I come from a family of five children, so I grew up surrounded by siblings. We weren't particularly close although my sister and I now are very good friends whereas we hated each other growing up.

Our DD is our only child and it'll probably stay that way. We talk about having another (see signature), DH admits to worrying that Maddy will be too spoiled if she's an only child. That said, I believe that children are who you allow and encourage them to be. It's as possible to have a very giving, unselfish and loving only child as it is to bring up a family of three children who are all spoiled brats. *L*

Our decision for Maddy to be an only child is also a financial and medical issue too. I was incredibly sick when I was pregnant with Maddy - I could barely function and I didn't have a child to keep an eye on when I was sick. I'm not so sure I could do it again, although seeing my friends with their new babies does occasionally tempt me. There's also the fact that if we ever want to own our own home it'll have to wait until our children are in school and no longer in daycare.

I don't think Maddy misses out on anything. We're surrounded by family and friends including cousins and friend's children. She goes to daycare full-time and is incredibly social. She's doted on and adapts well to change. I don't feel the need to have another child simply to prevent her from being 'lonely'. Occasionally I feel the lure to have another child but I don't have a longing to have another one if that makes sense.