I HAD A BUB at the pub!

Lifting myself off the couch, I waddled delicious,' I said, thanking my wonderful mother-in-law, Marg, who was staying with us to help out.

- Claudia Siron

Together, we served up the roast vegies and salmon to my children Theodore, five, and Gigi, two.

It was February this year, and I was nine months pregnant. Only a week to go! I thought.

My little ones were both born a week early, so I was ready at any moment.

Every time I left the house, I even brought along a towel in case my waters broke.

I was so afraid of it happening in public.

'Sorry about the towel, I'm just nervous!' I sheepishly told my hairdresser.

But when the baby still over to the kitchen.

'This looks didn’t come by the due date, I began to get flustered.

Not keen to be induced, I searched the internet for methods to bring on labour naturally. Advice included exercise, walking, and eating spicy foods.

While Marg looked after the kids in the evening, I’d stroll along the beach with my husband, Gus, 36.

And each morning, I’d move on my exercise ball.

Surely this will work, I thought.

I’d have small pains, but they only lasted for a moment.

With a gut feeling this was going to be a quick labour when it happened, I scoured the best parking spots at the hospital.

It was a 30-minute drive away, and I was planning for a smooth experience.

Five days past my due date, I woke up feeling frustrated. When will you be ready? I thought, rubbing my bump.

That evening, Marg was bathing the kids while I cleared the dining table.

Suddenly, I felt a slight pain in my stomach.

And just 20 minutes later, I felt a sharper pain.