Preparing for Postpartum

[MamaPam]

We have done a lot of moving and DH started a new job fairly recently. We have no family close by. DH has no personal/sick/vacation time to take so anytime he misses will be unpaid. I know a couple people that might be able to watch the girls some and will probably get some meals and help from the church. I'm looking for any and all suggestions to make post-partum easier since I will mostly be on my own.

Thanks,
Pam

[MommytoTwo]

Can you hire a maid service just for a month or so? ANd lots and lots of precooked-frozen meals.
Paper plates and bowls - I know its awful but I am not going to stand around doing mountains of dishes postpartum.
Have a few new toys to distract your older two... I did that and it was helpful

[mezzydotes]

It's tough, I know - I was pretty much on my own after I had my second and it can feel really isolating. This time my mum is going to be staying for a while to help out, and I know I'm going to appreciate it.

I recommend getting set to have a bit of a "camp out" in your bed with your older daughters and baby. Have sandwiches and snacks/drinks at the ready, bring in books to read and puzzles that they can play with (with your help) and take it as easy as you can. Prepare your dds (esp. the older one) to be your "helpers" in bringing wipes, nappies etc for you. My eldest was just 3 when ds2 was born and I had things set up so he could easily access them and he thought it was fun to help look after the baby.

Good luck. It is tough, but totally do-able.

[treemom2]

It seems right before I have children we move and DH gets a new job so we've never really had any support other than some church people bringing meals for a couple days. Here are some things we have done to make things a little easier for all of us:
1. DH will make a snack table for the kids to eat off of for the day along with a couple sandwiches in the fridge.
2. (probably going to be in trouble for this one) but movies really help at this time. . .when DS was born I swear DD watched more movies than she had ever seen in her life. She would cuddle with me while I nursed and held DS and we would watch, snooze together on the couch
3. A basket of toys, craft items for the kids to play with. New stuff so they don't get old quite as fast.
4. As a pp said, get your kids as involved as you can. DD would get the dipes, wipes, help with bathtime, etc. . . She also loved to hold DS for long periods of time (like when watching those movies )
5. Instant food, okay healthier instant food like Amy's burritoes, organic frozen meals, Annies mac & cheese. I know they aren't the ultimate in health, but they really help in the beginning when no one wants to cook or clean up after cooking
6. Don't be afraid to let your home get messy, it's probably going to happen and when people stop by and see the mess I am sure they will understand.

It is really tough, at least for the first couple months but then you will all get into a routine and it will be a lot easier. Just hang in there and have your DH help you as much as he can when he is able to be home!