DH going back to work tomorrow, how do people cope?

[puddytats]

DH is going back tomorrow after 4 weeks off as paternity and holiday. Am really worried how I will cope with 18 month old and 4 week old all on my own. DD (4 weeks) is really demanding and hates being put down. Ds is really good but worried that I will not be able to manage.

How do other people cope, really need some advice to get through the day? I don't want to end up taking it out on Ds by being short with him but can see it happening.

Have to get to the health visitor now so will let you all know how it is going later.

Thank you so much for all your kind words.

Message withdrawn

i'm also going through this at the mo with my third ds (5, 2 and 7 weeks). using a sling has been the best thing as i can be on the move with my 2 year old who wants to make the most of the day and be outside on his trike or football or being fed! it stops him getting frustrated as i can play with him and keep ds3 at a safe height from his older brother who wants to pick him up at every opportunity! also found them very rare to cry when i use a sling.
also found doing something in the morning and then leaving the afternoon for quieter time - or even better nice long naps for all of you. sleep at every opportunity. i am learning to surrender to the chaos that children bring and that even though raising my children has been the hardest thing i have ever done it's also the best.
if interested in the sling idea i bought one called a 'zolo sling' from www.zolowear.com', or 'www.bigmamaslings.com' have found brilliant as its lightweight and can use it as a front sling then as they get bigger on your side and back. had a baby bjorn for my first but found hard on the back as he got heavier. i think they are so tiny at this age they don't realise they've been born yet and just want to be held - with the sling they get to be next to your heartbeat and have the movement they are use to and have the reassurance of your warmth and smell and your 18 month old gets the benefit of having your hands free so you can play.

Puddytats, the apprehension is always worse than the reality. This time tomorrow you'll have been through the worst and be feeling much happier.

See dh been suspended thread!! Not a good day