Buggy buddies

People told me that going out with a baby makes you a prime target for conversation with other mums and random people who want a chat.  I didn't quite expect the frequency with which this occurred; we are in the U.K. and the British are allegedly more reserved.  Not it seems when it comes to babies, which is actually rather endearing.

I expected to chat to other mums who are out and about with their babies.  We are in the same boat, so to speak, and that kind of gives you the right to at least smile at each other in mutual understanding.  I have spoken with a number of mums about their sprogs and what they were out doing and as a result gotten some useful information.  For example, I found out from one wet-looking mum and baby that there was a pool nearby offering Aquatot (baby swimming) classes.  I had searched online but not found the one they were at; this is hugely convenient because 1) its closer than the one I found, and 2) there are sessions everyday as opposed to just at the weekend.

I have been equally forthcoming when it came to giving out information myself.  I was stopped by two grandmothers-to-be who were out with their pregnant daughters for information about the sling (a BabyBjorn Miracle that I am very happy with) and pushchair (a Mothercare Spin with MaxiCosi Pebble carseat) I was using.  Both had said they found lots of things to choose from and were confused and wanted some advice from mothers who were using the things they thought they might buy.  I was glad to be able to answer questions; I understood where they were coming from, having been through the whole looking through loads of product specifications and reviews saga to prepare for Baby's arrival not so long ago.  What was slighlty surprising was that it was the grandmothers rather than the mothers-to-be who asked the questions.  Maybe they will be more forthcoming after the babies arrive.

I never thought I, being quite shy and reserved in general, would happily talk to random people.  However, I find myself chatting to people who really just want to look at and play with a cute baby for a few minutes.  Its not like I am short of company and needed to talk to strangers- my Mother and Sister are around, as is my partner, and my friends have been dropping in to visit, so there has been plenty of people to chat with.  I guess its hard to shun people who think your offspring is great.

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