I can't tell you how many friends told me that they weren't going to change at ALL when they had children. Even now, I giggle hysterically when I think about that.

How can you not change, when your world now revolves another tiny, helpless little being who depends on you for everything? But, the thing to remember is that every stressful moment, every sleepless night, every canceled night out...they are all worth it. I understand why some choose not to have children, and certainly do not look at them with any less respect, but I wouldn't give up those sweet little smiles and pudgy little arms wrapped tight around my neck while the little one gushes "I wuv you Mommy!"

So, it's up to you. You can never truly be prepared to have a child, nor can you ever truly prepare for the fierce, breathtaking love you'll find as a result of having one of your own.

That's the truth, I question myself every day, just about. It's my biggest insecurity, especially as I have no good role models. You just do the best you can, hope and pray for the best and make the decisions that feel right. You will be wrong, a lot, but you learn from that and you move on. And, most likely, you'll be right a lot more than are wrong, especially if the decisions you make are made from the heart.

Hi. I just had my last little one two weeks ago. He was a complete surprise! I planned, (or thought I had), for my other three. What a laugh. No matter how much you think you have planned for everything, there are always surprises. That being said, yes it can be expensive having kids, but like others have said, you can reuse things. I breasfed all my kids and I am this one too. I actually got back into my pre-pregnancy clothes within the first week of all my kids. I have never done bottles. I did not do the playpen, the highchair or walkers. I do love the swing though! When you think you are ready, just make sure you can afford all the little surprises that come up. Be prepared for all the changes, both little and big, and open your heart.

Gotta have the jumpy thing that hangs in a doorway. All 3 of my kids loved it. And it's great for a giant sling shot after they grow out of it.

Youve done your homework, and prepared financially.. ask questions, and read books. Maybe take some parenting classes.

Me myself give birth? oh hell no.

I would consider being a support for someone who already has children IF I HAVE TO but honestly... kids of my own... no way. I am sooo looking forward to menopause

I wasn't allowed to purchase that item. I was informed by my pediatrician father it is terrible for kids.

(looking at my 3 kids) Unless it causes nerdiness, my kids seemed to have survived unscarred. I'm sure something will come out in therapy after they grow older.

No, it's a milestone developmental thing that causes strain on muscles and such. It actually inhibits proper muscle development and balance and children have to work harder to correct it in later toddler years because of the deficit.

The kids fix it all on their own. But I was forbidden. I got one of those saucer things too, I had to give it away....

That explains why my children didn't learn to walk until the 4th grade.

Funny guy....