Struggling to Make It Work

The past few weeks have been really busy. We have had 4th of July and a birthday party. I struggle so much with what I can and can't do as a mom with triplets and 5 kids under 6 years old.

Struggle #1
A few months ago we read an article in our local paper about a cute little parade for Independence day. There was a great picture of a huge Mr. Potato Head. Ethan immediately wanted to attend this year. We talked about it with some family and decided the kids would love it. Of course, as life goes, some people wanted to bail on us. Here is the dilemma. Do I go by myself with 5 little kids, or just take Ethan? It is so hard as a Mom to choose which kids get to do a fun activity and which kids have to miss out. Well, I decided to just take Ethan, but I felt so bad. It is so not fair to my little munchkins. Luckily, Grandma & Grandpa came through! We had a great morning at the parade. The kids (all 5 of them) absolutely loved it. They are still talking about it a week later.
   

Struggle #2
We were invited to a birthday party for one of our best friends. Of course, the party was at a pool park in the middle of the week. So, I decided to brave the party by myself with the 5 munchkins. I knew that my friends would help me with the kids and they didn't disappoint! I love our little playdate group. Our older boys have all grown up together and have so much fun together.

The lesson that I have learned these past few weeks is that it is so important to have a great support system. Family, friends, whoever it is it makes a difference. I love being able to have new exciting experiences with my little family. It is hard to be fair all the time, and sometimes it is just Ethan and I, but we make the most of the time we have together.
As parents, it is so important that we take the time to share new experiences with our kids, but it is also important to be realistic about what you are capable of. I know that my kids probably won't remember if they did or didn't do something, but I will. It takes a lot of planning and organization to get through the day, especially a special event. I am so thankful for my friends  and family who help out along the way.
This journey through childhood has a few more signposts!