tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36810419311569043792024-03-05T11:20:56.307-08:00Daddy Smurf's DiaryWelcome to Daddy Smurf's Diary written by Daddy Smurf (Rob,33, local journalist) about life as first time dad to Jacob and husband to my dear wife Pam. Proud supporter of mums and dads and their rights and enjoying the world of fatherhood.
Fantastic image is courtesy of SuperSmurgger, Give his images a view at http://supersmurgger.deviantart.com/RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.comBlogger81125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-84243425806369823832015-05-28T08:30:00.000-07:002015-05-28T08:30:03.693-07:00A Dad's take on bressure and brelfies
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
BREAST feeding is back in the news
today and apparently now any mum who posts a pic of her breastfeeding
has put pressure on those who couldn't for whatever reason.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As a result, the hashtag #bressure has
provoked a lot of support from bottle feeding mums who feel pressured
into breastfeeding.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
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Various stories, 'how I was looked down
on when I bottlefed' and the like have been posted and frankly it's
ridiculous.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As I recall, 'brelfies' rose to
prominence because various social media sites were censoring
breastfeeding pictures because of all the 'nudity' (god help too much
flesh is shown eh)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I don't recall one brelfie with the
message 'This is the right and only way and a plague on all those who
don't flop their boobs out to nurture their babies'</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Why? because it didn't happen. Brelfies
were proud mums, sharing those intimate moments with the world.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The same intimate moments can be had
with bottle feeding, had this campaign been 'bottlefie' then
brilliant, a great way to get the message across that breast or
bottle, both are brilliant.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But instead it's back to running down
breastfeeding. I've seen the hurt in Pam's eyes when she couldn't get
Jacob to feed from her breast. He was lazy, we had all the help
possible, lovely supportive midwives, different positions but
sometimes it just doesn't work.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But now, nine months on, is she ashamed
she couldn't, depressed and pressured if she sees a mum
breastfeeding? No, my wife like hundreds of millions of women in the
world is proud, proud she carried and birthed a baby. Because
whatever the argument, THAT is the greatest accomplishment.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If anyone in your social circle judges
you for not being able to breastfeed then maybe you need to rethink
your social circle?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I know Pam wouldn't look down on any
mum who breastfeeds or bottlefeeds and speaking as a dad, I can't see
how any woman could.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Women are given the greatest gift, they
can conceive, grow and deliver human life. Frankly, it doesn't matter
how they then feed their babies just as long as they do.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
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We shouldn't judge anyone on either
side of this debate, we should instead remember our children are
being fed, some aren't.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Surely that's a bigger issue to worry
about?</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-89473590045845174092015-02-14T15:31:00.000-08:002015-02-14T15:31:22.028-08:00Being a dad - six months on!
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">SO it’s been six months since we became parents. And the good news is
we haven’t damaged Jacob in anyway! I’m sure I wasn't alone in thinking in the
delivery room, what if I break him?<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">But, as with most things in fatherhood you soon realise your worries
are just frankly ridiculous!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">What it has been has been a voyage of discovery and learning, of
sleepless nights and fun-filled days. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Nothing in life can prepare you for the actual job of fatherhood, you
can learn lots about babycare but nothing prepares you for the emotional hit of
holding your own child.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">What have I learned? A load, both about myself, about patience and the
joy of baby watching. Come on dads, we have all done it, just stopped and
watched how our little ones go about their day. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Jacob is just a delight, especially now at six months where he is
babbling away and developing a really funny personality. His favourite trick at
the moment appears to be looking all sad at either me or his mum.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">When he inevitably gets out attention, the cheeky little scamp either
smiles so warmly or turns away quickly with a sudden bout of ‘shyness’.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">I’ve also learned nothing really matters, a bad day at work can be
resolved the moment you walk through the door.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">I have been so blessed that as well as a healthy baby, I have the most
fabulous wife, a woman born to be a mother and a true natural. But then again I
am biased!!!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">From the early days of neither of us knowing what the heck we were doing
to now, it’s been a wonderful journey so far, long may it continue.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">So for those dads to be, let me share some wisdom. Firstly, be there
for the birth and see what you want to see, those precious first seconds will
be burned on your memory forever</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Secondly, get involved in feeding and nappies: Jacob weed on me not
once but twice on his first day in the world,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>a badge of honour!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thirdly, during your paternity leave, make sure you do as much round
the house as you can, it’s a good chance to learn something new!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">And finally, when your baby and your partner/wife sleep, make sure you
do as well or at least chill out on the sofa!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thank you for the memories son, here’s to so many more<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none;">
<span lang="en-GB" style="language: en-GB; mso-ligatures: none;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-33591228943474950412015-02-09T03:54:00.001-08:002015-02-09T03:54:25.477-08:00REVIEW: 90:10 Hoodie BEING a big fan of
hoodies I was delighted to receive an offer to review one from the guys at
90:10 given I’m also 90 per cent grown up, 10 per cent not!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
When you become a dad,
you find yourself wondering whether you should grow up now and act responsible.
