Implications

 So the baby just turned two and you'd think I would have some kind of rehearsed response to the question people I don't know in public ask me which is: SEVEN KIDS HOW DO YOU DO IT?
I know that's a run-on sentence so don't interrupt me... In any case, I have actually pondered what that question really means and have concluded that it most likely means: what is it like?

Now I'm not the "easily offended" type because, well, I love my life and I don't feel defensive about being questioned as to what it's like to be me. Sometimes I think folks, including me, wonder if they'd be happier doing or being someone else and so they want to try on my shoes (unless they have equal to or more kids than me and they want to try on a smaller size). The quandary comes in for my response because somehow, darnit, I always blow it.

Here's the lowdown...I'm with the fancy ladies and they ask me about raising a halfadozen plus one and I'll answer "it's crazy". Later, I'll feel guilty because I've just implied that my life is nuts (which is not entirely untrue) but somehow I've also demeaned my family in some kind of effort to: curb their jealousy if it's there, evoke unnecessary sympathy, and sadly, and worst of all, exercise uncomfortable humor because how exactly, does one respond to that?  The "crazy" bit also inadvertently insults my husband and my children which isn't ideal. So here are some other options:

1. "It's wonderful." Implication: I'm some kind of lying sack of a clueless Polyanna most likely smoking medical marijuana.

2. "It's interesting." *fake giggle*.  Implication: my kids are weirdos and grow fungus in my fridge.

3.  "It's a blessing." Implication: I'm a martyr Jesus freak and I never curse or think bad thoughts or have any fun or wear lipstick.

4. "It's busy." Duh. Boooring. 
5. "It's loud." Implication: I don't have enough rugs.





I think I'll keep this'n.