The incredible expanding family
I have exciting news today. Come June 8th (or there abouts), there will be a tiny little, fourth family member in our home. I am 13 weeks pregnant and can hardly believe it.
Perhaps if you have been keeping up with my blog for a while you may remember that just over a year ago the mere suggestion of having another child seemed quite off-putting. It’s no secret that I found the adjustment to being a mother incredibly difficult and it has taken me a long time to sort through my feelings and fears about going back to that new baby place all over again. Actually don’t let me think about it too much!. Over the last couple of months I have occasionally found myself after an exhausting day wondering what on earth it is we are doing, but mostly time is just spinning so fast that there isn’t enough time to (popped-out) navel gaze. I imagine that life with a new born might be a little the same this time around.
So much has changed since we moved out of Mum and Dad’s house and into our own place. Personally, I feel stronger and more capable and happier. I feel like we are a real family again.
But it is time which has probably influenced the biggest shift in my thinking. Now from experience I really do know that the old saying “This too shall pass” is almost always true, and not just something well-meaning people tell you in moments of crisis. Breast feeding that doesn’t seem to quite work out, minor illnesses, sleepless nights, tantrums (both child and adult) and exasperating boredom… it all passes and good things follow. I feel ready to face those first few years and not be pulled down by them again (ah! we shall see!).
And I was worried about “my work” and how I will have to put it off again but I have got to the point where I think well, that’s ok. Amelia is about to start kindergarten in 2006 and soon she will be at school full time and it has gone so very fast. One of my biggest heroes is Rosalie Gascoigne and I will often think about her creating her amazing work later in life after she raised a family almost single handedly in a strange country. She found ways to be creative even before she became a well known artist - she made quilts and threw herself into ikebana, and then she made the art pieces that now hang in national galleries. I think about how time is quite elastic.
In truth, I have been busier and more creative in the three years since Amelia was born then ever before - it always seems that the spare moments are so precious that the work just gets done, and you start to find what it is you really want to spend those precious moments doing. I appreciate the clarity this has brought.
And in the end of it all, you have a most wonderful little person in your midst and the wonders increase every day. I feel completely ready to love a new one. I realise we are lucky, and I am very grateful.
Responses
7th December 2005 at 4:38 pm
yay! the first one to comment 
congrats ms. loobylu!!!
such exciting times~
7th December 2005 at 4:49 pm
Congratulations Claire! Wonderful news for your little clan!
7th December 2005 at 4:49 pm
What wonderful news! I’ve read your journal for some time and recently went back and re-read your archives around the time Amelia was born, because I too am pregnant…11 weeks along with my first. Best of luck to all three (four) of you!
7th December 2005 at 4:50 pm
BIG congrats Claire (and Big P + Amelia)! Heres to a hearty and healthy second and third trimester. Guess I won’t be seeing you back at TAFE next year then? You will be too too busy!
All the very best, Meg
7th December 2005 at 4:58 pm
Congratulations, dear Loobylu (and of course, Big P as well!)
Wow! I have my hands full with one cheeky, naughty, happy, tantrum-weilding, peanut butter-fueled, gorgeous little 2 year-old boy. I would love to have more, but -sigh- I’m just plain chicken.
Happiness and love to you and yours always.
Kathryn.
7th December 2005 at 5:25 pm
Congratulations !!!
I found #2 a very big ajustment ( my first two are 5 1/2 years apart ).Then I had 4 in 4 1/2 years !!!
Children are such a blessing ( most of the time !!!) .
My baby is now 2 and I really miss the pregnancy and baby stage ( never thought I would say that !!!) but my hubby does not !!!
Enjoy your pregnancy.
7th December 2005 at 5:47 pm
Happiness to you and yours for the rest of your pregnancy and beyond. Life with two is fun squared.
7th December 2005 at 5:52 pm
BIG congratulations. I must tell you that no. 2 is easier - yes much much easier, and I often think that no. 2 child knows that they will get more attention if they are a good baby and toddler - but maybe after that they change their mind about it.
And I wanted to say that I also love Rosalie Gascoigne and was quite heavily influenced by her work while I was at uni and still continue to admire her work - i always head to see her stuff at the NGA and sit and gaze at it. I like what you said about the fluidity of time. I feel like I have put my art career on hold while i raise the children - and I know through my friends experience that it does get a lot easier - children do become more independant and giving more time to art becomes more possible later. It does get frustrating (for me) but i have found other ways to be creative.
be well and congrats again
7th December 2005 at 5:53 pm
well done and yay smiles all round and hugs and flowers, cute home made things and sprinkles of sunshine
congratulations to you and your beautiful family
i am so clucky, i seriously need to stay away frm my boyfriends pants area
ha! like you needed to know that
7th December 2005 at 6:14 pm
Oh my goodness! What wonderful news. I first started reading when you were pregnant with Amelia and have loved reading about the evolution of your family. Congratulations and all the best for the rest of your pregnancy!!
