[magnolia]

It never ceases to amaze me at the rudeness of some people! The decision to have (or not have) children rests solely with the parents-to-be....and no one else! Afterall, it is YOUR lives that will be altered with the addition of a child, whether it be a natural child of your own or one you "choose" through adoption. Once a child enters your life, gone are the carefree days - no more just picking up and going, no more spur of the moment decisions to go out of town for the week-end - can't even decide at 9:00 at night you want ice cream and go get it unless one of you stays behind with the kid(s) or you get them out of bed to take them with you! If and when the time ever comes that feels "right" to begin your family, YOU will know it in your heart. As for what to tell others when they inquire, not sure what I would say but it would be something along the lines of "We have discussed children and we aren't at a point in our lives where we are ready to make that "leap" to parenthood!

As for adoption, I applaud you for your reasons - there are just too many unwanted and unloved children out there that deserve their chance at happiness. They didn't ask to be brought into this world yet they are the ones suffering! My babysitter in New Orleans had adopted both of her daughters. She had a saying on her wall along the lines of adoption being where the baby is chosen special from the heart. I can't remember exactly what it says (that was 16 years ago) but it was something along those lines.

Now, to answer your question on why I decided to have children - I'm still pondering that myself...LOL! J/K - I love my boys immensely - wouldn't trade them for anything in the world! After 3 years of marriage, hubby and I felt we were ready to start our family but it was something he and I discussed together before trying. Hang in there and let your heart lead you both!