My honest feelings on having a BIG FAMILIES
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- Опубліковано 18 кві 2023
- In this video, I'm speaking honestly about my experience having a big Catholic family. I talk about the good, the bad and the ugly. I hope that you'll take away some valuable information from this video, especially if you're considering having a big family yourself.
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Hello Friends! I would love to hear about your thoughts on having more children or a big family. Here are some links from this video
How to do NFP ua-cam.com/video/wEKl7p6RdjQ/v-deo.html
5 C-sections videos ua-cam.com/video/R5y6IfmE88w/v-deo.html
The more, the merrier, my friends
Look at Jacob he had twelve kids
Joseph was the one whom Jesus really admired and had big plans for him
Friends there usually one child out of the family circle Jesus will be able to work with
I'm a child out of 4
And at 4, I burned down my parents' house
That event changed our family of 6 lives
From the city to the country
We all were raised catholics, and all followed our mom and dad's ways
Didn't drink alcohol do drugs our do violent things
My parents taught us morals
But growing up a Catholic, there was something missing
And the time came. I was concerned about what was missing
I found what was missing
The whole truth of Jesus
Once a family with no division
To a divided family
Friends, if you're going to have family
Make sure you raise your kids into the whole truth of Jesus, for one of them will eventually go looking for more than a religion can offer them
Read the Bible as a family and invite to holy spirit into your group so that in the later times to come, you won't end up in division
Your children will listen to you now for their mind are still being developed but the day will come they will have a mind for themselves
May Jesus keep you and your family safe, my friends
Thanks for your videos.!!! ♥️
How old were u when u had your first born.
Thank You Very Much !!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m very grateful to God and Virgen Mary for this video !!!!!!!!! I AM SO GRATEFUL TO God and Virgin Mary for both of my children, I LOVE THEM SOOOOOOOO MUCHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!! It is very challenging, but completely worth it. As soon as my husband and I got married, God gave us our 1st gift, our 1st child, I became pregnant again with our 2nd gift, our 2nd child while being 3 and a half months postpartum from my first pregnancy. My husbands extended family and even a few of my extended family members criticize my husband, myself, our marriage and our family of 4. They judge us very harshly for being open to life and God’s will. Heather, can your family please pray for us ? Thank you, for all of your videos !!!!!!!!!
The doctrine of the church is very clear on contraception, i am in a 5 year marriage and my husband suddenly has become disabled due to an accident (cannot use his right foot) i have a liver disease that makes my pregnancies very high risk.
We have three kids under three and it has been scary, difficult, beautiful, lonely and it has made our marriage go through many “earthquakes”
Some days are extremely extremely hard, and i know i should never complain, i ask all of you to say a prayer for me and other mothers and wives of disabled spouses, people with chronic diseases, may God look on us with mercy and healing.
🤗 Heavenly Father, please bless this family with all their needs. May they feel Your presence with them and May they feel Your comfort and peace. In Jesus name. Amen
so many prayers for you.
your family will be in my prayers from now on 🙏💕
Many prayers for you and your husband! I’m in a similar situation and can understand and appreciate all you are going through. God is here for you all!
My prayers for your family. Keep the faith. 🙏
Can I ask anybody who sees this to pray for my husband and I to be able to conceive? We got married in September and have been doing all the methods (and all the novenas) to get pregnant to no avail. We have now started working with a NaPro doctor. I know 8 months isn’t much comparing to what other couples go through but we would still appreciate some prayers. 🥺🙏🏻
So sorry for what you’re going through. My husband and I are going through the same thing. We’re going on four years married and nothing yet. I will be praying for you and your husband! Keep persevering and trusting in God’s perfect will and timing 🙏🏼
You could contact the Transalpine Redemptorists of Papa Stronsay for a St.Gerard’s relic. It is a satin belt you wear around your waist; I wear one during pregnancy and postpartum.
May God bless you!
Just prayed for you 🙏🏼 ❤️
Try going to a crisis pregnancy mission and let them know you and your husband want to adopt. They specialize in convincing unwed mothers to raise the children on her own with public assistance in place of the father. Perhaps they are entirely unaware there are couples willing to give a child both a mother and a father. I recommend all couples let them know you are willing to provide the family unit God designed and the child deserves
@@jennifergarcia8035 Crisis pregnancy centers encounter unwed mothers who's child has a right to both a mother and father. You can offer a child the family unit that God designed and the child needs.
Children are a blessing. We have 7 and even I think it would’ve been nice to have more. Each child has taught me and helped me to grow in a different virtue. I wouldn’t be the woman/mother I am today without the growth that has come from each child’s birth. God Bless You Heather! ♥️
We have six children. Most people think we’re crazy!!! 6 c sections ❤
Wow on the c’s I have had three. They are no joke! 😅Bless you!
