Who will look after my kids after my op?

[ruddybumblebee]

Hi there. I'm new to this site and this is my first time posting - so be gentle with me!

I've damaged my knee in a rather unsexy pram-pushing injury in the January snow. I've been told I need reconstructive surgery - and am now in a bit of a flap as to how I will cope.

I am a full-time mum to a 4-year-old and a 19-month-old. My Mum, who would be the obvious first choice to help, lives just a bit too far away and already has a rather busy calendar. My husband works full-time, and has kindly volunteered the help of his mother!!! However, she is a bit of a nightmare, constantly giving unsolicited advice. I find it very hard not to share my feelings with my husband. Sadly, I think this would end in divorce!!!

So, here I am, turning to you for help. I'm half wondering about getting an au pair for 6 weeks, or so - but have no idea if that is possible, let alone affordable.

Does anyone have any suggestions, please?

Get your Mil to help,, its only 6 weeks.

do a big cook up before hand so you have a good load of evening meals ready, get a cleaner and then get a rota going of friends and family to help out.
Can DH take some time off?

THanks for the suggestions, "Lisad123". Think I might try to get a cleaner for a while - and DH will take a little time off - but not enough time for my full recovery, alas.

Thanks Cat. Do you know if it's possible to get a child minder to look after children in the children's own home, or do they only do it in their (CM) home? Don't like the idea of shipping my kids out to someone I don't know .

Thanks for the suggestion, "Waitingforbedtime" - but you've not met my MiL . I struggle to hold my tongue when I'm with her for 6 minutes, let alone 6 weeks! She drives me potty .

My friend has just had her third baby and needed someone to be around after school for a few weeks, and she hired a doula for a few weeks to help with kids, get dinner, hold the baby, etc etc.