When I was a mom to one, I aimed for nothing less than perfection. I wanted to be the ideal mother to my perfect little girl, striving for superhuman standards in parenting. But the reality often left me feeling disappointed. Fast forward to now, with three kids in the mix, and my perspective has transformed in ways I can’t fully describe. I’ve learned to rise above the trivial concerns like “Is my home tidy enough for visitors?” or “Are my kids behaving perfectly?”
Today, my approach to parenting is as efficient as my diaper bag—free of unnecessary clutter. I’ve traded the stress of striving for perfection for the joy of living in the moment. Although raising three kids has tested my limits, it has also liberated me to appreciate their unique personalities. Here are some reasons why having three kids is truly wonderful:
- It’s the maximum number of kids you can have without needing to invest in a minivan.
- The concept of “leftovers” simply doesn’t exist in our household.
- The likelihood of one of them wanting to look after me in my old age is pretty high.
- You truly get your money’s worth from all that pricey baby gear that you thought was essential.
- Everyone gets it when you arrive late to an event.
- You have enough kids to form your very own rock band.
- There’s always someone ready to snuggle.
- If you’re fortunate, you might hear the delightful sound of three little giggles harmonizing at once.
- There’s always a child to hide behind in family photos.
- More often than not, only one kid is on your naughty list!
This article was originally published on Aug. 12, 2011. For more on parenting and family life, check out our other blog posts here.
If you’re considering starting or expanding your family, you may find invaluable insights at WomensHealth.gov for all things pregnancy and home insemination. Plus, if you’re looking for ways to boost fertility, be sure to visit Make a Mom for expert advice.
In summary, having three children can be a wonderfully chaotic experience. It brings joy, laughter, and a sense of freedom that transforms your approach to parenting. The memories created are priceless, and the adventure is always evolving.