6 c sections? Is it safe? I'm asking because in France doctors recommend no more than 3 because it weakens the uterus and increase risks by the pregnancy
@@RockinRobin2I've had one,and that was enough,nearly 15 years later,I remember it like it was yesterday ❤
@@thierry-yonathanmeyer5976 It's not just France, I have been told 2 or 3 c-sections are the maxium here in the United States as well. Also, a vaginal birth after c-section can have issues as well. It would be interesting to find out (if possible) why this woman had all 6 babies by c-section and not vaginal deliveries.
I have 6 kids all by c section,I think it depends on each person.I have no complications but can't say for all women.
I’m a revert Catholic & and been confirmed last year. I’m glad I didn’t marry when I was an anti-Catholic but now I’m 40 and would love to have a big family, as much as God permits. Can you pray for me for a faithful Catholic husband and a big family 🙏🏼
@@ccbarr58 amazing! God bless you and your son!
I wasn't Catholic when I had my babies but I realized I had the mentality of a Catholic when it came to having children. I saw children as a huge blessing, I didn't like birth control or the thought of getting fixed.
I had 5 children back to back, all of them are grown now. I would have had 7 children but lost two to a miscarriage.
I am 51 and if God would of kept giving me babies I would have kept going as long as God blessed me with more. I miss being a mommy of itty bittys. I also had no family help. My husband was all I had and he had to work.
I don't recall having difficulty with them, only with my first she had Collic and cried a lot and I would rock and cry with her but I just assumed this is how things are. I didn't know any better. 😊
Hi Heather, first time commenting, longtime viewer.. I agree with this fully! We had our first child at 24 and it was hard! We thought we were done at two but thanks to God we kept our hearts open to Gods will and continued to have more kids. I’m 34 now with 4 children and it is so fulfilling! Yes I’m busy but I love my life, each child brings a new dynamic and enriches our family. My favorite days are when I allow myself to get lost in motherhood. I also think one kid is harder than four because the child depends on the parents to be everything to them. Our kids entertain each other, help each other, care for one another. It’s amazing. God is perfect. Thank you for everything you do Heather! Your voice has helped me grow in my Catholic faith and role as a mother. I went from full time career mom to full time homemaker and it was the best decision we’ve made for our family. God bless you and your family!
I needed this. I'm a single Kom, who never got married. I wanted to give up in even having any hopes because of my past, but I know it doesn't define me for a holy matrimony. It's painful. Really painful to this reality, but it's not impossible. I want more kids, I want an actual marriage. I want a chance to get married.
I’m not sure if it’s true for you Heather, but in my experience with 5 kids, I feel like I treasure my kids childhood MORE with each child I have. Even the “terrific twos” I know I will miss even when it’s tough! I’m really appreciating each moment and realizing I’ll never have it again.
So in that regard, I always want more babies because to me, raising a human being is the best part of being alive. I have 5 kids too and everything you said is so spot on. The only issue I’m grappling with is how much attention my younger kids need vs the older ones. So at times I feel guilty about dividing my time. I’m a stay at home mom though and spend every waking moment with them, so I’m sure I’m just overthinking it..but I love motherhood ❤ in a previous video you mentioned board games with the family and I got the sequence game like you suggested and I love our family game nights where we all spend time together. ❤❤
I have 5 also and I feel the same way! My oldest and youngest are 10 years apart so the needs of the big kids and little kids are so different. Wouldn’t change it for the world though
We were blessed with 3 boys, now grown. Because we couldn’t have more we decided to foster. Now in our 60’s we are raising 2 of our grandchildren and have 1 of our adult granddaughters with us as well. It’s not always been easy but I wouldn’t want it any other way.
I had my first son at 19 and then my second at 20. In those years I remember saying I am done but as they grew my heart changed. I just had my 5th baby and turned 41 this year. I do regret closing that door for so many years but I am glad that my heart was transformed so I could be open to it before it was too late!
A thought about how to not "lose yourself" to motherhood...
I only have 1 child (not by choice, we're seeing a NaPro) but I spend as much extra time as I can serving the Church with my gifts. I coordinate our Parish Mom's Group, facilitate playdates, help plan family events for the church, help teach RCIA, and otherwise volunteer in any capacity I can make time for. I bring my 2.5yr old son with me everywhere and the church is super supportive of it! Because of this, he loves going to church.
