I am blessed with three beautiful children, but now that my "baby" is soon to turn three, I really miss having a baby in the house and in my arms.
It's hard to decide when you're done having your family. My mother had 10 children and my husband is one of 7. When we got married, we swore we weren't going to break any records! But, I can clearly see why our parents kept having more children.
The question is, is it right for us?
My instinct tells me "no". I feel like I'm going crazy half the time with lack of sleep and running around with their activities. I'm pretty sure 4 would put me over the edge! But, I reserve the right to change my mind!
If you're struggling with the decision, I found some questions to reflect on at ivillage:
Ask yourself:
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1. What feels unfinished about having a family of five instead of six?
2. What does a fourth child symbolize to me?
3. Am I having trouble letting go of having a "baby" in the family? If so, why?
4. What are the realistic repercussions and joys of adding a fourth?
5. How will having a baby affect my marriage and relationship with the older children?
6. What would I be devoting my energies to if I did not have a baby in the next year?
7. Am I sabotaging my happiness by adding more at a time I have just achieved a healthy balance in my life?
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1. What are your children's views on having another sibling?
2. What are your husband's views?
3. What would need to be given up by family members?
4. What might be added to the family by having another baby at this time?
