"The attempt to redefine the family as a purely voluntary arrangement grows out of the modern delusion that people can keep all their options open all the time" - Christopher Lasch

In the world today it's quit often you'll hear parents decision to only have 1 or 2 children. I think it's great that they want to become parents and are willing to give up time and money to raise them. Personally I have always wanted 5 kids. My mother had 5 children and that's probably why I want 5 as well. I love children so I say the more the merrier! I applaud anyone willing to have children, but it saddens me to know that there will be less kids in the world. In my family relations class we learned of the newest trends (statistics) that have been happening.

Sex before marriage: Increased
Birth's to unmarried woman: Increased
Adult's living alone: Increased
Cohabitation: Increased
Age getting married: Increased
Stay at home moms: Decreased
Birth rates: Decreased
Divorce rates: Increased
Family size: Decreased

This list includes all types of people, whether they are married, divorced, single, widowed, etc. To me family is the most important thing. I love my current family but I've never been very close to them. My mother has never really tried to understand me, but I guess I haven't tried with her either. She has severe depression and an even bigger temper. Because of the way I grew up with her it makes me want to have my own family that I can properly teach and devote my time too.

Mothers who are able, please try to spend more time with your children. They value your time more then you think. Teens and other adults, wait till your married to have sex. It will be more fulfilling and you wont be left with heartbreak if the relationship doesn't work out. Couples who are thinking of divorcing, why are you doing it? If it's because you've "fell out of love" or are starting to have feelings for someone else besides your spouse - please try to make it work and don't give up!

Thanks everyone and I will be back next week!