7th December 2005 at 6:18 pm
Congrats Claire!!!! How exciting. Winter will be a perfect time to cuddle and snuggle with a newborn!!
7th December 2005 at 6:22 pm
I related to everything you wrote about, and had a little tear at the end.
Congratulations!!, and thanks for your wonderful journal.
7th December 2005 at 6:23 pm
I too hit the wall with number one - I agonised over every minute with my first little fellow - I don’t think I relaxed at all until he turned 1 and even then it was only to go from neurotic to a little less so. However, I am super happy to report that I waited 3 years b4 number 2 and it has been divine. B1 adores B2, who is now nearly 1 and B2 is a breeze - I have enjoyed every minute - even the sleepless nights. So fear not, the gap and your experience first time round will make it all a new and much easier transition.:o)
7th December 2005 at 6:38 pm
Congratulations and best wishes for the rest of the pregancy what you say about time is so true- and not just to people raising families. That’s the main thought that dragged me through a rather crappy day at work today… Now I’m off to relax with some cooking take care
di
7th December 2005 at 6:41 pm
Congratulations! Babies are a true gift and I am so happy for you!
7th December 2005 at 7:04 pm
Congratulations!! What timing..I was actually wondering the other day if you might have another one someday.
I’m sure having your own place helps ease your mind a lot too. What happy news! I’m glad for all of you!
7th December 2005 at 7:10 pm
good on ya claire… huuuuuuuuuuuuuuge congrats to you and big-p and amelia
7th December 2005 at 7:15 pm
Aw - congratulations! That is so so exciting, I can’t wait to meet the new person in your family. Amelia will be old enough to enjoy the new baby and even help out a little so that will make the transition easier for you. We have exactly 4 years between Cam and Brooke and its a nice gap I think.
7th December 2005 at 7:21 pm
Many, many congratulations Claire. Its better the second time around, more work but lots less panic!
7th December 2005 at 7:55 pm
Congratulations!!! Such wonderful (truely) news. I hear you!! Now it’s all getting easier, I throw myself into 100ths of feeds and sleeps and nappy changes again. But I just can’t wait to have another tiny body to cuddle.
7th December 2005 at 7:58 pm
Congratulations Claire! Life with 2 is hectic but fullfilling. Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy.
7th December 2005 at 8:09 pm
Wow! Congratulations! That’s the most exciting news I’ve heard all week. Best of luck!
7th December 2005 at 8:26 pm
I am a regular reader, and wanted to say congratulations. It really is fab news.
7th December 2005 at 8:36 pm
Congratulations clare. I have been reading your blog for quite a while now and i absolutely love the craftiness and the illustration that you do. :*)
7th December 2005 at 8:40 pm
Fantastic news.
I have just had number 3 who is 3 months old.
I am still managing to eeek out time to quilt (i just purchased a stippling foot for my machine) and create - it just means that my house is crazy messy, but I have my priorities worked out. Creating keeps me sane, without the outlet of making stuff, I would not be a happy mum.
7th December 2005 at 8:48 pm
Wow that was a nice surprise! I remember your posts about the concerns you felt regarding having a second child.I do agree that over the past three years your creative work has exploded. The Britsh sculptor Barbara Hepworth who was a mother to four (including triplets!)stressed the importance of doing something towards your art each day, no matter how small. Even half an hour is an achievement.
7th December 2005 at 9:03 pm
Congratulations on your wonderful news.. I have been following your blog for a little while now and it is lovely… I remember thinking very similar thoughts to you about 28 years ago whe I found out I was pregnant with my second child… Those 27 years have disappeared more swiftly than the white rabbit down his burrow… I still feel amazed that I have a 31 and 27 year old… Both beautiful daughters who I love and cherish… All the best to you…
7th December 2005 at 9:03 pm
I’m so happy for you! Congratulations!
7th December 2005 at 9:06 pm
Claire, that is so fantastic! Congratulations.
I appreciate what you said about how time is elastic and how as you grow older you get more of a sense of perspective regarding time and how you can fit your own needs into a family context. Ultimately, it means lots of self-sacrifice of ‘Mummy-time’ in the first few years, but as these years are so precious and go by so fast, isn’t it a sacrifice worth making? As children grow older they become more independent, and I bet you won’t regret any of that time you spent with them when they are 18 and heading out the door to uni, jobs etc.
