DEAR ABBY: There is a way that "Bursting With Joy in San Antonio" could include her out-of-town family and friends in her baby shower.
I have no family where I live and knew they would be unable to attend my baby shower, so I made special announcements to out-of-towners indicating we wanted to share our joy with them, but to please not send gifts (which can be expensive to mail).
Instead, my best friend, who was hosting the shower, suggested that they send a card or letter with their best baby tips written on them. This turned out to be a wonderful idea! I received tons of congratulations, along with numerous suggestions that helped me care for my newborn.
My baby is now 15 months old, and I still use many of the tips. Plus, I have a unique keepsake for my daughter, showing how many people loved her before she even arrived. -- BRENDA SPAGNOLA-WILSON, HOUSTON
DEAR BRENDA: What a terrific idea! Thank you for sharing it. Not only would it be helpful to someone planning a shower for an honoree whose friends and family are far away, but also for those who already "have everything."