We recently read about a baby shower that left us a little befuddled. The shower was planned, and all the guests had R.S.V.P.ed when the mother-to-be found out she couldn’t make it. On doctor’s orders, she was supposed to stay off her feet and rest.

But instead of canceling the shower, she insisted that her mother host the event with her friends and family members despite her absence so that she could still benefit from the gifts her guests were bringing.

Does this seem odd to you? Have you ever been to a baby shower without a mom-to-be as the guest of honor? What would you do if you were in her shoes? You tell us!

Decorate your baby shower with butterflies. There’s something so sweet and dreamy about butterflies. Use this idea board to inspire new ideas for the next shower you plan. It’s perfect for the moms-to-be who love everything natural and girlie.

Butterfly Wood Plaque from Pottery Barn Kids

Butterfly Soaps from ababyshower.com

Hanging Glitter Butterflies from The Company Store

Butterfly Cookie Cutters from Beau-coup

Whether you’re planning a birthday party or just a special day for your kids, cooking is a great activity to share with them to encourage healthy eating and teach them an important skill. Here are a few ideas that will hopefully inspire your next cooking event!

1) Purchase aprons and chef hats for kids. If you get white aprons, one of the activities at your party could be to have guests personalize their own aprons with markers.

2) Find recipes. Have guests bring in their favorite recipes. They can then compile their very own cookbook with some colored paper, pens and scissors.

3) Take an outing. Check out what types of cooking classes are available in your community. A few stores such as Sur La Table offer a variety of classes, with some especially made for kids.

4) Cook at home. If you don’t want to take a class, just buy, borrow or look up fun recipes for kids online. The Food Network is kid-friendly and has great cooking demos for kids.

5) Stock up on food. The best thing about throwing a cooking party is that your guests are the chefs. Just buy ingredients, some snacks and everything needed for baking a sweet birthday cake.

6) Send sweet invitations. These adorable invites are so appropriate for this occasion. They’re ready to serve to your guests for a memorable event.

Cooking: Boy Birthday Party Invitations

Cooking: Girl Birthday Party Invitations