofoam panels and then hang them in a series along a main wall. It’s a low commitment, high impact way to add a splash of color or a gorgeous pattern to any room. – The Graceful Goose     Start with a small space You don’t need to wallpaper an entire room to add some interest. A small wall, entryway, or even closet will allow you to become more familiar with how to wallpaper and is a very satisfying project you can complete in a day. – One Delightful Home   Consider printing photos of your room to help visualize and choose As a very dominant feature for a room, choosing wallpaper can feel scary. If you don’t have design software, make visualizing the space easier by printing images of your furniture or room, cutting them out, and placing them on your chosen wallpaper pattern. – Sian Zeng   Consider using wall stencils Wall stencils are a budget-friendly way for creative people to decorate the interior of their homes. Reusable wall stencils are praised by the DIY community because they allow anyone to easily get the look of designer wallpaper with all the excitement of customizing colors and size to create a unique, conversational accent wall. –Cutting Edge Stencils Try a room that isn’t frequently visited first Wallpaper is such a great way to add personality, depth, and texture to rooms. If you’re worried about starting out, start with a room people won’t visit often like a laundry room or inside a hall closet for a fun surprise. There are so many versions of wallpaper to choose from. Grasscloth adds a subtle texture and sometimes color that blends in nicely, all the way up to bold attention-grabbing patterns. Find your happy place. – Hey Jen Interiors   Add warmth and texture with a subtle pattern If you are looking to spruce up your walls with some cool wallpaper but are a bit afraid of the commitment of a bold print, try a more subtle or small-scale pattern to add warmth and texture. One of my favorite patterns (that is also in my home’s entryway) is one that is soft and breezy and gently welcomes you into the house without taking the spotlight or being too in your face. –Sunny Circle Studio   Use unexpected patterns Your walls can go beyond the expected pattern with custom creations like an antique chart on the ceiling, reproduction of fine art from the MFA, extending the bricks in your wine cellar (on paper), or reproducing an “out of print” wallpaper from grandma’s house. You can have a Chinoiserie, botanical, scenic mural based from any historic period in art or a photographic scene to extend your apparent space far beyond the walls. – Zoë Design   Apply wallpaper to your ceiling or furniture My go-to when thinking about using wallpaper to enhance a space is to consider the alternative ways that it can be applied. Our natural instincts sometimes tell us that wallpaper can only be applied to specific areas or in traditional ways, such as a feature wall. But I like to encourage people to think about extending this to ceilings and even furniture. A great example would be moving from lining our storage units with wallpaper to using them on drawer fronts. There are many ways to be creative with wallpaper, we just need to be daring enough to try. – Saphron London   Bring the outside in Families are craving natural, peaceful homes to work and home-school children in right now because of COVID-19. Floral, tropical, and forest wallpaper is an easy way to do this. But when bringing the outdoors inside, remember to choose an eco-friendly paper that won’t harm your family’s air quality or mother earth. Sustainability and non-toxic products are always on-trend. – About Murals   Wallpaper can be temporary My best advice for any homeowner thinking about adding wallpaper to their home is to not think of it as a forever thing. Removing wallpaper, even traditional pasted wallpaper, comes down with little damage to the walls if installed properly. This can make the decision to add wallpaper a lot less stressful. – Collected Electic   Always measure twice Wallpaper can turn up the fun in any room with bold patterns and hyped up color. First, pick a pattern that sings to your heart, then check your measurements once, and then again. Next, go for a great peel and stick option. It’s super forgiving and even great for first-timers. You’ve got quick style loaded with fun. – Rave Interior Design   Don’t forget about the ceiling The “accent wall” can be really effective, but just as often can look like you ran out of wallpaper, or money, or both. For maximum impact in this one-wall scenario (that truly nearly never fails), consider placing it on the ceiling. You can also embrace your dining room and powder room as the “ID” of your home. This is not the place to play it safe. Have fun with color, texture (yes, even grasscloth), and lighting. – Imagine Studios Inc.   Take advantage of stripes Do you have a room that is not the ideal size? Are you not happy about the low ceiling or wish it was not so narrow? You can use striped wallpaper to change the optical size of a specific space. Using wallpaper with vertical stripes will make a room feel higher, while horizontal stripes will make the room look wider. You can, of course, do the opposite if your ceilings are for example too high. – Wallpaper from the 70s   Create harmony between your furnishings and wallpaper Worried about growing “tired” of a large scale wallpaper? If you chose one in the palette of nature it’s always going to be easy to live with. Soft blues, greens, tans, and browns and always peaceful. Not everything in a space can be the rockstar. If you choose a stunning wallpaper, let the fabrics and furnishings harmonize with it  – Susan Harter Muralpapers   Get creative with whiteboard wallpaper What if your wall could be more than just a color or design? Whiteboard wallpaper is an easy to use, eco-friendly solution for modernizing your home and adding function to your wall. Create a shopping list, write a reminder, or just allow the kids to have fun drawing over innovative whiteboard wallpaper. – Smarter Surfaces    Choose wallpaper like you would an art piece Wallpaper is meant to add some happiness to your home. Think of it as artwork when you’re considering which paper to purchase. Does it make you happy? Does it reflect your lifestyle? Does it transition well with the rest of your home? When you answer yes to these questions, you’ve found your perfect wallpaper. – Kerri Rosenthal   Use wallpaper to create a wow factor  Pick a pattern you love, not just because it’s on trend. Find something that adds a wow factor but doesn’t overwhelm the rest of your interior. If you have really fallen hard for a bold pattern but aren’t sure how it’s going to look on your walls, frame a piece and turn it into feature artwork instead. Have some fun in the bedroom and add wallpaper to panelled wardrobe doors! If you want to really go wild with your paper, use it all over in a small room like your cloakrooms and wow your guests. – Muchmore Design    

