BEDRIDDEN

Unfortunately, pregnancy is not a breeze for every mother. Some women have complications that can keep her bedridden at home or even at hospital. For expectant mother, waiting for birth of a child from bed is lousy. A baby shower can be customized around her situation to brighten her day, giving her hope while lifting her spirits.

Instead of waiting on birth of baby, go ahead and plan shower with close family members and friends, bringing shower to her. Remember, after baby is born, a full-scale shower can always follow. However, for this type of shower, guests should create a miniature gift box or basket. Great ideas of what might be offered include:

• Craft projects that can be worked on in bed are good choices. This might include cross-stitch, needlepoint, simple paintings, and even handmade ornaments.
  
• Books are also excellent ideas but it is important to choose books that she likes. Ask her or her family what types of books she enjoys reading.
  
• Puzzles are also a great way for expectant mother to pass time. This might include crossword puzzles, other puzzle books, or a flat tray with a small piece puzzle, perhaps of a baby.
  
• Video tapes or DVDs are nice in that she can watch her favorite television shows or movies while still getting rest needed.
  
• A day spa certificate to include massage, facial, pedicure, and manicure for after her baby is born would provide her with something to look forward to but you might also go in with other people in having a reflexologist or masseuse come to her.
  
• Care package for after birth, again to help her think about future. This could include a trip to beauty parlor, dinner out with her husband or friend, housecleaning service for two to four weeks, three to six-month supply of diapers, and so on.
  
• Body lotion, perfume, balloons, flowers, and other similar things are always nice to help brighten room and put her in a better mood while waiting for her new bundle of joy to arrive.

©2004 Babyshowermoments, All rights Reserved

Keep available. I give kids my cell phone number so they can call me anytime, anywhere. My daughter once called me in Europe to get directions to a restaurant in Boston . It was great to hear from her!

Help out when you are home. Gina knows that she can count on me to do doctor and dentist runs when I am home. I assume this role and others so that she doesn't feel like a single parent when I am on road.

Plan some family fun time. When I am home I feel an obligation to encourage fun family time. Whether it's dinner out, a trip to mall or a movie, we have fun together. You can plan this while you are traveling and give them something to look forward to.

For a free copy of "10 Ways to Motivate Your Sales Team", please email article21@waterhousegroup.com and ask for article #21.

Stephen Waterhouse is Principal and Founder of Waterhouse Group. They specialize in helping companies increase their sales and profits. He can be reached at 1-800-57-LEARN or steve@waterhousegroup.com.

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