Congratulations everyone nominated for the Dream Baby Shower!
A big thanks to
Hip to be Round
For hosting our Dream Baby Shower Expectant Girls Day Out
and
The Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU
for sponsoring the 2014 Dream Baby Shower
Without further ado, the Dream Baby Shower Winner is….
Christine Lowman!
(Read about Christine and all the other nominees here)
We had a great time giving away door prizes, eating cupcakes and getting to meet some amazing women. Pictures were taken by McAbbott Studios.
Best wishes to everyone and their new arrivals!
Photo booth fun
He was too cute!
One of our many giveaways!
Christine and her family have been showered with prizes provided by…
Science Museum- 1 year membership
$250 Gift Card to Hip to be Round
Massage Envy – Free 1 hr Massage ($80) 
All Fired Up – Gift Certificate
Romp n’ Roll – month membership
Virginia529 – $100 inVEST account
Real Life Studios -$350.00 gift certificate
Sleepytime – $50 gift certificate for sleep consulting
Shannon Milligan – piggy bank with $75 to start college fund
Nanny Van – gift certificate free registration for annual membership ($150 value).
Flying Squirrels – Baby’s first Flying Squirrels fan gear!
Fit4Mom – 1 month of stroller strides classes
ChildTime – free week of infant child care ($224)
Babbie Laddie – in-home lactation consultant (2 hours) and one follow up visit (1 hour) ($300)
Spinal Correction Center of Richmond (1) One BodyWorks Package (includes a wellness evaluation/exam, consultation and 30 minute customized massage) (2) One Full Hour Massage (choice of: Therapeutic, Deep Tissue or Swedish Massage)
Melody Magic – 1 month of free music classes
…and lots of other great goodies like:
Sticky Bellies – 12 month stickers to track your baby’s growth
Mommy’s Bliss Gripe Water and other great products from our Virginia This Morning Segment
See our past winners
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Alright! It’s time! Share this with everyone you know to get out the vote for your favorite nominee so she can win our amazing prize package (which you can see here).
A special Thank You to Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU for Sponsoring this contest!
Here’s how it works:
- Vote by using this link. You’ll see nominations below, and you may vote only once between August 1, 2014 – August 14, 2014
- Celebrate with us at the Dream Baby Shower Event at Hip to Be Round in Carytown August 16, 2014 where we’ll announce the winner. Nominee’s will receive an invitation by email and may bring 1-2 guests and celebrate with us.
- The Grand Prize Winner will be announced and given her gifts, door prizes will be given away to our guests and and special discounts will be available though out Hip to be Round.
Here are the nominees!
Abby McDonald
With 8 years between her second and third baby, Abby is starting completely from scratch!
Amanda Edmonds
I feel Amanda should win because she is a single first time mom due October 6,2014 and is willing to take on the role of both mom and dad.
she has recently had foot surgery and has been unable to work. The father did not want her to have the baby he wanted her to abort but she chose not to. She has a lot of family and friends support as far as being there for her.
Amy Wilburn Jackson
It takes a special person to be a teacher, but it takes extra special person to be a special needs teacher. Amy is that person. Her love and devotion to her students is rewarded back to her in the joy they shared with her last year when she married. Finding out that she was expecting her first child this past May was even more special.
Ashley Clark
It would be amazing for me!! I am due in September my last week of nursing school falls on her due date. I have so much of my time and focus in school that planning or having a baby shower has been my last brain thought and I haven’t the time with clinical’s and class. As well as my family at home to take care of. I hope to be considered thank you so much!!!
Blair Lawson
I am nominating my best friend Blair Lawson! She is such a hard working, mommy, wife and loyal true friend. We were both pregnant at the same time for our first kids but she lived out of town. This time we are both pregnant at the same time again and we get to do it together because she recently moved back to Richmond. It has been so great having our first kids the same age they are best buds and I am sure our second ones will be as well. On days when being a mom to a toddler and pregnant are getting the best of me she is here for me vent to and gives me words of encouragement. When life has gotten busy with careers and families my best friend has always made time for me! Even though now it’s over goldfish and juice boxes instead of wine and cheese out friendship has never changed! Who would have know college roommates would still be so close after all these years! She really deserves the best for her second little boy!
Bonnie Cash
In 2007 I was married shortly after I had my baby girl. From that moment I thought nothing could be any better, boy did I have reality strike me hard. I kept my daughter and I in the worst environment ever. Many days she saw me get mentally and physically abused. I worked very hard to give her what little girls want. Finally in 2012 that was the last time I put myself and daughter through that I had get father arrested. September of that year my best friend swooped in and has been there everyday retracting and showing me what love and family is. December 2013 he proposed to me and were getting arrived October 2014 finally I felt whole again. Little did I know I found out that I got pregnant again in the the month of march and were expecting on December 25,2014. The rest of my year is so busy but I couldn’t be any happier and this baby shower contest would be a blessing.
Brittany Drumheller
Brittany deserves this because she is a young mother of 2 beautiful baby girls ages 2 and 1. Got married to the father of babies in March and then in April found out he was abusive and cheating on her so now she is living with her parents starting over again with a new baby on the way she is 17 weeks pregnant and doesn’t know what she is going to do next she is high risk pregnancy due to go in pre term labor. Brittany is a great mother and wonderful person that just met the wrong guy and now she has to do everything alone while holding her head up high to show her daughters to be strong.
Brook White
This lady is awesome. Between her husband and her kid and he full time job I don’t know how she manages to worry about everybody else. She like a big sister to me, welcoming me into her whole family.
Candice Frederique
I am nominating my fiance Candice for this dream baby shower because I can’t imagine anyone who would deserve it more than she would. We are high school sweethearts and are welcoming our baby girl on Halloween this year and I couldn’t be happier. My fiance Candice is such an generous and caring person, always doing for others with no complaints. She would give you the shirt off her back. I would love to be able to give her the baby shower of her dreams with all her close family and friends to share such a special moment with us. I just want her to always look back on this special day and it brings a big smile to her face every time.
Catherine Hopkins
Catherine is one of the most amazing mothers I know. She works tirelessly for her 3 boys – each with their own special needs, her youngest son has cystic fibrosis. His care is an incredibly demanding near around the clock labor of love. She raises funds daily with the hope of finding a cure so that her son may breathe easy and live a full life. She has converted part of her home into a salt room so that her son may breathe easier and thrive. She home-schools all of her children and caters their curriculum to their learning strengths and weaknesses. Currently expecting the bundle of joy that will complete her family, Catherine really deserves a day that’s just for her where she can be the center of attention and feel like the most special person in the world because to her 3 boys, that’s exactly who she is. To all of us on the outside – that’s exactly who she is.
(Second nomination for Catherine)
Catherine and David have 3 amazing kids, with one more on the way!
At the age of 34, Catherine has more responsibility than anyone could imagine.
Two of her three children have sensory disorders. Catherine home schools them to be able to better facilitate their learning needs. Both boys have exceeded state standards of state education each term.
Her third child is 5. He was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at just 3 weeks old. He requires 15 pills a day, 4 syringes of liquids, 5 nebulizers, and 1.5 hours of chest physiotherapy. This cost amounts to over $500 just on medicine (with insurance) per month.
Catherine has become an advocate for the Cystic Fibrosis community. She has raised well over $50,000 for local families in need by using online fundraising.
Please vote for Catherine to receive this party. I want her to know how important she is. She impacts many lives. I want to do something for her that she can enjoy! She deserves it! Did I mention she holds a full time job!?
Christina Marie Hayes
Christina is a first time “mom to be” with a drive that keeps her going strong each day even this late in her pregnancy. Often spending over 11 hours a day on her feet without breaks, Christina is a local area veterinarian that uses her passion for her patients to motivate her through 3rd trimester fatigue and swollen feet. Her time spent with the animals she loves doesn’t end when she clocks out either, she still makes plenty of time for her three cats, four chickens and golden retriever “Gus” when she walks in the door despite wanting nothing more than to put her feet up and put on comfy clothes. Despite the exhausting schedule, Christina still makes time for herself and continues to practice yoga in her free-time to help alleviate an otherwise stressful work week. I have no doubt that Christina’s passion for work, her family and her pets will translate perfectly into her being a great mom, which is why I believe she deserves a Dream Baby shower.
Christine Eyerly
Christine Lowman
Christine deserves a dream baby shower because she does not have a nursery to decorate. I was talking to her about why she was so excited about the thought of a baby shower and she explained because the first thing people ask is ‚ “how are you decorating the nursery‚” . Christine, her husband, and her 22 month old toddler all share a bedroom while they are saving to build a house; the new baby will also share the room with them. A baby shower is her only way of fully decorating and planning for this baby; not just making room for the baby. Christine also used many hand-me-downs and borrowed items with her first child; most of which have been passed back and aren’t available this time around. She has made many choices that have put the needs of her child first, and this including not splurging on a lot of the nice baby items. I would love for her to be able to experience and use all the wonderful products out there, and the fun of knowing something was specifically for her baby.
