My partner and I never envisioned ourselves as the heads of a “big” family. If either of us had declared our desire for a large brood while we were dating, the other definitely would have bolted. But here we are now, and it’s been an extraordinary journey. We cherish our family size and can’t fathom having one less child.
In today’s world, large families are becoming less common, leaving many wondering how it all works. Here are 10 insights I’ve gathered from raising a big family:
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What’s Considered ‘Large’?
For some, having more than two kids feels like a crowd. With five kids at home, I see seven or more as a larger family. It’s all a matter of perspective. Just like the definition of “old” changes; it’s always at least a couple of decades older than you are. -
Planning is Essential.
Spontaneity is a luxury we can’t afford. I once impulsively decided to leave for a trip a day early. With laundry done, I thought it would be easy. It took us a staggering FIVE hours to actually get out the door! -
Factor in Travel Time.
If the average drive takes four hours, expect it to take six to eight with a crew. With potty breaks, diaper changes, and feeding times, all those stops add up. Not to mention, reloading the mini-van takes time! -
Private Time is a Myth.
The number of kids in your home correlates directly with the level of interruptions you’ll experience. Romantic moments with your partner? They’re often measured in the time it takes to switch a load of laundry. A lock on the laundry room door can be a lifesaver! -
Laundry, Laundry, and More Laundry.
It’s never-ending. I’ve yet to lose a child in the laundry room or have someone trapped under a mountain of unmatched socks, but the potential is always there! -
Shifting Dreams.
My dreams have transformed. Once, I fantasized about traveling to exotic destinations; now, I dream of industrial-grade appliances: double washers and dryers, a walk-in freezer, and soundproof rooms for each child. A kitchen large enough for a massive family table is now the dream. -
Brace for Grocery Bills.
Grocery shopping isn’t for the faint of heart. With three boys at home, I find myself dreaming of owning land so we can grow our own food—and maybe even raise a cow. -
Gas Mileage? Forget About It.
When you’re carting around a large family, fuel efficiency is a distant dream. Finding an affordable vehicle that accommodates everyone without guzzling gas is a challenge. -
Early Bedtimes are Non-Negotiable.
New acquaintances are often shocked to learn that my kids have a 7:30 PM bedtime. It’s a necessity for sanity! Those peaceful moments after the kids are tucked in are pure gold—though our youngest, Max, often falls asleep on the couch soon after. -
Embrace the Noise and Chaos.
With so many people under one roof, noise and disorder are inevitable. I’ve come to terms with the fact that my home may never grace the cover of a magazine. It’s a place where kids thrive, and I’m perfectly fine with that.
Will we expand our family further? Only time will tell… If you’re interested in more tips on family planning, check out this resource on pregnancy for additional insights. For those considering at-home insemination, this blog post provides useful information, and the Cryobaby kit is a great option for aspiring parents.
In summary, raising a large family is an adventure filled with spontaneity, planning, and an abundance of love. Each day brings its own challenges and rewards, and while it may not always be easy, it is undoubtedly worth it.
Keyphrase: Raising a large family
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