Best wishes to you for a happy and healthy pregancy, and Also to Big P and Amelia, who will surely adore this new member of the family.
7th December 2005 at 9:11 pm
Oh Clare, congratulations on your wonderful news! I wish you a beautiful pregnancy and tons of happiness for your sweet lovely family! Oh and to think that I read your blog since you and Big P tied the knot… oh how time flies.
lots of love
Marcia
7th December 2005 at 9:17 pm
I am sooo happy for you! This is really wonderful news!!! I am so excited! Congratulations and best wishes!
7th December 2005 at 9:24 pm
Congratulations - this is wonderful news! I’m so happy for you. Best of all, you’ll have two little people to make softies for :).
7th December 2005 at 10:38 pm
CONGRATULATIONS! LET ME TELL YOU: I ALSO HAD A LOT OF TROUBLE ABOUT MOTHERHOOD ADJUSTMENTS, BUT IN MY CASE MY LITTLE FIRST DAUGHTER WAS FIVE MONTHS WHEN I GOT PREGNANT!!!! GUADALUPE WAS ON HER WAY!!! NOW MERCEDES IS ALMOST 4 AND GUADA ALMOST 3. MY HOUSE IS FULL OF DOLLS AND FUNNY COSTUMES AND IS THE BEST THING IN MY LIFE. DONT BE SCARED…. I SEND YOU A BIG HUGH (ABRAZO)
7th December 2005 at 10:44 pm
Hi Claire, just wanted to add my congratulations!
7th December 2005 at 10:55 pm
Congratulations to all concerned. I can relate to thinking that after number one, you just can’t go back there. But you are right, time goes by and you watch this little person and the overwhelming feeling for me was that she deserved a sibling and that I was being very “sooky” and I needed to build a bridge and get over it. And I am so so happy that I did. There is three years and three months between Beth and Alice. Beth is now 5 and Alice has just turned 2 and for all their differences, they are the best of friends and nothing gives me greater joy than watching them play (and fight) together. I always felt that I would have at least three children, but the two of them are just so right and we are so content, that I am happy to stop with two.
7th December 2005 at 10:57 pm
What fabulous news!
you must be feeling a little exhausted by now? what with all the sewing, toddler and little belly. I find myself also wondering about #2, WHY! I moaned and groaned about #1… but all is forgotten and I miss my baby… such precious times that you only appreciate after they are gone. Toddlers are great though and I too hope that #2 won’t be so tough….
7th December 2005 at 11:08 pm
That’s great news Claire, I’m in that place right now where having another seems like crazy talk so it’s good to know I might come around.
Congratulations and I wish you a healthy pregnancy
7th December 2005 at 11:14 pm
Congratulations, Claire, what wonderful news! All good wishes to you and your family.
7th December 2005 at 11:24 pm
I remember your post from last year and have thought about it since then, so this new development is most encouraging!!!
Wishing you all the best.
7th December 2005 at 11:25 pm
Congratulations Claire! That is wonderful news, best wishes for your growing family!
8th December 2005 at 12:19 am
Oh Claire, I’m so happy for you and your family. Thanks for keeping us, your internet friends and family, in the loop. I’ve kept up with you since the days when you and Big-P were dating and you were trying to scare up the courage to leave your day job. It’s been quite a journey - thanks for sharing.
K
8th December 2005 at 1:05 am
Congratulations!… I can’t believe i’ve been visiting your site almost daily since mid 2001 - pre-wedding 
Happy baby x
8th December 2005 at 1:14 am
wonderful news! congratulations to you and your family. I think you’ll be surprised at how much you still get done, even with two–you just get a little more organized about it. Blessings!
8th December 2005 at 1:20 am
Congratulations, Claire, from the bottom of my heart. I can say with confidence that everything about having a second is easier (even if the child himself/herself isn’t as easy!) and sweeter–it even makes your relationship with the first child sweeter.
May you sail through pregnancy and welcome another family member with the grace you seem to possess in bunches.
Much love to you and your family.
8th December 2005 at 1:23 am
I’m a frequent reader of your blog but had never posted any comments. I figure this is as good a time as any. We have two little ones and it was SOOOOO MUCH easier the second time around. I felt like I really knew what I was doing. Congratulations!
8th December 2005 at 1:42 am
i¬¥m so happy for you!! i¬¥m also 11 week¬¥s pregnant , but it¬¥s my first one… it¬¥s all new..
kissies and hugs from portugal!!
carina
8th December 2005 at 1:45 am
What wonderful news! I got to start my morning with a smile on your behalf.
