I won’t call you by your name just yet, as I find it a bit superstitious to name a fetus before its arrival. Plus, your big brother might just insist on naming you something like “Captain Awesome.”
With your grand entrance just a couple of months away, it’s high time for you to get acquainted with your new family and the adventures that await you. I won’t sugarcoat things: your older sibling has already drained a good portion of our energy and patience, so your success here will hinge on your ability to stay low-key and keep things tidy (yes, that includes your nose).
LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO THE FAMILY:
Mom: The one who has been your cozy home for the past 30 weeks. I might not look my best when we finally meet, but let’s face it, you probably won’t either!
Dad: The guy who doesn’t produce the yummy milk but is an all-around great dude. He’s full of fun and does amazing voices during bedtime stories. Just a heads up: he’s not as easily swayed as I am.
Big Brother: The firstborn, the one whose things you’ll inherit. He’ll protect you out in the world but might give you a bit of a hard time at home. We promise to do our best not to compare you two too harshly, although we can’t resist a good joke about it now and then. Get ready; our humor can be quite sharp!
The Furry One: She was a bit put out by your brother’s arrival, but after two and a half years, she has learned to tolerate him. I’m curious how she’ll take to you. Perhaps some treats will help win her over!
ACCOMMODATIONS:
You’ll initially share a space with your dad and me, but soon enough, you’ll move into your very own room. Your crib, crafted from lightly gnawed wood, is ready for you, and the changing table is stocked with adorable outfits (pre-stained, of course).
OUR HOURS:
7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Since you’re brand new, we’ll handle the late-night feedings and care as needed. However, we encourage you to adapt to our schedule as soon as you can. I didn’t have the heart to sleep train your brother, but I’m ready to give it a go this time around (see the first suggestion under ‘Recommended Reading’).
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Sleeping Through the Night: The Sooner, the Better for Everyone
- Potty Training for Newborns
- Mommy Needs Fun Too
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE THE SECOND CHILD:
Let’s be real; you won’t get as much brand-new stuff as your brother did, but that’s okay—new things aren’t everything, and you won’t notice for a while. Your nursery doesn’t have a theme; honestly, I’ve been too busy with your brother to plan an elaborate room. But don’t mistake our practicality for a lack of excitement; we’re thrilled to welcome you into our family.
Keep in mind that being the first child isn’t always a walk in the park. The firstborn gets all the shiny new things but also faces the ‘First Pancake Syndrome’—a little misshapen and sometimes too well-done. Just look at your parents: I’m the eldest of three and need some serious coaxing to get on a plane, while your dad is the youngest and rides motorcycles without a second thought!
In short, we’ll undoubtedly make mistakes with you and your brother, but we promise to love you both unconditionally—as long as you follow our lead.
Can’t wait to meet you soon!
Love,
Mommy
P.S. For more information on planning your family journey, check out this excellent resource about fertility treatments. And if you’re curious about home insemination options, don’t miss this informative post on our other blog!
Summary: A heartfelt letter to a soon-to-arrive second child, introducing family dynamics and expectations. The letter emphasizes love, humor, and the practical realities of being a second sibling.