But pretty soon you realise you can still have fun and enjoy yourself, just
because I’m a dad and in my 30s it doesn’t mean I’m past it, no sir!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I decided to give my
90:10 hoodie the biggest challenge and put it on straight after a shower and straight
away I loved the close feel and it certainly kept the heat in.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I liked the look of it
immediately, really nice and attractive branding yet not too obvious and off
putting for the 90 per cent of me that is grown up!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Comfy to drive in and
lark about in, the 90:10 hoodie is well made and stands up to any challenge
thrown at it, especially if you always on the go.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
One of the first
comments from my wife was I looked slimmer in it, so if you’re trying to hide a
few pounds lads you know where to look!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
While it certainly
keeps the heat in during this current cold spell, I imagine it will also be
perfect for the spring and summer months.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I went bowling with the
guys from work on Friday night and decided to throw it back on as the navy blue
looks great with jeans.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The design looks both
smart and casual, something which is not always the case with some of the more
well-known brands.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I tend to throw on
hoodies during the colder months and rely on longer sleeve shirts in the spring
and summer.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
However, I can easily
see me reaching for this on a summer’s evening perhaps when the heat of the day
has gone and it’s just a bit nippy. Hopefully I’ll be in a beer garden at the
time!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
90 per cent grown up is
enough for me so it’s refreshing to know others feel the same, so much so they’ve
put it on a hoodie!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
90 per cent grown up,
10 per cent not = 100 per cent satisfied!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Visit <a href="http://www.9010man.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.9010man.com</span></a> for more about the range,
including a ‘headphone’ hoodie, yes guys now your iPhone has a real home!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
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<br />RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-29096836242757898712015-02-09T03:22:00.000-08:002015-02-09T03:22:29.309-08:00Labour's paternity plan is great, but it has to be worthwhile.<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
THE news this morning that Labour would
give new dads four weeks off work after the birth of their baby is
very welcome.</div>
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<br />
</div>
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Having agonisingly crawled to work two
weeks after Jacob was born I would have welcomed another two weeks
off, if not just to try and build up the courage to tear myself away
from him!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But as many things in politics, a
welcome announcement on the surface often becomes less so when you
dig down to what we call 'reality'.</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Paternity leave is wonderful; two weeks
off, the Government pay for it, your annual leave is untouched. Your
first two weeks as a daddy are taken care of....</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
However, when you actually look at what
is offered, £138, you soon realise that the devil is indeed in the
detail.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I earn roughly £300 a week, meaning
had I had two weeks off I would have lost over a week's salary! I'm
sure that wasn't the intention when paternity leave was created.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
This is not a whinge, far from it, the
fact that paternity leave even exists is great and that any
contribution from the Government is welcome.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But the moment that little bundle
arrives, you immediately think about protecting them and keeping them
safe and losing money which could be spent on nappies and the like in
the first month is a worry you just don't need.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
We are lucky in this country to have
fathers of relitavely young children in charge of all three parties,
so parenting should remain on the agenda.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Labour have a great idea, it would be
great now to see it worked through to ensure new dads aren't forced
to use their annual leave.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I don't have the answer, I can only
speak as a dad who took one week off the state and one week's annual
leave when J was born.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Over to you Mr Miliband!</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-38086920808979094182015-01-21T07:09:00.000-08:002015-01-21T07:09:16.793-08:00Why is there a war against dads?WATCHING your child come into the world is arguably one of the most
life-changing events in a man’s life, certainly was for me.<br />
<br />
But new research suggests that some fathers should steer clear of the delivery
room because they could make the pain of childbirth even worse (!!)<br />
<br />
<div class="thirdPar">
A study by University College London, King's College London and
the University of Hertfordshire suggests that women who lack emotional
intimacy with their partner experienced more pain if they are on hand. <br />
<br />
This 'news' has made the front page of no less than The Times today, what is it with this 'war' on dads?<br />
<br />
Surely if we want men to be good dads we need to be involved from the very moment things 'get real'.<br />
<br />
We will never experience the aches and pains, the kicks, that wonderful relationship that begins as the tummy expands, surely even the most squeamish men should be allowed to witness the birth of the baby they have helped make?<br />
<br />
One minute there is a war against feckless dad who make a woman pregnant and abandon them and the next science is saying actually they shouldn't be there in the first place!<br />
<br />
Is there no wonder some men are disconnected from the whole process? Pam would never have accepted me not being in the delivery room. 'Oh I can't cope with seeing her in all that pain' - newsflash it ain't a walk in the park for the mum either!!<br />
<br />
No words can adequately express the moment your child arrives into the world. Jacob's entrance will be burned on to my mind forever as will that precious first half an hour cradling this wonderful if messy new arrival.<br />
<br />
Instead of banishing dads, let's educate and talk about it. Because the reward is so worth it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-75556958555850744392015-01-20T04:28:00.001-08:002015-01-20T04:28:22.113-08:00Don't want to be a dad, put something on the end of it!<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
SORRY to quote Jeremy Kyle but it felt
appropriate for a post re the disillusioned father-of-three who made
headlines when he listed his kids' old buggy for sale on eBay.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If you haven't read it, basically the
guy resents being a dad and posted a sarcastic tirade about how
becoming a dad ended his 'carefree life'.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Now I am willing to believe it's a
sarcastic post and the man is a devoted father and he simply trying
to flog it for a load of money.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But if it's serious then why have kids?
