🌟Our Journey to Three Little Ones 👶👶👶

Becoming a parent is a profound journey, one that transforms you in ways you never imagined. For us, having three kids under the age of seven has been an incredible, challenging, and rewarding experience.

My Journey: Three Kids in Six Years

I had my first son, Artur, at 31. By then, I was still in good shape, active and walking everywhere. My first pregnancy went smoothly, but despite wanting a natural birth, I had to have a C-section. When I became pregnant again at 34, I tried to find a doctor who would allow for a natural birth after C-section. I found one, but as the due date approached, there were no contractions, and I had no choice but to schedule another operation.

By the time our third child, Olivia, came along, the decision was already made and there was no stress or panic, another C-section, and this time, I was completely at peace with it. While the pain was still there, it felt easier to handle, and I recovered much faster. I knew what to expect and had the mindset to push through the recovery process, even when it was hard. With each pregnancy, I learned that resilience grows, and experience makes a difference.

A Decision Beyond Numbers

Society often pressures us to conform. For some, the "perfect" family has two kids. But why should anyone dictate what’s right for your family? I’ve always believed that life is too short to live by someone else’s expectations. If having kids makes you happy, go for it. If it doesn’t, then don’t. Parenthood is a monumental responsibility. It’s not a checkbox on a social norm list; it’s a lifelong commitment.

For me, the decision to have more kids was deeply personal. When I was seven months pregnant with Artur, my younger brother passed away in a car accident. That loss stayed with me, and seeing my mother’s sorrow solidified my belief that I didn’t want Artur to be alone. I wanted him to have the bond only siblings can share, a source of love, support, and companionship.

From Two to Three: A New Chapter

After Mateo was born, we thought we were done. We joked about how exhausting having a third child would be. Yet, deep down, I wanted a little girl and I also believe my husband too. Fast forward to New Year’s Eve 2022: I took a pregnancy test late at night and saw the two lines appear. Then I took another, just to be sure. Both tests confirmed it, Olivija was on her way! I was overjoyed, but I was also scared. That night, I couldn’t sleep. I began reading blogs, forums, and stories from other parents of three, trying to prepare myself for what lay ahead.

The third pregnancy was tougher, my body felt heavier, my muscles weaker but I knew what to expect. I was 36 and classified as "old," which came with extra tests and precautions. Olivia’s birth was smooth, though she spent her first day in an incubator due to breathing difficulties. Seeing her there gave me an indescribable determination to get up out of bed despite the paid. Therefore, recovering from my third C-section was easier and faster than the other two times. Step by step, despite the stitches and soreness, I made my way to the nursery to see her. I remember leaning on the bed rails and walking carefully, knowing that each step brought me closer to her. Each visit gave me strength. Knowing the baby was waiting for me made all the difference.

What It’s Like to Have Three Kids

Having a third child changes everything. Your house is never quiet; there’s always someone to care for, to cuddle, or to discipline. There is always someone that wakes you during the night. But the experience is different from the first time. With Artur, I was clueless, learning everything from scratch. By the time Olivia came along, I felt like a seasoned pro.

The best part? Watching the sibling bond. Seeing Mateo take care of Olivia or Artur helping her walk makes the chaos worth it. Yes, it’s more work, but it’s also more LOVE, more laughter, and more little helpers running around the house. I love seeing their hugs and kisses and how they work together.

The Challenges and Rewards

Let’s be real, parenting isn’t easy. Sleepless nights, tantrums, endless laundry, it’s exhausting. But human beings adapt. What seemed insurmountable with my first now feels manageable. It’s like the pain after a C-section; it’s tough at first, but you get through it and grow stronger.

Having three kids has brought so much joy to our lives. It’s chaotic, yes, but it’s also full of beautiful moments, tiny hands held together, spontaneous hugs, and the pure delight of watching your children grow. And while the third pregnancy was more physically demanding, the recovery process taught me how strong I can be, and the joy Olivia brought made every ache and pain worth it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering whether to have a third child, my advice is to listen to your heart. Don’t let societal expectations dictate your decisions. Parenthood is deeply personal, and what works for one family may not work for another.

For us, three is the happiest number and our "perfect mismatch," a blend of chaos and love that fills our home and hearts. And if you decide to take the step into the world of three kids, know this: you’re stronger than you think, and you’ve got this.

Life is short, so do what makes you truly happy, whether that’s one child, three, or none at all. After all, your journey is yours to define.