Regressing

So, I have been warned about older siblings regressing once the wee babe makes their appearance. The thing is… could we possibly already be there? All of a sudden Matilda is very fond of the baby voice, wants to sit in her highchair, and begs me to do everything for her. “I want you to put on my shoes, Mommy.” “I can’t do it myselfffff.” My once fiercely independent girl is one whine away from a day with her Bebe (grandmother).

It is driving me bonkers and I’m hitting that period where I’m not really sleeping so my tolerance for annoying behavior is super low. I seriously have no energy to deal with the shenanigans. I’m trying to figure out what to do to make her know that she’ll always be my baby, but that’s she’s such a cool, BIG kid. I want her to be my helper and not feel like she’s in competition with the baby.

I’m making my way into week 35. I can’t believe we’re getting so close, yet it seems like I’ll never meet her. I’m feeling nervous about getting checked next week and have set my expectations super low. I’ve already told myself that I have a different due date, just in case I’m late. My doctor told me that she thought I’d be early, but I have refused to let that blink of hope enter my system.

Until then, I’m sure I’ll figure out methods of coping with the wacky four-year-oldness we have going on (“Want to watch My Little Pony?”) and I’d love to hear some advice! What worked for you seasoned pros? Any tips for making the older sibling(s) feel included? Thanks in advance!