8 is Enough

People are always telling me that it's great to have kids who are close together in age....when they're older. Well, I'm waiting for the "older" part. My 2 youngest are 18 months apart, and so far, there really is nothing better about it. When people say to me, "Wow, they're close in age!" I often mumble something about not recommending it, as I blow out of my face the greasy strands of hair fallen from my ponytail. Hair that hasn't been washed in 3 days because it's hard to get a shower when your 8 month old puts everything and anything in your mouth, and your 2 year old will aid her in this endeavor.

But this weekend I was fortunate enough to experience how great it can be when kids are almost the same age. My 5 nieces from Detroit visited this week, ages 5, 6, 7, 7, 10, and it was wonderful taking them out together. I, singlehandedly, took them to an indoor playplace, the local town fair, and a new outdoor park. And except for the sheer cost of having to feed and entertain 7 kids, and still dealing with a 2 year old, it really was more fun than difficult. I continually had people comment, “Wow, you’re brave to bring them all by yourself.” But really, it was easier to take this crew than my usual 3.

In addition to our little outings, we had a lot of fun around the house and neighborhood. The girls played with playdough, hung out in the playroom and enjoyed the backyard playset.

They especially loved swimming in the neighborhood pool. Ella was completely spoiled by her cousin Elyce. Taking a break from watching movies, Granny was ready to go do some wine tasting. while Grandpa was engrossed in a book. When she wasn’t hanging out at the local Wal-mart, Auntie Phebe was showing us her bike riding skills. (In her defense, this picture was taken right after our wine tasting at the winery, so her judgment may have been impaired).

I was quite sad to see them go and do hope they can visit again soon.

And although I enjoyed having all the kids, I'm in no way planning on expanding my family. Eight is enough for the short term, but 3 suits me just fine for the long haul.