My suggestion would be to use the gifts you do have to serve the church in whatever way you can in your season of life. It keeps you connected, allows you to serve your family and others, and allows you to keep a sense of self.
I’m 28, my husband and I started having kids at 20. We’ve been pregnant 5 times and have 4 living children ages 8, 5, 3 and 5 months. As exhausting as it is, I’d love to have more but we will see if it’s in God’s plan. We do NFP (I’m converting to Catholicism).
You doing very well. Good to hear about young people like you having children.
And congratulation on converting. I witnessed this Easter a girl I know, who from being atheist
become catholic. She was sooooo happy. I witnessed this beautiful ceremony first
time in my long life. For me, cradle catholic, it was very touching.God bless your family.
I am my parent's 8th child. I thank God my parents welcomed all their children. They were 44 and 54 when I was born.
Big families rock!
I have 6.
I was 44 when I had my 8th. I had tons of help from the other kids 😊
@@baseballmomof8parentification
What do you mean you got married at 30?! You look like you are in your late 20s!Congratulations on aging beautifully.❤️
This was the encouragement I needed! Neither my husband or I come from big families but recently we have felt that God may calling us to do that. You answered a lot of questions/hesitations that we have had! Thanks Heather!!
God bless 🙏
❤Hi everyone. I was raised in a large Catholic Italian American home. I’m one of 10 children, 7 girls/3boys. My Father instilled a strong, rich foundation of respect, honor, love, forgiveness, humility, humor, pride and prayer. He died at the age of 36 leaving my 32 yr old Mother with us all. My youngest brother wasn’t even a year old when he passed. My Mother (she passed May 16, 2022) was devoted to The Blessed Mother. I watched her, learned from her, the power of adoration. Although we did not have luxuries, we had necessities. We rallied and raised each other up. We still do! Incredibly grateful for the gift of being birthed into a large family. I am, most incredibly grateful. ❤
Two were my hardest. It got easier with three and more so with four and five. They are all adults now. I watch the love and closeness of these adults…four of whom have kids of their own. No regrets. I’m so glad my faith pushed me when I thought I couldn’t. The reward is amazing, and continues to be amazing.
We just had number 5 today!
We feel like a small family compared to some of the families we know.
I sit in at my kids' Catechism class. It's a very traditional parish. The priest said that married people should have at least 10 children. And if they don't they might be selfish. I was really upset about that. There are so many women who struggle with infertility or who keep having miscarriages. I wish the judgments would stop. We need to be accepting of all family sizes. I have 3 and my family is complete. I sacrifice for my family every day. I don't need to have 10 or more to prove that. This is not directed at any particular person. Just sharing my thoughts.
You are right,of course.
I've heard this kind of stuff in traditional parishes and it makes my blood boil. Different people have different levels of health, energy, fertility... You can have a fertile home by having two children, but having an open door to your friends and family, by helping a young mother with lots of small kids, by taking on more in the parish as you have more time, by spreading God's word through media... there are so many ways to serve the Lord as a family, not all of them involve having a huge family. As long as you do what you can do, it's between you and God.
Also, it annoys me to call this selfishness, because my husband and I have intentionally spaced births through great self control and a lot of work on our relationship, and I can honestly say that it's been both hard and incredibly fruitful for our love and sanctification to go this route.
You are right.
Don't worry about that Mother Mary has only one. Sure she is different. But that's the point. Every marriage has different callings and mission. I think the point is that to not intentionally "block" God's way when He thinks we're still able to handle more kids.
Thank you for saying that. I have 3 children on earth and 3 in heaven and often feel “less than” among the big families at our parish. I know it’s just my own insecurity. Maybe God thinks 3 is good for me 😊
Thank you for sharing this ! We aren't Catholic, but we decided after our first daughter was born to leave our family size up to God (yep, a decision not well understood and questioned by friends and family) .
I also got married at 30 so even though I wanted at least 5 kids, I was never sure if I would be able to. However, I was blessed to be able to get pregnant easily and I'm now 40 and expecting my 5th (with a few early miscarriages in between) .
I totally agree with everything you said!
It is so so so hard yes, in SO many different ways. I had no idea going into motherhood how hard it would be but also no idea how beautiful! But you're right , we will never look back and regret the kids we had, only the ones we didn't. It's absolutely precious to watch my kids becoming each other's best friends and I feel that each of them, in addition to being gifts from God to us are also gifts from God to each other.
It's nice to hear from other moms with "larger" families as I sometimes find myself feeling anxious about telling people I'm 40 and expecting my 5th- I guess I don't want to deal with any judgement. But I can't wait and my older kids are SO EXCITED for another baby!!
