So, I've had lots of different people ask me what it's been like having three kids... well, here are some things I've learned about being outnumbered:
1. More children = less patience. Why can't they come with a gift of patience for the mom?
2. More time spent running around naked, or only partially clothed (my kids, not me...and more Maren than Ellie).
3. More time spent at home. Two was a hassle in the grocery store, I have yet to attempt three. We have made a short trip to Costco and the mall, which wasn't so bad, once all the kids were loaded up. More than one stop would just be too many, all that loading and unloading. Not to mention that a trip to the store requires a lot of #1, which I am lacking.
4. If I get one productive thing done during the day, it has been a productive day. I figure that my number 1 priority is the happiness of myself, followed closely by the happiness of my children. I spend much of my day attending to those things (which lately includes a nap for me) and my housework suffers. Someday I'll catch up again, I'm sure.
5. More fit throwing. Ellie has decided that this is a good way to release frustration. Most of the time, she'll take herself to her bedroom when she's in the mood for a good fit, I am grateful for that. Maren throws the occasional fit too, not to be outdone by her sister. I'm hoping that this is because of the presence of a new sibling, and will phase out soon.
6. Lots more loves and cuddles. In fact, Ellie has taken to kissing us all on the cheeks a lot more often - more hugs too. I certainly can't complain about that. I also think it's cute that while I'm nursing Everett, the girls like to come lay their head on my shoulder, just so they can get a good look at their baby brother. They really do love him. And can I say that there is nothing in the world that compares to a good snuggle with a newborn babe?
7. More kids = more love. Cheesy, but true. Sure, it's a bit more chaotic, but we are thrilled to have a busier house, with happy kids. There has been lots of looking closely at their beautiful faces, thinking what a miracle it is to be able to create something so wonderful. Seriously, look at these kids:
You like that Ellie is wearing her swimsuit? And, it may look like Maren is eating her brother, but really, she's smooching on him. So sweet.
And, our bulbs are springing flowers. Our daffodils are just beautiful. 
And the tulips are soon to follow. This little guy is the first to poke up it's little head:
Yeah for Spring! It makes my heart happy!
Maren has always loved babies. She loves to hug real ones, and she's always had a fancy for her baby dolls. Since Everett has come home, that nurturing instinct has only been more pronounced. 
She feeds them. (he he)
And she strolls them.
Of course, the real one is the best (even if he doesn't seem to always appreciate all the love). What a sweet little mommy I have.
Unrelated to this post, Maren has a favorite body part:
Daddy and his sweet chillins, all jammied. 
And that is a really great thing, because I really need the break. This has been quite the week with the kids. Maybe it's because we've been stuck in the house for a month and a half now, with only the occassional visit to Grandma's and Grandpa's houses. Or maybe it's because mom's been occuppied with nursing a baby, which means freedom to do whatever you want, right? Or maybe it's because mom hasn't been giving two little girls the attention they want. Or perhaps it's because mom has only had limited, interrupted sleep which makes her ornery. I don't know what has caused it, but all I know is that I am plum worn out. I feel like I just can't get things all together. My house is a mess, I can't seem to give my kids all the love and attention that they are craving, and I could use some 'me' time. Not to mention that Ellie has been particularly naughty lately, and Maren, who has been our best sleeper, is no longer going to bed on her own. Anyway. That's enough complaining for the day. At least it's been warm the last few days, which means we can spend more time outside. That should help. I'm sure everything will settle into place.
Everett took a nap with his cousin, which was cute (and yes, his pants are hiked up to around his armpits.... I'm blaming Grandma ;)
And now two of my babies are crying... 'me' time is over. 
And, for your viewing pleasure, some silly faces:
What is that on her head, you ask? If you ask me, I'll tell you it's a cradle sheet. If you ask her, she'll tell you it's a wedding veil. And she's a princess too. 
Maren has become quite expressive with her facial expressions. So funny. I'll have to try and catch some others. 
A little cross-eye action for ya. Oh, and a goofy grin too. 
So, I've had lots of different people ask me what it's been like having three kids... well, here are some things I've learned about being outnumbered:
Ellie got to ride in the big tractor with Grandpa while he plowed his garden. She was nervous getting in and out of that big thing (and I must admit, it is a little scary climbing up those tiny steps right next to the roaring engine), but otherwise was plenty content bumping around with her Grandpa. 
We also did the farm tour - checking out the cows and chickens. Maren was quite nervous and held on tight. Ellie was occupied with being careful about avoiding the 'mud'. It was so nice to be out of the house, not to mention that my mom sent me home with a tray of her delicious cinnamon rolls. Thanks, Mom!
