The great depression
I was lucky to not suffer from the regular pregnancy problems like morning sickness or cravings when I was expecting Vir. But it wasn't a fairytale pregnancy either.
And for all those who think that post pregnancy-depression is only a chapter in mom-to-be books, you have to meet me. Till a month after Vir was born, I was totally stressed out. There were days when I was happy and excited, but there were also days when I would just sit and cry for no reason.
I was all over the place - I felt irritated and disgusted with myself. I couldn't come to terms with the new change in my life and couldn't cope with reality. I felt inadequate as a mother. There was a point when I wanted to give up. Even bonding with the baby happened much later.
Weighty issue
For someone like me, who's always been on the leaner side, gaining 22 kilos was a big scare. And mind you, this type of weight gain is the toughest to get rid off.
Though I was advised compulsory rest for 40 days after the C-section operation, I was itching to get back to my workout routine, as exercising helps maintain my sanity. The 41st day I went out and started running on Carter Road. No wild horses could have held me back that day. Now I exercise five days a week, out of which two days I exercise twice a day. And in five months I have lost most of my weight.
Baby bonding
Vir is full of surprises. He is five months and in a hurry to do things. He's already making noises and is very vocal. Given a chance, he straightens his legs and tries to stand. He is a lot like me -- impatient, always in a hurry and moody.
As far as looks are concerned, he takes after Raj, though we wanted it to be the other way round. I have to admit that I didn't fall in love with the baby the minute I saw him.
It took me a while. But now our bond is very strong. Raj and I are very hands-on parents. I don't want my kid to be raised by a nanny. As a father even Raj is as responsible as I am.
In the night, we take turns to stay up with Vir. If I am out, Raj makes sure that he is working from home so that he can check on the baby every two hours. But I must say that motherhood has made me more responsible and calmer.
