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Now that I am well into the third trimester, this baby thing is becoming real. In our baby class we are going through the labour stages and the different options out there for pain management. I am nervous about labour but I know this baby is coming out one way or the other. I am more nervous about what happens after the baby is born.
I have held babies but have never been around one for long periods of time. Never babysat a child under the age of 5. Never changed a diaper. And now my husband and I are going to be responsible for this little guy all on our own? Like immediately?
It’s terrifying. People keep telling me that your instincts just kick in which for our babies sake, I am hoping that is true. As the babies birth approaches, it seems I have been Googling the most simple of things. How to change a diaper, how to bathe a baby, breastfeeding questions, how to get your baby to stop crying, and on and on. I feel like there is just so much I don’t know.
And then how is the relationship between my husband and I going to change? Our life together is not going to be the same and how will we react to this major change. I am lucky to have him as an amazing support and he has been my calming influence throughout this pregnancy. We are a great team. My hope is that although we will be parents, we will still be that awesome couple together who weather all storms but grow together as we raise this little boy.
I guess I just have to embrace all the fears and worries and know that we will make mistakes. That no one is perfect. Because ready or not, this baby is coming.
Becoming Jen 
Here is the thing – you cannot prepare. Every baby is different. Every parent is different. Every marriage is different. The internet is both amazing and a spiral of doom because it often times answers 1 question then sets of a trajectory of other questions until you’re a sobbing mess convinced you’ve ruined your child for life.
My advice is, take every day as it comes, believe that you and that little boy WILL find a groove, realize the first 3 months are the 4th trimester and NOT an indication of anything to do with your skills, use the internet more to solidify what you know and less to lead your decisions or make you question yourself and of course? Don’t listen to anyone’s advice.
The moment you think you’ve figured something out, he will completely turn it around. There will be poop, and puke, and tears but more importantly you will love like you never imagined.
Always do your best, and as long as you’re doing that, know that you’re doing great!
Thank you!!! It is amazing how my mind is a jumble these days! I know it will all be fine in the end. It is just so overwhelming!
Glenn and I hadn’t been around babies when Alesha was born either, and even though I was skeptical of people saying that natural instincts kick-in, they were right. You and Dave will be great parents and your love and friendship for each other will guide you through your lives together.
Thanks Debbie! We are both excited about it!! Nervous but very excited!
Totally relating to how you feel and how I felt that way…omg…more than 8 yrs ago! Trust yourself and Dave. Enjoy every moment and when you are at your wit’s end because of crying and lack of sleep, remind yourself that this is just the moment, not the world. It was almost comical how overwhelming my emotions were in the first 2 wks after Julian was born….literally tears falling down my face with no notice! Thankfully short lived and everyone around you supports and gets it. Being a mom is the best job ever ever ever!
Great advice Lisa!Thanks! Dave and I will come over once the baby is born. Would be great to catch up with you both!