Planning ahead of time
One time, you only want to be with your mummy. Then comes a time you wish for the latest toy in town. Some time after that, it is the girlfriends you cannot unlatch yourself from. And then you graduate into wanting to be with your serious boyfriend who you pray will marry you—so you can; one, have the great companionship for keeps; and, two, have a BABY! Njeri Njiru narrates her story to Brenda Wangwe.
What has been the trigger?
It is a desire that has been accruing with age and one that has intensified by seeing this gentleman who gives me the ‘forever’ feeling that makes me very secure about taking the next step of life. I did not know that great character could stimulate the motherhood juices. But here I am. looking forward to bringing a human being into this world.
What is your plan?
First. I am looking forward to having my man quickly propose so that the process can set off in. say. two years, when I will be 28. Otherwise. I am getting as much info on pregnancy as I can. I am reading books, and browsing the net.
I intend to add weight on to my 46kgs frame to cut down the complications that are normally susceptible to underweight expectant mothers. I am already changing my eating habits, for the better. I am making myself accustomed to wholesome food, taking more glasses of water—a drink that I am yet to like, and familiarising my body with exercise. I want to rule out any physical setbacks that may come with conceiving.
Do you have any financial plans?
Definitely. My two-year plan has a financial bracket. Every month I put aside a certain amount of money for what I specifically term as ‘school fees”.
What do you see about your baby’s future?
I see my baby growing to be a great person. And from what I have learnt from my mum. he should be better than I am (In his own way}—nothing less. I am a driven person. I know what I want and I go for it. My friends knowing this say my child will have big shoes to fit in. He does not have a choice!
What do you expect of your future husband when you finally fall pregnant?
I would like him to listen, encourage, reassure and also say great things to our child. I would like him to massage my back and my legs, accompany me to the clinic, help me with shopping—I know some may say my expectations are quite unrealistic, but I believe we can work around these through communication, understanding and tolerance.
The good thing is that the potential father of my child already has an astounding record. And we are together reading books and other material that teaches on harmonious blending and great handling of the effect that is likely to follow the blend—a baby.
Do you hear the biological clock ticking louder and louder?
No. I am peaceful and patient because I am planning in good time. And as optimistic as I may sound. I am a very practical person, therefore, keeping all options open. I am ready to handle whichever eventuality.
Boy or girl?
Hey. boy! I already see his sky-blue room. I have a name as well, which I will not disclose—especially to folks who do not like being creative. Two years after that, the girl should follow. Then we dose the deal.
How much time do you plan to spend with your children?
As much as possible. I want to get home on time to do their homework with them, see them feeding, tuck them in bed and read them bedtime stories. They will not escape discipline.
Do you have any fears?
Sure. The pain. From what I have heard, it is something out of this world. But my desire for a baby surpasses that.
Policy
To come up with my own idea of pregnancy. Everyone’s opinions put together can be confusing.
END:PG18/11-12