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Best White Convertible Cribs Under $300 in 2020

by Michelle Heinsimer on Sep 17 2020
On the hunt for the best convertible crib to buy for your new baby’s room? Whether your style is traditional, modern or somewhere in between, I’ve got you covered with 8 highly rated white convertible cribs (although most come in multiple colors.) Even better? Not only do parents rave about them, they are all budget-friendly and under $300! One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six | Seven | Eight This post contains affiliate links - as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ONE Looking for a simple crib with mid-century flare? Baby Mod's Marley crib strikes a perfect balance with its straight lines and tapered legs. The white / walnut version would look gorgeous in a mid-century themed nursery or go with the white / natural for a more boho look. TWO This sweet vintage style crib from Million Dollar Baby is both gorgeous and versatile. The carved railings add a feminine touch and work equally well in a shabby chic, vintage or farmhouse nursery. THREE Looking for something more modern? The clean lines of the Storkcraft Beckett strikes the perfect balance between modern and timeless. FOUR With a luxury look and a wallet friendly price, the Harriet Bee Alerton is a no brainer. It would look so sweet in a princess themed nursery and parents love how easy it is to put together. FIVE With the option to convert from crib to toddler bed to full size bed, the Delta Archer is a great option if you're aiming for a more traditional nursery look. SIX Another great traditional pick, the Delta Emery is a parent fave for its sturdiness and how easy it it is to put together. The traditional style makes it super versatile and gender neutral, a huge win if you're hoping for a big family. SEVEN The Kolcraft Roscoe is just slightly over $300 but the chic, mid-century styling and high quality construction make it a great buy. EIGHT On a tight budget? At under $200, the DaVinci Jenny Lind crib is easy on the wallet and oh so sweet! With 10 colors to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect one for your nursery. Looking for inspiration? Here are a few of our favorite ideas:
How to pick the perfect size wall art

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How to pick the perfect size wall art

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jul 01 2019
If decorating doesn't come naturally, picking the right size for your nursery art can seem like an uphill battle. Is 8x10 too small? Will 16x20 be too big? Click through to see a helpful sizing guide to help you pick the right size wall art for your baby's nursery room.
Modern Black and White Nursery

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Modern Black and White Nursery

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jun 28 2019
Modern black and white nurseries seem to be all over Pinterest and Instagram and it's easy to see why parents can't get enough of this classic combo.
How to create an easy wallpaper accent wall

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How to create an easy wallpaper accent wall

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jun 26 2019
Dreaming of a wallpaper accent wall in your baby's room? This easy DIY is simple enough for you to manage on your own and creates a beautiful statement in your nursery!
A gorgeous blush & grey nursery

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A gorgeous blush & grey nursery

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jun 21 2019
There is something about a blush nursery that just screams sweet and sophisticated. Pair it with a mix of grey and natural wood accents for a gorgeous nursery neither of you will want to leave!

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How to decorate a nursery on a tight budget

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jun 18 2019
Dreaming of a gorgeous nursery but not sure how to make it happen on a tight budget? One of my favorite ways to decorate on the cheap is with printable wall art. Just download, print and add cheap frames for beautifully decorated walls.
Free Printable Dark Blush Wall Art

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Free Printable Dark Blush Wall Art

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jun 14 2019
Celebrate the launch of the newest nursery print sets with this gorgeous printable bible verse. The free dark blush floral print is the perfect addition to your baby girl's room.

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How to maximize space in a small nursery

by Michelle Heinsimer on Jun 08 2019
Looking for ideas to make the most of a small room? With a little pre-planning, you can create a beautiful, organized nursery for your baby. I've boiled the process down into 5 key steps to make it super easy for you to maximize space in your baby's room.