THE AFTERMATH - THE EARLY WEEKS

We decided to name our baby Gemma, after batting with a vast list of names. There's no great science to choosing - there can't be, instinct takes a hold and  you just plump for the one that hits you between the eyes. I can't imagine her being called anything else now.

It's amazing the effect a baby has on your life. We already had a 19-month-old son called Sam so we were prepared for the routine, but there is just so much to think about. 

You remember back to pre-parenting days and it seems you had an ocean of time. On the rare occasions you are not consumed by the needs of the newest member of the household, you are playing host to well-wishers.

Both Maria and myself are fortunate to have large families and, naturally, everyone wants to come round to introduce themselves to the newcomer. Gemma, if she is aware, must have feel like one of those pandas at London Zoo. Faces of wonder and delight staring back at her - all she has to do is just look cute and cuddly. Not difficult for her - pity it gets harder later in life to make friends and influence people!

Amid all this excitement we were conscious not to make Sam feel left out. We had read and heard during the pregnancy about how toddlers can develop jealous feelings towards baby siblings. It's only human nature - and there has been the odd moment - but Sam has generally been a model big brother, as we never tire of telling him.

Nappies, nappies everywhere... It's no exaggeration that the house has taken on the feel of a factory at times, such is the relentless changing. One of the few crosses we have to bear in the whole experience. The only other thing that comes to mind is the odd disturbed night but, thankfully, it has been only the occasional clichéd `sleepless night` so far. It's a very small price to pay, though, when compared to the sheer joy and fulfilment that Gemma brings to us every day.

That's the thing about babies - they take up your time, use up your energy, and even (getting down to brass tacks) cost you a lot of money but you cannot begrudge a thing about their existence. Only when you have experienced the thrill of holding your child can you really appreciate what is important in life. Fast cars and big houses? Good, yes, but not a patch on a little person who you have created - I recommend this experience to anyone.

That's all folks! We hope you enjoyed Diary of a dad-to-be