8th December 2005 at 1:46 am
Aw! Congratulations! I just listed you as the person who inspires me most in creating things on my blog. I’m so happy for you~here’s to an easy pregnancy and to new blessings in life!
8th December 2005 at 1:50 am
Congratulations Claire! Having two myself I will say that I had the same feelings you’re describing before we decided to try for #2. But seeing them together (when they are getting along mind you) is so satifying. And creatively, I’m producing more and probably more efficiently than I did prior to kids. Funny how that happens.
8th December 2005 at 2:01 am
What a wonderful piece of news !!!I’ve been following you for months and never dare to write but now you’re showing that you are really a great creator :-)!(with the daddy of course !)
8th December 2005 at 2:01 am
It’s already been said: don’t be surprised that pregnancy number two and baby number two are completely different and most likely easier than your first. You’re more experience and mature now. (((Hugs))) Congratulations!
8th December 2005 at 2:04 am
Oh, congratulations! It’s quite encouraging to me, as a not-quite-yet-a-mom to read about your trials and tribulations, how you have conquered them to the point that you are excited to have another wee one. Quite encouraging, indeed.
8th December 2005 at 2:05 am
Congratulations Claire! Here’s to a happy, healthy pregnancy and joyful delivery!
8th December 2005 at 2:12 am
Congrats! I cannot begin to describe the joy you will feel when your 2 little ones love each other! It is heavenly. Enjoy!
8th December 2005 at 2:19 am
Congrats!! What blessed news. I hope you have a great pregnancy.
(I found the adjustment to 2 just fine–my #2 was *extremely* easygoing–it was the adjustment to 3 that drove me batty!!)
8th December 2005 at 2:29 am
Congratulations, Claire! Yes, how time flies. I’ve been reading your blog since 2000!
8th December 2005 at 2:33 am
Congratulations! I am so excited for you! Best wishes from Washington DC!
8th December 2005 at 2:33 am
Congratulations to you all!
All the best.
8th December 2005 at 2:37 am
Hey:
Congrats on your upcoming baby. I don’t want to say the second baby is easy but easier. Your already ajusted to having a child so you won’t have to do that again. That to me was the hardest part about having children.
8th December 2005 at 2:40 am
Congrats, Claire! I’ll be at the 16-week mark tomorrow with my first. I don’t even want to think about the second yet, but sounds like you will be ready to go, with lots of help from Amelia. And wow, your due date is my fourth wedding anniversary!
Congrats again!
8th December 2005 at 2:53 am
Oh, congratulations!!! Hooray!
8th December 2005 at 3:28 am
I am lucky and grateful too - 12w with my hard-won first. I remember well your announcement that Amelia was on her way, and will be following progress with much interest (as ever). Congratulations from a long time lurker!
8th December 2005 at 3:35 am
Congratulations! I am jealous, my husband has vetoed the “more children” idea. We only have two, but our youngest is only 6 months, so I’m not really wanting to have kids right now. Oh, I am so happy for you. Do you want to find out the gender or do you like that kind of surprise?
8th December 2005 at 3:45 am
Ah Claire, you are blessed! Congratulations! My children have grown so fast. I wish I were where you are in life. The amount of time spent now on the babies is infinitesimal when viewed as part of the whole. You will find the second easier and when he/she gets a little older, Amelia will have a playmate and the joy that brings will suprise you! You have so many joys ahead of you!
8th December 2005 at 3:55 am
Congratulations! This is wonderful news and I hope all goes well and you can enjoy this pregnancy.
All the best for you and your indeed expanding family!
8th December 2005 at 3:56 am
Claire! How exciting. I am so happy for you and your brood. xoxo
8th December 2005 at 4:02 am
CONGRATULATIONS! YOur daughter is absolutely precious, I am sure you will have another gorgeous, healthy little one. God bless you.
8th December 2005 at 4:12 am
a big, hearty congratulations, Claire! Such exciting times ahead for you & your lovely family
8th December 2005 at 4:22 am
wow claire, i remember reading about little amelia’s birth. she was the most beautiful child (cutest hair) and it seems as though you’ve done your very very best as a parent. i think the adjustment from one to two will be different but your best life is now and when new baby r. comes. many blessings and joy
8th December 2005 at 4:26 am
This bit of news has made my day! I am so very happy for you, Big P, and Amelia! You all are blessed, and the new little one will be blessed to be born into such a great family!
Many congrats!
8th December 2005 at 4:28 am
CONGRATULATIONS! What festive news! I love reading your updates and all aspects of your creative process…Your writings are a constant source of inspiration! All the best to you and yours!