I won't lie and say everything is just fine, there are good and bad
days but surely he knew that when he fertilised his wife?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I can't understand men who moan about
how much life has changed and how it's all about the kids now. Er yes
that's kind of the deal you make when you make a baby!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Life has changed, you don't sleep, you
can't just go out randomly, you can't go out on all nighters and that
but instead you have this little bundle who learns something new
every day and loves you unconditionally. That's enough for me to
ditch everything!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Huge numbers of men around the world
will never be able to father a child for various reasons, then you
have this guy whinging about being blessed THREE times.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
This is why to any wannabe dad, think
before you do the deed, are you ready to tackle the challenge
fatherhood presents?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If not then Durex do a fine range of
products.....</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-87791983268811868682015-01-20T03:41:00.004-08:002015-01-20T03:41:57.593-08:00 An apology to my son<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I LOOKED at Jacob this morning and
wanted to apologise to him. I wanted to apologise for the way the
world is heading and what he may face when he becomes an adult.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It's a shame I have to blog with such
negativity but frankly I am so annoyed I need to vent my spleen.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The 'joy' that The Sun is dropping page
three is nauseating for many reasons, none of them because I love
perving on the young ladies, I have evolved unlike some men</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The campaigners will tell you it
sexualises children, it encourages men to commit heinous and depraved
sexual crimes and makes women somehow lower class citizens.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Wrong, wrong and wrong. Plenty of grown
ups today followed my path, saw page three but had parents to explain
the differences between the male and female body but how as a man you
should respect women.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
And page three is to blame for some of
the vile crimes committed against women? Do me a favour, any man that
commits these vile and depraved crimes is sick in the head already.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Women are lower class citizens –
nope, none of these women have been forced onto page three, bound and
gagged. They have chosen to do it, none of them are porn stars, they
are real women with real bodies.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If Jacob saw page three when he was
older, I want to be able to sit down and explain that while the paper
has chosen to print that, he as a man has a duty to respect all women
and their bodies.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I don't want my son growing up in a
world where bodies of both sexes are hidden. It's not about
sexaualising children but helping them understand at an early age
that while the human body is desirable it must be respected.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I hope this doesn't upset anyone, my
sole intention is express my opinion </div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-47847456368042033262015-01-05T15:00:00.000-08:002015-01-05T15:00:07.767-08:00Hello 2015 and thanks for the memories 2014 <span style="font-family: Calibri;">I KNOW, a year in review post five days after it finished, I’ve been busy!<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2014 was a wonderful year as I became a dad for the first time to baby Jacob although I question how he already is five months old, where does the time go.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I feel truly humbled to have been blessed with a child and that Pam enjoyed a relatively healthy pregnancy and suffered little ill effects in the aftermath.<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We didn’t have the birth we wanted but the greatest gift for any man is to bring his wife and child home, both healthy and happy if a little bewildered by the whole thing!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s a gift I cherish and am thankful for each day and I am humbled to see my wonderful wife evolve from the kind-hearted person she has always been to the natural mother. I know I am biased but I truly believe she was born to be a mother, I am just thankful I played my part in helping her achieve her destiny.<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also in 2014 I saw good friends become parents, some for the first time in dramatic circumstances and others for the second time, their lives made complete by the welcome arrival of another little bundle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Family members have made decisions about their futures and some dear friends have bounced back from the abyss in style and are now looking down the road to a brighter tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I still miss those we have lost but cherish the fact my immediate family all have their health, all apart from my dear mum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Dementia is sadly a permanent resident but the fight in her heart remains, she has never been beaten by anything in her life and dementia, you’ve picked a tough cookie this time.<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The mum I know is long gone, but her courage and her will to keep going sustains me and my dad. To anyone coping with dementia I say don’t focus on the present, treasure the memories.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" itemprop="description articleBody">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So what of 2015? What are you bringing to the party? You’ve got a lot to live up to!<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Whatever you have to offer, I will attack every day the same and to everyone reading this may I wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-30670461826808343292014-12-12T05:58:00.001-08:002014-12-12T05:58:09.174-08:00Finding his hands and other wonderful milestones<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I WISH someone had told me that as a
parent you will share the joy of your baby's discoveries as much as
they do.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Jacob is progressing really well, yes
he does have baby eczema and yes he has his grumpy moments,
especially when its bed time....</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But on the whole he is a relaxed and
broadly happy little boy who has brought so much joy into Pam and I's
lives and that extends to his discoveries.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As well as making more and more sounds
and appearing to want a conversation at times (it's ok to babble back
at your child isn't it?) he has developed two particular traits which
make me smile and at times laugh.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The first is when he is in his chair,
we call it the 'standby' mode. Jacob can go from looking around to
suddenly disappearing off deep in thought, moving his hands once in a
while.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It's like he is learning on the go,
pausing his day to reflect on the new experience and then coming back
to us.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The most adorable trait though his how
much he has embraced discovering his hands. Despite being part of him
since his arrival, he really had no call for them.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
That was until he realised they could
grab, move things and most adorably, held together. Jacob can spend a
good 20 minutes a day simply holding his own hands in different ways.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The look of wonder on his face though
is a joy to behold, each combination is greeted with a look as if to
say 'ohhh right that's pretty funky'.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Never knew grabbing your hands could be
so fun. He is even attempting to hold his milk bottle when he being
fed now.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
His little hands won't stretch to that
