Easier Than You Think

While at the zoo today, I met this nice mom and we visited while our kids played on the slide. (I know, we went to see the new Russian Bear and the Tiger, but the slide is still the last stop before going home.) She said having 4 kids is easier than 2 and having them close in age is so helpful because they really like to play together. She assured me that "It will be easier than you think, there is a little more laundry and food, and picking up. But really, it won't be hard." I had to think she must know a little of what she was talking about. Her oldest is eight and her baby is 12 months, the other 5 are somewhere in between. All seven kids were so cute and fun and well behaved. She was dressed, showered, had packed a full picnic with all the food groups and had even remembered a comfy lawn chair for herself. I was impressed! She assured me that five year olds are very helpful (something we do not see a lot of at 4 yrs old.) and are so proud of their siblings. She recommended grocery shopping at night while the kids are in bed for the first several months while we all adjust. "It is peaceful alone time and you do not have to hear all the comments from strangers about 'all those kids'". Good tip, it took hours to get through Costco when Anna was little because everyone wanted to talk to her. So, i guess i will not worry about having 2 two year olds or 4 pair of flip flops to find in the sand box. We will just thank the Lord for His plan and timing and count the days until our family of six is sharing a picnic together.