Since the publication of this article, our family has welcomed another member, making our already large household even bigger. I thought I had encountered all the questions about having a larger-than-average family, but it turns out that curiosity about our situation knows no bounds. Below are some of the more intriguing inquiries I’ve received since the arrival of our seventh child and how I might respond in a more candid manner.
- “Was this last one an accident?”
No, inquisitive stranger, this was not an accident. It would be more prudent to consider that such a question could be viewed as invasive. - “How do you find time for intimacy?”
Between us, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday is set aside for family movie night. We might sprinkle a little over-the-counter sleep aid on the pizza and engage the children with educational documentaries until they drift off, allowing us some uninterrupted time together. - “How do you manage to feed all those children?”
Feeding them is a relative term. We often utilize a system where the kids draw numbers from a hat to determine who gets a hot meal each night. Occasionally, we may even turn it into a playful competition in the backyard. While it sounds extreme, it teaches them valuable lessons about strategy and survival. - “Have you ever left one of them behind?”
Absolutely, though it’s common for many parents. We employ microchips as a precautionary measure, enabling us to locate them within a day or so. - “Are you trying to compete with large families like the Duggars?”
No, that is not our aim. We are simply living our lives as we see fit. - “Aren’t you concerned that one might identify as LGBTQ+?”
My primary concern is creating a world where my children can express themselves freely and without prejudice. Your biases are not reflective of my values. - “Wow! Is your body okay after all those births?”
It’s rather presumptuous to assume anything about my physical health. All my children were born via C-section, keeping my body intact.
While it’s natural for people to ask questions about family size, the tone can shift from curiosity to judgment, which is unwarranted. Families may choose their paths for various reasons, and the decisions made should be respected. For more insightful discussions on family planning and home insemination options, visit our other blog posts, such as those found at Intracervical Insemination. Additionally, resources like Women’s Health provide valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while questions about larger families can be expected, it’s essential to approach them with respect. Each family structure is unique, and understanding these dynamics can foster a more inclusive environment.