New Baby Presents

I've been lulling over what to buy several new babies who are on the horizon, to other mummies.  It's brought me back to presents that we were given when Little Miss was born.

Now Little Miss was *just* 4lb when she was born, and surprised most people by being 6 weeks early.  Prematurity isn't something that most of the people we know, have much experience in (save for my medic mummy friends, who all seemed to have problematic pregnancies!).

I remember being so disappointed that many people bought Little Miss newborn, and 0-3 sized clothing.  She didn't fit in most of these clothing until 6 months old.  In fact some of the clothing she was kindly given she didn't fit into until she was a year old!  (However, they were lovely once they did fit Little Miss, and she wore summer clothing all through the winter with tights, vests and cardigans!).

There were some notable gifts which where given with the utmost thought

• My first primary school teacher bought Little Miss a Hungry Caterpillar cup, bowl, plate, spoon, fork and knife set.  At the time it seemed bizarre, for such a tiny baby.  Now it seems the most sensible present, and is very much loved.  It has been used at various weddings for Little Miss to eat from, as it's such a nice set.

• A very good friend from University made us a hamper.  He sent gifts for Little Miss, clothes which fitted her a year later; sweets, chocolates, fruit tea and treats for me (and daddy).  The thought which went into this was greatly appreciated.
• My sister cooked homemade shortbread, perfect for a SCBU mummy on the go.  A taste of home.
• My Nana's church crocheted Little Miss a blanket.  I love handmade bits, and this is used frequently.
• My MIL bought Little Miss a fleece blanket from Primark.  It cost very little, but was so soft.  And everytime it becomes too old, and not soft enough, I run out and buy another!
• My mother knitted, like her life depended on it, and soon enough Little Miss had a whole wardrobe which fit her, and was in lovely colours.

I've been trying to add to this list of great presents and have come up with

• A childs china cup.  We had these as children, they'd be good as Christening presents too.  Ones with Peter Rabbit, or Thomas the Tank Engine on.
• A homemade 'taggie'.  A small square blanket with ribbon 'tags' on it.
• Home knitting, there are lovely patterns for knitting hats and blankets amongst other items.
• Soft leather shoes like these ones

How about you?  What was your favoured items you were given?  What would you like to have been given?