Big or small, god loves all family. We only have two children and that was what was meant for us. God only blessed with two and I feel blessed to have each of them. We had a very hard time getting pregnant for each of our kids. So we are so grateful that we at least had them.
I love big families and that was always my dream. My third was born with a rare disability that wasn't hereditary but will affect her entire life. In a way it ruined my life. My ex is no longer involved, I deal with hospitalizations, no sleep and raising three kids on my own. I have dealt with comments that maybe I shouldn't have had a third child but two was so easy and I didnt expect this to happen. Unfortunately I think parenthood and how hard it is can be based on how lucky you are to have healthy children.
I have just turned 41 and expecting 4th and although Iam scared how we are going to afford it all and manage everything and how my body is coping …. We can’t wait to see her little face in September. Never thought we will have 4 but it’s definitely a blessing although I didn’t think so straight away. Thank you for your video it gives lots of hope and encouragement
Sooo true. Thank you Heather for this video, too. Large family is stressful, hard but also fulfilling and beautiful. We have 5 children age 6-16 and you know what, I regret we didn't have more. 😆 Anyway, it became a lot easier on the psychological side when I could give up on myself (carrier, me time, wishes, etc) and accept 100% that motherhood is my way, my life. And actually blogs and vlogs like yours have helped me a lot to do so. Keep going on your ministry, Heather!👍❤️
Greetings from Hungary
Thank you for this💕 my husband and I had a miscarriage a year ago. We found out I had a ton of fibroids, some grapefruit sized, a precancerous lesion and severe endometriosis that was giving me severe bleeding and anemia. Two doctors told me a hysterectomy was medically necessary. It was heartbreaking. We talked to different priests who said if wouldn't be a sin in my case to have one. So I did at 38, but it was the hardest thing ever. My husband and I both came from big Catholic families and loved it. My parents are engagement counselors through the church and my sister-in-law is a sister in an order. We talked with them. Other medical treatments hadn't helped and the heavy and sudden bleeding was keeping me from mass and other things. It was crazy hard. We do have four kiddos, but I really wish we could've had more. Sometimes I worry God doesn't love me as much now, but I know I have to keep my faith and trust in Him. But I still wonder sometimes if I did the right thing and it still haunts me to this day. I've even brought it up in confession when I was really doubting that decision. It's so incredibly hard. Thanks for sharing your story. God bless you 💛
To determine the morality of an act you have to consider the circumstances and intentions as well. You needed to be healthy for your family they need you. Trust the priests you talked to. It was no sin. And please, do not doubt of God's love. ❤
I agree with the previous commenter. God's love is infinite and does not depend on your ability to carry more children. When those doubts come to you, try to think, are they whispered to you by the Holy Spirit? Or don't you think it is the enemy? Jesus loves you, He died for you and would never want you to feel miserable about doing what was the right thing for your health and your family ❤
I dont see how this could possibly be a sin -- I wouldnt even call it into question. The desire for more children (I have heard from mothers of many) doesn't go away...that being said God loves us so much and loves our desires. You could pray and discern adoption :) So much love and prayers to you.
You did right decision. You were blessed by four children so God loves you very much.
Your heavenly father knows all your ailments and you live in the exact time with the means to properly heal them and he's even placed you in the right country and give you the right means to receive that treatment. Nothing escapes His providence. Your worth doesn't come from how many children you have, but from God. He loves you in an undivided way before you did anything and He continues to love you today and will for eternity. God bless you 🙏🏻
Wait, did you say you didn't get married until you were 30? That is so comforting to hear! I am turning 28 this month, and I am going through a difficult breakup. If God wills, I hope to have a large beautiful family like yours. Thank you for sharing!
I totally agree with you. And it's important not to listen to the world! The truth is not there, only God has the truth.💜
This is soooo encouraging! Currently 30 weeks pregnant with my 4th also all c sections and finding out I was pregnant again filled me with fear and anxiety due to the previous surgery. After talking to my dr she reassured me I was ok and now my husband and I are over the moon excited to welcome another baby girl. I agree going from 1 to 2 kids is much harder than having more. I also became a SAHM with our 3rd so it has allowed me to fully embrace being a wife and a mother. I love my family and wouldn’t have it any other way. We will be homeschooling this year and I’m nervous about it so prayers are very much appreciated 😅
Mom of a 2 year old and 2 month old here, in the trenches, and I needed to hear this today! Thanks Heather!
I've been there and it's HARD. I promise it gets easier (if you raise them well.) I had 3 all under 3 for a little bit there and not they are 3 under 6 and we are already ready and expecting #4 which I never would have imagined I would have planned with how hard it was for a while.. it gets easier!!