8th December 2005 at 4:29 am
Congrats on the new bun! Two kiddos are challenging and wonderful at the same time. The differences and similarities are such hoot to observe. Best wishes for a smooth pregnancy.
8th December 2005 at 4:36 am
Congrats! I´m sure it´ll be smooth sailing the second time around.
8th December 2005 at 5:03 am
Congratulations! Such splendid news! Many blessings to you and yours.
8th December 2005 at 5:14 am
Definite congratulations and so inspiring…I loved reading about Rosalie Gascoigne…as an artist/mother I feel so conflicted with doing my art and raising my children. It’s inspiring to see a woman do both and do them well.
And I agree…my children and art students have inspired me to no end. So amazing.
8th December 2005 at 5:20 am
Congratulations Clair,
You sound like you are a great mum, and now a great mum to be to another little one.
I can relate to your issues about time, I feel it is time to start a family and I think mmmm what about everything I have to do, but I guess you make time for the important things.
8th December 2005 at 5:43 am
Congrats to you! I can totally relate since my second son will be born in 2 weeks. I’m excited, but don’t really know what to expect. I’ll have a 2 year old running around and a new born to tend to. I’ll just enjoy and deal with it when it hits me, you know. My priorities now are getting our house in order, so I don’t live in kaos while I’m adjusting to life w/ TWO!
Happy pregnancy to you!
8th December 2005 at 5:46 am
Congratulations! The joy I receive from the love between my 4 year old and my 1 year old is indescribable. It makes it all worthwhile! Ameila and baby no.2 are very lucky to have each other - and such wonderful parents too!
8th December 2005 at 5:52 am
Claire, that is fabulous news, many congratulations coming from Canada.
8th December 2005 at 5:57 am
Longtime lurker says “YAY!”
My best friend has the same due date!
Congrats and good luck.
8th December 2005 at 6:34 am
A new baby–that’s the best possible news! My two little ones are almost four years apart; I needed that much time between them, and it’s worked out wonderfully for us. They adore each other (well, most of the time!). Congratulations!
8th December 2005 at 6:57 am
Congratulations!! Very Excited News!!
Enjoy your pregnancy too.
Yes…it does get easier the more you have…it is amazing how the third one can practically raise themselves!!!
8th December 2005 at 7:05 am
i’d love to join in with the tonnes of other folks to wish you my heartiest congratulations on number 2 being on its way
8th December 2005 at 7:38 am
Congratulations!!!!!
I’m very happy for you and Big P…
Amelia must be very happy with the news…and the idea to have a little brother ..(or sister, of course!!!)
8th December 2005 at 7:47 am
Congratulations! The second one is a lot easier because you are more relaxed - you know they are not going to die from crying!
8th December 2005 at 7:49 am
Congratulations to you and your whole family!!!! This is really fabulous!!!!
8th December 2005 at 7:49 am
Congratulations to you and your whole family!!!! This is really fabulous!!!!
8th December 2005 at 8:01 am
i usually just lurk, but i had to comment! congratulations on your news!
number two is a helluva a lot of work…but you’ll adjust. having two parents ’round makes it easier. it really does take all four hands.
your first is much older than mine was which eliminates a lot of the pain and allows room for more immediate joy. i must say that i can’t imagine life without #2, and he and #1 are inseparable.
8th December 2005 at 8:20 am
I can hardly believe my blogging ears!
WOW!
Congrats!
And think of all the cute cuddly toys we can make for you and Jr!
8th December 2005 at 8:21 am
Congratulations! That’s fantastic and fabulous news. Long time reader (though this may be my first comment (?)). I really enjoyed your comments on how when you don’t have much time anymore, the work just gets done. I think that’s true in other contexts as well. Anyway, best of luck to you and your family. Your second is due a day after my own birthday (June 7th), so I was very excited as well at the thought of possibly sharing my birthday. I was due on June 8th as well, but snuck in at 11:02 p.m., just under the mark.
8th December 2005 at 8:21 am
Huge congratulations!! Yay!!
8th December 2005 at 8:27 am
Congratulations! Wishing you a healthy and comfortable pregnancy!
8th December 2005 at 8:41 am
congratulations! all the very best in the world to you guys :o)
8th December 2005 at 8:50 am
congratulations Claire!! I too “ummd and aaahd” about having a second child and all I can say is she was sooooo much easier because you kind of know what your doing a little bit more than the first time around. And with a toddler at home as well you dont have time to fuss about things that arent that important!
8th December 2005 at 9:29 am
Congratulations!!
