Another one!!! You must be kidding me!!!!!!!!!

It’s been almost 2 years since Anika came into our lives. But it still feels like just yesterday when I bought my little bundle of joy back home. Each day as she grew and became stronger and lovelier, I grew too as a mother. Time stands still when I’m with her. Even on days when she’s being difficult and I'm ready to throw in the towel, one sweet little smile from her and my heart melts and all the trials and tribulations of that day are a thing of the past. Like any proud mother, I love showing off my little girl to family and friends. And while they gush over Anika and praise my parenting skills, the one question I can't seem to escape is "When are you planning for the next one?" Anytime I hear this the first thing that pops into my head is "you have got to be kidding me man!"

Sometimes I do think, if I can be the same mommy to my next child or if it’s my laziness that I can’t take care of two kids. I’m not sure what it is. All I know is Anika is extremely precious to me and I feel guilty to share all my time with the new one.

A million questions running in my head.  That’s when I decided to ask Anika.

Few days back, I did ask her if she wants another baby at home. She didn't hesitate to even think. I was shocked to hear her quick response. She immediately says, “No”. I then started thinking,” Did she know what I was asking her or was it a casual “No” that she says all the time almost for everything.

Children are the biggest gift which I truly treasure. Ask me how difficult it to look after these super naughty kids.

They are gifted with extreme energy. They are never tired. They would love to try every single piece of thing around them. They make sure to keep you on your toes all day long. Between such a busy day, giving equal time to another one is going to be a tough task. So, here’s a funny conversation Anika and I had few days back. After this I thought,” Another one!!! No way”

Mama: Ani baby, “Shall I go to office for few days? Will you be with your ammamma (Her grandma)?”

Anika : GRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!! Noooooooooo (a big shout)

Mama: Ok, Shall I go out with my friends? Will you be alone at home?

Anika : Another angry reply,”Nooooo”

Mama: Do you want another baby? Can papa and I give your toys to him/her?

Anika : Mama… No!!!!!!!!! (Starts crying).

Well, after those tears rolling down. I definitely noticed how possessive she is about her parents. Neither was she willing to share her toys nor was she ready to let her mommy stay away from her. Children can sense every single thing at home. They know when their parents are happy, when they are sad.

I still remember the day when she started walking. I did call a dozen of them to tell. Every single minute with her is soo unforgettable. They learn few words and we are thrilled. Their first day at school, I’m sure most mommies cry along with them. Even if we have to leave them for few minutes somewhere, we make sure they are always in safe hands. May be that’s why children develop such a strong bond with parents which will last for a life time.

Then, I thought over few positives things of having another child even though Anika is not Okay. Let`s consider these things:

•  Anika will have a companion to play. She can share all her toys, books etc.
•  Anika will turn more responsible. Less pampering and more responsibility.
•  I`m sure our home will be the noisiest having two super kids around.
•  It’s going to be a perfect family.

I was almost ready to make up my mind. Suddenly, thought of few negative heart breaking things too. Here it is:

•  Life is little difficult now. After two kids life becomes almost impossible to survive.
•  If the first one is all okay, then the second one will 100% not be okay.
•  First one like Horlicks but the second one likes Complan.
•  I can hear Anika complaining that her sister/brother broke her toy which was her       favourite.
•  The most important, Since Ashwin has immense patience it’s not going to be really tough for him. But, my condition is going to be crazy. Let’s take the other way, I will have to bear with 3 children including my dear husband.

    After considering all these facts and discussing with Anika and Ashwin. We thought we are okay with Anika as of now. Anika`s firm decision of not wanting a brother or sister helped us to an extent.

It doesn't really matter if you have just a child or many children at home. The love we parents have towards our children will always remain the same. How can we all forget, “Children are the biggest driving force for all parents”.