I agree, I hate financial stress and would accept the one year old with the awesome family. It's hard to find families you 'click' with and you will have time to look to fill your other spots stress free. You might be lucky to find older kids for September or you might not.

I invested in a rundabout 6-seater stroller for that exact reason. I live on a very quiet street but have to walk quite a bit to all the parks, didn't want to worry. I've used it a few times in the last few weeks and I love it. Kids are safe, I would worry too much when crossing busy roads as mist if my dck are 2 and under.