You are a few weeks ahead of me
8th December 2005 at 9:47 am
Congratulations! I hope everything goes well. I’m sure one is lovely (I don’t know because I had twins first), but two certainly make a great family.
8th December 2005 at 9:57 am
Wow! Great to see you having another go!!! I’m sure you second will turn out just as wonderful as your first.
8th December 2005 at 10:14 am
A little redundant at this point, but Congrats none-the-less!! Precious gift from God for you to cherish.
8th December 2005 at 10:24 am
Wonderful news! That is very exciting. It is quite something to go through it all again, in a good way - the ‘new mum’ anxiety isn’t there and it is so amazing to see your first-born with a new sibling. Plus, maternity fashions just keep getting better & better!
8th December 2005 at 10:30 am
Congratulation on your pregnancy. I just found your blog like yesterday, and I must say, you do have a quite interesting-lovely life stories down there in Melbourne. Wish you and your family the best. Thanks for sharing.
8th December 2005 at 10:42 am
That’s fantastic news! The best part about 2 is seeing them make each other laugh so hard that they can’t sit up. Congratulations.
8th December 2005 at 10:49 am
Hurray! Well done Claire and Phil! Massive congrats to you all!
8th December 2005 at 11:13 am
wicked!!
8th December 2005 at 12:04 pm
Much love going to you and the whole family! May a smooth time be had by all! How exciting!!
8th December 2005 at 12:19 pm
My gosh! Is this a record number of comments? Mine might get lost in the throng, but I wanted to add my congrats… and say that my birthday is June 8th, too!
Big hugs, Claire!
8th December 2005 at 1:17 pm
Let me chime in and say congratulations!
Just think, next advent you’ll have some wee little toes to paint!
8th December 2005 at 1:42 pm
Do you know how excited I am for you?! And I dont even know you, except for your blog that I’ve been visiting for the past 4 years Congratulations Claire, with all my heart. Now I have to ring my sister and tell her the good news (see how pathetic we are) because you are our role model.
8th December 2005 at 2:43 pm
CONGRATULATIONS CLAIRE!!!! I think the adjustment is supposed to be easier the second time around — you’ve already been there, you’ll be more confident and experienced and naturally, you know that eventually, the madness WILL end, so it makes it easier. At least, that’s what my sis-in-law tells me You’ll be GREAT!
8th December 2005 at 2:44 pm
Oh wow!! I just wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS! What exciting news for your family. You did well not to drop any hints.
Best wishes for the new little one.
8th December 2005 at 3:04 pm
Congratulations! I am the eldest of four and one of my sisters was born 5 years after me, in my first year of school. It was great having that age gap and being able to watch her grow up and understand it. Now, in my second year of uni, i can watch my brother in his first year of highschool and my youngest sister in her last year of primary school. Best of luck, and don’t worry about the age gap. It can be a fantastic thing.
8th December 2005 at 4:08 pm
Oh my gosh! Very many congratulations!
I can relate to the difficulty adjusting to being a new mom. It never becomes less work, but it really does becomes emotionally easier, and you’re right, it is all so worth it in the end.
8th December 2005 at 5:10 pm
How excellent! I am so happy for you. I haev been an admirer of your crafts and talent for some time now, and would like to say I think your children are very lucky to have such a neat mom. I think you will do just great. Try not to worry too much about tomorrow. Yay! I’m just so thrilled for you.
8th December 2005 at 5:17 pm
Oh yes, and congrats to Amelia who will now be a BIG sister!
8th December 2005 at 5:42 pm
Congratulations! Speaking as a mom with kids in the twenty-something age range , it all passes by in a flash. Enjoy the ride, as intense as it may be at times.
8th December 2005 at 10:03 pm
Yay Claire! Am right behind you, at 12 weeks, and also with a 3 year old. Cheers to us both then
8th December 2005 at 10:28 pm
I can’t believe all the comments! Well yes I can. I am thinking about having number 4. So congrats on the fab news - I hope all goes well
8th December 2005 at 11:11 pm
hi claire
i am so pleased for you! i have one fantastic boy 2 1/2 now (i can’t believe it ) . today we we in borders and he said to me mona lisa and i said where? and he says here and points to a little picture on a completely unrelated cover oh i love him so. i have been following your blog for a little while now (since i saw your beautiful pears in hudson)and and i just want to thank you. i have had a hard couple of months but yes it is passing now. i have been inspired and comforted by flicking to you.
thank you
zoe
9th December 2005 at 12:47 am
BIG congratulations to you Big-P and Amelia from Sweden where there is lots of snow.
