Life was hectic during my pregnancy with the pregnancy associated illnesses, juggling work, and balancing home life with a pre-schooler that I didn't have enough time to revel in the pregnancy. For lack of a better word, I was kind of in denial about it. It's not like I wasn't eating well, resting, etc to take care of the baby. I was in denial because I didn't know how to add a new baby to our already busy life. Plus how could I adjust to sleepless nights again and what would I do when I had to return to work after 18 weeks? I thought it was best not to worry about these things and just manage when she arrives.
Thankfully when Claire came we had a lot of support from family which was amazing. Adjusting to the sleepless nights were the worst. It really threw me for a loop this time, I only adapted to it after 3 weeks. Everything else was about the same as I was used to caring for a baby, knew how to nurse, etc. In that respect it wasn't too difficult looking after Claire because I knew what to do and was confident in trusting my instincts.
Big brother James was so excited that she was finally here. He kept waiting for her as my belly grew bigger and bigger. Now he could see why it wasn't a good idea to jump on my belly. :) When we told him Claire was here, he asked if the doctor scooped her out if my belly so we said yes. He said that he used a big spoon. Lol! James was instantly in love with his sister and became a very good helper. Now that Claire can hold her head steady and play a little he enjoys interacting with her.
Since I live in the US there is no maternity leave, I am allowed baby bonding time for an additional 12 weeks after my 6 weeks of delivery time, so a combined 18 weeks. This time really flew by and I have been back to work for almost two weeks. Being back at work is good, I love my baby but I am definitely a working mom and can't see myself staying home with the kids. I do miss the year off that Canada gives, but I am managing. Everything is going well with Claire excepts her sleeping at night. Once she's sleep trained I'll have my life back. Lol. However as much as I am in a rush to get to that point I find myself saddened to think that she's growing up so quickly and that I won't have this little baby for long. Instead I'm trying to enjoy every minute with my kids because soon they won't be little anymore.
Here are a couple pictures from her newborn photo shoot and now. She is the sweetest baby!
Happy reading!
Rachel
