My ex and his wife are having a baby two weeks before Thanksgiving, by C-section. My dd (his dd) is supposed to visit them this Thanksgiving, and we live 4 hours away. We're trying to figure out travel arrangements--we normally meet at a 1/2 way point so neither of us has to drive too far. Will she be able to either stay at home with 4 yr old twins by herself for 4 hours, or ride in a car for 4 hours? I've never had a C-section and don't know how fast you get up and around after one. TIA

By Emily7 on Wednesday, October 13, 2004 - 11:26 am:

I would consider if possible to drive your dd all the way. Even though she should be up & able to do things she isn't supposed to lift anything heavier than her baby. It was uncomfortable for me to travel a 1/2 an hour after my c-section. I ripped my tummy open 2 times not listening to the doctors advice.

By Janet on Wednesday, October 13, 2004 - 11:29 am:

I would, except we'll be going 11 hours in the opposite direction to visit my family, and it would add another 8 hours to our travel time. I don't mean to appear insensitive or selfish!

By Mommyathome on Wednesday, October 13, 2004 - 11:45 am:

Hmm.....could your ex and the twins meet you half way? They could just leave the wife and the new baby at home. I'm sure she would enjoy some quiet time with just her and the new baby

By Monicamomof3 on Wednesday, October 13, 2004 - 11:49 am:

I think she will be just fine for 4 hours at home with her 4 yr. old twins. She shouldn't have to lift at all since they are four. I had a c-section on my 3rd and by 2 weeks I was taking care of my 2 yr old boy, 4 yr old girl, and my newborn every day. It's amazing how much better you feel in a matter of 2 wks. -not a piece of cake, but it can be done.

By Dawnk777 on Wednesday, October 13, 2004 - 02:34 pm:

I traveled 4 hours one way and 4 hours back a few days later when I was a month post-op after Emily was born. I was fine. It's Emily who wasn't the greatest car-rider in the world!

By Palmbchprincess on Wednesday, October 13, 2004 - 03:08 pm:

I felt fine after my C-section, being in the car was not uncomfortable. Then again, everyone is different. Can she and the twins stay at home with help from a neighbor or family member? How about hiring a Mommy's helper sitter? It would be less time than if your ex went to work a full day and she was home alone.

By Bobbie~moderatr on Wednesday, October 13, 2004 - 09:42 pm:

She should be fine to be home alone after two weeks. I had a 7 year old a 5 year old and the twins one week old. Dh went to work the night I got home from the hospital. I took it slow and made sure everything I would need was set up close. Besides, if the agreement is half way then I would say it is their obligation to set up help if she would be needing it while he is gone. And at 4 years old I think he could manage them on the trip if it would all be too much for her.