Take care!
9th December 2005 at 1:06 am
CONGRATULATIONS! I just recently found your blog and I’m enjoying it. You’re so creative. I look forward to following this part of your jouney.
9th December 2005 at 1:27 am
Huge congratulations to your family! It’s wonderful news.
9th December 2005 at 2:07 am
congratulations!! love your illo. this will be a completely different experience. sending good vibes.
9th December 2005 at 3:45 am
Congratulations, miss! I am very happy for you! I hope this time around is a little easier. At least you know what to expect!
9th December 2005 at 6:52 am
Congratulations and many warm wishes Claire! We’ll be thinking wonderful thoughts for you over here!
9th December 2005 at 7:15 am
Congratulations! It has been such a pleasure to get a glimpse of your family. You seem to know when to stop & think, & also when to let go & do. Amelia is so lucky to have such great parents! And now a new baby! Wonderful. Best wishes for a safe & healthy pregnancy!
9th December 2005 at 7:57 am
Wow! How exciting! It is fantastic news and I am so pleased for you. Good luck with it all.
9th December 2005 at 9:32 am
Hi Claire! I hail from Melbourne as well and have been reading your blog for almost a year now. It was due to your blog that I found a love for crafts and even bought my first sewing machine so I could make soft toys for my 22-month old daughter. I’ve never commented before but I just had to say sincerest congratulationson the impending arrival of another baby! I’m 12 weeks myself with baby number 2 and am so happy when I hear about more expectant mums. Hope you have a happy and healthy pregnancy!
9th December 2005 at 9:58 am
Congratulations, Claire! What a lucky child to be born into such a family.
9th December 2005 at 11:13 am
All I can say is ‘congratulations!’. What a wonderful christmas surprise!
9th December 2005 at 11:14 am
Oh, what a blessing! Congratulations Claire and Big-P.
9th December 2005 at 11:40 am
i’ve been reading your blog for about 2 years & i am totally happy for your new bun in the oven ! congrats to you & your hubbie. from a fellow soon-to-be mum for the first time …
9th December 2005 at 11:40 am
congratulations - many!
9th December 2005 at 12:31 pm
Congratulations Claire! I can’t believe how far you have come since back in October 1999 when I started reading. I’m so happy for you and Big P and little Amelia.
9th December 2005 at 3:12 pm
Congratulations! I can’t wait to see what this new one looks like through your eyes. 
9th December 2005 at 3:59 pm
Let me be the 183rd commenter to say a BIG congratulations to you and your family on this most exciting and wonderful news! Children are a blessing and they have a way of teaching us as much as we teach them.
Yes it will be hard and it is a big adjustment with two instead of just one but once the little one gets older you will find they play together and it’s just so cute to see them being such good friends!
Well done and I hope the pregnancy is lovely. Enjoy it if you can!
Jen
9th December 2005 at 9:06 pm
just read it… and wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
9th December 2005 at 9:16 pm
Oh Claire, I was watching Lost in Translation for the first time the other night and your quote in this post http://www.loobylu.com/archives/000425.htm kept running around my head for days.
They are so wonderful and they are so worth everything! Good wishes and blessings from us to you
10th December 2005 at 12:26 am
Congratulations and best wishes! I hope you have an easy pregnancy, uncomplicated birth, and wonderful child!
10th December 2005 at 1:23 am
Wow! Congratulations! Have you read “Mamaphonic”? Its gotten mixed reviews but I’ve definitely taken something positive away from it.
10th December 2005 at 9:17 am
Congratulations! I have to agree with you, I’ve been busier and more creative ever since my daughter was born! I tend to appreciate more of spare moments than I used to. And of course, moments with my kids are always the gems of my life. I’m loving every single second of my days now.
- from a mother of 3 years old daughter and 4.5 months old baby girl.
10th December 2005 at 1:07 pm
Congratulations Claire! The second babe certainly takes a bit (well, a lot) of adjusting to, and sometimes you want to put them in the cupboard for a few days, but you’ll love it Best wishes!
10th December 2005 at 1:29 pm
I find it a bit silly and a lot touching that a post like this can make my jaw drop and give me chills. I’ve never met you yet through the magic of the internet, I feel as if we are connected in some way… if only through the shared trials of motherhood vs. craft. I wish you much happiness (and patience!) for your upcoming adventure. It will kick your ass…but in a good way. =) xoxo.
10th December 2005 at 2:28 pm
Congrats Claire, Big P and Amelia! I echo what others have said - it is easier in many ways the second time around, and you will probably find that Amelia gets a kick out of “helping”. My 2-year-old is lovely with the baby and actually does assist me in real ways now.
