The week begins with a visit to one of Maria’s old school
friends, who has a six-month-old daughter to add to a five-year-old
son and three-year-old daughter. Very much a handful!
We sit down and have tea, accompanied by three other friends from
the circle, and the conversation inevitably revolves around babies.
As the only male present I feel a bit like a cricket umpire.
Observing, issuing the occasional remark – very much involved, but
somehow separate from all around me.
The experience of pregnancy is discussed in detail, both in terms
of physical and emotional issues, and I feel isolated. It’s nothing
to do with being ostracised, far from it, but I feel relieved when
talk turns to other subjects.
Later on news comes of a baby son for a mutual friend of ours. It’s
a poignant moment as this friend had been responsible for bringing us
together all those years ago. It had been a difficult labour, another
reminder for Maria of the possible perils ahead, but the joy the child
brings is self-evident and uplifting for us.
<< Diary of a dad-to-be: weeks 15-19
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