Wherever I go with Liam and Claire I get asked if they are twins; they are only 16 months apart and Claire is almost as tall as Liam. When they are in the double stroller they definitely look like fraternal twins. Nowadays with such a pronounced bump, people are eager to show their shock and opinion on having three kids so close in age...
"Oh my God, you're having another one!"
"You are going to go crazy."
"Wow - you'll be insanely busy!"
"You're crazy."
"Wait - three under three!?!?!"
"There goes having a life."
"But you already have the 'perfect' family."
"Just start drinking now!"
And I always smile and crack a joke about how we need to practice better birth control in our household...
What I don't understand is people are always eager to express their shock and disgust, but no one thinks about what they say and what it does to me... I'm going to be the stay at home mom of three under three... we live on an E5's salary, I've been laid off from two jobs in one year, and I'm not sure how we are going to make this work... scared doesn't even begin to describe how I feel.
Don't get me wrong, I'm beyond excited for this next chapter in our lives, but I just know how much we're struggling now and how much more we're going to struggle with one more baby so soon. I just wish instead of people being so judgmental, they'd lend a helping hand or a piece of helpful advice. Open a door, hold the elevator for me, don't stare when my toddlers are having public meltdowns, and say something positive when you see there's another on the way - would that be so difficult?
God clearly has a plan for my family and that's all I'm focused on; I know He's in control and won't give us more than we can handle. Plus I hate to be bored and three under three definitely won't be boring
So next time you see me out with my kiddos in the double or both of them being held while screaming in my arms... consider offering me a smile and hold the door for us :)
<3 <3 <3