When people learn that I’m a mom of triplets, they often ask about my daily life with them. Their curiosity usually leads to questions like, “What’s it really like?” My typical responses include, “It’s just as wild as you imagine… total chaos!” or “Picture three of your kids, but cranked up to eleven.”
However, the truth is, most folks can’t quite grasp what that really means. Before I had my trio, I was in the same boat. I remember watching my friend Sarah juggle her twins while my oldest, Alex, was just a toddler. I thought, “No way I could handle more than one at a time!” Lucky for me, I ended up with three!
Life with Three Lively Toddlers
So, what’s it really like raising triplets? Here’s a glimpse into my life with three lively toddlers:
Having triplets means waking up to pee-soaked sheets practically every morning. It involves burning through 212 newborn diapers in less than a week! You’ll also find people asking intrusive questions like, “Were they conceived naturally?” or “Did you really have to get busy three times in one night?”
You’ll go through a pitcher of formula every 24 hours and be serenaded by a constant chorus of “Me too!” It’s a bit funny being the mom that other parents glance at sideways because my kids roll in as a pack, but I secretly revel in how they always have each other’s backs.
With three little buddies around, I get a bit more free time since they entertain each other. But then there are moments when one kid is stuffing a t-shirt in the toilet, another is coloring on the wall, and the third is attempting a daring leap from the couch—all at once!
At the playground, I’m constantly counting heads because they rarely stick together outside our home. There are times I feel like a failure when one baby has to cry it out because my arms can only hold two at a time. I find myself pleading with the universe for just a couple of hours of uninterrupted sleep, which feels like a luxury.
I often joke that baby vomit should become a trendy scent, given that’s the aroma I seem to wear daily thanks to my reflux-prone trio. Oh, and did I mention that minivans are now a permanent fixture in my life?
The Joy Amidst the Chaos
Yet, amidst the chaos, there’s an overwhelming joy that sweeps over me when I’m showered with “I love you, Mommy” hugs from three tiny arms. Of course, I also deal with judgmental stares and eye rolls from bystanders.
I’ve mastered the art of rocking, burping, and feeding a baby all at once. There’s always a toddler underfoot, and I’m frequently on a treasure hunt around the house for three different lovies to soothe my tired little ones into naptime. I can even decipher three different stories being told to me at the same time!
I strive to make sure each child loves being a triplet while also embracing their individuality. Standing my ground is crucial, especially when they test limits. And let’s not forget the daunting task of clipping 30 fingernails and toenails at once.
Every day, I’m pulling three sippy cups from the cupboard and tackling every milestone simultaneously. There’s immense pride in managing all of this and still managing to get dressed and leave the house!
So, you see, having triplets isn’t all that hard… except when it is! And who knows, after reading this, you might just be tempted to try for triplets yourself.
Resources for Parents
For more tips on navigating the journey of parenthood, check out our post on what to expect after having triplets. Also, if you’re on a fertility journey, Make a Mom is a fantastic resource. For further information about treating infertility, ACOG offers great insights.
In summary, raising triplets is a whirlwind of joy, chaos, and countless little victories. It’s all about adapting to the madness and embracing the love that comes with it.