“In the trenches” 🙌🏼😆 yes and Amen- my husband and I are juuust now getting through the trenches and I hear ya! BUT, God is great and you are fully equipped with Him on your side. Keep truckin, Mama! It WILL get easier and you can do it! 😃❤️✝️
Life is short; motherhood is shorter. ❤️
Amen
God bless you ❤
I have 3 children and in June the 4th is born. I'm 26 years old so I think I'm going to have a big family. I ask for the grace of God to be able to educate them for the Kingdom of Heaven it is tiring but God willing I will have the whole eternity to rest🙏🏻💗
God bless you and your family
I have 3 kids and those are my biggest blessings and biggest accomplishments. Unfortunately had a hysterectomy, but wish I had more❤❤❤ I love your videos!
God is so good. I really needed this video. Thank you for sharing!❤ you always seem to post a video about something I’ve been battling with.
I love this! You are such a light. The honesty is so needed but it is so refreshing that you NEVER come across that a large family (or any children) is a drag- they are such a blessing!
Thank you so much Heather, ypu always make my heart and mind clear whenever I feel confused wether to have another kids. Love you ❤
Heather! I’m so happy you’ve done this video. We just had our 4th baby girl in March, and thanks be to God for her. I thought it would NEVER be possible again to have more children, but the door has been opened!! We are hoping in time to continue to increase our family and have that “big” family. And the help from the older kids! Oh my yes! Our oldest is 12 then, 9 year old then 6 almost 7 year old and wow what a help and they just dote on our little Zelie all day and want to care for her. 😭 it’s beautiful.
your family is just wonderful and please keep doing what you're doing.... you are an inspiration! may God grant your family with more beautiful blessings ❤
This is definitely one of my favorite video that you made ❤ thanks for this❤
I had a 3 year old and had twins but was a stay at home Mom. That helped, because I was not fit to be seen in public for a while. ; ) My 3 year old was very good though, played alone well, I could read to him and breastfeed but it got hairy when the twins were 2. Every family has it seasons and some are better than others but always so blessed.
Thanks for always sharing so honestly and humbly! We have six kiddos, our oldest will be 13 in September and he is for sure helpful! It is definitely not easy but very blessed by our big family!
God bless you, Heather, beautiful story to share with others.
God bless your family.
I am a grandmother, and I love it, when my children visit with their family, I love it, when the grandchildren are comfortable, at our home, it is a great feeling, to see them opening the fridge, going into our bedroom and more.
They are a true blessing from above.
When they leave, I am collapsing, but I love it, for they were at our home, and I treated them to a meal, entertained them and more.
Glory be to God, on His Divine Mercy on all.
Thanks again for sharing. 😘🙏👍❤️🌷🌺☘️✝️🌟👏
Heather thank you sharing this. I have one daughter and it’s so hard. We’re praying for more ❤
Love this video! I would love to see more of these chatty videos and learn more about motherhood in this way!
A visiting priest said during a homily “Five is halftime.” I wish I was young enough to have more but I’m forty now and had my first miscarriage this year 😢.
I am 1 of 4 and I love having siblings! I love big families. I have a lot of aunts and uncles, cousins, it was so fun! It’s not perfect but I live it and am so grateful for all of them!
Thank you for this video Heather! I have 3 right now and there are so many moments of beauty and chaos 😂. I have had to learn to let go of a lot in regards to the tidiness of my house. After the birth of each of my children so far, I could not imagine life without them. After my first, I felt like everything had to be perfect all the time, and I didn’t know how I could keep it up with more children, but God has helped me grow so much with each child. I have learned to let go of certain things that never would have been possible if I hadn’t had more children. Thank you for your ministry!
Thank you for sharing your heart!!!
This was really encouraging, thank you.
This was such a refreshing topic and helpful in so many ways!
I have two girls (4 and 21months) and it is a struggle with two i agree!
I am an only child so jealousy and fighting with siblings is hard for me. I get mad at my 4 year old so easily when she is mean to her sister or jealous. But she has started helping and playing more with her sister so it's a blessing.
Also, the tantrums and getting moody all of the time. I am moody so we clash a lot. We are growing together slowly.
My first, i had a placental abruption and it was scary so I was scared and paranoid all the time. My younger one was easier, but is the more active loud one.
We definitely want to have more if it's God's will. My husband is also a never stop trying and I want to quit too but we learn for each other.
I put everyone first I feel sometimes that i lose myself. It's hard to find time to pray or do hobbies. I am hoping in the fall to go for my masters but how to do it all is in God's hands.