Crystal Hines
I think that Crystal Hines deserves this because she has had everything in life go wrong that can, from her car breaking down to family health issue. I think she deserves a little break and this could help lift her spirits. And although she loves that she is expecting she feels like life is giving her a run for her money.
Dana Carter
I was referred to this contest by my friend Nicole Snow. I just myself announced our news of expecting baby #2! I am with a wonderful man who has accepted my 1st child as his own and they adore each other! My ex is not involved at all in my sons life and its of no sadness b/c my boyfriend is his dada and our son is the happiest 13 month old around! Now we are excited to be making Clay a big brother and growing our family 
I’m due in feb and would love to win this shower. I am always giving people bridal showers baby showers and putting together parties for them. So it would be nice to have one thrown for me !
Denesha Talley
I am nominating myself because I am a single mother of one and I am expecting another in December of this year. I work hard to provide for my son Dylan, who is now three and I. Its not easy to come up with money to plan a baby shower. Especially when I am working pay check to pay check to make ends meet. It would be a thrill to know that someone would care enough to have me a baby shower. That would be just awesome.
Hope Cline
After years and years of trying and nine pregnancy losses, Hope became pregnant with little her little miracle baby, Ezra Jude. She has suffered from many pregnancy complications, making this time extremely difficult for her and was even put on bed rest. She is already blessed with a baby that she was told she wouldn’t ever have, so it seems nothing could top that, but she definitely deserves to be spoiled and relax. Thank you for considering her for this contest.
Jelissa Murillo
I am a hard working mom currently expecting my little boy. My daughters are very excited. I would say that I qualify for this nomination because I work really hard to provide for my family. My children are my motivation to push for success.
Jennie Suggs
This is child number two for her. She works so hard, goes to school and tries her best to make sure that her kids will have a bright future. She does little for herself but a lot for others and rarely gets to enjoy what most of us call free time. When shes not working or doing school work you will find her cleaning, doing dishes, laundry and anything else that doesn’t involve sitting down. There is something special about this pregnancy though. When she got pregnant this time the doctors had told her previously she might not be able to have any more and finding out she was made her so happy. This has been a happy time for her and little complaints through the first 7 months. She cant wait to see her baby girl and hold her in her arms and neither can I. Honest truth I need more than 1000 characters to describe how wonderful she really is and why she really deserves this. To sum it up she is amazing and this would make her even more excited than she already is!
Jessica Banglesdorf
I would love to see Jessica win the Dream Baby Shower. Jessica would probably say she isn’t any more deserving than anyone else in receiving this gift, but I think she is a very deserving candidate. Jessica is a devoted wife and makes her family her first priority. She is also a pediatric nurse and when she’s not taking care of husband and home, she is taking care of the children that come through her floor at St. Mary’s hospital. Jessica makes her life’s work giving to others and making sure they are loved and cared for to the utmost of her abilities. She always puts the needs of others before herself and I would love to see her be pampered and celebrated by winning the Dream Baby Shower.
Katie Yvonne Yancey
Katie Yvonne Yancey. My wonderful sister/best friend. She is in fact of the the most selfless woman I know. She is currently raising two of the most amazing respectful boys that anyone would dream to have. Now its time for her to receive another blessing once again. Finally, a baby girl. Her ”mini her” which will definitely be a reflection of the amazing person that she is. She is so deserving of such a gift because the the gifts she know not only me but to family and complete strangers. This will be such a burden off her back right now. Even though this has been a struggling pregnancy for her, she continues to work to provide for her family as a single mother. I love you my dear sister. May this me another beautiful blessing to you.
LaToya McNeil
Well this is strange to nominate myself but we are a couple married nearly two years. Both myself and my husband are civil servants he as a police officer in Richmond and myself as an registered nurse. We love this city and would be honored if we were selected.
Laura Seamster
Laura is my dear friend! She has been trying for a long time to have a baby! She was blessed with being pregnant with twin girls and is due November 16th! I have been there for her and her husband Mike through this journey and it would be amazing if they could win this! They are the sweetest and caring people you could ever meet!
Lenee Pennington
My lovely wife is expecting this December. Our family has hectic daily adventures and my wife doesn’t have time to slow down to collect her thoughts. This Dream baby shower would help us not just in time spent setting it up, but letting us keep our sanity with a two year old running around. My wife does so much for us and I can’t think of a better gift for her and our baby to be.
Louise Schutte
Because she’s having her first baby girl!
Michele Lisbon
Michele deserves this because she has done her best to bless others she feels are in need. She’s given clothes, baby swings, and so much more to other people she knows that are expecting and doesn’t expect anything in return. She hasn’t really gotten to do anything nice for herself through her whole pregnancy, other than one pedicure and I think she deserves to get back, if not all, a portion of what she’s given others. Michele wants to give her baby the best she can. She wants to open a college fund, but with fundamental being so tight, she hasn’t had the money to start it. I hope she’s considered because I feel she’s really deserving!
Odali Aguilar
WILL BE ONE OF MY DREAMS REALIZED..
Rachael Bacon
I am nominating myself I have the biggest blessing to be able to have another baby but it has been five years since I have had my daughter and I am going to have to start all over and honestly I can’t afford to get everything I need I would be happy with just help on diapers and wipes and formula I remember that was the biggest expense. I would appreciate and love to have this opportunity to have a awesome baby showers without the worry of paying for it plus the cost of stuff I will have to pay for my baby . Thank you for your time
Rachel Stanley
Rachel (my wife) and I are pregnant with twins and are due in December. Our road to parenthood has been an over two year process culminating in fertility treatments. Throughout our process Rachel has had to endure what has seemed like every Facebook friend, sorority sister, and even family members getting pregnant or having babies. Rachel has been strong throughout our journey. As a man, I can’t begin to say I know what she went through but I know the process has been long and uncomfortable. Our Process is now filled with joy awaiting our little boy and girl. Rachel is a social worker and works daily with consumers with mental retardation. Every day she dedicates her life to the needs of others; ensuring their needs are met and they have opportunities to pursue their interests. Literally, she dedicates her life to others and now she will be able to dedicate her life to raising our little ones. For that, Rachel is deserving of a time for her, a Dream Baby Shower.
Shantal Wilkerson
Well let me start by saying that everyone deserves this. I am 30 yrs. old and expecting a baby boy. I planned this baby but circumstances have stressed me to the max. I am actually a single lesbian and although I am not with the child’s father I fully expected him to be involved with the child. He however chose not too. So in short my financial situation is very tight and it feels almost impossible to support this child alone. I have two older children to who my small income fully but barely support. I honestly first felt that I did not want a shower but I have nothing at all and can’t afford anything for this child. My family does support me but they are also in financial binds. So that is my story and I hope you vote for me.
Sheena Jackson
I would love to win a dream baby shower! I am due September 13th with my 5th daughter! My oldest daughter is 10 and everything has been passed down so it would be wonderful to have some new baby items and to be able to share the birth of another beautiful baby girl with family and friends!
Shelby Newton
This baby shower would help me out a lot. This has been a crazy year. I already have a daughter whom is 2 1/2 and also welcomed a new baby in my life to be a mom figure, plus just found out I’m 10 weeks pregnant with a new baby. I figured I wouldn’t have another baby for a while so I passed my baby stuff to mommies in need. With that being said I have to start all over getting all the things a baby may need. On top of that I work 30 hours a week and trying to get into the nursing program to better my education and be able to care for my children better. With that being said I will have my hands full between work, raising babies, and studying hard to pass the TEAS to enter the nursing program. This will be a hard and trying time for me but with the chance to win this baby shower it gives a chance of hope that I will get the things I really need for this new baby. Thank you for your time.
The Children’s Hospital of Richmond, Richmondmom.com and Hip to be Round are excited to announce the 2014 Dream Baby Shower!
Recognize a mom to be and shower her with prizes!
Here’s how it works:
1. Nominate yourself or any expectant Richmond mom* here from by July 29, 2014. Nominations close at 7pm on 7/29/14. *Please note: multiple nominations do not impact winning status, only votes determine winners.
2. Vote: You’ll see your nomination here on the site (we’ll provide a link during the dates!) & you may only vote once per person between and August 1 – 14, 2014.
3. Celebrate: Every Nominee is invited to celebrate with us at the Expectant Girls Day Out at Hip to Be Round in Carytown on August 16th from 2:00 pm-4:00 pm where we’ll announce the winner! Each nominee may bring 1-2 guests and celebrate with us! You will receive an invitation to RSVP.
Nominations are closed.
A very special thank you to
AND
for making the Dream Baby Shower possible.
Check out our incredible prizes!
Science Museum- 1 year membership
$250 Gift Card to Hip to be Round
Massage Envy – Free 1 hr Massage ($80) All Fired Up – Gift Certificate
Romp n’ Roll – month membership
Virginia529 – $100 inVEST account
Real Life Studios -$350.00 gift certificate
Sleepytime – $50 gift certificate for sleep consulting
Shannon Milligan – piggy bank with $75 to start college fund
Nanny Van – gift certificate free registration for annual membership ($150 value).
