As my little ones tumble out of our family van, it’s a surreal reminder of how far I’ve come. Just a few years ago, I was filled with doubt, wondering if I would ever experience motherhood. But thanks to the wonders of medical advancements, prayers, and a sprinkle of luck, I now have three delightful daughters, aged five, nearly four, and almost three.
Managing this lively crew feels like running a circus, and you might be wondering how I keep it all together—or if I’ve lost my marbles entirely. If you’re contemplating the wild journey of having three kids in quick succession, here’s a glimpse into my chaotic, yet rewarding, world.
1. Everyone’s a Comedian
Every day, I’m bombarded with unwelcome “jokes” about my situation. It seems every older gentleman has the same punchline: “You know what causes that, right?” accompanied by a nudge and a cringe-worthy wink. While I love a good laugh, can we please get some originality in these quips? I’ve considered various witty comebacks, from belting out hilarious songs to maintaining an awkward stare until they retreat. But in the end, I let them have their moment; after all, one must consider their age and the time they have left.
2. Master of Multi-tasking
My life is a never-ending juggling act. After dinner, when my husband wants to chat, I can’t help but start cleaning up or preparing lunches, often doing two things at once. This skill took root when I was pregnant with my third child and became adept at managing multiple tasks all at once—like breastfeeding while changing a diaper (seriously!). Now, I’m known to tackle my taxes during dental cleanings and even shave my legs while washing dishes. My days revolve around efficiency, and our family thrives on constant motion. Each child learns to keep up with the pace, or the entire operation risks collapsing!
3. Cutting Corners is an Art Form
With three little ones, I’ve become a pro at finding shortcuts—some might call it “lazy.” When my youngest claims she’s wiped herself after a bathroom visit, I want to believe her, even if it leads to a swarm of flies hovering around her shorts the next day. Life can be overwhelming—especially when my husband only has three days off a month. To survive, I sometimes declare a “National Mom’s Checked Out Day,” giving myself permission to let the kids have popcorn for breakfast or watch TV all day. Sure, their teeth may resemble Laffy Taffy by nightfall, but it helps me hit that reset button.
4. The Perks of Close Age Gaps
Having kids so close in age has its advantages—like saving time and money. They can share swim lessons, sports teams, and even toys. While three in diapers may sound daunting, I turned my Pampers points into an Airstream in 2012! Plus, I’m already daydreaming about a big wedding for them, like something out of a Brady Bunch episode. They share everything now, but I know there may come a time when sibling rivalry will rear its head—just like it did with my own sisters and me.
So, after nearly three years of navigating this parenting adventure, I feel we’ve finally found our groove. Sure, there are tantrums and the occasional mishaps (hello, pee on mom!), but our home is a whirlwind of delightful chaos. However, as any parent knows, challenges are ever-evolving. Each day brings new hurdles, and I’m just one breakdown away from contemplating a spontaneous getaway.
If you’re interested in exploring the journey of parenthood further, check out our other blog posts for more insights on topics like the importance of home insemination or the intricacies of family planning.
Summary:
Having three kids in three years is a whirlwind of joy and chaos. From managing constant motion and mastering multitasking to finding humor in unsolicited jokes, this parenting adventure is as rewarding as it is challenging. While the journey is filled with unique hurdles, the benefits of close age gaps and shared experiences make it worthwhile. And through it all, laughter and a bit of creativity go a long way.