I figured we have a lot of (well-deserved!) rants about family. And we (eventually) want to be good grandparents and in-laws. So maybe we can take some time and talk about good experiences and reactions from our family during pregnancy?
I found when I got married that I had incredible in-laws - so encouraging and not particular about any part of the wedding, just "how can I help?" Same with my parents. They've done the same now 10 years later now that we're finally pregnant.
Although our personalities do clash the odd time, I am just so grateful that my in-laws and parents have been so supportive about our pregnancy.
Eg - My mom had natural births with all her kids and I was a bit afraid to tell her I was planning for an epidural. She didn't bat an eyelash - we had a great discussion and she was very supportive.
My father-in-law wanted to buy baby items, but volunteered, if it would be more helpful, to assist us in finishing our basement instead (which it absolutely was more helpful). I was amazed and grateful at that.
Re: Awesome parent/in-law stories
My parents have gone above and beyond to support us! Mom saw that all the Graco stuff i registered for was on sale at Target with free shipping, so she let all the other parentals and grandparents know, and they got me most of it!! My mil was a little short on finances at the time, but she made up for it by later sending me a box of a BUNCH of random registry items! They're so sweet.
My littlest sister too, is probably the most excited person, not me or DH, about baby!!
With that being said, my in-laws have been wonderfully amazing. They are so excited about this baby and haven't been pushy at all. They have already offered as much help as I need when baby comes. I'm not sure what I would do without them and feel so lucky to have them in my life.
As much as the language barrier with my in-laws can be stressful it also provides a buffer...I honestly don't know if it bothers her that I run pregnant etc because if it does my husband doesn't translate it.
Like all relationships it is complex and not all sunshine and roses but I know that she loves us and has good intentions.
Couldn't ask for a better family
My dad came to visit me and brought my old desk and a dresser for me to repaint and put in LO's nursery. We received a package yesterday from MIL with a bunch of baby clothes in various sizes, she hit the jackpot at Carter's during their Columbus Day sale.
I'm so grateful for their love and support!
I feel the same way about mine! She has been giving me some great advice on babies, she raised four. She knows a thing or two for sure.
My family is also amazing! This will be the first granddaughter after tons of boys so everyone is ecstatic! My mom is staying with us for a while after my LO comes. She breastfed all 5 babies so I'm looking forward to her breastfeeding advice. My dad is just head over heels in love with the baby already. This will be his first biological grandchild so he's going crazy. My mom had to stop him from going overboard with outfits lol!
I'm pretty thankful to be surrounded by people that love us and want us to be happy.
As far as non material things I haven't really had much of a relationship with my dad and step mom in my adult life. We just have a lot of different beliefs and they aren't the type of people I would be around if it wasn't for familial obligations. That being said, they have made a huge effort to be involved now that a baby is involved. Which, to he honest, is a little annoying/insulting. But I really appreciate the effort and I know my baby deserves as many people as possible to love him in his life. They are really trying and I suppose it's never too late to come together and repair things. At the end of the day its hard to believe how lucky we are and how much love this guy already has before he's even here.
My mom has also graciously offered to watch LO when she's born a few days a week to cut back on childcare costs. On top of that-she doesn't want me even worrying about deciding on a day care now so for the couple months between me coming back from maternity and summer break she said she'd watch her every day!
I too have terrific family around me. My parents and in-laws are very different but they have all been so great. Together they have supplied most of the big, (expensive), items we need for the baby, and just given us so much support. I feel really blessed that our little girl will be born with so much love around her. I think she is really lucky.
One cute side story. My Dad is possibly the worlds best, and he and I are super close. He has called my phone and left voicemail for the baby so I can play it to my belly. He also got his first ever flu shot this week because I asked him to. I think it's so sweet how much he cares about this little girl. I can't wait to see them together.
BFP #1 April 14th, 2014 MMC at 17weeks with a baby boy D&E
BFP # 2 March 23rd, Rainbow Baby Boy Jayce Michael born 12/9/15
BFP#3 January 26th EDD October 9th! Hoping for my girl!
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