Motherhood the second time around is funny. In many, many, MANY respects, it is easier. The breastfeeding went smoothly. The recovery time went smoothly. Even the inevitable haemorrhoid has been better. You know what to expect and when it does, you know the solution before it gets worse. When it doesn’t happen, you are pleasantly surprised.
I am also fortunate to have a loving family. My mother came for a few weeks and then my mother-in-law came for a few weeks after that. They cooked, cleaned, rocked and shhhh’d their way into Eliza’s heart. As well, they learned all about aliens, dinosaurs and sharks from Franklin and there is no boy on earth that has had a baby sister be born and be lavished with so much attention at the same time.
My mother-in-law has left tonight. It was a little odd to have no company in the house after 6 weeks of in and out relatives. Of course, there was still her meatloaf ready for dinner on the kitchen counter but other than that; I was actually left to my own devices. While Dickson was at the airport and then off to school to finish a final project I ate dinner with Franklin (with Eliza feeding away), got him ready for bed and brushed his teeth (while burping Eliza) and then read him stories and put him to bed (while she fell asleep).
It feels like the same kind of system we’ve always had with one added difficulty level – Eliza. However, I think we’ll be fine. In fact, I think we’ll be wonderful.
I have a feeling that my mother and mother-in-law are worried about us. In a way, this hurts, as I know the two of them did it on their own with three or more children. They didn’t have automatic washers or supportive families like I do. They did it anyway. They were tough. They persevered.
I’m tough. I’m game. I can do this too. I think I’ll just have to show them that we are going to be okay. Of course, we are also moving in less than a month and I have to pack this house up tout suite (yes, moving mid-May!) but I’m competitive that way. They’re ringer washer and language barrier difficulty levels have to be matched somehow, right?
We are moving mid-May to a place closer to my work, Franklin's school, Eliza's future care and my garden. It also has one more bedroom.
Less gas, no parking to pay for, within walking distance to a bazillion things (including the beach). It will be a good thing.
- and as for my mother, I have to add that her concern is primarily with the memory of how difficult it was for her. I can appreciate this. In fact, she emailed me privately to tell me that she knows I'm tough and capable of anything. She's such a softy. (Thanks, Mom).
Ada, incredibly good to have you back... congratulations on Eliza, she is gorgeous and I´ve only seen the pictures you posted! Ha! I am happy for you, very very much so as would the saying go in Portuguese.
Your sentence on the same kind of system with a new difficulty level is very original and creative - Wishes for you to master the game gracefully and to move to higher levels of happiness through your wonderful family.
Luciana
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I feel the same way. We are moving mid may too and my mom called today all frenetic and worried (i believe) about my ability to do it all. I am down for having her help, but I am not an invalid. I may be on antidepressants and hire someone to watch my floor and bathrooms, but I can do it. I don't like her thinking I am not capable.
Do I know where or why or what the deal is with your moving? What did I miss?