As I’ve mentioned before, the kid’s hair gets a lot of attention, from people everywhere we go. Seriously, everywhere. Any other mama’s of redheads experience this?
People find the need to talk to me everywhere I go. The grocery store, the park, the bathroom line at the airport.
Most are pretty much nice and super complimentary. Hey, I’ve got cute kids! I’m ok if you agree with me! (And I must have a face that compels people to tell me what’s on their mind. Otherwise, I’m not sure why they do it.) Then most tell me everyone they are either related to or know who has red hair. I’ve learned to respond with something like, “How fun!” Or, “That’s great!” It seems to satisfy a response they are looking for. They smile as if we are old friends. Maybe that’s a sign that humanity yearns for ways to connect to each other.
But sometimes there are “interesting” conversations. I can relate it to people’s strange need to talk to you when you are pregnant and share their thoughts about your belly and size. Hopefully this happened to other people out there besides me.
“Where does their red hair come from?” they ask. And then they wait for an answer. Awkward silence. Ok, because I’m pretty sure we’ll never see each other again. But here goes…
“Are they yours?” This one floors me- seriously floors me. Yes, they are, but what if they weren’t? I have many amazing friends who have adopted children who don’t look like they do. Or, plenty of people whose kids just don’t happen to look like them. Do these people really know what they are asking?? And are they prepared for the answers they could get?
Brandon and I have seriously considered getting business type cards made with our genetic history on it so we can hand them out. Hopefully you are laughing here, but really, we are asked that often. I love sharing our story, it just makes me laugh how many strangers out there feel drawn into conversation. I’m sure it’s all part of a bigger plan for us.
We are teaching Asher and Maggie to love who they are, as I’m sure you are doing for your kids. And while hair color is something my kids could change about themselves someday, I pray they never do!
What are some ways you have found to boost your kid’s self-confidence?
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Embrace life!
2 Comments
Living life as a redhead…boy do I have lots of stories for you! Some are funny, some not so much. Always loved my hair color, not so in love with the fair skin that went with it. Feel free to message me on Facebook and I can share with you what they might face as they grow up.
Thanks Terree!! And, yes, I’d love to hear some stories!!