Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Beyond the First Born

Let's face it...if you have more than one child, you understand that it is a whole different animal than when you just had your first.  Your time and energy are now divided between 2 or even, in my case, 3 children.  Certain sentiments and standards that you had with your first go to the wayside...

Here are some examples:

First born:
When we have the baby we want to limit visitors because of germs.  Plus, I am sure that I will be so exhausted that I will need the time to rest.  All visitors must wash their hands and use the hand sanitizer that I placed conspicuously by the door.  I have masks available as well if you seem to be coming down with a sniffle.
Beyond the first born:
Please come visit whenever you want.  The recovery room after my c-section is fine too. Oh, and if you come to my house bring your kids so they can entertain my kids while they are here.  Maybe just wash your hands real quick.

First born:
These cute little stuffed animals and toys for the baby are precious.  I can't wait for him/her to play with them!
Beyond the first born:
We really don't need any more toys.  Diapers and wipes will do. Gift cards are good, too.  BTW, my 3 year old refuses to get potty trained but won't wear diapers, so pull-ups are also appreciated. Size 4t, thanks!

First born:
I need to sterilize all of my bottles after each use.
Beyond the first born:
Sterilize after each use? Seriously? I just boiled them after I bought them...then hand washing or top rack of dishwasher will do.

First born:
I will only use Pampers Swaddlers on my newborn.
Beyond the first born:
What diapers are on sale and where? and what coupons do I have?

First born:
I really want to limit TV time for my child or avoid it altogether until at least age 2.  Studies suggest that children who watch TV have delayed speech, higher incidence of behavior problems, are more at risk to not graduate from college, and will most likely enter a life of crime by their early 20s.
Beyond the first born:
PLEASE go watch your favorite show for at least 30 godforsaken minutes and give me some peace.  You can even watch it twice if you love it that much.  And I bought your favorite show on DVD, which includes 3 episodes and has a running time of approximately 109 minutes.

First born:
I really appreciate all of the visitors that have come to see the baby.  I just love showing him/her off!
Beyond the first born:
I really appreciate all of the family/friends that have visited and then proceeded to take my other children for a few hours.  It is godsend to be able to rest with only the baby here.

First born:
I hope I can fit back into my old clothes in a month or two.
Beyond the first born:
I hope I can fit back into my old clothes in a year or two.

There are so many more examples that I encounter on a weekly, if not daily, basis.  Do you have any examples of how things changed beyond your first born child? Please share, I would love to hear!!

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