Dear Auntie Linda,  My son recently married a woman from a third world country.  He went through a website, went to meet her, and married her as soon as he could.  This has been quite a shock to his father and me since we knew nothing about it until he introduced her to us as his wife.  It has been a very hard adjustment for her, since she barely speaks English. We have tried to make her welcome but she clearly is uncomfortable since she hardly knows us, but I am sure we will work it all out in time.  She and my son attend services with ties to her country of origin. They are expecting their first child.  She adheres to her cultural practices and wants to deliver at home, with a friend/midwife.  My son, my husband, and I are all very concerned about the safety of a home-delivery with proper medical backup, but in this, she is adamant.  What do we do?  Hopeful Grandma

Dear Hopeful, This is concerning.  Maybe you should check out midwife/home birthing/birthing center options in your community.  There should be a way she could deliver with her midwife/friend involved as well.  I understand your concerns, but this is something she and your son will have to work out together.  Auntie Linda

Dear Auntie Linda,  I feel so guilty.  I gave birth six months ago but don’t love my new baby.  He is my second and a much-wanted, beautiful baby.  I loved my daughter from the day she was born.  I do all the right things taking care of him, but only pick up feed, change, and care for him.  I don’t feel any bond with him, just care for him out of duty.  Fortunately, he is a good baby and hardly ever cries.  If someone came by and offered to take care of him, I’d be glad to accept, except for my shame.  My husband has noticed and bends over backwards to take up the slack, with him and our daughter.  On one hand, I am grateful, but on the other, I am jealous that he only has time for the baby, now.  Every time I look at him, I feel like my life is over.  I wish I could sleep till I am fifty and the kids are grown.  What is wrong with me?  Horrible Mother

Dear Mother,  It sounds likely you are suffering from post-natal depression.  Call your doctor for an appointment, TODAY!  Discuss this with your husband.  There is help for this.  No two pregnancies are the same.  Just because you didn’t have it last time doesn’t mean you aren’t affected now.  Get help!  Auntie Linda