5 Signs I Realized I Was Done Having Kids

“How did you know you were finished having kids?”

“I just knew.”

What a vague response, right? If only there was a magic number you could count on to decide the perfect size for your future family! As the youngest of five siblings, I always envisioned a large family of my own. I thought pregnancy would be a breeze, breastfeeding a walk in the park, and my parenting skills would be backed by all the latest research. Sleep? Oh, that would just keep coming!

Planning is a breeze when you’re blissfully unaware. After welcoming three beautiful kids into the world, I’ve come to understand why three feels like the right number for me. Here are five reasons I’ve decided I’m done having kids:

1. It’s Just Not Practical

Having two kids might be considered practical, but that’s not really my vibe. I embrace a little unpredictability and chaos. The adrenaline rush of getting three kids dressed, fed, and ready to leave the house on time adds the perfect spice to life. Three feels just right!

2. My Organizational Skills Are Lacking

I’m adventurous enough to handle three kids, but adding a fourth would probably send my brain into overload. I like to think I’m good at keeping track of appointments and deadlines, but when my child’s preschool teacher reminds me to check for permission slips that I haven’t seen in weeks, it’s a wake-up call. Juggling three school parties, forms, and personalities is already a challenge!

3. Kids Aren’t Cheap

Buying things in pairs already makes my wallet cringe, but there’s something so satisfying about picking out lip balm in every color of the rainbow. It brings me a sense of balance and completion that I didn’t know I needed.

4. Shared Interests Among My Kids

The age gap between my kids means they can enjoy activities together, from swings to go-karts to library trips. But if any of them strays too far from the group’s interests, I might have to start considering hiring a live-in nanny! Thankfully, their differences allow them to play together, even if it means a bit of bickering here and there.

5. I Can Finally Sleep Again

As I admired my newborns and thanked the doctors for their help, I didn’t realize postpartum depression had slipped in unnoticed. The endless nights of wakefulness contributed to my feelings of being overwhelmed. It was during those quiet moments at 2 a.m. that I realized I was truly done. After a year of emotional ups and downs, it just clicked one day.

Of course, I still get nostalgic over baby announcements and wonder if I’ll miss those sweet snuggles and fresh diapers. But I remind myself that my kids will always be my babies, just bigger and louder versions. And when they grow up and no longer need me for the little things, I’ll always be their mom.

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In summary, knowing when you’re done having kids is a deeply personal journey shaped by your lifestyle, financial situation, and emotional well-being. It’s all about finding that perfect balance for you and your family.