So instead of a fantastic half-term getting to know my new baby, so far I have been catching up on paperwork and generally sitting around. It takes quite a substantial amount of creativity to help keep Claire from being bored. Activities must be largely sedentary (not ironing, washing up or hoovering, then - my jobs - nesting so far has been a management role) require a short attention span (even DVDs are best split into 3 sessions) and emotionally banal. We recommend Teacher's TV, which, luckily, is on throughout the night. Luckily Hugh and Jo came around and lightened our day. C said that the time flew while they were here.

Thanks for all the ideas about how to hurry baby along. Now how about things to do while we're waiting...