Flying Squirrels – Baby’s first Flying Squirrels fan gear!
Fit4Mom – 1 month of stroller strides classes
ChildTime – free week of infant child care ($224)
Babbie Laddie – in-home lactation consultant (2 hours) and one follow up visit (1 hour) ($300)
Spinal Correction Center of Richmond (1) One BodyWorks Package (includes a wellness evaluation/exam, consultation and 30 minute customized massage) (2) One Full Hour Massage (choice of: Therapeutic, Deep Tissue or Swedish Massage)
Melody Magic – 1 month of free music classes
…and lots of other great goodies like:
Sticky Bellies – 12 month stickers to track your baby’s growth
Mommy’s Bliss Gripe Water and other great products from our Virginia This Morning Segment
See our past winners
I got a chance to spend some time with Jessica Knoll and her adorable 16 month old daughter, Pearl talking about some fabulous products that help fussy babies.
Click here or on the image below
to see the segment on the CBS6 website.
We were really excited to be on Virginia This Morning and share these great products:
Mommy’s Bliss Gripe Water
-#1 selling natural colic remedy in the U.S.
-Safe, gentle and effective liquid formula contains organic ginger and fennel, which are historically known to ease the nausea and discomfort caused by stomach gas and other colic symptoms
-Recommended by Pediatricians nation-wide as a safe and natural alternative to simethicone-based gas drops
-Does not contain alcohol, parabens or harsh chemicals
-Available for purchase at Walgreens, Rite Aid and Wal-Mart for $11.99
Kids Relief Teething Oral Solution
-Homeopathic Medicine
-Eases pain during the teething process
-Alcohol, dye, and sugar free
-Helps to relieve fever, gum pain and inflammation, restlessness, irritability and diarrhea
-No side effect risk or overdose risk
-Made from natural ingredients
-Safe and easy administer
-Available for purchase at CVS locations nationwide for $6.99
Xlear Baby Banana Brush with Strawberry Banana Tooth Gel
-Toddler friendly tooth gel that comes with a banana tooth brush
-The key ingredient is xylitol, which has proven health benefits
-Promotes calcium absorption and builds up tooth enamel
-Fluoride free and safe to swallow
-Delicious strawberry banana flavor
-Available for purchase at health and natural product stores and online at xlear.com for $12.99
Blooming Bath
-Plush flower insert fits in your sink to create a soft cradle for baby’s bath time
-Made from natural antimicrobial foam
-Can be used in the sink for newborns through six months
-Can also be used as a bath mat in your regular tub once baby outgrows the sink
-Included tag on the back makes it easy to hang dry
-Safe to toss in the washer and dryer
-Retails for $39.99 on bloominghbath.com, as well as at Buy Buy Baby, Babiesrus.com and Target.com
The unopened (and un-dropped) products will be a part of the prize package for a big upcoming contest to be revealed soon!
In consolation, I leave you with two absolutely ridiculous screen shots.
Feel free to “caption these” in the comments below.
Enjoy.
We had so much fun we’re already working on another one for fall…
]]>We’re super excited to announce our 2013 Dream Baby Shower winner! But, first we’d like to congratulate all the wonderful expectant Richmond Mamas to be that were nominated! We had so much fun celebrating with you at our announcement party last night!
And our Winner is…..Margie Morgan!
Margie Morgan -2013 Dream Baby Shower contest winner!
This years Dream Baby Shower was brought to you by:
AND
Special thanks to all the wonderful Richmond businesses (listed below) who donated such generous prizes and helped make this such a popular and exciting event.
Richmondmom.com will be donating $5 to nurture for each nominee. Nurture’s mission is to improve the health and well being of childbearing families through fitness, education, social support, and community engagement.
A BIG thank you to Sweet Frog for matching our donation to nurture!
Gifts and Prizes provided by:
Hip to be Round – $200 shopping spree for her baby shower dress!
Tuckaway - An invaluable 4 weeks of infant care, valued at $1,100 – Wow
Hayes & Fisk – a $350 photography session and free portrait to capture a special time in your lives
Mamaborn.com - $200 gift certificate towards a Bradley Method Birth Class
Romp N Roll – A spectacular 3 month membership for a Babies Class, valued at $195
Massage Envy – An unforgettable 1 Hour massage and facial valued at $166;
Clover – A fabulous $100 gift card
By Invitation Only - $100 gift certificate towards your perfect Dream Baby Shower invitations
Fit 4 Mom – 1 month of unlimited Stroller Strides classes
Science Museum of Virginia – $99 Super Nova Membership for loads of learning and fun
College Nannies & Tutors – 4 hours of free Nanny Service
Scents of Serenity – $85 towards a wonderful Facial or Massage
Mackenzie Grace - $75 Monogrammed Tote Bag gift certificate
Five signed copies of Richmond Rocks by our own Kate Hall valued at $65!
Cartwheels and Coffee – 3 month membership for 1 child
Storks and More - 5 day sign rental so you can let the World know
Whimsical Gigi – $50 gift card for some really fun stuff
Aunt McRae’s Postpartum Doula service - 8 hours of postpartum Doula services for the price of 6 hours
Frostings Bakeshop – 2 Dozen Deeelicious Cupcakes!
Stella & Dot – Beautiful travel case valued at $50
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We had a great time planning and preparing for the perfect event for our winner
of the Hip to Be Round Richmondmom.com Dream Baby Shower. Kasi, her friends, and family were treated to a fun event – all orchestrated by Chris Nease of Celebrations at Home.
Chris created a theme around her shabby chic and pink ideas to celebrate the upcoming birth. With a cupcake table, baby shoes and coordinating ribbons, chalkboard painted silver tray, fabric flowers, buttons, and more unusual “finds” – it was the perfect setting!
Chris ensured that lots of details were woven throughout the party and celebration. Her inspiration continued to grow and grow, and
finally it all came together for Kasi. Delicious food was provided by Wild Greens Catering and Frostings cupcakes.
Click here to see more photos and descriptions from Celebrations at Home – you’ll love the details!
The Dream Baby Shower contest was sponsored by Hip to Be Round, MEDARVA Stony Point Surgery Center and many other local businesses donated fantastic gifts for our winner. Our winner was announced at the Hip to be Round Expectant Girls Night Out where we had delicious food and fun.
Congratulations again to Kasi and thanks to everyone who helped make this event a huge success!
More About Celebrations at Home
Chris Nease is the owner and party stylist for Celebrations at Home. With over 15 years of experience, Chris is recognized as an entertaining expert, and creative party stylist. Although she earned her degree in Fashion Merchandising, she parlayed her love of food and visual display into home entertaining and tabletop styling. For years she has designed parties with her unique and accessible style.
In addition to being creative director of Celebrations At Home, Chris shares her expertise through freelance contributions and has been published in Woman’s World, Cottages & Bungalows, Yum Food & Fun for Kids, HGTV.com, and she authored a chapter on holiday party planning in the bookClutterbugs Guide to an Organized Christmas. Chris also volunteers her time to Operation Shower, a non-profit organization providing group baby showers to wives of our deployed service men.
Chris Nease
Before baby arrives, the biggest concern (other than labor pain!) is finding quality day care for infants. This decision is a tough one for many parents who work outside the home, so it’s good to know that schools like Cedarhouse focus on infant care.
We asked two of their teachers–Carol Day (lead) and Jill Martin (assistant) what they like most about Richmond babies and the care they provide, and got an earful!
RM: You’ve been with Cedarhouse since opening day in 2005, and we hear that you have trouble taking a day off, is that true?
Carol: Guilty. I feel strongly about helping parents through that transition back to work, it can be so hard handing over the most important thing in their lives to a stranger, and I want to make that easier.
RM: Isn’t it stressful caring for a room full of babies, especially if they’re crying?
Carol: Sure, but I know that within five minutes I can get each one of them soothed. I literally feel the love in this room every single day.
RM: Jill, you started working with babies at Cedarhouse soon after Carol in January 2006, and both of you had experience working in other day care centers. We understand that you like working with babies best of all, is that true?
Jill: The experience with an infant has so many big milestones–it seems like every single day they are able to do something new! It’s the most exciting time in a child’s life. Plus, I get to spend my day hugging and cuddling. What could be better?
Carol: Totally agree–and when little things happen–like a child claps for the first time, it’s the best part of my day! Plus, babies love me unconditionally, they don’t care how badly I look or sing!
Jill: Yes! And, it’s a real honor for parents to trust us with their most precious assets.
RM: We’re glad there are good people like you to love babies while their parents are working.
The Cedarhouse School in Midlothian currently has openings for infants care. They are located at 2301 Colony Crossing Place, Midlothian, VA 23112. Call and ask to meet Carol and Jill and feel better about Cedarhouse School programs, where your infant will grow and thrive after maternity leave. Contact Cedarhouse Midlothian through info@cedarhouseschool.com.
