“Dinner’s served!” I call out, setting a steaming plate of homemade lasagna on the kitchen table. A minute goes by. Then another. I don’t hear any footsteps or chatter. I wait a little longer before raising my voice again.
“Hey, everyone! Time for dinner!” A couple of minutes later, my kids wander in, bumping into each other and dragging their chairs across the floor.
“I don’t want lasagna,” one protests, wrinkling her nose.
“Is this spinach? I’m so tired of spinach,” another responds with a grimace.
“I want chocolate milk!” the youngest pipes up.
With an exaggerated sigh, I roll my eyes. That’s when my eldest, Mia, asks, “Mom, why did you even decide to have us? We’re loud, annoying, and expensive. Plus, we fight all the time!”
She conveniently forgot to mention how I never get to eat, pee, or dress without an audience, how I’m constantly driving carpools, making endless school lunches, and fielding questions like, “Why is poop sometimes brown and sometimes the color of peanut butter?”
“Seriously, why did you want us?” she presses again.
I flash back to my 30-year-old self, newly engaged and blissfully in love. My husband and I never really discussed having children, how many we wanted, or when. It wasn’t that I didn’t want kids; I just never gave it much thought. Motherhood felt like the next step in life. Nine months post-honeymoon, I was pregnant.
Fast forward twelve years, and while I can’t pinpoint exactly why I chose to have kids, I can wholeheartedly say I’m glad I did. Despite the chaos and challenges, the small joys far outweigh the daily struggles of parenting. Here’s why having kids is worth it:
Pure Bliss
As much as my three daughters test my patience, they also fill my heart with joy in ways no one else can. It could be during my oldest’s first solo recital when her voice soars, or when my youngest proudly shows me her beautifully drawn letter “L.” Those moments of pure happiness remind me of the incredible journey we’re on together.
Living in the Moment
My 3-year-old is a master of being present. She doesn’t dwell on what happened yesterday or worry about tomorrow. And you know what? She’s genuinely happy. When I take a break from my to-do list and engage with her—like building a doghouse out of foam blocks—I feel that joy too. Those brief moments of mindfulness are a precious gift.
Unintentional Leadership
I’m responsible for the well-being and safety of three growing girls. I’m the go-to problem solver for everything from skinned knees to friendship dilemmas. I get to set bedtimes and meal times, and my decisions—both big and small—shape our daily lives. This unexpected leadership role has bolstered my confidence in countless ways.
Embracing Mistakes
As a perfectionist before kids, I learned quickly that parenting is all about trial and error. There will be moments of lost tempers, forgotten soccer games, and cereal dinners. Unless you’re a fictional character like Mary Poppins (who was actually a nanny), you have to roll with the punches and learn as you go.
Finding Gratitude in the Little Things
While I’m thankful for the significant aspects of life—like my health and having a roof over my head—having kids has heightened my appreciation for the little things. The relief of a baby’s fever breaking, the joy of playing outside after days of rain, or when my girls collaborate to build a Lego Eiffel Tower without bickering—these moments are what truly matter.
A Dose of Humor
Kids are hilarious. Just the other day, my youngest complained about being hungry. “Sorry, kiddo,” I said, “I don’t have any snacks, so you’ll have to wait until we get home.” That’s when my middle daughter chimed in, “Yeah, Mom’s not dealing with you. Been there, raised that.” Nothing lightens the load of parenting like a good laugh.
Sure, there are days when I ponder life without my kids. But that thought rarely lasts long—there’s usually a child asking for a snack, sharing a story, or throwing their arms around me for no reason at all.
For more insights on parenting, you can check out this post here. If you’re considering at-home insemination, visit Make A Mom for quality products to help you on your journey. For additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, Progyny is an excellent place to explore.
In summary, my children, with all their quirks and challenges, have brought immeasurable joy and growth into my life. They’ve taught me to appreciate the little moments, embrace mistakes, and find humor amidst the chaos.
Leave a Reply