Hanna and I were hanging some clothes out on the line yesterday after lunch and I used the opportunity to have a quiet conversation with her.

I explained that my back was sore from something I had done the night before (trying to jog when I thought no one was looking and then when I realized someone was looking, trying to sprint because I’m obviously a child–trapped in a young boy’s body).

I asked given the slight twinge in my back if she could put forth her best effort for the rest of the afternoon and try to get along with her sisters.

Her response, “Why did you have kids then?”

And it shocked me a little.

Obviously we had kids to help with laundry, duh.

I remember asking my own Mom the same thing but in a completely different scenario. My thinking was totally justified, “Are you kidding me you won’t buy me that Cabbage Patch doll? Well why did you have kids then???!!!” Then I snapped my leg warmers and stormed away.

It’s a reminder for me that kids don’t see us as flawed individuals despite having too many flaws to list.

Do you have a sore back? We’re supposed to deal with it and move on.

Have you ever wanted a quiet moment to yourself? Why did you have kids if you ever wanted to have a second alone?

Why did you have kids if you wanted to close the bathroom door?

I think I had kids so I could buy a Cabbage Patch doll.