Thank you so much for your sharing and support ❤
🙏
Love to hear your insight and good Catholic life🥰❤
Mom of 3, working on growing our family! We love parenthood. I would love if our own parents were supportive of us having more. They don’t share the same convictions as we do. It’s hard to put their comments aside.
I’m a single mom and while I long for more children and sad about it sometimes I am thankful to God for the child he gave me and knowing there are many people I know who pray to have even one child whether it be biological or adopted/foster. Children are a blessing
One thing I think the church should remember is that most people do not live around extended family anymore. I love my three children, but with distance and illness in my extended family, it is just me and my husband doing everything. God bless anyone that can handle a large family, but without extended family to help now and again, it is challenging.
This is meant to be an encouragement- it gets easier!!! We don't live around any family either and my husband and I do everything. I have done a lot of learning about how to run a home very simply so that I don't have to manage so much (we have five children). I really love the channel farmhouse on Boone for learning a homemakers/mother's mindset. Two kids was the hardest for me because toddlers and even preschoolers can be SO HARD, and the days can be SO long. I promise- they don't stay toddlers forever!! You were made for this- you can master it. The church isn't trying to hurt you with the prohibition to contraception it's lifting the veil on reality- we are meant to give life not stop it- and we only have a short window. Our hardships as mothers cannot destroy our eternal souls even if they destroy our kitchens. ❤️
Same here! No family and the 5th baby was a preemie... the stress was overwhelming.. back and forth to hospital with baby in nicu and all the little kids at home crying for mama. I get ptsd thinking of that time.
Thanks for sharing, Heather. Apart from a very difficult patch, I had a very easy first baby. Every baby since has been increasingly hard. Babies #3, #4, & #5 have had such severe colic that they didn't sleep during the daytime, and woke repeatedly through the night. Night-time wake ups crossed over into the first year of the next sibling's birth, so I've juggled two and three children up several times each, every night for the last eight years. I don't think it would be nearly so hard, except that the oldest two (both boys) fight constantly, and hate helping around the home; and we have no support from family. I miscarried our sixth baby a few months ago...and despite feeling so mentally and physically crushed by the strain of five, the grief of losing our little one was devastating.
My spiritual life has definitely suffered since having children, and I don't know how to improve that except by continuing to offer every waking moment back to God. I'd love to know if you have any advice for positive spiritual development for mothers who have no free time! I'm often told to rise before the family, meditate while on the toilet, and make visits to the Blessed Sacrament after the children are in bed...but these don't work when you've been up all night, your children drag you out of bed before dawn, keep you on your toes all day, come to the toilet with you (or scream at you from the other side of the toilet door until you emerge), and don't fall asleep until after my own bedtime has been and gone!
Great video, thank you!
Love hearing your testimony, Heather, thank you for this! my husband and I thought we were done, or at least hoped we were done. We have four small children from the ages of 9 to 3 years old & we are also practicing NFP but somehow slipped up and currently are pregnant again after a miscarriage last summer, I have had two miscarriages out of all of the pregnancies,and both had to be carried out with a DNC unfortunately, because my body does not misCarry normally on it’s own, recently also have been spotting again, and my fear that it is happening all over again please keep us in your prayers we will always say yes to the will of God🙏🏼
I’m one of 5 & it’s awesome! My mum is one of 12 & there’s never a dull moment lol. My poor grandparents tho, sometimes we just laugh cause even in their 80s there’s still so much going on. My dad only has one brother & my grandparents (his parents) always say their biggest regret is never having more kids. Their life is full with us tho. We’re all very close to both sides of the family. All Catholics here too🙋♂️🤗🙏
Thank you for this encouraging message on this topic. Pregnancy and birth can be very hard but is so worth it! We thought we were done w 2 but God has blessed w 5. Each pregnancy brings trials but we know we are doing the right thing to be open to Life!
I agree with what you said, you can grow in holiness when you are serving your family. I love watching on your channel. I'm a practicing Catholic too, from the 🇵🇭, a full time mom and wife.
Heather, I don't know why but I never saw this video on your channel. I usually get notified of your uploads but this one, I don't remember seeing. Maybe that is for a reason because this video is so timely for me. I have been struggling so much with the idea of expanding our family. I've had traumatic birth experiences and very difficult times trying to nurse. I've been so scared to have another one. We only have 2 but they are 3 and 2 and I feel like it's A LOT of work. I do feel so exhausted and worn out. I've been wondering when I will have time to read or work-out without interruptions. Your video has given me so much to think about and in my heart I know that what you've talked about is right. I do need to surrender this to God especially since my husband is so excited to have more. Thank you for posting this and I love these chatty videos! God bless Heather and please pray for me that God fills me with peace on this issue.
