Anonymous
Post 07/25/2016 19:20     Subject: Re:Small Gift or Gesture for Acquaintance Neighbor with a Newborn
Anonymous wrote:I was like all moms after my son was born -- totally overwhelmed and exhausted. But I never understood the emphasis people put on getting food to you. It was not hard for someone, usually husband, to stop at the store once a week and buy 7 frozen lasagnas or similar premade dinners that involve zero time, and a stack of bananas and granola bars and yogurt cups. I'm not sure why a handmade lasagna from a friend was easier or better? That said, of course muffins, casserole, gift card or whatever will be welcomed by this woman - not because any of it will be particularly helpful but because it is a kind gesture!

That said, at 3 weeks, 2 months or 6 months, what I most appreciated was having another person around. I would have loved a "nosy" neighbor who knocked on my door and said "meet you at the corner in 15 minutes and we'll go for an hour walk around the neighborhood". But that was just me! I missed people and talking.



Food is super helpful! I would way rather have a nice casserole or roast that I just have to spoon and serve than 7 frozen lasagna that I still have to cook and serve. Just a hot dinner or fresh lunch delivered ready to eat.. Heaven. Especially because life feels so topsy turvy and like normality will never return... It's so nice to have a home cooked dinner to make things feel better.
Anonymous
Post 07/25/2016 16:27     Subject: Re:Small Gift or Gesture for Acquaintance Neighbor with a Newborn
We just gave a neighbor a few board books. I made sure to choose more obscure titles(but well liked by my children). If its a duplicate, they can regift. Books are always a hit in my book.
Anonymous
Post 07/25/2016 16:24     Subject: Small Gift or Gesture for Acquaintance Neighbor with a Newborn
My neighbor just had a baby and she made it clear that she did not want help in anyway. It is her first baby so I was surprised and I tossed all plans of making her food out the window. I gave the baby a small toy instead.
Anonymous
Post 07/25/2016 16:22     Subject: Small Gift or Gesture for Acquaintance Neighbor with a Newborn
Anonymous wrote:I promise you it's the thought that counts. I had three neighbors give gifts when I had our first baby: a casserole, a book and outfit, and a set of socks. I was honestly touched by each, and four years later, I still remember.


This. We didn't know our neighbors super well when my son was born, and it was super sweet when both our next door neighbors brought over gifts. One was a teddy bear, the other was a bag of goodies including those saline wipes (which I didn't know existed!) and an adorable hat that unfortunately he only wore once because he had a gigantic head. Food was always great too. You really can't go wrong here OP, and it's so thoughtful of you to help out.
Anonymous
Post 07/25/2016 14:27     Subject: Small Gift or Gesture for Acquaintance Neighbor with a Newborn
If Galley delivers to your neighborhood a gift card to them would be great.
Anonymous
Post 07/25/2016 14:16     Subject: Re:Small Gift or Gesture for Acquaintance Neighbor with a Newborn
Anonymous wrote:I was like all moms after my son was born -- totally overwhelmed and exhausted. But I never understood the emphasis people put on getting food to you. It was not hard for someone, usually husband, to stop at the store once a week and buy 7 frozen lasagnas or similar premade dinners that involve zero time, and a stack of bananas and granola bars and yogurt cups. I'm not sure why a handmade lasagna from a friend was easier or better? That said, of course muffins, casserole, gift card or whatever will be welcomed by this woman - not because any of it will be particularly helpful but because it is a kind gesture!

That said, at 3 weeks, 2 months or 6 months, what I most appreciated was having another person around. I would have loved a "nosy" neighbor who knocked on my door and said "meet you at the corner in 15 minutes and we'll go for an hour walk around the neighborhood". But that was just me! I missed people and talking.


if you cannot tell the difference between a frozen lasagna and one that is homemade, I feel so sorry for your tastebuds. what a terrible way to live.
Anonymous
Post 07/25/2016 14:14     Subject: Small Gift or Gesture for Acquaintance Neighbor with a Newborn
I think most of these options are lovely. especially the note attached that says, please spend whatever time you would normally on a thank you card instead on yourself and resting your eyes for a moment.

oh - and the contact info with a sincere note to call / stop by / find on FB anytime. that is a great step that can launch a friendship!!

OP, you are very thoughtful for thinking of them and no matter what you end up doing, that thought will shine through.