Am getting myself worked up so just wanted to share my thoughts - not expecting any answers.
We have waited a very long time for a grandchild (we are both in our seventies) and were so delighted when after 3 lots of IVF our son and d-in-l announced that they were expecting a baby girl. She is due on Easter Sunday. They live a couple of hours from us (around the wretched M25) and I am so worried that Coronavirus restrictions might stop us from seeing her. My husband tells me that it won’t be forever but I know that he feels like I do.
I know there is nothing to be done but I can’t stop thinking about it.
Sorry to use this site to get it off my chest.
Thelma
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thelmar
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Very understandable and sharing a worry often helps. We don’t know how long this disruption will last or even if it will get any worse. It’s just going to be a case of waiting and see. I know it’s not the same but FaceTime etc at least allows you to have a visual contact if you can’t visit. This virus has a lot to answer for
Firstly how lovely to hear the news of your grand daughter a little Springtime baby. I can't imagine how this must feel as no one could have anticipated this virus which is causing people to have to make little or big adjustments to their lives, depending on everyone's personal circumstances. It's clear that this means so much and is so important to you and sometimes you have to speak out. A problem shared as they say. Like J1707 says is there a way you could have visual contact with your son and daughter in law so you can remain in contact. It must feel so frustrating for you. Sending some supportive wishes, take care
How wonderful, lovely news. Congratulations to the soon-to-be parents & of course yourselves.
As far as seeing her is concerned I’d play it by ear, see how things are once she arrives. No, it won’t be forever but you just want to be there don't you? If it's not recommended we are fortunate that we have distance connection like J1707 says. I know it's not the same as being able to give her a cuddle but they'll be all the more special when the time comes that you can, lots of them. Best to all be careful & protective, the last thing you want is a poorly newborn. 🤗
You never know, once their daughter is born they may just have no trouble conceiving again. My best friend's sister (a lot younger than both of us) had problems conceiving & with no luck after 3 attempts in RoI where they live they sought treatment with an eminent Gynae/IVF Specialist in London & were successful on the first attempt. They had twin boys & then another boy naturally & most recently a baby girl, again naturally & in quick succession. Their family is now complete! So you never know, after such a long wait your son & daughter in law may just surprise you again! 😊
Lovely news of your impending grandparent hood 👩🦲👼
My time with grandson is really hampered with this RD and now coronavirus as well. But we have found ways around physical contact that might be of use to you, to adapt and for the future. I occasionally have a virtual evening meal with my daughter, son in law and grandson. It is hilarious, they sit in Glasgow, the three of them around the table eating, and via skype I eat my meal in my house. My nearly 2 year old grandson beckons me to come out of skype screen and sit beside him at the table, he hands me bits of food and looks most perplexed when we explain again that I'm far away and can't sit beside him, or take the food. But it is good fun and helps us all. You will find a way, and coronavirus will end.
Congratulations to your family! My baby niece was 10 years plus in the planning... then just before she arrived, my brother and sister in law announced they didn’t want any visitors for quite some time... (thanks I think to a rather bossy ‘doula’! I felt gutted at the time, but obviously respected their wishes. Looking back now, it’s made no difference whatsoever, she was still a tiny new dot when we first met her and is such a special gift in all of our lives. Keep the longer term picture in your mind, if the virus keeps you away for a little while I’m sure it will be for the right reasons, nothing more important then keeping you all well, especially a newborn who hasn’t yet developed their immune system. Best wishes
Thank you all for your comments. I do feel better now and can’t believe Skype hadn’t even entered my mind (that’s what happens when I go into panic mode!) I have never used it so think I might have to practice before we need it. My husband is the original technophobe so it will be down to me.
My family have a WhatsApp group it’s free and have text conversations together and can video phone. I’m sure you son can set it up. Foolproof to use. Nothing like looking forward to a baby makes everyone happy 😊
We have a 3 month old grandchild too and I so know how you feel. But it is still although serious, remote. I think its the advice from the NHS hand washing etc and Facetime but I quess its play it by ear as much as anything.
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