I've been getting mixed messages about what being a mother of three is gonna be like. Some laugh and say I'm doomed and others tell me it's a cake walk. I've always appreciated the honesty of the ladies in N15. I've got a 3yr DS and a 1yr DS already, this is DS #3. I'm a SAHM and my DH works away. I get that it's a change and going to be a challenge, but really is doomed the right way to say it's gonna be? As my due date draws closer I've got this anxiety starting and the mom guilt of my other children not getting enough.... TIA
Re: Ok mothers of 3+ give it to me straight!
It all depends on your perspective. Kids are hilarious! I've never laughed so much as I have since having kids! Enjoy it I say. It goes by so quickly. I'm a mum of three with only one left at home. I miss those days.
I'm gonna go with cakewalk. Obviously, it won't be easy 100% of the time, but every kid has been easier to adjust to than the last for me. I was well enough recovered by the time my third, DS, was about 2 or 3 days old, that I was able to drive myself and him back to the hospital for some follow-up tests they wanted to do without any difficulty whatsoever.
I will say that I did have to be very careful to make sure my middle child got as much special attention as I could, because I was definitely starting to notice that she was feeling left out by the time DS was about 5 months old. My oldest was in Grade 1 that year, and was really struggling with her letters and reading, so between the extra help for her, and the newborn neediness, that was a bit of a challenge. But...she absolutely adores her baby brother and has been a great help with him since day one.
Mine girls were a bit older than yours (3 & 5) when DS was born, so I'm not sure which way it will swing for you. It may make it easier (no having to take them to school) or it may make it a little harder (no break when the baby sleeps because the others are up). DD2 was still home when he was born, and we got to have some special time for just us while he was napping and big sister was at school.
I think you'll do great!
My two will be 4 and 2 when baby comes, I'm nervous too but I know il survive some how and the kids will love outnumbering us! Don't let the panic get you, it will be messy and noisy and insane some days but it will be great. And for the bad days, make sure there is always wine and chocolate available.
Most days it's great, for me mine all have built in play mates. I think they were meant to have siblings. My 15m old has loved playing with his older brothers since he figured out how to walk at 9m. I don't have to "entertain" my children often.
I am even "brave" and take them all shopping at once! It's only going to be as hard as you let it. And let's be honest even with just 2 kids at home you're busy! The great thing is there is plenty of time to adjust as the baby gets older.
It's an awesome ride to be on! Enjoy!!!
I'm in the same boat. SAHM of two with #3 on the way. There are days when I think I'll be fine and days when I'm pretty sure I'm doomed. My two are 3 and 5.
Anyway for me my first turned my world upside down so completely that I don't think anything can compare to that. I know there will be challenges but I'm really not stressed about the transition.