yet so there is still a use for daddy lol! </div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-21932139308022464192014-12-12T04:12:00.002-08:002014-12-12T04:12:55.023-08:00Bargain Hunt!<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
No not the TV programme but a blog
about the rather silly pleasure I took from Tesco's 'interesting'
approach to deals on Pampers nappies.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Pampers New Baby Size 3 (What can I
say, Jacob is a growing lad) were on sale in plentiful supply. Packs
of 29 were £4 each, a pack of 50 was £10 and a box of 74 for £12.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I do love getting the boxes because
they last longer and the boxes can be used for storage once empty,
very important when family members keep donating clothes!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But there wasn't any, so worked down to
the pack of 50....until I spotted a flaw in Tesco's pricing....</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The packs of 29 were £4 each or two
for £6. Keen mathematicians among you will have already spotted the
bargain. Yes buy two 29 packs and get 58 nappies for £6....eight
more nappies for £4 less.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
However, that was not the 'highlight'
of this shopping trip, get two for £6 and buy a third 29 pack and
what do you get?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
87 nappies for £10, 37 more nappies
than the 50 pack for the SAME PRICE!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In the modern Twitter parlance this
would be classed as an #epicfail but it was a very welcome 'fail' by
Tesco on this one.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Hopefully they don't notice the flaw
for a while, could do with saving money as apparently it's beginning
to look a lot like Christmas....</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I hope it's the same in Tesco stores
near you, if it is then why not stock up!</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-72080209325319472132014-11-03T03:36:00.001-08:002014-11-03T03:36:33.756-08:00If you find breastfeeding 'offensive' you're a titSO it 's been a normal Monday morning, going through my tweets, catching up with e-mails and the like when I stumble across this.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/womens-health/11195373/Facebook-removes-mothers-breastfeeding-photo.html" target="_blank">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/womens-health/11195373/Facebook-removes-mothers-breastfeeding-photo.html</a><br />
<br />
And to say it makes me angry and spoils my Monday morning is an understatement. I know as a bloke I shouldn't get angry as much but I am fed up reading how people find breastfeeding 'offensive' and how mums are banned from shops for doing it.<br />
<br />
For crying out loud it will soon be 2015, can we not as human beings differentiate between breasts being used to feed a hungry little human and basic public nudity. It's not like the poor mum in the story was sitting there with her breasts out with a 'come and have a go on these' look on her face!!!!!!!!.<br />
<br />
The same goes for the mums banned/asked to stop feeding in shops, every mum I have encountered breastfeeding does it with varying degrees of privacy, from the full on shawl to a slight turn away or a lift up of a shirt. You see nothing and to be honest if you find it sexual you need your head seeing to, if you find it 'vulgar' then sorry you're a prude.<br />
<br />
We went to an NCT reunion the other weekend and I turned round inadvertently and ended up with a full view of nipple seconds before a little person began his lunch. I was slightly embarrassed but only because I've got to know the mum and her husband really well but offended no - it's just a little person's lunch/dinner being offered!<br />
<br />
My point being is you cannot consider something natural as offensive, mums up and down the land aren't walking around in public with their breasts hanging out. I'm no hippy, far from it but please let's grow up here.<br />
<br />
The internet is full of offensive things, let's spend more time complaining about innocent British men being be-headed and the video being shared on Facebook and YouTube than mums doing what mums do best, looking after their babies.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-30196896734836351132014-10-31T09:09:00.000-07:002014-10-31T09:09:27.696-07:00The guilt of being a working dad<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I don't know if any other dad feels
this, I might be the only one but I want to share it in the hope I
might not be the only one.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Since Jacob was born, I've been on top
of the world, happy, thrilled I have been blessed with such a healthy
and happy child.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I've loved every minute, even when he
was screaming the place down the first time I was left alone with
him!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I've learned a lot about myself and
also learned a lot about how to interact with him and help him.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But throughout I have been hit by
guilt, the guilt of missing out on special moments and most
importantly the guilt of being a 'part-time' dad.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Working as a journalist I normally do
9am to 5.30pm and I don't mind that, but it's the after hours
meetings and events I need to sometimes attend which start me off.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I fear Pam is going to feel trapped and
doing everything for Jacob, that she has no break when I am out until
9/10pm at night.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Take last Monday for example, I left
the house at 8.15am to get to work, did a full day, drove to a
council meeting, covered that and then was wanted for some after
meetings chats.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I didn't walk back through my front
door until 9.10pm, by which time Pam was feeding Jacob his pre bed
milk and would be going to bed herself.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
So of course I felt guilty she had been
with him all day and I hadn't helped at all....</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But here's the thing, Pam is utterly
supportive and loving about it, she emphasises she can only do that </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
BECAUSE I am working and bringing the money home.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
She has never once moaned I was away
from home, she's been totally brilliant.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I spoke to my dad, who was fantastic
and reminded me that I might not think it but I am doing a very
important role, bringing the money in to keep a roof over our heads.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
And I do get what they are saying, I
do. But I still feel yukky and that I am not doing enough to be a
hands on and supportive daddy and husband.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Dads? Did you feel like this? Can
anyone help me stop feeling so guilty?</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-69550580502992923732014-10-31T08:48:00.001-07:002014-10-31T08:48:40.334-07:00Smiling and other wonderful discoveries<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
THE most wonderful moment of recent
weeks has been Jacob smiling away at both me and his mummy.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
After the initial ones which you put
down to wind, the moment he smiles lightens my world and makes it a
simply wonderful place.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I haven't yet captured it on camera as
I altenate between smiling and laughing back at him and simply beam
with pride at yet another little development in his life.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
There are so many recent examples I
could share but my favourite has to be anytime he smiles and then
lets out a happy laugh like sound.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Just after a milk feed last Saturday,
we were in front of the television and he was switching between
staring at this box, looking out the window and back at me.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
He looked, he smiled and then was so
delighted with his effort he let out the happiest sound.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Other developments in the last few
weeks have been an increase in babbling, he's realised he can make
