To ask for practical tips to surviving a newborn and a just turned 2 year old

[Justasconfusedwithnumber2]

Just that really. Due in January and Dc1 has just turned two. All of a sudden I am having flash backs of waking every hour, breastfeeding whilst sat in front of the TV for HOURS through developmental leaps and going for a wee with baby on my lap. These are just 3 things I have no idea how I will cope with whilst entertaining a 2 year old 4 days a week.

Any practical advice please? Especially how to prepare? I am already off work due to health so have 3 'free' days if there's things I can get ahead of.

I don't do any hot cooking with baby on my front in a sling, but I will do some if she's on my hip in a ring sling, with my body turned to shield her and being v careful of her legs. Obviously nothing 'spitty' and that position isn't suitable for a few months.
When back carrying is a possibility I'm happy to do more cooking and find chores much easier. Obviously still be v careful of their legs and use back rings only etc, if at hob.

If baby is happy going down for a nap or is content elsewhere then obviously thats the safest option. But in a push, I think you can cook some things in a sling if careful, as above etc.

I wouldn't have fried anything with a baby in a sling, but I did some chores. It's mainly a way to have your hands free for dc1 without leaving dc2 unattended, not for chores IMO. Having the newborn next to your heart keeps them content and gives you uninterrupted time with dc1. I'm sure I'm not the only one who couldn't think straight let alone give my other children quality attention if the baby was crying - that's where the sling came in because my babies never cried in the didymous.

I had 2 within a year of each other,then 12 year gap and another 3 within 3 1/2 years.

My one thing is get a double buggy.Even if your dc is a great walker[get rains]its great for putting your shopping in.

Also go out everyday.It doesnt have to be morning.
I loved wrapping mine up and going out in the afternoon.I found that brought the day in much quicker.Especially when you are waiting for your dp to come home.

Yes you need to get out every day, even if it’s just to the supermarket (those double trollies with a plastic baby seat are great), otherwise the day feels about 10 years long and your toddler will get restless and tantrums will occur!