Am I finished having kids? Honestly, I’m not sure. What I do know is that the decision is ultimately up to me and my husband. You’d think that after welcoming six little ones, that desire to cradle another tiny human would fade. But here I am, still feeling that pull—wanting to nurse, to embrace sleepless nights, and to rise at 6 a.m. to help my 6-year-old with a space project I completely forgot about.
Maybe I’m done, but that’s a choice I want to make for myself. The comments about “overpopulation” don’t really hold weight. As if one more child I want to nurture will drastically change the world’s demographics. And let’s not even get started on the idea that we have kids for government benefits. If anyone understood the challenge of raising six kids while juggling four jobs, they’d realize that as of next year, we won’t receive any assistance.
Then there’s the notion that money defines a good parent. If you believe that raising children is purely financial, you’re mistaken. Sure, financial stability helps, but it’s not the heart of parenting. We work incredibly hard for what we have, but what concerns me more is how much I care about others’ opinions.
Yes, I value my doctor’s advice on safety. I worry about how my choices impact my husband and our family, including our wonderful grandparents. However, I often find myself thinking about how my decisions will be perceived by our extended family, friends, or even other professionals in the field. But then I remind myself to shift my focus.
I think about those women who feel pressured by society or even family members about how many children to have. Whether they have two, three, or seven kids, some might feel that they have to follow a predetermined path set by others. I want them to know that they have options; they can ask questions and seek the answers they need from medical experts, family, or friends.
I’ve decided to stop judging myself, and I’m not judging anyone else either. Someone once told me, “You’ll never regret the children you have.” That sentiment rings true. I’ll welcome as many children as I choose—my husband and I will make that call together.
If you’re exploring your options for expanding your family, consider checking out some helpful resources like this informative article on home insemination. For a deeper dive into the subject, you can also explore this excellent resource on IVF.
In summary, having a family is a personal journey, and each person’s path is unique. Embrace your choices and advocate for what feels right for you.
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