I come from a family of four kids. Growing up we could not take many vacations or expensive toys. The biggest bed in our house wasn't our parents' but the kids'. We four slept on the same bed for many years. Life was very simple for us and sometimes I wished for nicer things but looking back, I have happy childhood memories. I love my brothers deeply.
Both our parents are gone but we still have each other.
I never thought I wanted a big family but after having two kids and trying to do God will, my vision has changed. Motherhood has changed me and I'm so happy.
Thank you Heatherfor your encouragement and honesty. ❤
Im a stay at home cat mom of 3. I am 34 and on disability and struggle with bouts of depression so kids aren’t likely. I think families look different for everyone. Human beings annoy me after a while I need time alone. I like to pray alone in my room. I like helping the local animal shelters. 😊
I think that the whole "3 c-sections limit" is being reviewed. I know many women here in Brazil who don't wait 1 or 2 years after a c-section (this means they don't do any sort of NFP) or that have been through more than 3 c-sections and everything went great. Luckly, we are being blessed with amazing OBGYNs who are slowy changing the scenario here and many are very, very talented and blessed by the Holy Spirit. They are real Catholics who understand the Church's teachings profoundly and are able to help the families and encourage them. I even know about a woman who had 14 c-sections (!!)
Thank you for sharing this ❤ I'm in the hard part of it with an almost 4 year old, 2 year old, and baby due on Mother's Day. I want a big family as well, hoping for 6-8 kids!
I too had 3 boys at first and gifted a girl as my 4th. By far the 2nd boy was a true test of my motherhood and forged who I am and who my husband is today. Our extended families on both sides think we’re crazy but these babies are such a gift!
2:34 I grew up with my mom & grandparents. I was the first Catholic in my family for maybe 200+ years. I had to concede to the idea of being open to life with a compromise. I knew that I’m not destined to be a parent so I had to give up the possibility of married life. I respect the authenticity of marriage so it may not be for me at this time. Of course I get asked sometimes why I don’t explore this possibility but I don’t blame them for asking in the first place. This channel is a reminder that I must keep in mind for that one day.
I can’t wait to become a mom! Please pray for me. ❤
Having many children Is the only thing that can save the world. Because that Is the Will of God. Congratulations dear catholic mom. Go ahead. I am also from a family of ten.
I’m 29 years old and I pray for motherhood and to have a large family of many children and have grandchildren. I’m one of four and my mother is one of five. My twin sister wants five kids with her future spouse and my half sister just gave birth to her third child. Her second born son.
We have been contemplating trying for baby #4. Your video has given me the courage to try. My oldest son and daughter are 17 month apart and my daughter and toungest son are 26 months apart. My oldest was 3.5 when my toungest was born. The past 7 years have been a wild ride to say the least. My youngest is almost 3.5 now and I dont want to wait too long and have #4 be the "odd man out".
Thank you very encouraging 💙
Thank you Heather 😊
When my eldest turned one I found out I was pregnant with twins. I was livid. We were going to have three babies in two years. Right before the pandemic… it was the hardest time of our lives. Very difficult. We stayed in lockdown for three months with a two year old and six months old twins, while working from home. Horrible, horrible time. I remember thinking why is God doing this to me? We don’t have twins in our families, so why us? Now I know He did it because He knew we could handle it, while letting us see that sacrifice and hard work make people stronger and more united.
I love my children and my family deeply and if I could go back, I would have done it all over again. You and me against the world kind of mentality.
We should trust God more often and believe in our paths.
Loved this, thank you 🤍 can you make a video of tips for moms with toddlers throwing tantrums/screaming/hitting? How do you deal with it when that happens? How do you correct those behaviors the “right way” being Catholic? Specially with 5 kids!
Thank you for your great video! I have been married for seven years, and I have four children. We had them four years in a row. I have a five, four, three, and almost two-year-old. We never really used natural family planning that much. We did here and there, but found that God‘s plan at the end of the day is what is going to happen. We are trying hard to space our children right now. It is hard to discern whether or not to have more, as it has been a tough cross to have our children so immensely close together. That said, at the end of the day, we love our four children very much, and I know that the future is going to be amazing having them all so close. They will also have each other, and would be going through the a lot of same things together throughout their life.
Hi! I've been married 7 years and had 4 in 4 years as well. Such a crazy, wild time right now. Oldest is 5, youngest is almost 2. I hope to wait another year or two before diving back in. We are maxed out as well. Hang in there. Few people know this level of chaos.