The Cedarhouse School is an advertiser of Richmondmom.com and has graciously donated a $250 gift to our Hip to Be Round Dream Baby Shower! If you know an expectant mom or are expecting yourself, be sure to enter online.
]]> Hip to Be Round Dream Baby Shower voting is underway! Thanks to Stony Point Surgery Center and all the amazing local business donating prizes for this fun contest totaling over $4,000.
Here’s how it works:
- Vote here by using this link: You’ll see nominations below, and you may vote once per person only between 6/15-6/26/12.
- Celebrate with us at the Expectant Girls Night Out at Hip to Be Round in Carytown 6/27/12 from 6:30 pm-8:00 pm where we’ll announce the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize winners. Each nominee may bring 1-2 guests and celebrate with us, RSVP HERE.
- The Grand Prize Winner will be presented with her gifts and will be given invitations from Dawn Correspondence, catering by Wild Greens Catering, cupcakes by Frostings, and coordination and favors from Celebrations at Home with Chris Nease for her very own shower to be held by 8/30!*
*please note: blackout dates occur in July; actual shower date to be scheduled with Chris Nease of Celebrations at Home for an optimal, amazing shower!
And the nominees are:
Adrien Poulos Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I am nominating my daughter Adrien who is a wonderful nurse & a great person.She cares so deeply that not to long ago I called to have her meet me in Carytown. “I can’t Mom, I’m baking,” she said. She & another nurse were whipping up different treats to help a Mother who’s daughter had been in the hospital for almost a year, waiting on a new heart. The Mother wanted to have a big party for her 18th birthday & celebrate receiving the heart. Adrien & her friend wrapped all the treats, returned to the hospital, then sold them to the night shift. This after working 12hrs. All of the money went to the Mom. Adrien was the type of child that would take her mittens off & give them to the homeless person @ the corner. She & Jason had a true Richmond wedding & now are expecting our first grandchild. I’m so happy that I’m going to be Grandma. My little girl is all grown up & I would Love for her to have this very special “Dream Baby Shower” to celebrate her becoming a Mom!~ Thank you~
Alexa Glover Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Alexa is a sweet lady that I’ve known most of my life. The past few years we’ve become better f riends and I know she’s there for me and I’m there for her if we ever need anything. She went through a very rough, unhappy short marriage & sadly suffered miscarriages. She will be 35 in January and recently found out she’s due with a little one in December 2012! She had cramps and spotting early on and was nervous obviously. Thankfully, the baby is healthy and mama is fine! Up until this point, she’s only had fur-babies. She resides with her awesome parents and they’re all excited about welcoming this blessing into their home this winter!
Alison Fallecker Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Alison Fallecker is very deserving of this year’s 2012 Baby Shower! Not that I am biased or anything, being her husband, lol. But, seriously, I have watched my awesome “warrior-chick” wife handle this pregnancy with grace, even when it wasn’t easy. She has maintained a positive mental attitude, even while experiencing constant nausea, zero appetite, and hormonal mood swings. Through it all, she still manages to work her day job, work at our 2 home-based businesses, take care of me, and still keep up with all of the mundane housework. She is SO excited to become a Mom for the first time, as it has been one of her dreams for a long time. Finally, the biggest reason that you should vote for Alison is because of her heart. She spends most of her days selflessly serving other people & taking care of their needs. This would be a huge blessing & a great way to let her know that the people she serves day after day really appreciate all that she does for them. Thanks for voting for Alison!
Alison Griffith Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I would like to nominate Alison Swindell Griffith for the Dream Baby Shower. Alison deserves the shower more than anyone I know. She is a kind hearted, give everything you have type person. She has a beautiful toddler right now and is expecting this fall. She is a career mom who focuses her busy life around her child, her volunteer firefighter and shift working husband, and her community. She spends every moment she can sharing her parenting skills and love for children with a niece as well as her own son and baby on the way. To top it off she just graduated college working on classes, while working, being mom, wife, and an active community member. Alison deserves this honor and would represent Hip to Be Round very well!
Amelia Nelson Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Amelia is 26 years old and this is her first pregnancy. She moved to Richmond from Alabama several years ago, leaving behind friends and family. She has been serving in a restaurant for the last 4 years while also holding a second job in retail. Amelia selflessly decided to put her school career on hold while her husband of 7 months had returned to school. Even though they had planned to wait until he graduated college in 2 years, God had other plans. Currently, she is 17 weeks pregnant, juggling 2 jobs, and helping support her husband who also serves in a restaurant while attending VCU full time. Amelia deserves to win the dream baby shower because despite all of the setbacks in her life she struggles, perseveres and always puts others ahead of herself. I’d like to make things easier for and give her an unforgettable baby shower.
Amy Munn Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Amy is a terrific mom. She is pregnant with her second child. She has a 3 year old daughter who lights up her and her husband’s lives and is a joy to be around. Amy is employed outside the home and does an awesome job of juggling work and family responsibilities. She and her husband recently bought a home and they keep very busy. Amy cares deeply for all children and I just want to be able to give her a “dream shower”. So often we forget about those moms having a second child and tend to think they have all that they need. In this case, all of her baby items are from her daughter and her new little boy may need some additional “boy” items! Amy takes great care of herself and her family and is so very cautious about everything she does while she is pregnant. This just shows how protective and loving a mother she is! Please vote for Amy!!
Amy West Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Because with her first child 9 years ago she was not given a baby shower and she is an amazing mom! She was a single mom for 8 years who has managed to raise an amazing daughter. This new baby will be so lucky to have her as its mother! It will have a fantastic dad as well! Very lucky child!
Anna Lindstrom Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Anna is an exceptional caregiver. She has worked at daycares for many years and lives children. After suffering a traumatic ectopic pregnancy a couple of years ago she was limited at her chances for a healthy pregnancy. She was nervous yet estatic about her pregnancy and Anna is anxiously awaiting the arrival of her baby boy!
Antoinette Marie Alvano Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Antoinette Marie Alvano lives in Richmond, VA with her husband Carl. Antoinette, ( Toni for short) and her husband having been married for over three years. Since Toni was a little girl, she dreamed of having a large family since her biological family is quite small. She married into a large happy and very close Filipino family and she and her husband Carl couldn’t wait to have children. Toni’s love of children inspired her to offer childcare services in addition to her full time business career. While caring for children, it came to light that Toni has a special way with autistic children. Soon, she was in demand for her kind, intelligent and loving childcare skills with this population of children. Toni still skypes with some of her previous little ones and their families. Finally Toni and Carl are blessed with a little one of their own on the way. I feel that this pregnancy is so special and Toni is deserving of a wonderful dream baby shower.
Ashley Barry Mason Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Ashley is a very fun, and loving mother to her son, Max and has a little girl on the way. She is so giving to her friends and lights up a room with her smile. She works hard to make sure her family has what it needs. She deserving of this because she would do anything for her family and friends!! I am so very lucky to have her as a friend.
Ashley Grizzard Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Ashley hopes to be a mother who nurtures and inspires a strong body image, a value in education and curiosity, and demonstrates tons of love to her child. She is a very empathetic and giving person who works with the homeless population by day, but also volunteers her time and energy for the area’s festivals and for organizations that raise awareness of eating disorders during her free time. She has helped fundraise for the Eating Disorder Coalition, and been featured on several local news stations in order to promote positive body image.
Ashley has been a resident of the Museum District for the last 4 years, and looks forward to living a healthy and happy parenthood with her partner, Taylor, that involves family, friends, and the community.
Ashley Michelle Robinson Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I would like to nominate my fiance Ashley Robinson. She is going to be a first time mom this year and is currently a full time student at VCU. She found out she was pregnant in the middle of spring semester and continued to obtain an excellent GPA upon completion of the semester. Ashley plans on maintaining her full-time status in the fall in the pursuit of a higher education in order to support her new family and plans to graduate on time. She is very involved with the Richmond community and is working towards applying to dental school. She is currently taking summer classes and working part time to save money for the baby. We were recently engaged on our trip to Virginia Beach and cannot wait to begin our new lives together. We are a little strapped for cash with us both being full time students. It would mean the world to her if she received this dream baby shower for her first child. I can think of no one more selfless and deserving than my beautiful wife-to-be Ashley!
Blair Ward Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Blair has a huge heart for children and even now still babysits in the evenings or weekends so that others can go out. This would be an amazing gift for her as she is always giving of herself. as she and her hubby are very active in the mission field and often sacrifice their needs for others. Her kindness and compassion towards others are sincerely genuine. Her gratitude, if she won, would be genuine as well.
Brooke Willey Click this link to vote for for any nominee
My husband is in the Army and we are 1,200 miles away from home. He will be away at training for the birth of our son and won’t be able to meet him for almost a month after he arrives. It would be a great experience to win a baby shower, since I don’t have any family here to throw one for me.