different sounds now so we get 'ooohs' 'bahhhhhhh' 'aaaaaahhhhhhh'
and all sorts of other wonderful sounds.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
And I am delighted to say he now goes
on his playmat and plays with the various toys in and around him and
doesn't throw up as was his want in the early weeks.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I never realised the pleasure in simply
listening to him as he goes about learning about his surroundings.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
And of course talking to him is such a
joy, especially when he looks and goes 'ooooooooooooooooooo' back!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Development is coming along a treat,
and his appetite is the same – 15lb 6 oz and just 11 weeks old.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I always thought I would try and get
him to be a footballer, might try rugby league instead!</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-48011978281014227182014-10-31T05:29:00.000-07:002014-10-31T05:29:15.174-07:00Daddyhood and how it changes your life<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
NEXT week, Jacob would have been with
us for a staggering three months and in that time, my haven't things
changed!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I've tried to write this blog a number
of times but got so far and realised there was another aspect to my
life which had changed since I became part of the 'Daddyhood'.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It's been a mind-blowing experience for
me, I have adored every second so far and hope it will continue long
into the future.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The main change is in me, I am now a
lot calmer person, work still infuriates me at times but for some
reason I now can just take a breath and move on.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Importantly whatever has happened at
work I leave it at work and once go through the front door I am a
happy person again.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Sleeping as I have blogged about before
is very interesting but its the tiredness which has struck me more.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Previously I could easily be found
playing Football Manager or watching TV until the early hours then
sleeping and be fine the next day.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Now around 10pm I can feel the
tiredness setting in, the TV goes off as does the laptop and my bed
calls more.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I have always been quite an emotional
person but since becoming a dad a new frontier has opened up,
previously didn't get upset about stories involving kids as didn't
have one.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Now anything involving children and I
can feel the tears and instantly think 'How would I cope?' - Why does
parenting do this to you?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
We went to an NCT reunion last Saturday
and I realised all the mums had different experiences to talk about,
natural birth, assisted deliveries and our case c-section.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Yet the dads were exactly the same! How
you coping?, er it's been mental, How you finding being back at </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
work?
Crap Have you done the really bad nappies? Yup
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I will end on the biggest mind blown I
still can't adjust to, Jacob will be a toddler, a little boy, a young
man – I can't picture him as a little toddler running around and
talking yet can't wait at the same time!</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-35794687473697463892014-10-03T08:41:00.000-07:002014-10-03T08:41:19.571-07:00Our Hospital Visit<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
TUESDAY saw us visit Birmingham
Children's Hospital to look at the extra finger Jacob was born with
on both hands.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It's the first time I have ever visited
BCH and apart from parking it was a nice experience, a lovely
child-friendly hospital which must ease the worries of the little
people who sadly need to spend a lot longer than we did there.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Speaking to the specialist she
explained she would not touch him until he was a year old and then
x-ray his hand to see whether he was double jointed and the extra
finger could just be removed or there was more bone to remove.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Strangely we weren't fearful at all
because I was born with the same thing Jacob has, an extra finger on
both hands! But apart from me and him I can find no other example of
this in my family.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The only decision it looks like we will
have to make is whether to have both done at once or one at a time,
it's a two week healing process so I reckon we ought to grin and bear
it for a fortnight leaving our poor Jacob with no hands!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But the specialist was lovely, Jacob of
course woke up as he does love to charm ladies in the medical
profession!. She spoke to us both in a language we both understood
and didn't need to have spent seven years at medical school for.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
To be honest the only drama occurred on
the way home as the brakes on our car were awfully spongy. Halfway
home they became so dangerous that when I braked at just 20mph the
back wheels began to skid.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
We limped to a garage who were
wonderful and repaired our car quickly without hassle and at a very
lovely price.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It was a frightening experience for
someone who is still very much a novice driver but I was chuffed with
the way I coped and didn't carry on driving!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Of course our wonderful son slept
through most of it even when he was in his car seat by the side of
the road!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Within an hour of being home Jacob was
lying on his playmat and together with mummy kept demolishing his
little building blocks!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
All in all a day of two halves!</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-22063907568091801742014-10-03T08:12:00.000-07:002014-10-03T08:12:30.840-07:00We have a 7 week old!CAN someone help me?<br />
<br />
It seems like only two minutes I was sitting in recovery holding my newborn son. Something has happened though and we appear to have skipped seven whole weeks.<br />
<br />
On Thursday, Jacob will be two MONTHS old! I mean talk about time flies but this period has been like being on Concord! - Not that I would know, closest I get to Mach speed is when I shave with a particular razor....<br />
<br />
It's been a terrific voyage of discovery for the little man and for his mum and dad, I've already blogged on the sleep issues. What is wonderful is how he appears to be cluster feeding in an evening to try and go as long as he can during the night.<br />
<br />
But to watch him learn about the world is still a sight to behold even seven weeks on. Those wide eyes when he is taking in a black and white picture, when his bouncy giraffe is doing its thing or even when daddy makes strange noises (to amuse you understand) is enough to make you forget any crap in the 'real world'.<br />
<br />
He already has little character traits that make you laugh, first thing after his 'breakfast' feed he adores lying in his crib looking at the morning light, transfixed!<br />
<br />
I marvel at how he falls asleep in the loudest environments, not happy when he's put in his car seat but as soon as he is in the car and on the motorway he can be sound asleep.<br />
<br />
I can take him for a walk in his pushchair and be by the busiest nosiest road and do I hear a peep, nope? Sound asleep<br />
<br />
Even when he is having 'interaction time' with us, his yawns and his little facial expressions are enough to bring a smile to the grumpiest daddy after a long day at work.<br />
<br />
He's learning so much about the world around him, sometimes we put him in his bouncy chair and watch him piece together everything he has learned during the day.<br />
<br />
Medically he is sailing through all his tests and checks and wonderfully passed the hip scan the doctors wanted because he was pulled out bottom first.<br />
