I think we would have laughed

if we were told that we would have five childen before our seventh wedding anniversary. We are often approached by the curious when we are all out and about together. They ask "Are they all yours?" (to which I respond "there are only five?) "Are they twins?" (doesn't help when I dress the boys alike for Sunday Mass). They comment "Wow, you have your hands full! (to which I cheerfully reply - "Yes, and so are our hearts") or a favorite "Your cart is already full!" as I enter the mega-mart with the older two in the add on seats, the youngest in the top of the cart and the younger boys in the cart.

Each child is an incredible gift! However.. it required actually becoming a parent to truly recognize this. When I was expecting our first child, (whom I was certain was a girl..wrong ) I decided it would be best to have boy and girl twins. Then I could be all done in one fell swoop. This pregnancy business was for the birds. I got fat (I gained 40+ lbs for a 7 1/2 lb child.) My ankles looked like an elephant's because I was on my feet all day at work (I managed a cosmetics counter at a department store). Yes, once would be enough for me - thankyouverymuch. However, one look into those big eyes and the pains of pregancy were forgotton. Our hearts and minds were opened. I am so thankful that God's ways are greater than our ways. Four boys and a girl later (and two who have gone Home before we met them), we would be delighted to welcome each and every Treasure whom the Lord desires to bless us with!