Hello MsChris and Rebel -

Playing with the kids IS a good workout. Here's something to try -- go to a playground with the boys and plays running games like sprinting back and forth (kind of like tag or something). The boys will think it's fun and you will NO DOUBT get a great workout. Short sprints in intervals of 15 mintues is like walking for 30 minutes! Brisk walking!

Also, if you do go to the playground, make it worth it. Play on everything with the boys. On the monkeybars, try to do some pull-ups. On the other equipment, it's all a workout believe me! And it's free! if you can do that 3 times a week, you are good! Once you get more strength and energy, believe me, you'll find some time to do a workout video or possibly run on your own -- or walk -- when you have the time.

You are doing great so far -- the exercise too. Don't be too hard on yourself...from what you described below, I think you are doing great!

Mschris-on fitday, click on "activities" on the left. Then on the "browse" drop down menu select "home activities". They have everything from caring for an infant, to cleaning house, to sitting playing with children, to walking/running playing with children. If you select the "moderate walk/run play with child" (there is also light and vigorous!), it says you burn about 200 calories in an hour! That's the same amount it lists for bicycling at 10 mph for the same amount of time-gotta love that....a new incentive to play with the kids!
Buffy's right-you can get in a workout, and entertain and spend time with your kids at the same time. Not only are you killing two birds with one stone, they'll have a blast...

I think it's okay to exercise before bed. I seem to sleep better after exercise, but that's really my only option. If you can exercise early in the morning, it's probably better to do that, because it will boost your metabolism for the day and give you more energy. My 6 and 4 year olds are at grandma's, so when the baby took a nap I got to do my yoga early.