I have read posts on here previously in which Bees have talked about their displeasure when a family member refers to their LO as “their baby”. I never really identified with those feelings back then (of course, I didn't have a baby!) and always thought that I’d be fine with it when my time came – after all, it’s nice for a child to be adored by all it’s family…. but….

….. I had the strangest feelings on Saturday.....

My in-laws had popped in for a cup of tea and we were all talking about the shopping trip DH and I had planned to look at the strollers we had researched online. We mentioned that we intended to test that the car seat base fitted properly in both of our cars, as we intended to buy one for each. MIL chimed in with “We will need one for our car, too, so let us know which one to buy”. DH said that the car seat would also work with a seat belt and there was no point paying for a base for their car if they would not be using it frequently. MIL pulled a pouty face and said (in quite a whiny voice) “But we will be using it frequently – wont we?”

I just thought “No, no you wont!! Why would you have any cause to be taking my baby anywhere (in a 0-9 months car seat) without one of us present??? Let alone frequently???”

I didn’t say it – of course I didn’t! In fact, I was really taken aback by the way I felt!!! I always figured I’d be grateful for anyone who would be willing to have my little one for a few hours and give me a break – but now the time is coming closer and I’m facing the reality of having to go back to work sooner than I’d like (meaning less time with my baby as it is) I’m overwhelmed by how many people want us to “share” our baby with them! I don’t want to share!! Mine, mine, mine!!!! Trips to the zoo - MINE! Trips to soft play - MINE! Trips to the park - MINE!

Of course I don’t know how I will feel once LO is here… but right now: Hands off my baby!! You had your turn, woman (and you got to take several years off work!).

Were you possessive of your baby?? Did it all pan out in the end or did you have to navigate some expectations/ disappoitnment from family members?

ps - I adore my MIL! Crikey, imagine if I didn't!!