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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To be thinking about the disappointment of not having a third baby?

34 replies

KittyPup · 25/12/2024 09:58

We’re sat here on Christmas morning and both dc are excitedly playing with presents. Dh and I have had a tough year as we’re on opposite pages when it comes to having a third. As always though, the person who doesn’t want one overrides the one who does. I feel resentful but am trying to come to terms with it.

This morning, however, I just have an overwhelming feeling of sadness watching my two playing, instead of happiness. I feel the tears rising constantly, knowing that I won’t have a third and keep having to swallow them and blink them away. Dh is asking if I’m okay and I keep saying yes as I don’t want to ruin the day or upset him either. I am grateful for what I have but watching both dc, in my gut I just feel like we’re missing one person. I’m worried I’ll never shake this feeling and eventually it will tear Dh and I apart. I love him and want our marriage to work. Any advice on how to get through the day with a smile on my face would be appreciated.

OP posts:
KittyPup · 25/12/2024 10:16

I 100% agree with the responses. I do feel grateful for the dc I have. I wish I didn’t feel this way. I lost my dad earlier in the year and it’s our first Christmas without him. I’m sure Dh thinks it’s this and not the other thing. I think it is a combination of both. It’s been a difficult year.

OP posts:
fairycakes1234 · 25/12/2024 10:16

I don't want to make you feel worse as you can't help those feelings but I had 2 separate friends on the phone to me last night and both upset as they don't have kids, one lost a child at 34 weeks aged 42 so she knows she will never have a child, the other recently separated aged 44, no kids and facing a terrible christmas, people would give their right arm to be you, so enjoy the 2 lovely children you have and put it aside for christmas❤️

CraftyNavySeal · 25/12/2024 10:15

Desire is the root of all suffering.

Your feelings are your feelings, but you already have what many are unable to have. Have gratitude for your 2 children and enjoy the day.

AnneLovesGilbert · 25/12/2024 10:14

Count how many more Christmases you’ll have where your children really embrace the magic and joy and decide if it’s worth wasting one of them mourning the loss of something hypothetical.

Imagine how you’d feel if instead of embracing the many blessings he has your husband was creating a bad atmosphere because he resented you.

standardduck · 25/12/2024 10:10

I think you need to get in a mindset of being thankful for your family and enjoy today.

What is it that you are missing that you think 3rd child will fix?

I can wanting another child, but it sounds like there is more to it if you are unable to enjoy and be present for the kids you have.

paulyispoorly · 25/12/2024 10:09

Can you not just enjoy your healthy happy kids on Christmas Day? Yes I know we all have our own issues and we are allowed to feel sad about what we want but in this case you really have no cause to

getahhtmapub · 25/12/2024 10:09

Try to imagine you dont have one. And never will do.

Feel better?

Purplevelvetshoes · 25/12/2024 10:06

You are going to ruin the day if you don’t get in the present and enjoy today. It’s not fair on everyone else. Today is not the day to pick over feeling sad about it. You’ve two kids who have been looking forward to this day for months. And if I was your DH I’d be fucked of that your moping about not telling him what’s up with you on a day youve most likely spent hundreds of pounds on to enjoy yourself.

Go upstairs have a cry, wash your face and go back down.

And enjoy what you have today

luckylavender · 25/12/2024 10:05

KittyPup · 25/12/2024 09:58

We’re sat here on Christmas morning and both dc are excitedly playing with presents. Dh and I have had a tough year as we’re on opposite pages when it comes to having a third. As always though, the person who doesn’t want one overrides the one who does. I feel resentful but am trying to come to terms with it.

This morning, however, I just have an overwhelming feeling of sadness watching my two playing, instead of happiness. I feel the tears rising constantly, knowing that I won’t have a third and keep having to swallow them and blink them away. Dh is asking if I’m okay and I keep saying yes as I don’t want to ruin the day or upset him either. I am grateful for what I have but watching both dc, in my gut I just feel like we’re missing one person. I’m worried I’ll never shake this feeling and eventually it will tear Dh and I apart. I love him and want our marriage to work. Any advice on how to get through the day with a smile on my face would be appreciated.

Kindly, I know many women who would be delighted with 1.