Casie Welker Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Casie Welker really needs and deserves this baby shower. She us an awesome person, friend and daughter. I know she is going to be a wonderful mother. She has had some tough times this year and one could not imagine how helpful this shower would be for her. She’s a very hard working person with a huge heart. I know if Casie could win this baby shower it would help her tremendously. She would be overjoyed and thankful I’m sure.
Catherine Gholson Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Cathy is expecting her first baby, a boy named Ryan. Her husband and herself will be celebrating their second year of marriage right around when baby Ryan is due. Cathy has been extremely frugal in buying baby stuff, mostly used, and she’s refurbishing it herself. She’s very active in her church and in VCU sports. I know she’ll raise a very well rounded little man. So this is why I think Cathy should be nominated. And win!
Catherine Whitehurst Grimm Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Catherine is already a phenomenal mother to her son Christian. As the wife of a youth minister, Catherine is very involved with her church and community. She deserves this baby shower because of her caring and compassionate dedication to her friends and family!!!
Christina Dawkins Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I believe this mom to be is very deserving of the 2012 Dream Baby Shower. I am expecting a set of twins, which of course was a great shock. I am now over the initial shock and trying to get prepared. I have a 7 year old daughter who is very excited to have new siblings, but not about sharing the room. I still do not know how to organize the bedroom in the most efficient way. I work two jobs still and so my time is not in abundance. Please consider me as your choice. This will not only help in costs of the twins, but also time I can save to get ready for the new family members.
Crystal Arroyo Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I am nominating Crystal Arroyo because I feel that there is no other person that deserves it more than her. She is a wonderful person with a huge heart. She is always looking for ways to help someone in need. She puts other in front of herself especially if she feels she can do with out. She never turns anyone down and she always encourages people to do better. She has been through so much in her life and she continues to keep faith and have a positive attitude about life. She has been through two miss carriages and this is her first child she is able to hold and I feel she deserves the best. Please nominate her to be the winner cause she is the best candidate for the baby shower.
Crystal Vial Click this link to vote for for any nominee
TRIPLETS! I am nominating my friend, Crystal Vial; a driven physical therapist, dedicated wife and loving mother to her 2 year old son. She is 18 weeks pregnant with TRIPLETS!!! Due to complications in her high risk pregnancy she is on doctors orders not to work and therefore leaving her family on just one salary. Crystal is a wonderful person who is very deserving of this nomination and in need of our help! Please consider her with your vote and thank you!
Danielle Domangue Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I would like to nominate expectant mom Danielle Domangue. She is a woman who gave up her life and home in Texas to move to be with the man she loved and the father of her child. She has worked incredibly hard to make a wonderful life for her baby, herself and the father of her child. She works, she takes care of their two dogs and she keeps herself in shape as well as involved with the community so that she can get to know more people and make a true home here. I don’t know anyone more wonderful or deserving of having a gift for their new baby- except Danielle.
Erica Thomas Click this link to vote for for any nominee
She has done a lot for everyone between her fiance’s family and my families. She’s an awesome girl who deserves something for her and her li’l bundle of joy.
Heather Twiddy Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I am a mother of 1 who has been trying for a second for 2 years now. I would like to have a dream baby shower to help with the items you need when having a baby. With my first one, my husband and I both lost our jobs and hit rock bottom – now he is employed and I work part-time. We have made sure for every holiday our daughter does not go without even if that means we do. I know some people have sadder stories or harder times. I just hope to give anything and everything to my children and this will help. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Hedi Cho Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Hedi spends so much time dedicated towards the well-being of her son, Cooper. She chronicles her love for her son in a blog that she started in 2009 and continues highlighting her trips to Wolf Great Lodge, the fears (and relief) of starting day care, and birthday parties that look straight out of a Pinterest profile (you know the ones I’m talking about — those crazy, amazing ones where you’re like, O-M-G.). All this while maintaining a career. Wow! Clearly, she has more than 24 hours in a day. She is now expecting a daughter, and I am sure she will share just as much love and dedication towards her too. I just wish she would share the impending baby’s name already. WHAT IS IT??
Jennie Davis Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Jennie Davis – full of joy, (and increasingly full of Sophia), in her excited anticipation of bringing to this world a wonderful, positive person, is herself most deserving of being voted winner of the Richmondmom.com dream baby shower. I hereby do nominate her, and invite you to vote for her.
Jennifer Greene Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Wow, I’m not sure there are words special enough for this momma! She is an amazing, mother, wife, best friend, sister, & more! Jennifer has Joshua,7, Rylan,2, a Beautiful Angel baby Jocelynn who would be 3, and a little princess on the way due in September! Jennifer is definitely the rock of the group, no matter what she’s struggling with, she will make it a point that her kids are happy and have everything they want! She will always help you with anything she can! Jennifer has NEVER had a shower even close to what she deserves! With Josh she didn’t have a baby shower, and with Rylan it was all thrown on her last minute to do it all! Jennifer does whatever she can to make everyone around her happy but she doesn’t take the time to make herself happy! Angel baby Jocelynn is watching over her to make sure her sister arrives safely and I think we can all agree the little princess deserves an AMAZING shower! After all she will live in a house of men! Please vote for this deserving mommy.
Jennifer McCord Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Jenni is the hardest working mom I know, and is able to juggle everything while making it look effortless! Jenni has 3 beautiful girls, age 12, 4, and 3. She and her husband, Jonathon, are expecting their first boy in September, and they couldn’t be happier!! They have been hoping for a boy for a long time now, and their dream is finally coming true! Jenni juggles her marriage, her 3 children, volunteering at The Lonesome Dove (which helps to rehabilitate veterans injured in war), all while attending college full-time! She is such an amazing mom and she deserves to have this dream baby shower to get ready for her newest addition to her beautiful family!
Jessica Carwille Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I have had the extreme good fortune of knowing Jessica Carwille. Not only is she my cousin but my best friend as well. Jessica is an outstanding individual. She goes out of her way to help everyone, she works hard for everything she has and has overcome many obstacles in life which have molded her into the AMAZING person she has become.After trying for several years to conceive she and her husband finally “struck gold”. However, it has come at a rough time in her life, her husband lost his job due to a health condition and they are struggling to stay afloat. If anyone deserves this dream baby shower it would be her. I would love for her first pregnancy to be nothing short of AMAZING! She, her husband and soon to be son or daughter deserve nothing but the best!!
Jessica Clark Click this link to vote for for any nominee
My much more hip and round older sister, Jessica Clark, just found out that she is having a second child due in January 2013. I have never met a mother as patient and caring as my sister has been to my 2 1/2 year old niece. This supermom has the power in balancing full time employment (at the best brunch restaurant in Richmond, Millie’s), being a full-time student at VCU, a full time wife, and a full time mother… which doesn’t leave much time for herself! Her husband, who is also wonderful, travels a lot for work, so my sister will spend large amounts of time parenting alone. Now that she’s pregnant again, its time for her to be selfish and to take a load off her feet! All you moms raise your pints (of ice cream), and cheers to what makes this world go round! (LOVE YOU sister<3)
Jessica Sirs Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Jessica is a great mom of a wonderful 3 year old boy and is expecting her 2nd child in November. She works full time at Hopewell Health Care Center and enjoys her work. Her husband is a 2nd year medical student at VCU here in Richmond. They have a very full schedule but still make time to spend with themselves and their son. Their family life is very important to them. I can’t think of anyone more deserving to win this 2012 Dream Baby Shower. It would be a great help to them and a Dream Come True.
Karen Bailey Alexander Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Karen Alexander, Mom Extraordinaire, deserves this prize because she always gives so freely of her self to others and it would be great to see her showered with what she deserves.She has spent the entirety of her professional life serving others and through her work with organizations like Equality Virginia, DC Rape Crisis Center, Volunteer Emergency Families for Children (VEFC), and through grant work with local government – she gave those in need, a much needed voice and much needed support.As a friend, I can tell you she seeks out ways to make each person in her life – family, friend, stranger- feel important and cared for. If sunshine came in human form, it would be Karen Alexander. She is pure joy. Karen is already a Super-Mom to her son from her husband’s first marriage and the baby she is expecting now might just be the luckiest little person in the world. What an amazing gift he/she will get having a Mom like Karen. Thank you and Please give Karen your vote!
Kasi Hurley Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Kasi is pregnant with our seventh child after having 5 boys and a girl. My wife is a great mother, she homeschools all of our kids. However she still finds time to teach adult Sunday School each week – and work on the car with me. Yes, even she thinks she’s crazy, but in a good way! My wife is really hoping for another daughter, it’s been ten years since the last girl. She has no girl stuff and due to our last move not a lot baby things. Why should people nominate Kasi? I guess because, everyone makes a big deal about the first and second child. After the third child people tend to think it’s not a big deal. My wife would like her perhaps last child to be as special as the first! And having old broken and out-dated baby furnishings and borrowed supplies isn’t very special. I love my “Super Mom” Kasi! She needs a moment of celebration to show her that all pregnancies should be special.