<br />
All in all we have been blessed, here's to many more wonderful weeks!<br />
<br />
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<br />RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-23081896037576588862014-09-26T04:29:00.003-07:002014-09-26T04:29:56.950-07:00Nappy changingI'VE come to the conclusion Jacob hates having his nappy changed and probably would be happy lying in his own mess!<br />
<br />
The kid is that laid back that trying to do the decent thing and cleaning him up causes much crying, whimpering and general moaning.<br />
<br />
I thought this was normal, well that and the fact he loves weeing over whoever is unlucky enough to have the task of cleaning up.<br />
<br />
Maybe all babies hate being naked until they hit toddler hood and then like to roam free as nature intended? I shouldn't fear, all will be well and hey, I can make him laugh after he's been changed!!<br />
<br />
Then we visited my cousin at the weekend, who became a dad for the second time in May. His little boy needed changing, so I thought oh boy prepare for the fireworks.<br />
<br />
Instead he lay there, had a good nose around and was stripped completely naked (it was one of those nappy changes!) and was perfectly happy, not a tear or a whimper or anything.<br />
<br />
HOW DARE THIS CHILD BE MORE CHILLED OUT AND PERFECT THAN MY OWN!!<br />
<br />
I guess that's another part of the journey we can share, I am kind of looking forward to the exhibitionist naked phase to see if I am a prude or just sitting there laughing!<br />
<br />
I would like to calm him down when changing him though, nothing works so far but its a work in progress!<br />
<br />
Babies are strange aren't they!<br />
<br />
<br />RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-1751034304093442962014-09-26T03:58:00.000-07:002014-09-26T03:58:11.080-07:00Sleep!REMEMBER it? That thing you used to do of a night....no not that you dirty little so and soes.<br />
<br />
Despite parenthood changing our whole lives, the biggest change for me personally has been sleep. Luckily we have a child whose very keen on sleeping when it's dark so that is challenge one out of the way.<br />
<br />
However, we have both gone from seven hours continuous sleep to seven hours in installments which isn't too bad. Making my lunch at 6am while waiting for a bottle to warm does shave time off my morning routine!<br />
<br />
I am starting to think though all the tips to get them to sleep are rubbish and your baby will do what the heck he or she likes. The only input you have is if you listen to what they want then they MAY oblige and give you some much needed rest.<br />
<br />
In the last 10 days Jacob has increased his feeds of an evening, up until 4pm he quite happy to go three/four hours between his milk. After 4.30pm though, he becomes 'The Milk Monster' and makes it quite clear he wants milk at 7pm.<br />
<br />
I like to think he is pleased to see me and wants to reward me for a hard day's work with some daddy time but it's probably just because he's starving!<br />
<br />
That takes us to about 9ish when he is then after it again and up until the last two nights he guzzles away happily and then falls asleep. However the last two nights he's been so knackered from all the playtime with mummy feeding is hard work.<br />
<br />
It's a routine of sorts because after 9pm feed he is very happy until at least 3am/3.30am which gives us some much needed snooze time!<br />
<br />
But it's not the same for everyone and I am not showing off at all, just think its the luck of the draw!RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-80229085867235750202014-09-15T06:27:00.000-07:002014-09-15T06:27:10.117-07:00Five things I'd like to tell myself when I was a dad to beREFLECTING this weekend on how much life has changed since Jacob came tumbling into the world I thought to myself how great would it be to go back to your dad to be self for one day?<br />
<br />
You could give yourself advice and tips on handling your little bundle of joy before he/she arrived and become a super dad in the process!<br />
<br />
Oh how good would you look if you had the answers before the problem even occurred. As Pam was having a sleep and Jacob decided to have a snooze in my arms I thought I'd come up with five things I'd go back and tell myself.<br />
<br />
1) Getting wee'd and poo'd on is normal - Before having a baby, the idea of being wee'd and poo'ed on is reserved for the more kinkier minded. Now it's normal, especially if you have a little boy. There's even the strange moment you enjoy it...no not because of what you are thinking you dirty minded lot....but you are happy your little pride and joy is not constipated!<br />
<br />
2) The strangest things can settle your baby - Once winded, cleaned and fed they just cry for whatever reason. Your brain will start throwing suggestions and your little baby will suddenly respond. One such night involved me walking up and down the living room in the pitch black making endless shhhhhhhh noises.....<br />
<br />
3) Babies trump and yes it's hillarious - winding a baby is amusing especially when they belch very VERY loudly but nothing beats a good old trump. What is even more amusing is when they do it so loud it actually wakes them up from a slumber. Juvenile humour yes but goodness they are a comedy goldmine at times.<br />
<br />
4) You are going to feel like the ultimate stud - Dad's not going to lie to you the idea of going out on your own to give your beloved a lie in is daunting for two reasons a) Being seen with a pushchair could be seen as a bit feminine or b) They could start doing something only mummy knows how to cope with and your miles away from home! However after the first trip out a strange thing will happen, you will suddenly walk like you are totally on top of the situation and with a swagger that says 'Yes my tackle works and helped make this, I am male HEAR ME ROAR!!!!!!.....or was that just me?<br />
<br />
5) Conversations with the wife - be warned, when you talked about serious matters of state or your day, you may find yourselves talking about how many poos your little one has done.....<br />
<br />
Oh and one thing which is non negotiable and is therefore not a sixth point....FOR GOD'S SAKE DON'T PANIC!! THERE IS AN ANSWER YOU JUST HAVE TO WORK IT OUT!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-58655886002265768652014-09-09T05:54:00.000-07:002014-09-09T05:54:14.420-07:00The Great Nappy Debate<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
'GET Aldi' they cried, 'works for us,
we tried them all and Aldi didn't leak or anything' – that was the
advice before we had Jacob.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Being a bit old fashioned though we
wanted to start with an established brand name and since Huggies left
the building for the most part, it was Pampers for us.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
And now, three weeks in I can honestly
say we are happy with the results. Jacob has never been wet when
changed or stained his clothes as a result of a leaky nappy.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I accept it may be down to correct
fitting by mummy (certainly not daddy!) but given the force he can do
his business I think a lot of credit has to go to Pampers.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
We are already on size 2 of the Pampers
New Baby because Jacob was so heavy and what I like is the numbered
system showing you when you perhaps need the next size up.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Yes before anyone says it I am that
simple!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I also like the line on the front of
the nappy which changes from yellow to blue in the event of a wee
related change of nappy.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Many other products do it as well but
we are very comfortable with Pampers, some of the changes we have
done have been very heavy and wet nappies yet Jacob's skin is
remarkably dry.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I've realised in the early weeks of
fatherhood that baby's mean big business and there is so much
competition for your hard-earned cash.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If something works but costs a bit more
then surely it's better to stick to it? I accept Pampers may not work </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
for some parents but for us, first time parents, they've been great.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
How has everyone else found nappies?
