I can now laugh when I remember a comment made by a virtual stranger several years ago. I was out in the yard with my 4 boys and I was very pregnant with my 5th child (a girl at last!). Each child had at least a friend or two over to play. In the yard barking, as usual, were my dogs. A woman I had never met walked by and said that each time she passed our yard she was astounded by all the activity and she often thought of me as "The old lady who lived in a shoe who had so many children (and dogs) she didn't know what to do." She was very amused at her observation but became a little flustered when my mouth fell open. She then tried to turn the comment into a compliment saying that everyone looked like they were having a great time. She continued by saying she just thought our house looked sort of small for all the people and dogs who call it home.
Of course as soon as I told my dearest friends they were there to reassure me that, in the midst of all the chaos that constitutes my life, I am good mom, good person, etc. Over time I was able to see the humor, and frankly the accuracy of the comment.
I am sure there is some psychological aspect that explains why I need to surround myself with chaos. Better not go there!! But the need for a house full of kids, dogs, and friends is critical for my well being. I should add at this point, that my husband is a good sport, and for the most part enjoys all the activity. But he has recently told me, in all sincerity, that I can continue to bring home as many dogs as I want, but if I bring home another one he is leaving. (And for those of you who are immediately thinking of my husband now residing in North Carolina it is not because of the dog issue. It really is just until our home in Ohio sells,)
In closing, some parenting advice, never say never to your children when it comes to pets. My love and desire for dogs, lots of dogs, stems from the fact that I grew up in with parents who would never consider a pet. My husband grew up with dogs and I loved seeing the pictures of and hearing the stories about these furry friends of the family. Soooo... the moment my husband and decided to marry I insisted we go puppy shopping.
And we have all lived very happily if not chaotically,
