Miss Manners: Use tact to admire baby

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I would like to know if there is a protocol in viewing a new baby after you have been asked to the mother’s shower.

I have been invited to several baby showers by a relative for her children. When the baby is born, I usually wait a month or two before mentioning that I would love to see the baby. I would not think of dropping in on the new parents unannounced and overstaying, but I would like to bring a gift of food or something for the baby and stay for a short visit. I would stay approximately one hour.

GENTLE READER: There is such a protocol, and you have delineated it exactly: Wait until the new household adjusts, call and request paying a visit, bring a little something for the baby and don’t stay long. Miss Manners would only add that you not attempt to hold the baby without permission, and that you must make sure to confirm the parents’ belief that theirs is the loveliest baby ever born.