Every time I go to the store with all five of my children, I realize why I have a pantry that I like to keep stocked. And when I start to run low in things like milk and produce, I try to rationalize how maybe we really don't need those items. We can survive without them, right? Spencer's love of his life is milk. He can drink milk with so much emotion, so much passion. If he treats his wife half as good as he treats his milk, they will be happy. Going without milk in the house is tough.
My children are still not old enough to leave home by themselves. I have contemplated this many times and actually done it a few, but I try not to. And then I drag them all to the store. They all behave themselves. Individually they are great. But walking down the isle with 6 people in a state other then Utah, is quite the scene.
First we are very wide. As we pass people, my children don't realize, regardless of how many times I have told them, that they need to get in single file behind me so we don't take up the whole isle.
Second we must look out-of-place. I get so many dirty looks, comments about how all those children couldn't possibly be mine, and an occasional smile. Mostly just a dropped jaw as people are counting, a comment about the use of birth control. I really think it is funny.
After about 10 minutes the cart is full and we head for the checkout. I can do some serously quick shopping because I choose times when the store is least crowded. And I won't go at night when Evan is home becuase I am too scared. Too many muggings, murders, and kidnappings for my peace of mind. Evan agrees with me, but probably just so he won't have to stay home and take care of the kids.
Shopping with 5 has it's limitations, but it saves on the pocketbook because I don't go nearly as often. I have started making more homemade foods just to avoid frequent trips to the grocery store. And I have started more internet shopping.
As the kids go back to school, the shopping will get easier, but then I will throw a newborn into the mix and make it exciting again. Fun times.
4 comments:
I know how that goes!!! --I get the "you sure have your hands full comment a lot" I just smile and say "if you think my hands are full you should see my heart" and walk away :)
i tried to avoid the store as much as possible this summer with all four of the little ones. it really is a process! i would love to be invited to the private blog if you have space. allysunnie at yahoo.
hi, yes i know it's hard to be creative while prego. i'd love an invite
margpagano@gmail.com
I am getting to the point where I would rather get up early and go on Eric's day off than go with 2+ kids. I would also like an invite to your blog too. edjstewart@yahoo.com
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