Getting out and about

Somedays, being a mom of three feels so overwhelming and stressful (like the day Jackson swallowed a penny and Mariah got a toy put in her mouth by Hallie).  Other days I feel like I can handle it.  It is amazing that I feel like a champion (I DID IT!) when I go on outings with all three kids (going to 4 stores in one day!).  Other times I wonder why I even try (checking out of the library with 2 screaming and one running kid).  I am definitely learning to slow down and take things a piece at a time.  

This Saturday US Airways employees got in free to the zoo, so we took advantage and had a great time.  The kids loved it and are at the perfect age to find and appreciate the animals.  It was hot, but bearable. 

 Hallie even pet the goats (as long as she was VERY near Jackson.  He is already a protector for her)

 Mariah slept the ENTIRE time until we were leaving the zoo, then she screamed the whole way out to the car.  She was so sweaty.  Summer is going to be challenging!

In other events, Hallie is still smothering Mariah with her love.

Jackson found my 3 inch boots and likes the challenge of walking around in them.  

 Jackson chose an artist pallet as his toy from the $ store.  He figured out how to make an artist hat from his chef hat and I helped him set up an easel.  He is becoming quite the little artist.

Mostly, I am loving being home with my children.  Jackson and Hallie try to drive each other crazy sometimes (especially when I have my hands full with Mariah.)  Mariah is fairly easy to get to sleep, but she does get woken up often.  I wish she would take a binky, but she will not have it.  She is sleeping fairly well, She sleeps a 5-7 hour block nightly, although I am usually not asleep for it.  

I love my  kids and want to be a better mom than I am for their sake.  I hope that I can improve.  I find hope in the atonement in becoming better and repenting of those moments when I am not who they need me (and Heavenly Father needs me) to be.