May have taken on too much... *Better today!*

cadgirl

Foster mama here... we have the two little ones listed down below.  They have been amazing and easy to care for.  We've had them since end of March and they will probably be going home 9/14ish.  Well, today I got a call wondering if we would take a 3 month old boy for a little while.  He arrived here just after noon.  Mom is hoping to get him back beginning of September, so it doesn't look like a long placement.

But all afternoon, it feels like either one or both of the babies have been crying the whole time and I'm feeling overwhelmed... I feel like we may have taken on too much, but now I don't know what to do... maybe once DH comes home from work (12 hr shift at hospital) it will go better...

Advice?

jillianmb

Do you have a double or triple stroller?  I have an in home daycare, which I know is not the same as fostering but when I am overwhelmed I put the babies in a stroller (older ones walk) and go for a nice long stroll.  Getting some sunshine helps give me perspective.

 When they go to bed tonight have a glass of wine and congratulate yourself on a job well done.  You will make it through this!  

Dr.Loretta

You can do this.

We all have off days. Today may be one of them. They may all be angels tomorrow.

ctbride08

Its always hardest the first few days - you have to rearrange your routines and get used to the new balance.  Dont worry, it will get easier!!

And I agree with the other ladies: when in doubt, go outside!

Foster1Mom

Hang in there. You can handle this. It will just take some adjusting. Put your feet up after bedtime and call DH to bring home some beer.

DaisyZH

You rock for handling that many young kids - you can do it!!  Like a PP mentioned can you get a baby carrier for the youngest, that may help.  (( Hugs )) I hope your day gets better, good luck!!

msditz00

I know I spent way too much time comparing dogs to kids, but...

Whenever we take on a new dog to watch/foster, the first couple days suck.  But after that life starts to return to a new normal, and you adjust.  I really hope you find this to be true in your situation.  I know it must seem overwhelming, but I will keep my fingers crossed that each day finds you more comfortable. 

But if you feel it isn't working out, there is nothing wrong with admitting it.  What is best for the children is to be in a situation where EVERYONE feels comfortable.  If you are the primary caregiver all day and feel you can't do it alone take this as a lesson learned and allow your SW to find a different home for the baby.

<<hugs>>

MayDayGirl

Repeat after me "it will get better!!!" there are always transitions with new kids/babes. Do you have a carrier? I love my moby and ergo. Also my kids love to Be out, with the ages u would think it would be harder, but that isn't always the case! You can do it! It's temporary!

cadgirl

Thank you ladies for all the support and advice!  I was really doubting everything, but made it at least until DH came home from work at 8.  By that time, the new guy had been sleeping for an hour or so, little girl was happy playing after a short nap and the big boy was just fine following me around while I put the new one's clothes and things away. The evening wasn't too bad once there were two adults around.

Today was MUCH better... the little guy is beginning to grow on me... he's actually quite cute when he's not screaming!  And I think a lot of having a better day was due to pulling out the moby wrap and using it most of the day.  He loves it !!!

 

MayDayGirl

So so so glad! The moby is a Life saver!