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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