Did anyone go through different brands before settling on the ones
for them?</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-41540026156731435682014-09-04T04:38:00.000-07:002014-09-04T04:38:21.019-07:00Going back to work....:-(<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I WOULD like to complain, no antenatal
class teaches you how to cope when the day comes for you to return to
work....</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Monday was easily the hardest thing I
have ever done, after two weeks of feeding, changing, going on walks
and generally being a hands-on daddy, the need to earn money prised
me away.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I did do my best toddler impression and
tried to throw a tantrum (in my mind, the wife doesn't need two
babies!) but the time had come.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I could have course not gone but pretty
soon we'd have had no house and I don't think it's fair to put a
newborn in a cardboard box.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Pam was amazing and did his night feeds
so I could get some sleep ahead of going back to work but when the
alarm went it was still full of dread.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I just about got dressed and made my
lunch before it was time to say goodbye. Held my emotions at the
bedroom door and then said goodbye to Pam and to Jacob who I swear
deliberately looked even more </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
adorable just to add to the moment.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But despite nearly being in tears on
the way to work, they both had a wonderful day and have had a great
week, me going back has given Pam a surge of confidence and I could
not be prouder of her.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As a result I feel better, yes I miss
them like crazy when I am at work and wondering what they are doing.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
However, Jacob needs his mummy and
needs his daddy to love him and care for him but also protect him and
the best way I can do that is keep a roof over his head.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Should dads have longer at home? I
think so yes but to be honest the levels of paternity pay from the
Government are pitiful.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I lost £200 from my salary and that
was only with one week's paternity leave and the other as annual
leave.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
But there is no better feeling than
driving home from a day at work knowing you will see your loving
partner </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
and baby.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I adore walking in and taking over to
give Pam a break, hillariously last night I walked in just before a
feed so changed his nappy, started to feed and what did Jacob do?
Fill his nappy.</div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Talk about a welcome
home......parenthood eh?</div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-61586675309457834272014-08-29T14:35:00.001-07:002014-08-29T14:35:59.814-07:00In praise of the NHS - part twoI'VE put part two as I am pretty sure I have wrote good things about the NHS on this blog before....<br />
<br />
Part of the wonderful experience of being new parents was the care we had from the midwives and surgeons at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.<br />
<br />
From Pam Jones and her team the weekend before Jacob was born, to Ellie, Ali and Katie after his arrival, Pam was in safe hands throughout her time in hospital.<br />
<br />
Midwives are the unsung heroes of the NHS, we were so well looked after from actual care to them just sitting and talking for a moment or two answering our newbie questions!<br />
<br />
Ellie was wonderful on the delivery date itself, looked after Pam all the way into theatre and kept nice and calm when Jacob was born and needed just a little help to get started.<br />
<br />
Even when she was called away to care for another lady in labour, she found the time to come back at the end of her shift and apologise - even though she was sharing her talents and helping another woman bring new life into the world.<br />
<br />
The post natal staff were just as wonderful, they could not have done more to help Pam breastfeed but sadly Jacob was too laid back to latch on. A problem he still has now when he has his bottle!<br />
<br />
But the care was exceptional, support and advice was forever on hand despite the ward being busier than Kings Cross at rush hour on numerous occasions.<br />
<br />
It makes you appreciate what we have for free in this country, the NHS is an institution which needs to be modernised and nursed back to health.<br />
<br />
To all midwives, I salute you. To all those who helped us from August 13 to August 16 I thank you on behalf of Pam and of the not so little Jacob!<br />
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-23988634320316411212014-08-29T14:21:00.000-07:002014-08-29T14:21:26.376-07:00Our First Days as a Mummy and Daddy
WE SURVIVED!! Well we
have for the first two weeks anyway. Mission one of parenting, don’t kill it
has been achieved!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
It’s been an
eye-opening two weeks, funny because a lot of the time Jacob kept his eyes
closed!!!!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
And everybody who said
it would turn my world upside down was absolutely correct, life as we know it
changed massively on August 14.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The biggest lesson I
have learned though is to watch my son, his cues nearly always give a guide as
to what he wants at that moment.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Oh and to not panic,
those early days when they cry for no apparent reason can sometimes solved with
more feeds, especially if they are trying to regain their birth weight as Jacob
has been.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The Sunday night after
we came home saw both of us have meltdowns, it’s only the next day we looked at
things and realised he was just after another feed!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Hindsight is very
important for new parents!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I’ve learned a lot
about myself, especially if I relax and let my instinct take over I am actually
quite good at taking care of him.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I have also learned
that there is another level above love, I love Pam and would do anything for
her but Jacob….just looking at him sleep can make me feel WOW<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
To any dads to be, some
advice:<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">ALWAYS sleep when they sleep when you get home,
you will need it and it’s amazing how the extra power gained with a lunchtime
nap sustains you during the 3am feed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tackle nappies as soon as you can, they don’t
smell during the first few days so it’s a good chance to hone the changing
skill before the smelly ones arrive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Being weed on is a badge of honour, you can
learn to try and block it but the clever so and so’s work around it…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Try and do as much as you can for your beloved,
it will be appreciated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you need to go out in first few days after
you come home, walk to the shop if you can. Fresh air is wonderful and you
might feel a little spaced out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">-</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Be prepared your normally sharp brain may be a
little fuzzy,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for example you might go
to the bank to pay a cheque in and forget to take your wallet……</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But most importantly, enjoy it!
