If you want to send a birthday gift, Treats for Troops will automatically divert your gift to a soldier with a birthday coming up. Billy from US Army writes, "Thanks a lot for what you sent. We really don't have anything out here. I thank you more than you know. I am glad we are thought about. Thanks."

Can you imagine heartwarming feeling of receiving a personal thank you like that from Iraq? " Thank you so much! I got this package right after we got back from field. My buddies and I ate it all up. It made us feel a lot better. We all thank you." Nathaniel of US Army.

Jamie of USMC writes, "Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! That was best and most thoughtful care package I have ever received! I am so proud to be defending some of kindest people in our country. Thanks again. Love, Jamie"

Mark from US ARMY writes, "Receiving this gift from you has made my holiday season. You have made one very lonely jetflier very happy. Mark."

James from US Army serving in Afghanistan writes, "Sorry about not returning card you included with gift. It got messed up. I am in Army and originally from Oklahoma, even though I have spent most of my career overseas. Myself, as well as my tent mates really appreciated box. It is a good feeling to know people back home haven't forgotten us or what we do for our country. Thanks for all support, it will not be forgotten. God Bless, James."

The site also has a photo gallery of some of troops enjoying their gifts. All smiles, with their buddies, opening their surprise packages from home. It is so darn touching, I dare you not to cry.

Prices start at a dollar. Even if all you can send is a can of Pringles or a pound of salted sunflower seeds- they will all be appreciated and enjoyed.

I leave you with an excerpt from Treats for Troops website: "He's only eighteen. He did all right in high school, but not good enough to get somebody else to pay for college. But he wanted to make something of himself, maybe even do something important. So he joined army, and now it's their job to turn him into a man. He's giving it his all, and most of time he feels like he left kid he used to be back in Colorado. But not all time. Not today. This is first time he's ever been away from home, and even though he's never really alone, he's often lonely. Sometimes he wonders if people back in States are behind him. He'd like to know, because he's made a pledge to lay down his life to defend his country if he has to."

Please go to Treats for Troops website now and support our troops. http://treatsfortroops.com/index.php

WEBMASTERS: You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. Fire Foxx

Unique Giftbaskets Overnight has no affiliation whatsoever with Treats for Troops. But as a gift basket and gift website, they are honored to donate 10% of all purchases made through their website to the Treats for Troops program through a corporate sponsorship. http://uniquegiftbasketsovernight.com/

Taking time to refresh your knowledge about pregnancy and birth – Especially if you are going to be part of child birthing process, a brief refresher of what to expect would be helpful. Your daughter will look to you at various points of process for your reassurance. It would be helpful if you are able to use terminology she learned during birthing preparation classes to let her know you are aware of what she is experiencing and can relate with up to date information.

Setting aside at least two to three weeks time – Being available to spend or be on call to help new mom during recuperation and adjustment period is an invaluable gift your daughter will never forget. Sleep schedules, adjusting to feeding, doctor’s appointments, stabilizing meal schedules, addressing unexpected emergencies, doctor’s visits, and helping with general lifestyle changes all make a difference between smooth and traumatic transition. The significance of your presence during this time cannot be measured.

Scheduling “readiness” packing--Do not wait until your daughter is heading to hospital to pack items as you may be asked to stay with mom and dad at hospital overnight. Be sure to include dried fruit, juice, peppermints, and other light refreshments you can use during break times. Our team took turns sleeping and eating during 17 hours my daughter was in labor. We prepared a food kit that included toothbrush, wash cloth, music for her comfort, and fresh fruit. Unfortunately, hospital machines offer carbonated soda and potato chips that are uninviting during early morning hours.

Another preplanning strategy you should consider is talking to new mom and dad about what they may need from you after birth of child. Often new parents don’t consider need for help until issue arises. By initiating this conversation, new parents have option to consider whether there is a need for help for one or two weeks to support a variety of issues including monitoring phone calls and visitors, helping with home chores, washing clothes, and preparing meals. These are a few of their favorite things.

Participating in birth of your first grandbaby will mark a moment in your life that can only be matched by your daughter’s birth. Your role is different this time, but it is pivotal to joy of your daughter’s birthing experience. Congratulations Grandma!!