The birth of a child is a miracle, a blessing, one of the world’s wonders we can see ourselves. Most cultures have rites and rituals to mark the occasion, and they’re all so wonderful… but if you’re like me, a boring old American, you might not have a strong cultural connection, but you still feel the desire to mark the occasion with something special. Here are 7 ways to celebrate a new life…
Photo Credit: Doc macaSTAT
When my oldest daughter was born, I planted a tree with a note in the roots. Now, twenty years later, the pear tree bears fruit, and is taller than she is. It’s a constant, living reminder of how precious she is… and how much she’s grown.
Photo Credit: david.richter
Celebrate the new baby by naming a star after him! If he grows up to be a NASA engineer or space explorer/astronaut, you can always claim that you were the inspiration.
Photo Credit: 713 Avenue
Make a time capsule with a newborn photo, newspaper, magazine, notes from friends and family, a CD of your favorite music, and other items, and bury it. Dig it up on your baby’s 18th birthday, and see what’s inside. It ought to be interesting…
Photo Credit: starrdesign
I’ve kept elaborate scrapbooks for each of my girls, documenting first teeth, first days at school… and even first tastes of ice cream and pony rides. Start as soon as baby is born, or even with an ultrasound image, and add to it as you’re able.
Photo Credit: stanislav.dimitrov
Ever the planner, when my girls were born I immediately opened a new savings account for each of them. That’s where all of their christening, birthday, and holiday money went, so when they were old enough to start adding to it on their own, they already had a pretty sizeable nest egg.
Photo Credit: Catskills Grrl
I, for one, loathe baby showers. Who wants to spend their day off in a musty hall with dozens of women they barely know playing dumb games and giving the new mommy a gift she specifically asked for? Not me! I much prefer the newer tradition of having a small party once baby is born, to celebrate that new little life. You can bring what you want, and spend time with the wee one herself. Much better, and so much more meaningful!
Photo Credit: Cesar R.
Some of us choose names for our children because we like the way they sound, but why not celebrate this brand-new life by choosing a name you love that means something? Go back in your family tree, or choose a hero, and dare to choose something different, something other than sweet Emily or strong Jacob. Keep a written record of why you chose that name, and make sure your child knows!
There are so many ways to celebrate the birth of a child, and each culture has so many more! How do you and your loved ones celebrate a new life? Do you have a tradition you can share? Please let me know!
Top Photo Credit: Linkie Lueville {lindsay}