HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The United Service Organizations hosted a virtual baby shower for military members and their spouses in the local area, Dec. 11, 2020, in El Paso, Texas.
The event was for mothers who are currently pregnant to six-months postpartum. Throughout the event, participants played games, received baby shower gifts and were awarded prizes.
The “What to Expect When Expecting” author, Heidi Murkoff, even partnered with the USO to celebrate.
“I didn’t win any games,” laughed Siara Price, Holloman spouse and baby shower participant. “But, one of the best parts of the baby shower was getting to meet Heidi Murkoff. I read her ‘What to Expect’ books a lot, so it was really cool to meet her. I also enjoyed talking to the other spouses in the area and hearing their birth stories. It was helpful to hear what resources are available to me and my husband, especially since this is our first baby.”
This baby shower not only allowed Holloman mothers to connect with each other, but they also met couples from all over New Mexico and El Paso.
“This was a great opportunity to connect with the El Paso USO,” said Maura Kuhn, Holloman Airman and Family Readiness Center community readiness specialist. “We always try to stay connected with the local community, and I think it is important to show the Holloman community that there are resources out there that can assist with their life circumstances.”
While there were some limitations to having a virtual baby shower, the El Paso USO and Murkoff were still able to offer a way to celebrate this milestone for mothers in the area.
“We live far away from family and we couldn’t go back home to them because of COVID-19,” said Deberry. “Of course I would have liked an in-person baby shower, but I’m glad we were able to attend one virtually.”
Deberry also mentioned she found out about this event through the Bundles for Babies group on base.
Bundles for Babies is a free class offered at the A&FRC the third Friday of each month for expecting parents. This class gives families an opportunity to explore and discuss all areas of child care.
For more about educational classes provided by the Air Force Aid Society please contact the A&FRC at 575-572-7754.