Update Week: How’s the Birthday Block Guestbook Holding Up?

I’m doing a few updates this week on posts that are viewed most often. Today I’m talking about wooden blocks and Sharpie markers.

See, for Gabe’s first birthday, I wanted to have everyone write in a guestbook, but, well, babies don’t really care about guestbooks. Enter: wooden blocks and Sharpies. I asked each guest to share a wish, hope, or message for Gabe on his first birthday and write (or illustrate) it on a block. The results were awesome and I still love reading all the messages from the people we love most in the world.

It is probably the best thing I ever did, honestly, in terms of Creative Stuff for Your Kid. (It’s one of the only things I’ve done, so there’s not much competition). It’s so neat how everyone’s personality comes through in their message and how sweet the messages were to Gabe at the beginning of his life.

Now to do a few followups:

Did you ever seal them?

Nope. I like the look and feel of unfinished wood.

Has the writing faded?

Not noticeably, except the yellow writing.

Not just for first birthday parties!

I’ve had countless people email me or comment that they’re going to do this for a baby shower or birthday party of an older kid. I think it’s perfect for a baby shower! You guys have good ideas.

Also, I’ve seen some people pin the post saying, “Wish I could afford this!” The blocks were $50 and I expect them to last forever.

So, in sum: holding up really well after two years, highly recommend.