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First time Granny, baby due this weekend

(36 Posts)
Dottygran59 Fri 03-Jan-20 10:17:01

Oh Allamanda - how lovely - you will remember this forever!! Yes, they DO seem to be discharged with indecent haste these days! A bottle of prosecco for new mum? Obvs to be shelved if she is breastfeeding. Offers of help with suggestions - respect their need for family time - it will come naturally to you.

Congratulations - I'm a Granny (if it's good enough for the queen lol) Have you decided what you will be called?

annodomini Fri 03-Jan-20 10:09:50

When DS's partner was in hospital after the births of my grandsons, I was able to give assistance by doing her laundry, including ironing, which I loathe! DS himself was very good about cooking and cleaning.
When my DiL had both her babies, it was all very straightforward and she was home by early afternoon, so there was no hospital visiting needed. I was able to cuddle both of my GC the day they were born. So, Allamanda, unless your DD is having a C-section, you may not have to visit her in hospital as they are discharged asap. I hope it all goes smoothly and your new GC is healthy and, of course, beautiful

janeainsworth Fri 03-Jan-20 09:47:06

notanan why do you always have to jump in with a critical comment or inference, even on what should be a thread of happy anticipation?
I can’t imagine anyone on Gransnet would go rifling through their DD’s smalls. I would take ‘help with laundry’ to mean putting already sorted & approved loads being put into the machine, hanging out already washed items or doing any necessary ironing. And please don’t come back at me with a cutting who-on- earth-bothers-ironing type comment.

Allamanda I do hope everything goes well for your DD and your new GC. You sound as though you’ll be a lovely Grandma, or Granny, or Nanny, or whatever your GC is going to call you.
There’ll be times when your DD, however well she seems to be coping, feels the strain. Those are the times to be there with whatever support seems right at the time. flowers

JenniferEccles Fri 03-Jan-20 09:41:48

Oh and remember to say that the baby is the most beautiful one in the world, because that is exactly what the parents will think anyway!!!

notanan2 Fri 03-Jan-20 09:33:37

Ask how the parents are. Not just the baby. Thats the best gift when youre a new parent.

annsixty Fri 03-Jan-20 09:30:30

Don’t just take a present for baby, take one for new mum as well.

Allamanda Fri 03-Jan-20 09:25:15

It’s so exciting and also eldest daughter has baby due July 2020. What a year it’s going to be. I have cooked a few meals previously during her pregnancy which was gratefully received at that particular time. I was thinking of taking to hospital Congratulations Card, extra facial wipes, a few energy snacks. I offered previously a snack bag of goodies (I am into healthy eating) my daughter replied that my idea of snacks are too healthy! smile

notanan2 Fri 03-Jan-20 09:23:33

Practical things like cooking meals for them and putting them in the freezer; dealing with their laundry etc.

Help is only helpful if its wanted or needed.
I would HATE someone going through my smalls, especially after giving birth when they might be stained!

Ask & listen.
Whats helpful for one person is he opposite for another.
Dont put your need to help/be involved ahead of whether or not she wants that help.
Some people like to feel they are able to cope/get back to normal

GrannyLaine Fri 03-Jan-20 09:21:10

How exciting for you Allamanda! The one thought that I always held firmly in my mind was to think what was best to help the new parents as they start their journey to new parenthood. Offer help with practical things like housework and preparing meals. Hold back slightly with the baby (big ask I know!) and take the lead from your daughter. And only offer advice if specifically asked for it.

Luckygirl Fri 03-Jan-20 09:18:20

Well - I think you are doing the right thing already - waiting till you are invited to see the baby! A good first step that will set the tone for your respect for her boundaries and wishes.

Practical things like cooking meals for them and putting them in the freezer; dealing with their laundry etc.

Exciting times for you and lots of fun to come!

Allamanda Fri 03-Jan-20 09:00:57

It’s happening soon, today or this weekend my first grandchild will be born in Hospital. A week earlier than predicted. Suddenly thinking - Am I ready? My daughter is very fortunate to have a lot of support ready and mother-in law next door to her home. My daughter is well prepared with everything at home. Any suggestions as to what I should do as soon as invited to see baby and Mum in Hospital? Maybe things I haven’t thought of? Definitely tissues as already very emotional. smile