Should we try for another baby?

[mumblecrumble]

Reasons against:

Lots of jobs that need doing in the house...
Our one child wears us out as it is....
Middle bedroom is full of crap we'd have to clear out....
Money is quite tight and our crippling loan is not paid off for a year...
It was very stressful being off work (my maternity cover kept changing things...)
I have problems with my arms and hands - could I cope with a 4 or 5 year old and a new baby
Childcare would almost double...
Everything will take twice as long... and it takes forever now....
My Mum and Dad don't think we "are ready for number two"
Pregnancy is uncomfortable....
Birth blumin hurts....

Reasons for:
We (all three of us) really want another baby

Your thoughts as big families would really help.

I think every bit of common sense in the world would tell us not to even have the first child, but still we have them and more.

People do say it is a very big jump from one child to two, although I didn't find that.

Clearing out a spare room is no reason at all, you can just do that anytime.

Your loan sounds like it would be paid off about the time a second child arrives anyway.

Being off work might be different this time if somebody else is covering you.

The problems with your hands and arms may even get worse in pregnancy though.

If you first child is 4 or 5 they should be in school soon so reduce childcare costs.

Well so what if things take a little longer.

Pregnancy and childbirth logic would tell us never to do that ever! The end result is worth it though.

Why do parents not thing you are ready though?

In 20 years, how many of those things will be important?

Do not look back and wish you had. I have four and I do not regret it.

If you have another one it will be company for your first. They will do things together.

You may get lots of advice from us on mumsnet but you know your situation the best. I cannot tell you what to do as I do not really know you personally.

Your paience will be tested but thats all part of bringing up children.

Deep down what do you really want to do?

All the best in your decision

Think my parents just see us as having a lower income so therefore should wait.... We have waited to find out at that DH wont be made redundant and as you say our loan should be paid off by the time number 2 would be born.

I think you're right - being off work would be different as I am a little more confident now...

Deep down (not that deep really)... I want another baby. I really want a family of four and I really would like to experience pregnancy and feeding again when its not quite so new.

I guess it can;t be as different as going from 0 to 1!!!