[jules17]

We most definitely have gone through this with both boys. In our case, initially it was Luke who would go NUTS if he wasn't held constantly. It might sound strange, but I explain everything to my children...whether they are old enough to understand or not. It helps them to "get it" and it helps me to stay calm.

So I would explain, "Luke, I understand you want to be held right now. Your brother Sam would like to be held too. Let's share and all have a good snuggle." (or something equally dorky) There would be times that they would even try to hit each other "off of" my lap. When that happened, I would have them both sit next to me (on opposite sides) and say, "When you can sit nicely, you can sit on my lap. For now, sit right next to me."

I think you are in the hardest phase right now. The first month or two with both boys home I did not have my RHYTHM. I have it now, and can manage both boys very well. That is not to say that there aren't crazy moments or days, but I feel so much more competent. Believe me, the first few months were pretty crazy for us. And then everybody accepted that nobody was going anywhere and started to calm down. I know without a doubt that if you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure, they feed off of that.

I know you are a great mom!! Oh, and I also try to remember that our children look to me/us for an "emotional gauge." So if I am getting upset, they get more upset. I try to counteract and for example, if they are screaming, I start whispering.

Hang in there, Ana!! You can also call me anytime.