Horses and babies/children.

[Merlod]

You sound angry and resentful about everything.

I agree, also slightly confused that someone who has given up everything equine in favour of children and "doesn't miss it one bit" would want to spend their time on a horse form either...

 

[chestnut cob]

You sound angry and resentful about everything.

That wasn't how I intended my post to come across. Text is often difficult to get right.
I love being a mother, it's the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me. It can be boring sometimes as babies aren't always very exciting but I certainly don't resent it.
I was sad to sell the horse initially but it was the best decision all round. I no longer have the guilt of being pulled in too many directions and he has a loving home with plenty of attention, which is exactly what he deserves. I honestly haven't missed it at all. I love family life, even though it did take some adjusting to initially. I love seeing my daughter grow and develop, and I genuinely don't miss horse ownership. Currently I can't imagine ever getting another but we'll see in a few years!

 

[chestnut cob]

I agree, also slightly confused that someone who has given up everything equine in favour of children and "doesn't miss it one bit" would want to spend their time on a horse form either...

Force of habit from being on here for years. Because I've got to know people and still enjoy reading threads. Because just because I don't have my own doesn't mean I don't enjoy seeing what other people do with theirs. There are plenty of people posting in the soapbox who don't own horses or ride.

 

[chestnut cob]

I think the whole horse and child thing is a contentious issue for many people on here. I have worked hard to keep my horses going and keep riding since having mine but its hard and I am often caught between feeling guilty that I am either neglecting one or t'other.
I have finally conceded that I will have to sell one of my horses to lighten the load but its been a long road to get to that decision because I will find it so hard to part with any of them. I very much admire mums that appear to do it all as its easy to lose yourself in motherhood!

I am in awe of mums who manage to do it all, especially when they're out competing too. It's very hard and for me something had to give, and that was horse ownership.

 

[MagicMelon]

Me! Snap! i have a 5yo and a month old baby. Im lucky that my 5yo is now at school which is amazing... but he was so easy - he'd fall asleep in anything (car / buggy etc) but wouldnt in your arms weirdly. Yet this baby is very clingy. We're battling with reflux or a potential dairy intolerance so that doesnt help as he wants to be upright most of the time. I havent started riding again yey as Im unsure how to! I keep my horses at home so have nobody to help when my OH is at work. This morning I hoped he'd sleep on the sofa for 15 mins so I could feed the horses but nope, had to put him in the carrier which makes jobs so much harder. Im typing this now whilst holding him with my other arm!

I cant wait for light evenings so I can ride properly once my OH is home and can have the children!

 

[stencilface]

Me too magic melon! Get the kids in bed then ride.

 

[Crugeran Celt]

I would be putting baby in his pram and getting on with stable duties, as long as he is warm enough I wouldn't be too worried if he cries, he is very small and spring is on its way so it will get easier. Stick at it, it will get easier.

 

[Peregrine Falcon]

I was very close to PND after my first son the health visitor thought. I had with a young baby who was suffering from undiagnosed silent reflux. I had ponies in four different places and was struggling to care for them all as I wanted to. Something had to change.

One mare went out on loan (then sold) and I found somewhere else for the colt. It is difficult if you have a BF baby and no other help apart from a husband who is out at work all day. That winter was particularly difficult. Trying to keep two exercised as well was a nightmare.

The early years can be testing but when they get older it does get easier as they are not so dependent on you for everything.

 

[pippixox]

HOPE you are surviving OP. This is certainly an interesting thread. AS I said earlier- I've got no real tips, just have to suck it up! I will (all going well) have a new baby in July! 2 under 2 madness! But i personally still can't get rid of my horses as they make me me. I love being a mum but my horses are my sanctuary. Even if I only get to see them on my own at the weekend. They are perfectly happy and I cope (just) monday-Friday with baby in tow. He learnt to crawl in the barn!!