And Then There Were Two

My second pregnancy was much like my first, pretty uneventful. I grew a lot, I enjoyed the clothes, and the food and definitely enjoyed the excuse to take it easier. Aside from more heartburn and the blasted frequent night pees, it was relatively smooth sailing.

With everything pretty low key, I took the laid back approach to my prep for Baby 2 as well. This baby was due in April, just like my first. I didn't know the sex of this baby, just like my first. I had been through it all before, not like my first, but even better. I had this. Clothes, bedding, crib, paint and toys were all a simple copy and paste. Easy peasy. I scrubbed the red wine stains off the bassinet, threw out the baby books, and bought the fancier breast pump. I was ready.

And then this child flew out of me faster than I could scream epidural.  It was a flurry of traffic, garbage trucks, abandoned cars and knights (ok, one knight). I woke up at 7am and decided to have my son before I had my coffee. Luckily he came so quickly I still made the breakfast rounds so the coffee came not long after. The insanity began the morning of April 11 and hasn't stopped. Turns out, I was not ready.

Now that the colic has subsided and Baby 2 finally sleeps a couple of hours at a time, I can think (ish).

Here are a few of my suggestions for preparing for your precious Baby 2 arrival.

1. Spend special, quality time with Baby 1

This time is so, so special. When Baby 2 hits the house, you will be so busy with feedings, and changing and cleaning and new schedules. Take the time to really soak in these precious days with your, for now, only child.

2. Cook, cook, cook - store as many meals as you can

You will be so happy to have some quick meals for the coming weeks. Time and sanity is at a minimum. Take the guess work out of meals and have casseroles, pastas, muffins, etc on hand in the freezer ready for a quick reheat and serve.

3. Pre-prepare and organize meals/snacks for your toddler

Move snacks to a drawer or cupboard your little one can reach. They'll be proud to help themselves and you'll be happy they can grab themselves raisins when you're nursing. Also, take some of what you made for the family and package in small single servings for your toddler. You'll be so relieved to have something ready to go at meal times and not have to worry about putting baby down to get a meal ready. Honestly, these continue to save me time and time again.

4. Ask for help!

Call in the troops. Friends, family, neighbours, maids, gardeners, babysitters, dog walkers, pool boys. People really are happy to help, and now more than ever you can use it. Don't be shy, put them to work. They'll feel useful and you'll be happy things are still getting done. Relax, and let them in.

5. Never assume!

How many times have I said this professionally? It applies here too. Each experience is different, each baby is different, and you will be different too.

Having two children is exciting and thrilling and exhausting and fulfilling. I can't imagine life without two, now. And don't worry, you think you can't possibly love your second as much as you love your first, but you do. Eventually.


- C.