Kelly Clary Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Even Miracles take a little time “Fairy Godmother from Cinderella”. Kelly found out she was expecting the day after we buried her grandmother, someone she helped care for regularly. She struggled with health issues and had to see various specialists to even become pregnant. With all she has been through to have a baby, she deserves the Dream Baby Shower.
To My Kelly: She is an amazing wife, daughter, woman, aunt, and friend. She is a loving and caring person, tender, and yet so resilient. She is there for you in the good times and the bad and makes you feel that she will keep you safe. Always ready to pitch in and help, provide guidance when needed, and can do so many things. She has struggled with health issues and is so very grateful to be pregnant and is over the moon excited. She didn’t hesitate to take care of loved ones when they were sick and kisses their boo-boos to help them get well. She is our soft place to fall and our rock. Love, Mom
Kimberly Shackelford Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Kim is very deserving of this Dream Baby Shower. She is a giving and supportive person. She always supports loved ones in their lives by contributing to their special days, events and initiatives!
I wish to nominate my daughter, Kim, for Richmondmom’s 2012 Dream Baby Shower. Kim is a dream herself. Born October 1, 1981, she is as loving and kind as one could be. She is a hard-working and dedicated individual, working both in the corporate world and running a small business part-time. She is often asked to donate her time and services to different functions taking place in Richmond and vicinity and she never hesitates.When she found out she was pregnant with Cupcake, (my granddaughter), she knew she would have to cut back on her activities and part-time work. I know she and her husband would greatly benefit from this giveaway. Not only would they benefit from it, but in the future, when they are no longer able to use these items, they would generously pass them along to the next person in need.
Kimberly is the MOST DESERVING mother to be for this Baby Shower because she is the best sister I could possibly have. She always looks out for others despite the things that she may have going on with herself.
I am nominating Kim Shackleford for this giveaway because of the phenomenal woman she already is…and the fantastic mother that she is going to be!! All of Kim’s friends and family members are sooooo excited to see Kim prego!! This pregnancy is extra special because all of us can remember the stress and anguish Kim, and her husband DeAndre went through due to the miscarriage of their previous pregnancy. Kim had been trying for a while to get prego…and after only about 3 months of being pregnant, she lost the baby. How tragic. But Kim and her hubby handled the best way possible…by sticking by each other’s side and trusting in God. Well eventually, they became pregnant again…and things have gone by smoothly thus far!! Kim is a very giving and loving friend and family member. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this than my Kimmie!!!
Kristine Stallard Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I am nominating myself because I feel like I am very deserving. I am a fighter, I am kindhearted, and loving. I am currently fighting tooth and nail for my son to be in my custody. Home is where your mom is. I want the best for my children. I don’t have much, the most I offer my children is love, spirit, and a constant reminder that they are the future and nothing can stand in their way if they put their mind to it.
I vote for Kristina Stallard – she is the most caring person i know and would do anything to please her baby . She is great mother to her son and will do anything for her soon to have new born.
Latoya Charity Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I have known Latoya since elementary school and even back then I always knew that she was a very special person with a wonderful heart! Latoya is very much deserving of this award. She is a mother of two young boys who remain on honor roll within school and she is expecting her first daughter in a couple of months. She is currently classified as having a high risk pregnancy due to certain health conditions and her doctor has placed her on a restricted work schedule. Her hours were cut in half which makes finances VERY difficult for her right now. Regardless of her situation she is still willing to lend a helping hand when needed. She is very strong willed, determined, loving and caring person. But most of all she a tremendous friend! If anyone is deserving of this Dream Baby shower it is none other than my friend, Miss Latoya Charity!
Lindsey Leavitt Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Lindsey is an amazing sister to me! She has always been the planner, the get everyone together, the back bone to our family, as the oldest of three. My only wish is to thank her for all she has done by allowing her to have the baby shower she deserves that we cannot afford to throw for her. By winning this contest I could show her how much she means not only to me but our whole family! Please consider her for all she does, as the family representative, vice president of the Children’s Heart Foundation, a full time legal assistant, a wonderful mother and a full time home maker. She is an amazing person and does so much for everyone else I only hope I can do this for her! Casey Robertson
Lindsey is most deserving of this Dream Baby Shower because she is such a special and giving individual. Lindsey entered this world with a Congenital Heart Defect. At the age of 2 she had to have open heart surgery to repair her defect. She went on to play softball competitively in school and continues to play recreationally. Lindsey gave birth to her son, Layne, nearly 4 years ago. Layne was born with a heart murmur and has to be monitored by visits to the Pediatric Cardiologist, he has not had to have any procedures to correct his murmur. Lindsey serves as Vice President of the Children’s Heart Foundation Virginia Chapter. She helps put together events such as our Allison Jacobs Golf Tournament and the Congenital Heart Walk of Central Virginia. In addition to her family, softball and CHFVA, Lindsey works full time for a law firm. Lindsey is a native of the Mechanicsville area. We are excited to welcome a heart healthy little one in October 2012.
Lindsay A. Lewis Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Lindsay Lewis is my best friend and has been for over 20 years! I have been by her side through all the great ups and downs life has to offer and I can’t be more excited for her and her husband, Jamie Lewis, to be expecting their first child!
I know without a doubt that Lindsay will be an amazing mother, afterall, she has a great role model with her mom! Lindsay is one of the most honest and sincere people I have ever known and she can’t wait to, as she puts it, “raise a strong, humble, aware human being.” When Lindsay takes something on whether it’s her job, helping a friend or raising a child she does it with true integrity. She is very conscious of the environment and the people around her. For example, her and Jamie plan on using cloth diapers and have done tons of research on the products they plan on using in hopes of reducing the toxins that they expose their baby to, etc. We plan on throwing her a shower in August and this would make it all the more special!
McRae Brittingham Click this link to vote for for any nominee
She’s Awesome!
Melissa Van Vickle Click this link to vote for for any nominee
For a woman having a child is never easy. They go through so much just with that alone, but Melissa has gone beyond that. She already has a full time job as a mother of a 3 year old, been working to get things ready for the new baby, just finished Nursing School, and is currently studying for her state board exams to become a RN. She does so much for so many people without asking anything in return. That is why I feel she is most deserving of the 2012 Dream Baby Shower.
I am nominating my daughter, Melissa White Van Vickle of Mineral, VA.She’s a hard-working wife, mother to preschooler Reid, and is expecting their “Mini Van” in July. They are confirmed pet lovers, with 2 dogs and 3 cats. After being laid off from her job as an assistant controller in 2009, she decided to return to school to become a Registered Nurse. She had a daily hour-long commute to school, had classes all day, returning home to pick up Reid from child care. Studying nights and weekends, she graduated cum laude in May from nursing school and will soon be taking the boards to license her as a Registered Nurse. She has participated in mission trips with her childhood church and both colleges she attended, helping under-served people in clinics and orphanages. She is active in their church, and belongs to “Moms’ Club” in Mineral. She delivers Meals on Wheels with her son, showing him the way to caring. I expect she’ll continue to do this with their new baby.
Melissa has worked so hard while pregnant. She finished RN school this May and will be sitting for her NCLEX-RN before the baby is born. She is such a caring person and her future patients will thrive under her.She is also a loving and dedicated friend. I can always turn to her for support and advice as I finish up RN school myself. And I know she’s been there for others as well. It’s been a long, hard journey and I don’t know how I would have made it through without her. I also have seen her with her son and she is amazing! So patient and nurturing. I can’t wait to see her with this new little one! She will be a guiding light for me once I’m a parent. She is so deserving as a mom-to-be. Finishing up school to better her and her children’s futures, all while being there for her son and husband.
Michelle Roop Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I am nominating my friend and co worker Michelle. She is wonderful, kind, intelligent and fun loving. She works hard and always goes above and beyond for others. This will be the first child for her and her husband Mike. I think they will make amazing parents!
Nicole Pegram Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I am Nicole’s husband, I have been married to my wife for a little under a year now and she is a wonderful mother to my step-daughter Molly {her daughter}. When I met them for the 1st time I knew my place was meant to be right beside them. So not long after we dated, I asked her to marry me! I married my best friend and got a little best friend with her, now we are adding to our little family. My wife just found out we are 10 weeks pregnant! I want to nominate my wife because she is just the best women a man and a family could ask for. And I look forward to our family growing.
Niki Dunkum Click this link to vote for for any nominee
My daughter, Niki Dunkum, was married in July, graduated from Grad School from VCU in December with her masters in elementary education and found out she was pregnant in January. Teaching has been a life long dream of hers but as you can imagine being due right when school starts is not very good timing for being hired. She has been substituting and they will get by until she can go back to work but I wanted to nominate her for this dream shower in hopes of her winning to help them get started with their new little addition. Niki is the sweetest, most thoughtful person I know and would do anything for her friends and family so I wanted to do this for her! Thank you for considering her for this Dream Baby Shower! Wanda H.