It’s a wonderful voyage of discovery and one I am so glad I brought a ticket
for!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-91584839145293475562014-08-29T05:06:00.001-07:002014-08-29T05:06:45.175-07:00Welcome Jacob Edward James George
THURSDAY, August 14 was
quite simply the best day of my life as it saw the birth of Jacob via
c-section.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I have tried to sit
down many times to record the day with a blog but don’t feel I ever had the
words until now, two weeks on.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
After an overnight stay,
I got to Worcestershire Royal for just after 8am, Pam had already been seen by
the anaesthetist who was friendly and very calming influence.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The surgeons who would
perform the c-section arrived soon after and were again very professional and
personable.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
They asked us if we
knew the sex as apparently they had done a c-section before and announced the
arrival of a baby girl, to blank faces from mum and dad who did not know what
they were having!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin: 1em 0px;">
A quick scan confirmed
Jacob was indeed breech still and then it was a slow walk to the theatre, Pam
went for her spinal block while I changed into some delightful scrubs. Don’t
worry, no pictures exist of how I looked!<o:p></o:p></div>
Pretty soon it was time
for me to go in, I thought I would go a bit weak seeing all the equipment but a
very calm state descended over me.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The lovely midwife
popped me on a chair next to Pam’s head and once the anaesthetic did its thing
it was time to bring Jacob into the world.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Apart from a bit of
pulling, you wouldn’t have known what was taking place and then came the moment
that will live with me forever.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Jacob was born and held
above the partition for us to see, our gorgeous little boy melted both our
hearts by looking straight at his mummy!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
He was checked over and
didn’t go pink as quickly as they would have liked, of course as soon as the
paediatric nurse was paged he soon responded.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
But I was soon asked to
go over and say hello and cut the remainder of the cord, a nice touch by the
hospital to ensure the dad can experience the sensation.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I did think it would be
very spongy but it’s actually really gristly and tough, comforting in a way to
know something so hard-wearing fed him for nine months!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
After a short while in
recovery, including plenty of male bonding, we were back in delivery (no rooms
in the antenatal inn) and I got to speak to family and friends and let them
know the good news.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Dads, give yourself a
minute before you call people to let them know, I spent a good minute just
rambling with excitement!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We ended the first day
on antenatal, I handled the first two nappies which any new dad MUST do, as you
get the badge of honour of being weed on then!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
All in all it was a
momentous day which Pam and I won’t forget in a hurry, 10.31am on 14/08/14<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is a moment I will treasure forever<br />
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RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3681041931156904379.post-6450083667210903732014-08-13T17:37:00.001-07:002014-08-13T17:37:36.968-07:00Dear JacobWELL son, today's the day.<br />
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Thursday, August 14 will be your birthday and while me and your mum didn't expect things to happen like this we can't wait to meet you.<br />
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We've had a wonderful journey since your mum came bounding into the bedroom in January to say you were on the way.<br />
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From the first scan where you had everything you should have and were healthy to the 20 week scan where we found you were a Jacob, it's a been a voyage of discovery.<br />
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You have entertained us with your movements, your obliging nature every time a midwife needed to listen to your heartbeat and your kicks whenever I seemingly spoke.<br />
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But you have grown healthy and seemingly happy despite mummy's diabetes (I'll fill you in on it all when you are a little older).<br />
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And now it's time to come join us on the outside. Sorry about that but you have to admit there is hardly any room where you are now!<br />
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You'll see a light tomorrow little man and some hands, don't be afraid. He is there to help you out into the world and see me and your mum.<br />
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She'll be the one lying down, she not being lazy just staying still because of reasons you don't need to know yet. Let's just say if you like sunroofs it won't be a surprise.....<br />
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As for me, I will be the one looking and asking questions. Not because I'm a journalist but because I'm nosey.<br />
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I won't lie to you mate, I will probably be blubbing but hey I guess you will as well so anything to make you feel at home.<br />
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There's plenty to discover little man, I can't wait to share the journey with you. <br />
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Oh and in case I forget to say it, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!<br />
RobbyRoohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02176362732611526974noreply@blogger.com0