I recently read about a charity organization based out of California called "Loved Twice." Started in 2005, Loved Twice is the brainchild of Lisa Klein, who started her mission by sending newborn clothing she had collected from her friends to a church in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. Loved Twice has donated over 20,000 pounds of recycled baby clothing to more than 3,000 newborns in need. I love this idea and am planning on sending some clothing their way... especially since my boys seem to wear a onesie only once before they grow out of it. They also take tax deductible cash donations.

One of my favorite presents to give new parents is a book. I worked in the education field for 23 years and firmly believe, the key to a good education and a promising future is the ability to read and reading comprehension. So naturally, giving books feels so right to me. I know that others may do the same, as giving books to newborns is something that has always been done. However, I do try to make it a little more meaningful. Before purchasing the book, I find out the name of the baby and buy a book with the baby's name in the title. Here are a few examples of baby's names and books available:

Desmond - "Desmond and the Naughty Bugs"
Vincent - "Vincent's Colors" (a beautiful book introducing colors through Vincent Van Gogh's paintings)
Lily - "Miss Lily's Fabulous Pink Feather Boa"
David - "Oh, David!"
Tyler - "Tyler & His Solve-a-Matic Machine"
Abigail - "A is for Abigail"
and for my grandson Leonardo,  "Leonardo, Beautiful Dreamer" (the story of Leonardo DaVinci)

These make wonderful gifts and create special memories. This gift idea also works so well for birthdays and other important events in a child's life. I have found the easiest way to find these special books is through amazon.com. Type in the child's name and search under "children's books". Give the gift of reading!