Working through the birth / newborn stage!

[tenren]

I'm a freelancer, and have been juggling 3 days a week childcare with my toddler, working from home, working from a deskspace and even working full time for contract periods. The money has been sporadic, but I've been trying to 'keep my hand in' and get by until I can realistically get back on the career track.
I've been offered a 3 year gig, that requires intense seasonal work for about 3-4 months, and bits & pieces throughout the year. The only thing is, I am due to have my second baby in the midst of this year's busiest time...!
Am I mad to go for it? Even if I outsource, is it crazy to think I could keep on working in some capacity with a newborn for 2-3 months during a full on work period? If I turn it down, I'm worried another opportunity like this may not come along, once I am ensconced at home again with a newborn...

I think people can do anything they really want to.

It will be tough. Plus spend some time thinking about some scenarios and planning for what you will/would do. For example what happens if something unexpected happens eg. you have a c-section - do you need to drive to do your work?

Have you got close family, dp - who can provide regular childcare for your newborn so you can work/sleep as needed? (Do not underestimate how much more you will get done if you can sleep and do not feel bad if someone is looking after your child so you can go to sleep!!)

I guess I'd be more worried not about when the baby is here, they are portable and sleep alot, but that really hard time in the month before the baby comes.

I didn't work full time (!) but I did volunteer for a charity eight hours a week over two days while I had a newborn during my maternity leave. My MIL and sister used to look after him so I could go. I found it a real positive experience.

When you say that you are worried another opportunity like this may not come along: can you negotiate? Don't be shy - be creative - can you offer them a different way of managing your work so you can have time at home when the baby is born?
If it's over three years, maybe the few months when your newborn is there could be somehow "rearranged"???
I have always regretted not being more assertive and bolder with asking for what I wanted when my dd was born.

it's a PR gig for a festival - the dates can't be moved! I'm going to try and do it with a partner, so that I can be involved in this year's preparation, but perhaps not be relied on to get anything done after I have the baby - but still be onboard for future years. I'll get some family help with my toddler, so that I am not having to entertain her when she is at home on non-chidcare days.

Fingers crossed I can make it work!