We go in to the hospital at 5 a.m. tomorrow (Tuesday). Hopefully I’ll be able to do some posting while I’m there, if only to take my mind off of things.
I’m a bundle of nerves right now, an emotional rollercoaster careening between anticipation and dread. There are moments when I can’t wait to see my son and daughter. There are also moments when I wonder what on earth I was thinking.
I didn’t think I had these thoughts when Andrew was born, but the more I think about it, the more I’m starting to realize I did. I think I was a little more excited when Andrew was born, but I’m pretty sure there was a part of me that was kicking myself in the behind back then as well.
Why am I kicking myself? Insecurity, I suppose. It’s my job to protect and provide for my family, and I just made my job a bit more difficult. It’s stressful to look at five kids and know that they depend on you. Not that it’s any less stressful to look at three, but I already know I can handle taking care of THREE kids. Five is a whole new ballpark.
I’m rambling. I better try and shut down my brain and try to get some sleep. 5 a.m. is coming soon, whether I like it or not.
You’ll do fine, Cam. Don’t plan on too much time for yourself for a while, though. It all falls into place sooner than you think, though. My folks did pretty good with six of us. We all simply pitched in. Yours will, too.
Woody
You’ll continue being a great dad Cam…I hope all goes smoothly tomorrow for Elaine, yourself and the newborns!
As Woody pointed out, the key to successful parenting is deligation. So you’ll definately want to get the newborn as soon as possible helping the other kids with mowing the lawn, taking out the trash and preparing dinner. :p
Actually my parents had to pay my sister and me to do any work around the house. We had a maid and when I went off to college learning how to do all that “maid” stuff really sucked. What a shock!
Just remember, it’s GREAT for the kids to come from such a big family. I came from a group of 6 kids and wouldn’t have it any other way. Everything will be fine. Focus on the joy and wonder of this occasion.
Chris
Don’t worry, you will do fine. Just remember to keep the directions that comes with the kids. Don’t leave them at the hospital like many people do.
Good luck,
george
Cam - I can understand the insecurity that comes with five kids depending on you, but remember you’re not doing this alone. It’s a partnership, and your partner is a strong woman who’ll step in and pick up the slack when you think you’re going to have a nervous breakdown, and you’ll do the same for her. And don’t forget your friends and family - we’re here for you guys too.
You and Elaine have so far managed to raise three fantastic kids, and I’m sure it wasn’t always a walk in the park. But you did it. And now with two more kids, you’ll manage this time around. Although probably with a lot less sleep.
I wish you guys all the best today.
Im proud of you. Your doing great. But this isnt about YOU (wink)
I hope that your family is full of love and patience and my each one of them goe far with whatever they grow up and be.
Just the thoughts of all of those grandbabies in the future - that alone is a wonderful gift in its self.