Nikie Roth-Unroe Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I would like to nominate Niki Roth-Unroe. She is an amazing person and friend. And is going to be even more amazing mother. I met Niki because she is married to a high school friend of mine. She instantly became one of my best friends. I have seen how she is with some of my friends children and can only imagine what she has in store for her own children. Shortly after finding out that she was pregnant with the first grandchild on either her or her husband’s sides of the family, she was hit with the unexpected news of the sudden loss of her mother. I can imagine the pain she has for losing a parent, but not the pain she has while carrying a child that her mother will never meet. Niki is stronger than she will give herself credit for. I would like to nominate my friend Niki for the free baby shower to show her how proud I am to have her as a friend and that she is going to make an AMAZING mother! Thanks.
Patricia Ribler Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Even though her upcoming baby will be her first, I am confident Patricia will be one of the best moms in her neighborhood, in Richmond, and beyond. Patricia has everything the ideal mother would! She’s an amazing cook, ask anyone who has had one of her cupcakes. She keeps and beautifully decorates her home with her daily crafts. She teaches kindergarten students and keeps them engaged everyday with awesome activities and exciting lesson plans, and as a fun childhood filled with playing together proves, she has a great imagination that her new baby will adore. Patricia and I had a wonderful mother to follow, and I’m sure if Patricia is half as good of a mother as she was and is as a sister, that’s one lucky baby! She deserves something to reward for her being the woman and mother she is!
Rashan E. Edwards Click this link to vote for for any nominee
This is my 2nd child. When I was pregnant with my son I never had a baby shower. My family is on the west side of the country and since money is tight I did not have the opportunity to fly to see them. I have been to a few baby showers but never had my own. Since I am having a girl this time around I think it would help a lot with me missing my family.
Raven Williams Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I’m a first time mom and would love a chance to win!
Raven is having her first child in September.She is a warm-hearted beautiful woman that is quite obviously already in love with her “nugget” as she calls her unborn son. Raven deserves this shower because she is a special person whose kindness is contagious and who makes others just feel better when she is around them. I have known her since birth and have never known her not to be a sweet person. She is a beautiful woman that would do a wardrobe from your store proud. Raven is going to make a wonderful mother. She makes me proud and I cannot think of anyone who deserves this dream shower more than Raven, Chet, and their little “nugget”.
Raven is a dream friend. Raven met Chet and Chet met Raven…a dream couple. They fell in love and from this love, this dream baby was planned and conceived. The entire family is anxiously awaiting this dream baby. It is only fitting that Raven and Chet should be awarded the Dream Baby Shower.
Raven is expecting her first child. She lives in a small apartment in Richmond. She works hard, loves deeply, loves to have fun. She is so looking to welcoming her in September. when she wins this shower she and Chet will be able to have more funds to save up to find a bigger place to live and raise their son.
We met Raven two years ago and within one day we fell in love. She’s the most genuine person I know. When we found out they were expecting the first words out of my mouth may have been “They lied to us!” because a few weeks prior, they were at a party “not partying” because they were being health conscience until 3/1. Of course, 3/1 marked 12 weeks and they could announce the baby. I quickly got over betrayal and beamed (possibly cried) because there has never been two people more in love or more deserving of having a family together. When Raven is not planning for Nugget, she also works for SweetFrog helping expand the franchise nationally. Through her job she interacts with children and it is obvious how much of a wonderful mother she will make. I want to nominate Raven because she really deserves such a wonderful gift. She constantly gives herself to others and helps out. Her child will be born into such a loving family, that it would be nice to pamper her one more time.
Raven is a delightful, energetic, enthusiastic, caring, considerate, sweet, young woman who is the mother-to-be of my first grand child!!
Raven Williams is my big sister. She is one of the most caring individuals that I know. This is her first child, the first grandchild, and will be the first boy in our family! She deserves this more than anyone I know because ever since we got the news she has been working day in and day out to get ready for this little man!
Raven Williams is the most well deserving candidate for Dream Baby Shower. I have only known her for a short time, but within that time I have witnessed her warm and kind heart. She always has something positive to day and willing to go out of her way to help others. She is always caring for others with a big smile on her face. She has such beautiful qualities and is going to make a wonderful mom to her son.
Rebecca Button Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I think my big sister deserves this baby shower because she’s done nothing for herself sense she has been pregnant. She works all day, every day and doesn’t have the right people to help her throw her own baby shower. So she just wasn’t planning on having one. I just wanna see a smile on her face because its been awhile .
Rebecca Simms Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Already singing to her baby and she isn’t due for 7 months. Rebecca will be the coolest mom ever. Her baby will come out singing her funny wacky songs that only she can come up with. Americas got talent at age 1? Her baby just might do it. I wouldnt be surprised. Crazy, funny, rythmic, and quited talented. This Hip To Be Round mom deserves to be Richmond 2012 Dream Baby Shower winner!
I am expecting my very first child, and we are very excited for this new expierience. Yet not fully prepared, I wish to bring this new life into a wonderful stress free and bright beautiful world. I just need some help to make it stress free I work very hard and want to give my child everything that I did not have growing up, and with your help I can do that. Thank you.
She is hardworking, caring, funny and carries an enthusiastic aura with her wherever she goes. I am certain she will endow her child with a sense of wonder and the belief they can truly make a positive impact in this world as she has. Rebecca is the epitome of what a great mother can be. It would be a great honor for people of Richmond to name her this year’s RICHMOND MOM TO BE!
Rebekah L Midkiff Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Rebekah is one of the most amazing mom’s I know. She has a three year old daughter. Her husband Jake and Bekah are great parents and their daughter is the smartest little thing. She may only be three but can do so much. She is reading, counting and does “chores”. Loves to dance, swims, sings, and can make you laugh until you can’t take any more. With the new baby coming she is already getting ready to help. Practicing holding correctly, diapering, holding the bottle and thinks that she will be in charge. They are a great family and winning a Dream Baby Shower would be awesome for this wonderful family.
Robin Emson Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Robin is one of the coolest chicks I’ve met. Her excitement about her pregnancy is contagious. She has a great sense of humor. Who else changes their profile picture on Facebook to a jar of Prego pasta sauce to announce their pregnancy? Recently I’ve seen her take care of family members so I would love to see her have a fantastic baby shower. I hope you’ll vote for my Prego friend!
Samantha Aida Click this link to vote for for any nominee
My daughter is 25 and getting ready to have her second child in August. She works everyday and comes home to her little boy who is 3 years old and plays with him, cooks for him, and never skips a beat on what he needs. She has made every effort to include her son in this pregnancy. He talks to the baby and knows her name and wants to change her, feed her and love her. I think she deserves it because she is a wonderful, loving, caring mother and friend. She works hard to support her family and loves her son more than anything. I think she deserves something special just for her.
Samantha Erin Parks Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I would like to nominate expectant mom Samantha Parks. She is one of the best moms I know. She is pregnant with her third child and is a loving mom to her two little girls Avery and Londyn. Samantha suffered with infertility before becoming pregnant with her first child and she knows first hand the disappointment of not having a baby to love. She is patient and nurturing and unselfishly spends vast amounts of time teaching her girls how to be creative,kind,silly and loving. By example she teaches her children to put others first. Recently she threw a baby shower for an expectant mom who otherwise would not have had one. It is not unusual for her to organize meal deliveries for sick friends and new moms. Samantha is a very special person and so deserves to be treated in a special way. I hope you will consider her for this honor. Thank You.
Sara Elizabeth Thomas Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Sara is just over a month away from graduating from nursing school and taking her boards! She has worked very hard to get through nursing school and her baby will arrive just as she is accepting job offers. All expectant moms deserve a great baby shower, but an expectant mom who is a brand new nurse deserves one most of all!
Sarah Akin Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Sarah is a friend that I met at church three years ago. Sarah and her husband, Jason are expecting their first child. They are a wonderful couple that have overcome many adversities over the last several years. However, neither allowed the troubles in their lives negatively impact their relationship. They have persevered and worked hard to make their dreams come true. The renewed their vows for their fifth anniversary last fall. Now with a little one on the way, their dreams of a family are coming true. I am nominating them for the Dream Baby Shower just as icing on the cake. What better way to make the addition of the baby to their family than this wonderful baby shower?
Sarah K. Billeter Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I would like to nominate Sarah Billeter! While Sarah may be pregnant with her first child, she is already a ‘Mom’ to dozens of children. You see, Sarah is a Special Education teacher in Hanover County. She spends her time advocating for children who have no voice of their own. Her dedication goes above and beyond her job description and she truly loves each child. On stormy days, she will comfort my autistic son to make sure he feels safe and has even driven him home during storms when he has been too scared to get on the bus. She knows each child’s needs and spends her days protecting them and giving them a secure learning environment. She has given her heart and soul to each of her students, some of which can behave aggressively, but she loves them unconditionally. She deserves an extraordinary baby shower to honor her and her devotion to children with special needs. She is an exceptional woman who loves without boundaries and all of her school children thrive because of it!
