A landmark week for Maria – she’s hit the halfway point. I
remark on how well the ‘bump’ is progressing and receive a mixed
response. The ‘F-word’ comes up again… FAT.

It’s never far from the surface and is becoming a very sensitive
issue. In my efforts to reassure Maria that the pregnancy is going
well I only end up depressing her.

She’s now very aware of her changing shape, everything feels
tight and favourite clothes are gradually pushed to the back of the
wardrobe as if sent to live in exile. A groan follows each
unsuccessful attempt to squeeze into skirts & trousers.

I struggle to come up with a favourable response whenever my advice
is sought. I’m no fashion expert but it seems that every time I tell
her she looks great it’s as if Maria thinks I’m lying to make her
feel better, there’s a negative vibe in the air despite the fact
Maria’s blooming. She thinks she’s ballooning.

More baby news…. Maria’s sister confirms that she is also
expecting. The family is becoming a mini maternity unit, with a
sister-in-law a similar distance ahead of Maria in the pregnancy
stakes. There’s still a lot of distance to cover in this race, for
all concerned…

Read
week 22 >>

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