Today we hear from Deb, a positive, devoted, driven mother of five.
Was it always your intent to have a large family?
We always wanted to have a large family. When we were first married, we thought we would go for 6. We ended up stopping at 5.
Do you or your husband come from a large family?
Neither one of us came from a large family. I have 2 siblings. He has 1.
How do your children interact? Are they divided among gender? Age group?
They fight like any group of siblings would, but I find that the older ones really look out for the younger ones and the younger ones really look up to the older ones. Our age range is 4-17 years old, so there is a wide range. We have 4 boys and one girl. Our daughter wishes she had a sister, but she plays and interacts with her brothers.
Does each new child get easier or more difficult for the family to adjust?
Someone told me that after 2, you’re already outnumbered so throwing one more in the mix isn’t a big deal. As a mom, I think it’s easier to adjust because you’ve done it before and know what to expect. I knew I would cry and feel overwhelmed in the first month, but I knew it would pass.
How did your families react to your decision to have a large family?
My parents thought it was a lot. His parents didn’t mind.
Are you able to find babysitters?
With a 17 and 14 year old, we have built in babysitters, which really changes your life as a parent. It makes it so much easier when you can just leave the older ones in charge and not have to worry about finding someone. We try to keep a balance and not dump on them all the time.
How do you manage on a day to day basis?
One day at a time. Things are busy around here, but happy.
What’s your favorite thing about having a large family?
My 4 year old saying he wants to be a scout when he grows up! Knowing that if one of them has a problem when mom and dad aren’t around an older sibling will step in and help and support them.
What advice would you give to a mom contemplating a large family, or just adding to the family?
There will be noise and chaos. Not everything is perfect, but if you can let go of perfection you will love having a big gang.
Deb
1 comments:
I grew up with a big family and loved it! Yes, we still all want more attention from our parents, but I think even if you have 2 kids that would happen! Kudos to you for having 5!
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