Okay since the two older boys have been home from school, we have been venturing out during the day as a family (without DH because he's at work).  We've gone shopping for clothes, to the park, to the mall, to playgrounds, etc.  Few things I've come to notice.....

If I'm looking grumpy & frumpy - worn out and not smiling... people will comment "poor lady" or "you have your hands full" etc.  They say, "wow four boys, I'm sorry" etc.  Then it just gets me mad or puts me in a worse mood.  Then I get moody with the boys!  And we are all grumpy.

If I get ready to go out - do my hair, iron my clothes, etc - and then I have fun with the boys... you know, climb through the jungle gym, smile, laugh at them or just plain giggle people comment too but this time it's "aren't you blessed to have four awesome boys" or "your boys are so cute" or "you glow with the warmth of Motherhood"  etc.

WHAT A DIFFERENCE!! 

So, I think it's ME!  (I know this may be an obvious fact, but it was a "lightbulb" moment for me!!)  I have been out running around for 3 days straight - not because I want too, but because we had to run some errands, and I put it to the test.  The first day I was running late, rushing the boys, grumbling at them and threatening them (you know - stop it, or else!)  And it was a tiring, bad day.  The last two days, we were giggling in the car and at every stop all day long!  They were/are ADORABLE!!  And not to mention, how helpful my oldest is now! 

So, have fun ladies!!  Try it - you will see a reaction!! 

If I ever do decide to have a 5th, I plan to do that the entire pregnancy (at least I say that NOW) - you know stay POSITIVE and HAPPY!!!  Just thought I would share...

I completely agree with you!! Whenever I go out looking great I always get great comments about my boys and what a lucky mom I am. When I am out and tired, I always get the, wow 2 boys you must be sooooo busy. Such a great point and I never thought about it before!

I agree to the fullest - but it is almost impossible to go

places with them (in time) and be that drop-dead gorgeous looking;

most of the time I put on my "comfy shoes" and big black sunglasses, to hide the fact that

I did not put on any make-up, abd then stuff

us all in my car - never much time to get fixed hair, pained nails and matching outfits...

Then on the other hand when I go to work I always try to look my best, but then

I never brings my sons

Krissymum

 Krissymum-I do the exact same thing!  I know I should do it when I go out with the boys too, but sometimes I am so busy getting them out the door that I don't worry about myself. That is one plus about all boys though-they are easy to get ready:) (not trying to offend any girl moms because I would love to have to do their hair I'm just trying to look at the bright side)

 I couldn't agree more.  I know whenever i see someone looking happy and enjoying themselves in any situation i think wow lucky person.

Great advice- I'm going to try it!  I have noticed that even at home my boys' behavior reflects my mood.  If I'm cranky, they are too.  If I'm in a good mood, they are too.  If I'm impatient- they try my patience even more.  Thanks for the reminder:)

I so agree!  How can anyone feel sorry for any of us when it's obvious to the world that we KNOW how lucky we all are!