10th December 2005 at 4:08 pm
congratulations
10th December 2005 at 4:38 pm
Congrats!
PS: I’m a big fan of your work!
10th December 2005 at 9:06 pm
Oh, gosh! I remember when you were a pregnant with Amelia, it seems so lovely that you’re having another. Congratulations!
11th December 2005 at 12:22 am
It’s so pretty in here.
11th December 2005 at 2:13 am
Congratulations! It’s an epidemic - every couple of weeks someone announces the pregnancy. Congratulations Claire. Like you said, the first time was scary, but time allows for changes in growth and outlok. I’m having my first one in about 6 weeks.
11th December 2005 at 8:22 am
That’s wonderful!
I miss my babies being babies - I am sure that there was room for one more, but husband didn’t 
Congratulations!
Michel
11th December 2005 at 8:31 am
Congratulations! Sweet news. And you are right, all things do pass making room for other wonderful things.
11th December 2005 at 11:57 am
wow! congrats! i wonder what he/she will grow up to be?
wishing you the best
caylie
11th December 2005 at 1:45 pm
re: your advent calender.
Love the idea. I have a friend who made one out of matchbox’s in a kind of chimney formation and all decorated.
On a related tangent I saw ‘you me and everyone we know’ it doesn’t have content that I feel should give it an ‘R’ rating. Nothing that will disturb or frighten an adult anyway. I thought it was a really interesting take on various creative processes, or creative metaphors. I really liked it
12th December 2005 at 12:23 am
Oh, congratulations! You will be a wondeful mother of two! I have enjoyed your site for awhile now and have sent it to many of my friends to keep them inspired as they work and live with a strong creative drive!
12th December 2005 at 3:10 am
i must first begin by thanking you for your honesty regarding the difficulties you’ve had adjusting to life as a mommy. i find so many people are afraid to speak freely about having a hard time and so fluff it up for public consumption. i appreciate your candor.
second, congratulations!!! the second pregnancy goes by so fast - try to enjoy it as much as you can.
12th December 2005 at 9:31 am
wonderful amazing news , Claire i’m so happy for you!
12th December 2005 at 11:34 am
Loobylu, you are my absolute hero. I am a young single Mama with a 2 and 3/4 year old girl, and it was your blog that inspired me to start my own. I was a big fan of your pictures in the Big Issue long before I made the connection…
Anway, my father, with whom we live at the moment, always says “everything’s a phase” and I try to appreciate what each day brings me. Even when it’s being woken up in the middle of the night, a pooey nappy or a speeding fine. My mother also used to say “your time will come” and I am banking on that, and hope I hit my peak in my 40s…
Keep up the role-model work!
12th December 2005 at 4:17 pm
Congratulations Claire! You are right. Time is just whipping by! I remember before Amelia was born, and then your ‘my daughter has crazy hair’ post - which is one I always remember. Lovely news.
:o)
12th December 2005 at 4:19 pm
How weird. I just posted my last comment, then scrolled down and saw a far more contemporary ‘crazy hair’ post! I did an actual double take!
12th December 2005 at 7:57 pm
Congratulations!!! That’s great news!!!
Oh yeah, I love your blog and want to link you. Do you have an image or banner I could use for the link?
13th December 2005 at 3:16 am
read your good news last week and it made me oh, so happy for you and for your family. cheers!
13th December 2005 at 4:42 am
*BEST wishes for you Claire*
You’ll enjoy this new journey. Thanks for sharing it.
-Marjorie Ann
13th December 2005 at 5:06 am
Congrats from PEI, Canada! I have a 3 and a half year old and 2 month old boy /girl twins home (How’d you like THAT for a surprise!) and the second time ’round doing the baby thing is remarkably easier. I exclaimed out loud “Hey! Claire’s expecting, awesome!” and my hubby says “Who’s Claire??” He doesn’t get the whole blog thing… haha… anyway, good luck.
13th December 2005 at 8:01 am
WOW! Great news Ms Looby. I lurk on your blog every now and then and was very excited just to see the graphic. Congratulations. My newborn phase first time around was just dreadful but I know what you mean about these things really do pass. We’ve been trying for #2 for 8 months now but I know when it does happen I
7th December 2005 at 4:36 pm
I didn’t even finish reading the whole post but wanted to congratulate you! I just said, “Oh my God, Claire is pregnant!” and my husband said, “Who?” Heh. Congratulations to you & the family and here’s to a happpy, healthy pregnancy.
From a reader with a 16-mo old and an 18-wk old in her belly.