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The Full Set

One month ago Noah's little sister Ellie was born and he has found it quite a challenge adapting to the new arrival. He has actually reacted very positively for the most part, but there are obviously warring emotions within. He is wrestling with the excitement of being a big brother, wanting his little sister to sit on his lap, to come with him everywhere, to play with him, to bath with him and to sleep with him in his new big boy bed. But at the same time there is a frustration and jealousy showing through. Occasional hitting and pulling of arms and legs and general roughness.  Which though difficult is understandable given that until a month ago he was the centre of attention for not only his mummy and daddy, but also his Grandma and Granddad. It has been a big change and for the most part I am very proud of the way he is adapting. That's not to say there hasn't been a a couple of undesirable incidents. there has been some pushing and fighting occurring with his cousins, biting has resurfaced, even nibbling on Ellie's arm the other day. Nikala has taken the brunt of his frustration though and again it is easy to understand why. After all, the way he sees it there is an interloper permanently attached to her when she should be focusing on him.

With the arrival of Ellie, I took some extended paternity leave and have just had a month out of the office. It was great. I hasten to add this wasn't a holiday, looking after a two year old and a newborn is tough. We thought it was hard work looking after one child, but add a newborn in to the mix and you have never changed so many nappies in y our life, believe me. Getting out of the house often takes us over an hour to get everyone ready. As soon as you have changed one child's nappy the other needs doing. Then Ellie sicks up her milk and needs to be changed again. Then you realise you haven't brushed Noah's teeth after breakfast. Then you desperately need a wee yourself. Then Ellie needs another feed. Then Noah needs a snack, which he spills and thus needs a new t-shirt and trousers. You finally get out of the house and then realise you need to be back in 25 minutes to get Noah's lunch ready. And so on and so on. But I wanted to be at home to help Nikala through the first few weeks, primarily looking after Noah so she could rest and concentrate on feeding Ellie. We also wanted to make the transition as easy as possible for Noah. Having me around 24/7 allowed me to give him more attention at a time he really needs it. As hard as it was, it was great. Great to spend so much time with my beautiful family, Nikala, Noah and Ellie.

Noah and one day old Ellie in the hospital.


Giving his sister a little kiss.


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