Pinky and the Geek

Last Saturday before the baby shower I went to have a henna/mehndi design done on Koos. Robyn kindly agreed to come with me and take some pictures. It was really relaxing and amazing to watch how quickly Chandra worked. She had an wonderful steady hand and was so friendly and kind. I would hight recommend anyone in Cape Town that wants henna done to give her a call. Chandra Magan 0727436642 6ondove@gmail.com

These pictures were just taken with my phone, I forgot the proper camera but they do show the process

She first cleaned it with lemon juice to make it henna last longer and remove the natural oils on the skin or any lotion that stop it sticking.

Just working from the picture she was able to do the whole design free hand.

She even did some butterflies for Rachel

At home with the better camera

With the henna off the next day

Auto correct rename this, it was supposed to be hyperactive baby not operative baby. But here is #koos doing what Rachel calls disco dancing

We made this last week in preparation for the baby shower as we wanted to use it like a visitors book that everyone could sign that came and joined us for the day. It was actually quite fun to make, and the Geek was so cute, trying to get it all perfect

Getting ready

The Geek reading the instructions

Hard at work

The end result, just had to stand a bit while it dried

The cast drying

We sealed it with Gesso which allso smooths it out and then sprayed it before putting it out for all to sign

I have heard number 3 and subsequent kids are easier.

Number 1 you have to learn all about babies and your world is rather turned upside-down. In a way having been a nurse, midwife and nanny for twins the basic care stuff was easy. I knew how to hold, change, bath etc. I guess it is the overwhelming responsibility that this little being is so totally dependant on you, that you only learn when they are yours. But with one, although your whole life changes you can focus all your attention on them. It is the first and last time you get to follow the sage advice – nap when baby naps.

I found no2 the hardest, sure there is less uncertainty and you know the basics, but because something worked with the first does not mean it will work with this baby. I was surprised just how different they could be. The hardest lesson though, is learning to divide your time. The oldest is used to all your attention. It is such a big adjustment for them and you. Guilt, lots and lots of guilt happens.

Apparently no3 is a breeze, 1 and 2 are used to sharing your attention, 3 will never know anything but a chaotic house. They are meant to slip right into family life. I still find the idea of the baby stage daunting, but with so much more support this time and it being no3 maybe it will be easier.

What is your experience of adjusting to parenting?

My friend Catherine did some maternity photos for me which I will do in a separate post but in the set was the kids decorating #Koos with face paint which I thought was kind of sweet.

#Koos is going to have plenty of decorating by the time he arrives I am busy looking at henna belly designs and will do a poll to see what you guys think I should do