9 weeks to go with number 2 and feeling very little excitement due to an overwhelming feeling that it will be more than I can handle. I can't even decide on a name. Just worried about how much pain it will be and how hard it is to go without sleep again. I've been in a great deal of physical pain from about 5 weeks on, more so than with my first pregnancy. Just worried to death about how hard it is, especially with a two year old this time.
Re: Afraid
I'm atypical in this regard I think. Many moms from. #1 live & die by schedules. That's ok too. It just didn't work for me. I always felt "behind" & like I was failing at something with that in place.
Start now with delayed response or doing something before attending to your toddler's needs. This will get them used to waiting & not flipping out at the idea.
They will cry at you together & you will have your moments of feeling flustered. It's normal & went you have these moments it's frazzling for every mom going from 1 to 2.
Sleeping wasn't an issue for us. DD slept through most of DS's night wakings (and we bed share with a co-sleeping attachment to the bed) . When they are both sick it's still a slog, but I promise it's not horrible. I'm TTC#3 -- not scared to do it again because I've had my trial by fire.
I think the most helpful advice is that "there is no SHOULD. There is-- this way is what works for us at this moment/night/hour". Free yourself from expectations found in books or moms or whatever else. Your babies are unique. Your family dynamic & needs will vary.
Be gentle to yourself & hang in there!
LFAF Summer 2016 Awards:
Jamie