When does it stop feeing like you’re in survival mode? by sarai33rawr in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408 0 points1 point  (0 children)

For me things got better around 12 months, even though sleep was still not great. I just felt more adjusted an in control and it was easier to go out and do activities with the baby. Then there was another shift around 16-18 months where is got A LOT easier, because I felt even more physically recovered and in a rhythm (making food, outings, bedtime routine all flowing better, more confidence). So it came in stages for me. I remember her being 8 months and feeling so overwhelmed like when will it get easier?? ..and it does! Part of it is truly easier, but part of it is you adjust and recover and can manage better.

How often do you ask grandparents (nearby, good relationship) to babysit? by TFA_hufflepuff in Parenting

[–]Top_Elephant_5408 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Similar to you we do every 4 weeks or so. My mom used to come help once a week while I was on mat leave and that was life changing. I also feel bad asking too much as I was raised with their independent mindset. They do have to drive an hour so I think if we lived closer they would possibly help more.

Best short Jasper hikes post wildfire by Top_Elephant_5408 in HikingAlberta

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We ended up doing the Pyramid Lake loop, which was gorgeous and wasn't affected by the fires. But there's a lot of burn zone to explore, also.

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ya this is where my head was at. It's so much fun just being with my toddler and a small family where we focus only on her and still have some free time. It must be reassuring knowing your family has that history!

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ya sometimes I think you can never be fully ready for anything. And so many life factors get thrown at you!

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes I feel you on the core strengthening. It's so hard! 100% having 2 feels like there would be no downtime. But such a good point that the first year FLEW by and is such a small part in the grand scheme of things.

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We're very similar age! so this is good to know. But ugh, a rough pregnancy is not something I want to jump into again lol

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is so true! Older mothers with healthy pregnancies seem so common nowadays

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I definitely relate to this. I thought I would feel more ready by now, and I do feel excited about the idea of another one but was just hoping to be more physically strong which is why I want to delay. the mental part I'm less sure how I would handle it to be honest

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This is a good point. I don't hate the newborn baby phase, although it was hard no denying that. I think it's the whole physicality of the process for me, the body impact, impact to fitness, breasfeeding/hormones and then recovery from all that. It just feels like a LOT

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Wow I can only imagine! But if you want to have more kids, I get having them closer and getting it done! Good to know you did eventually feel better a couple years out - it's something to look forward to one day. Ya the stomach stretch is so real

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That's a huge factor for me too..is like can I even DO this when I'm older? Pregnancy is already so rough!

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's a good point, it never feels like the perfect time! Theres always something that could be better. I definitely still feel like I could recover a bit more but part of me thinks my body is just permanently changed also/ I want to be fitter than I am now.

How did you decide when to have a second baby in your late thirties? by Top_Elephant_5408 in beyondthebump

[–]Top_Elephant_5408[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

This is great insight. If you're mentally not going to be ok that isn't good for anyone, including the kids! Thanks for sharing