Waiting…
After having Friday and Monday off (it was nice to have a long weekend :-D) I decided to come back to work today. It looks like the birth is definately close, but there are no signs of strong labour or anything happening TOO soon. Now is probably a good time to ask WHY? Why is there no leave for fathers? Even if only to support their wife during the birth and for the first few days afterwards? I honestly dont know how a woman could go through it without the loving support of a partner (I know there are alot that do, and I have alot of respect for you!). I mean even just so that the woman could have a chance to get some rest. I know that if I had more time owing to me, I would be there with Kati right now. I would be there before, during and after. But unfortunately the rent and bills need to be paid, and I’ve only got about a week and a half owing to me in holiday pay (I just used 2 days too), and Im going to take 2 weeks once the baby is born. So already I will probably have almost a week with no pay. It was a hard decision to make, but knowing that it could possibly be another week or so, I need to keep my time for once the labour is happening and the baby is born. I wish I could be there with Kati, and I know she feels the same, but at least I am not far from home, and she can call me if she needs me. I know that ultimately it is the baby who will choose when to come, no one or nothing else!
I think there should DEFINITELY be a leave for fathers. It’s SO important to have that time together, and mothers need the support and help of the fathers. My husband delivered our third baby at home(he’s 1, btw.. since you asked in the note) and then was off to work. And, to make matters worse, three days later, I was off to work. We had our own businesses.. but couldnt afford to take leave. BAH
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I agree =) luckily my boyfriend is taking his 2 week vacation time right when the new one arrives. It is very important to have that support. Kati may feel like she needs you now, but when that lil one arrives, its quite the ride! She will be SO thankful. You are a good man to provide the support to her. =) ryn: I have one boy who is 5 now (time flies!) Due date is unsure. Between the 5-20th Nov.
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In CA there is a newer law that gives fathers maternity leave as well. A new baby is difficult and both parents need to be there!
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I wish it were summer here!! Lucky you, I’d love to live in Australia 🙂 There should definitely be leave for fathers! I’d want my man right by me the whole time. I hope her labor goes as smoothly as possible 🙂
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Some companies offer paternity leave…but they are few and far between. I agree that fathers should get two weeks, at the very least, to spend with their wives and new baby.
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You had your baby! Congrats! Boy or girl?
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I feel for you and the situation you’re in – I completely agree that father’s don’t have a whole lot of support in this area – can society just GROW UP already, we’re not living in the 1920’s anymore…… I wish you all the best! You and Kati are in my thoughts!!!
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