Dear Annie: Should I provide gifts for a second childâs baby shower?

Dear Annie: My best friend is having a second baby shower for her daughter. They are doing this remotely since she lives in another state. The invitations that were sent gave a specific date your gift had to be delivered to the new mother by. The daughter has been posting on social media about what is needed for the new baby, yet she has a registry at several places. She already has a child, a 3-year-old, and has gotten all that was needed at her first shower. My financial situation has changed, and I’m not able to contribute to this, nor do I want to after I contributed to the first. I just found it rude to ask people yet again to provide for your second child. — Just Frustrated

Dear Frustrated: Celebrations for a second or third child aren’t uncommon, though it’s popular to opt for a “sprinkle,” or a less elaborate event than when one welcomed their first child. This family might really need a handful of new items for their second baby, but it would be unreasonable for them to expect their guests to restock them entirely.

Contribute something small if you’re able and attend the shower either in person or virtually, depending on what’s feasible. At the end of the day, what’s most important is your presence and coming together to celebrate the new addition to this family.

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“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].