Sarah Graves Click this link to vote for for any nominee
The person that I would like to nominate for Richmond’s 2012 Dream Baby Shower is my precious daughter, Sarah Graves. After she and Alex were married, they dreamed of having a child of their own. However, due to complications from a surgery when she was young, Sarah developed adhesion’s disease, which rendered conception difficult. Sarah endured two attempts with in-vitro fertilization, a process that is physically arduous, costly and emotionally challenging. When both attempts failed, because she and her husband had such an abundance of love to give, they decided, through an enormous leap of faith and commitment, to adopt a baby. This September, they will be parents of a baby boy and I can think of no other woman in my life who will be a better mother and more deserving of a new baby than my beautiful daughter, Sarah, who has demonstrated courage, patience, perseverance and a welcoming heart throughout the adoption process. With love, my vote goes to Sarah Graves of Richmond, VA.
Shanice Cross Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I am nominating my daughter for the dream baby shower. She is a strong women who strives to do her best even though she needs help in getting items for her first unborn child (a boy) she will never ask anyone but is so greatful when she recieves gifts from others.
Shannon Cooper Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Shannon is most deserving for this shower because she has been an excellent Godmother to Sean, and Aunt to Malachi and Amir for years and now she is going to be another herself. Most of all, while most of us are surrounded by family during pregnancy, Shannon does not that that. She lives miles away from all of her blood relatives, [they live] in Wisconsin. Shannon also lost her mother to cancer last year. While a dream shower will not replace her loss, it could make this time easier.
Stephanie Edwards Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Stephanie deserves this dream shower mostly because she never asks for anything and since this her first child I would love to see this happen for her . This pregnancy has not been easy on her and I know this would be everything she ever wanted !
Stephanie Tingler Click this link to vote for for any nominee
My friend Stephanie is so deserving of this baby shower. She has a heart of gold. Her husband has worked two jobs just to support the family. Stephanie’s six year old son shares the same birthday as mine. I met her in 2007 and when my family moved here for work,her family was our neighbor. I was very lonely and pregnant at the time with my second child. We actually met because my son which was two at the time bit her sons finger through the fence. She befriended me and has stuck by my side every since. She is truly one of the best mothers I know and is always taking care of other people and their kids. She is always putting other people first. This will be her second child and IT’S A GIRL! No words can truly explain why she should be “The One”. If you ask anyone around her they would for sure vote for her. She would give her shirt right off her back from anyone in need and she is always volunteering her time for school and church.
Tara Kilpatrick Click this link to vote for for any nominee
Tara is expecting her third little boy. She has twin boys that are 5. One of the boys was diagnosed a year ago with a very rare spinal cancer. He has undergone surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. She has been amazingly strong for him and for their family. She is ecstatic to be blessed with another child but has very little time to think about or plan for his arrival. I believe she is highly deserving of this shower because she gives of herself continuously for her family and has never asked for anything back. It would be amazing to let her know how much people recognize her love and sacrifices.
Taryn McVey Jones Click this link to vote for for any nominee
I’m nominating my daughter, Taryn, because I am so proud of the person she has become, and I know I will be equally proud of the mother she will be. Taryn is one of the most caring and loving people I know, and she likes everyone she meets. I remember one day when she was in elementary school, she got off the bus crying and devastated because someone at school didn’t want to be her friend. Taryn liked everyone, and it was a totally foreign concept to her that someone else wouldn’t feel the same. To this day, she is as loyal a friend (and daughter) as anyone can be. She will be an amazing role model for the daughter that she is expecting, and I have no doubt that her children will grow up in a non-judgmental home, learning total acceptance and love. Mothers are supposed to teach their children,and I hope I instilled in her some admirable qualities, but I have learned much from her as well, and I am proud that she is my daughter and the mother of my granddaughter-to-be!
The prizes for the Hip to Be Round 2012 Dream Baby Shower winner are as follows:
Hip to be Round – $200 shopping spree
$1,000 home care package for grand prize winner from Nurturing Nurse
Real Life Studios – a $750 photography session; 2nd and 3rd place $200 photography sessions
The Cedarhouse School – A Gift bag of goodies worth $250.
Core Kids Academy – $200 Gift Certificate
Massage Envy – 1 Hour massage and facial valued at $156; 2nd and 3rd place $78 massage each
Science Museum of Virginia – $99 Membership
4 hours free Nanny Service from College Nannies & Tutors valued at $99
RELAY Foods – $75 gift certificate
Atkins, Maestrello, Miller & Associates – $75 Sonicare Toothbrush
Richmond Rocks by Richmondmom.com – Signed copies of Richmond Rocks books valued at $65; 2nd and 3rd place winners get signed copies valued at $26
- Cupcakes from Frostings – for Expectant Mom’s Night Out event and the shower! Over $200 in delicious treats!
Call Federal Credit Union – $50 check to begin a savings plan for the baby.
$50 worth of baby shower invitations by DawnCorrespondence
$50 gift certificate to Champagne and Shoes to accessorize her baby shower outfit
Gourmet Cookies by Valli – $50 Gift Certificate
Wild Greens Catering – catering the winner announcement event!
The first few weeks at home with your newborn can be both a magical time – and physically and emotionally grueling! Unfortunately, the demands of the baby can blur your precious memories (especially if you have multiples).
That is why some mothers turn to an in-home baby nurse for night-time assistance. A baby nurse is there to “mother the mother”, so to speak, and help take care of the baby.
Melinda King (The Babieladie) of The Nurturing Nurse, in my opinion is well-qualified to provide this service.
She is an experienced, qualified pediatric nurse, childbirth educator, doula and lactation consultant, as well as a mother of three.
One of Melinda’s clients, Miranda, says that Melinda has been a huge help to her as her baby nurse, especially since her relatives do not live close by. On weeknights, Melinda arrives punctually at ten o’clock and takes over care of her baby girl. She feeds her, changes her and talks to her. She even keeps a detailed notebook of what the baby’s night was like. Miranda gets seven solid hours sleep, and by the time she wakes up in the morning, the baby is already washed and wearing clean clothes.
Miranda says that thanks to Melinda’s help, she actually gets to spend some time with her husband in the evening. Also, she believes that being well-rested makes her a much more effective mother during the day.
“My husband and I are on our own with the baby on weekends. It’s only two days, but it is such a big difference! We really look forward to Melinda coming over during the week!”
In addition to her baby nurse and doula services, Melinda also offers a number of extras as well, such as belly-casting, baby showers, birth photography, private lactation consulting and baby massage.
Melinda feels that she was designed to be a nurturer. “My love and passion has always been about nurturing children that have been placed in my path to ensure that they receive the best possible outlook on life imaginable!”
The Nurturing Nurse donated nursing services to the grand prize winner of our Dream Baby Shower; if you know an expectant mom, please nominate her for this amazing contest.
]]>Richmond’s 2012 Hip to Be Round Dream Baby Shower is a great way to recognize any expectant Richmond mom who is deserving of having her own Dream Baby Shower.
Thanks to Stony Point Surgery Center and all the amazing local business donating prizes for this fun contest totalling over $4,000. 
Here’s how it works:
- Nominate yourself or any expectant Richmond mom* here from 6/1/12-6/14/12. Nominations close at 7pm on 6/14/12. *Please note: multiple nominations do not impact winning status, only votes determine winners.
- Vote: You’ll see your nomination here on the site (we’ll provide a link during the dates!) & you may vote once per person only 6/15-6/25/12.
- Celebrate with us at the Expectant Girls Night Out at Hip to Be Round in Carytown 6/27/12 from 6:30 pm-8:00 pm where we’ll announce the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prize winners! Each nominee may bring 1-2 guests and celebrate with us! You will receive an invitation to RSVP.
The Grand Prize Winner will be presented with her gifts and will be given invitations from Dawn Correspondence, catering by Wild Greens Catering, and coordination and favors from Celebrations at Home with Chris Nease for her very own shower to be held by 8/30!*
*please note: blackout dates occur in July; actual shower date to be scheduled with Chris Nease for an optimal, amazing shower!
The prizes for the Hip to Be Round 2012 Dream Baby Shower winner are as follows:
Hip to be Round – $200 shopping spree
$1,000 home care package for grand prize winner from Nurturing Nurse
Real Life Studios – a $750 photography session; 2nd and 3rd place $200 photography sessions
The Cedarhouse School – A Gift bag of goodies worth $250.
Core Kids Academy – $200 Gift Certificate
Massage Envy – 1 Hour massage and facial valued at $156; 2nd and 3rd place $78 massage each
Science Museum of Virginia – $99 Membership
4 hours free Nanny Service from College Nannies & Tutors
RELAY Foods – $75 gift certificate
Richmond Rocks by Richmondmom.com – Signed copies of Richmond Rocks books valued at $65; 2nd and 3rd place winners get signed copies valued at $26
Call Federal Union – $50 check to begin a savings plan for the baby.
$50 worth of baby shower invitations by DawnCorrespondence
$50 gift certificate to Champagne and Shoes to accessorize her baby shower outfit
Gourmet Cookies by Valli – $50 Gift Certificate
Wild Greens Catering – catering the winner announcement event!
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