I was a part-time SAHD for my son. I worked 2nd shift afer keeping him throughout the day. Weeks before my daughter was born, I lost my job. So we've decided that for now, me being a full-time SAHD is best. But the adjustment is not going easy. My wife goes back to work in a few days, and I'll be in charge of the house, a 2 year old, and a 2 month old. I wonder how I did both for so long with just my son, at home for 9+ hours, then at work for another 8. It seems much more daunting this time around, and I'm not adapting well. I miss working for money, and feel like I have cabin fever at least 3 days a week. The process of taking both kids out at the same time, by myself, worries me. I don't know how you guys, and the girs do it.
Another new SAHD.....kinda.
Don't let it overwhelm you
Hey BHW,
I was in your boat 4 years ago. You're still operating short of sleep with a new one in the house. Feeling overwhelmed I'm sure.
Key's to my making it,,,,,,
Plan something to get you out of the house daily. Story time at the Library,,, in bad weather go to the mall to walk, and let the 2yr old play on the play area. The dry runs,,, when you don't have a "have to be at" time will help you get into the swing.
Our YMCA saved my sanity. 3 days a week I worked out and put the kids in Y-care. I almost always picked them up after an hour and we went swimming for at least a little while. These opportunities to socialize are as much for you as they are for the kids.
We didn't have a dad's group in Omaha, so this is when a friend and I actively persued an AHD group.
If you sit at home and wait for what the day brings you,,,,,, you won't be happy. At least I wasn't. Once I took charge of my day, it made a huge differance. Everyone, my family, friends, folks and wife commented that I was appearing more comfortable in my skin.
Hang in there. It was the best decision I ever made. That from a Dad that is working his way out of a AHD job.
Best of luck,
I Second That
IU completely agree with what athomeInOmaha said. All those things will help you tremendously. I also do the work outs at the YMCA as often as I can just to have a break from the kids and some adult interaction time. If you don't belong to the Y or some other gym, join one if at all possible. Also, come in here often to talk to the guys in here; that can also really help.
Check out my ramblings on life at http://www.sahdguy.blogspot.com/
Thanks.
I always took my son out and about. We usually had a small window between meals and naptime, but I did it. Now, with two, one being a newborn, I'm scared of taking them both out. The 2 year old can be.....a two year old. I guess it'll get better with time.
I always feel guilty telling people this, but sleep deprivation hasn't been a problem. Both of ours sleep. My son began sleeping through the night as soon as my wife quit waking him up to feed him at around 4-6 weeks. He normally slept 10-11 hours a night. This was great, as it allowed me to come home from work around 12:30 or 1:00, wind down, and still sleep until 8:30 or so in the AM. Our two month old daughter is sleeping through the night right now as well. Everyone tells us we're lucky. I agree.
Well, day one is here. Wife
Joined: 2008-09-30
Dad Points: 19