Heather, I can't tell you how awesome it is to read your perspective on this forum. Whenever I read your posts, it is really encouraging and makes me treasure this time with them more, despite the tantrums, whining and general ornery "toddlerness." Thank you!

To the OP: I just want to add to my previous post about going out. What actually helped me is to experience a few of those awful scenarios I was so fearful of... you know, where everything didn't work out just peachy. E.g. my first time out with them solo at the mall, our stroller's wheel got a flat. I only noticed it after I had already loaded everyone in. Argh.

The second time out with them, 2 had a complete meltdown in full view of everyone. Once you have a few of these less-than-perfect moments under your belt, you'll see that it seems worse than it really is. Handling a few of the "bad" days will build your confidence in taking them out, they'll get used to the routine, and soon you'll say to yourself, "If I could handle THAT, I can handle anything."

GGG born Oct. '09 at 32w6d
http://ginnegaap.blogspot.com