Thanks for sharing ☺️
In your charity can you please pray for my husband’s coworker’s wife she’s pregnant they have 3 children their youngest one is 7yrs old and after him she has had 4 miscarriages and he’s asking for prayers that she can have a full pregnancy if it’s God’s will they’re a very catholic family and at the end they surrender to God’s will
Thank you
* her name is Allison*
Hello Heather, thank you for this video. My husband and I are contemplating about having one more. We have 2 boys 5 and 3 and I want to have more kids but my husband is scared coz I always have complications after giving birth. I had 2 cs and right after operation, I always passed out and my husband is scared that something might happen to me and saying that we are already old since he is 45 and I'm 41. So this week we say that we are going to pray for it, then he is sick now so he thinks God is telling not not to have more kids, but then I saw your video today. Please include us in our prayers so we can clearly hear God's will about having another kid or not. God bless you and your family always. I totally agree about being difficult in the beginning but easier as kids increases in number. Now that my boys are bigger they can already play together and entertain each other so I can now do other things around the house while they are playing, though it's normal that they fight once in a while, or some days most of the time. 😂
We have 6. We are tired but so blessed. And, yes, we are cleaning constantly too. Lol. Sts. Louis and Zelie Martin pray for us!
It must be something about baby #5! I felt confident in myself with 4, but number 5 came along and has thrown me for a loop!!!
I would love a big family!! I have 4 sons currently who are 1, 2, 4, 6. We are renting our house and I just don’t know how to financially make more children work here in Canada. My husband already works 90 hour weeks for us to just get by. Please pray that God helps us with this somehow so we can feel confident in having more children.
You are the best 🎉😊
Will pray for you!!🙏🙏🙏
I completely agree with you.
Even though I don't come from a big family, I always thought that it was easier with more children because it is logical to me that the older ones will help the younger ones, and the younger ones will learn from the older ones. I got married at the age of thirty, got pregnant right away, but the pregnancy was difficult, I was in the hospital for 3 months and then I gave birth at 34 weeks by caesarean section, the baby and I were fine, thank God, but when she was 11 months old, my uterus was operated on , and then gave birth to another when the first was 2 years and one month old. Now I'm waiting for 2 years to pass after giving birth to get pregnant with my third child. My wish is to have at least four, five would be ideal, although the doctor tells me that I should not have more than three, but I feel called by God and I have no fear of complications.
But even though both of my children are wonderful and really good, I am nervous by nature and I really grow most spiritually through motherhood.
This was a great video and advice! Me and my boyfriend are planning to have a baby in our future
Before getting married I kind of planned to have 3 children (God willing).
Within 9 years we had 5 children 😃
I guess the Good Lord had other plans for us! Praise God 🙏
Lotsa love from Singapore 😊
I have five children, and they are such a blessing
I just found your channel and have been loving your videos! You are so gentle in giving your opinion or even when presenting a hard and fast truth of the Church you aren't shaming others for not having lived that way but inviting them to renew themselves and live a life of deeper truth. I feel as though you are my mother hen in a way and your videos take me under your wing. Thank you for sharing your testimony, which is your life, with the world and proclaiming the Good News to this corner of UA-cam!
Very true ,i have two and i wish i had more😊
I grew up in a family of 7 and it I always felt like it was kinda small.
You are such a warm, gentle and clever person, such a wonderful motivation for me to be a better wife and mum, tkank you for everything you share with us. I really admire your looks and makeup routine, I am truly fascinated with the colour of your lipstick in this video. I tried to find the similar one but without success. Could you please tell us what lipstick or lipgloss you use here? Thanks a lot, best wishes for you and your great family, you arek doing a great job !
So glad you are here! I wear Burt’s bee colored chapstick red Delilah
@@ACatholicMomsLife thanks a lot, See you in autumn
Hi Heather!!! I sent you an email on one of your previous videos via your website. It was very long winded but I truly hope you received it 🙏🏼❤
No children of my own. I am a mother figure to 3 nieces and 2 nephews. I became co- guardian to my niece with special needs when my SIL died. My husband said "congratulations you e just become a mother" when the guardianship paperwork went thru. I also have worked with people with special needs my whole working life- nurturing doesnt have to equal birthing or adopting.😇
God bless you 🎉
We have eight kids. Oldest is 45, youngest is 23. Nothing better. The older ones always helped with the younger ones. 14 grandkids so far. 5 are married, 3 not yet.
I am one of 8, my husband is from 7. I wanted 6, we ended up with 4. My last was very sick when he was born. He had a liver transplant at 5 months.
Mom of4 here.God bless you
I wish I had more children while watching your video
Love from India❤