I was married 10 years before we had our first kid.
The benefits of no kids...movies at an actual theater, dinner in any restaurant I choose (no kiddie menus), never being embarrassed in church when my kid throws a fit, never having to worry about finding a sitter when my sister or mom is unavailable, having sex whenever I want, where ever I want, filling my time with various interests and never having to attend a single parent teacher conference or sell cookie dough to my co-workers, and I'd have a lot more money.
On the otherhand, without my children I would continue to be a selfish, self absorbed person, never knowing the true meaning of love. Never knowing how a simple dandelion picked by a tiny little hand with a "for you mommy" can twist your heart. How rushing your child to the ER can be the most heartbreaking experience. Sitting up all night with your baby while they suffer through croup, will renew your faith in the power of prayer. I would never appreciate the shapes in the clouds or the colors of vegetables. I'd never have grown up or learned patience. I understand my mother and my mother-in-law far better than before. I love them for being good mothers and setting such good examples for me to follow.
The blessings far outweigh the maledictions. I wouldn't change my life for anything. I never look back and wish I didn't have children. My husband doesn't either. No matter what challenges we face with our children, we will face them together. I look forward to coming years of laughter and tears, with humilty and awe at the powerful gift each child is to me.
So the question, Kids or No Kids....well that's just silly. Of course, the answer is and will always be kids! Definitely!
