The advice from the breastfeeding consultant was to feed the babies as much as I could and relax and enjoy it at the same time, but not to worry about the times when a slug from the bottle seemed a good idea. Follow your instinct, she said, but preserve your sanity.

So it was as I sat there cowlike yesterday evening, following her advice, baby once again at the breast, my eyes fell upon the many cards we have received congratulating us on the birth of our twins. Most of these cards, from family and friends, were accompanied by a charming present or two – we requested only double packs. (Entry continued one-handed five days later.) Obviously, everyone is feeling very celebratory on our behalf, which is rather touching and very kindly.

Tired and filled with the standard anxieties of early parenthood, I was struck by the importance of this wider sense of celebration. The funny thing is that as a new parent, and most likely particularly of twins, you barely have time or energy to feel that way. However delighted you are at the arrival of your offspring, your days are rather filled with a sense of survival, from one hour to the next. It is just as exhilarating, but not quite the stuff easily conveyed in pink and blue cards with little babies on the front.

Still, it is in receiving these cards and all the lovely presents that come along with them and the many many messages of congratulations that remind you and your bleary eyed gaze that something truly wonderful is afoot. Good job other people remember to celebrate for you. We will be celebrating in about five years’ time, when we have slept through the night again.