As a (very happy) only child myself, I always find it incredibly rude when people criticise anyone who chooses to have only one child! There are many positives to being an only child that are rarely talked about, it's almost a bit of a taboo. Good for you guys for thinking about what's best for your family rather than just going with the 'norm' 🥰
I appreciate you sharing your experience. Like Anna and Mark, my husband and I are very much only interested in having one child. He’s our entire world and I am not sure why people think that’s a bad thing. He gets all of the love, resources, and financial stability that we have to offer. ❤
As a fellow only child…you said it lovely!!! It’s a really wonderful thing. My parents are divorced and remarried now. They are still best friends and neither had any more kids, so I’m double lucky xXx heheh xXx
I‘m an only child, so is my husband and we’re parents of one awesome son. I try to omit the “only one“ from my vocabulary, as we’re no lesser parents. Our son is very intense and needs a lot of attention, so we made the decision to focus on him and still have time to focus on ourselves as well. We are well connected, he has friends around during the school week and on weekends, he knows how to share and is just a good person. I haven’t regretted the decision to have one child at all. He’s all we wanted and more, I’m a mum and that’s all I’ve ever wanted. x
I don’t have kids and I’m the one reminding friends of the horror they went through with number 1 (particularly births) because they are programmed to ask if they want a 2nd one even though most of them don’t!!
There's actually a lot of online and in real life talk about having only children in today's world. Typically bigger families get met with stigma as well, but that said it all depends on where you live/your community. My sister has 6 children and always get negative comments about having that many.
I’m just in the midst of watching this and had to comment on your discussion of being happy as a family of 3. I have a 5 year old son and my husband and I have always known we would only be having 1 child. We are so so content and feel so complete as our family, but we do always hear comments that we’ll “change our mind”, etc. It was just so validating to hear what you had to say on this topic. Much love from Toronto to you, Mark and Ralph! ♥️
I’ve watched TH-cam for yearsss and definitely agree it’s getting exciting again! I love watching Jess Harris and Xanthe Ross for chilled cosy content that makes you enjoy the everyday ☺️
As an only child, I must say that I loved being in a family of three! I definitely feel the judgement these days at 32 and choosing to not have kids, especially as my friends have all started having them the last few years. No outward judgement from them but I feel it from older generations who don’t really understand why. Very pro the you do you life 🙌
My son is almost 3 and it’s highly likely that he’ll be my only child. I tend not to get asked that much about having another but when I do I just tell them I had a difficult pregnancy and a traumatic birth and I don’t know if my body can go through it again while still being a present mother for my son. There are more reasons than just this because building a family is a complex thing but you know, this is the response I find gets less following up comments. It really shouldn’t have to be like this though, and I hate that every time I look a little extra tired or bloated I can feel the eyes on me wondering if baby number two is on the way. I’m happy as a trio too Anna, I tell my son that 3 is a strong number, it’s the number of sides in a triangle which is the strongest shape and used in engineering all the time, so being a unit of 3 is a good thing. Sending love to everyone else that is having to deal with other peoples uninvited opinions on your reproductive choices (or lack of)
My son is almost 3 too! I am currently pregnant with my second baby to make it this far. I had back to back miscarriages trying to get them here. I have a friend who has had 4 miscarriages and would deeply love to have a child. It's been hard to have people assume in the silence.
I feel the same. I have a 3 year old daughter and people keep asking about us having another and saying she needs a sibling. But I feel like I’m finally getting back to doing the things I love. And our lives are becoming easier. And our daughter is amazing. Of course I’d love her to have a sibling. But for me and my partner’s relationship one child is enough.
One and done here- love being a 3 (with our dog too!). You’re right about finding a community. I am also an only child myself 😊 as with anything in life, children, careers, relationships other peoples opinions or reactions are often more a reflection of themselves and imposing/justifying their own choices.
The Advent calendar for Ralph is lovely😍! And something he’ll remember and cherish. Is it going to be a tradition for every upcoming Christmas? I love the thought of making memories for your child♥️. My eldest son is celebrating his first Christmas in his and his girlfriends own home. I feel very proud and happy that he has taken many traditions from us parents and his childhood home into his own home⭐️.
I have never regretted only having one child. We have been able to do so much for him that we would never have been able to have a done for 2. Including helping him buy his first house . He has never suffered from not having a sibling.
I can completely relate with your family of three comment. I too decided to stop at one, but I feel that a lot of my friends who chose to have more than one take my decision to mean that I disapprove of theirs. Not at all, I just like my situation the way it is!
Tbh, as far as parenting (or non parenting) goes, I think it's a case of you're damned if you do, damned if you don't! So, no kids, one kid, 3 or more kids are all the "wrong" choices when people are judging! As long as you're happy with your decision, then they're always the right choice. I do think there's a bit of self validation in the judgement of others, but we're all different, and what's right for me is totally wrong for someone else, and we need to accept and respect that.
One and done club here! Aml my friends with two always seem on the verge of a breakdown! I feel finally can enjoy life again! Also, only childs are becoming for of the norm now.
I feel like you would love Michel Janse! Late twenties girlie living in California, lifestyle plus cooking content! I also love Jaci Marie Smith’s vlogs
Oh my how fantastic, your house is looking so great with all the Christmas decorations. Both my sisters have young kid's. But my middle sister has just had a baby about 6 months ago so her tree has been up for like 2 weeks. PS I love your Christmas tree ( so gorgeous ) 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
Hi Anna, I really enjoy your videos, such cosy vibes! Love the painted cards, might give it a try! I am still trying to figure out whether I want any kids at all but the opinions are so loud... The judgement about it all is unreal, I find it so hard trying to listen to my own feelings in the midst of all the noise. The thought of having 1 rather than 2 or more somehow sounds so much better to me personally so thank you for even bringing it up! ❤😊 You have a lovely family of 3 and nobody else but you should determine when it is complete. TH-camrs I'm into are mainly still the same as 15+ years ago😅🙈 Anna, Fleur, Estée, Lily,.... Also Gaz Oakley, his content is amazing and relaxing if you're into food or gardening! Sending love from Belgium and wish you and your family a cosy december. ✨
I think the conversations around choices we make regarding children are generally quite triggering. We have made decisions which are right for us and our family dynamic and we need to respect that other people have done the same thing. I do think it's interesting how things have shifted. When I was having my first 18 years ago, it felt like most people were having 2 or more kids (obviously not everyone). However, over the last 10 years or so, I feel like more and more people are choosing to have one child. I think there are a lot of factors contributing to that choice, ie economics and climate change and perhaps just what we want our standard of living and our kids' standard of living to look like. It's interesting.
To answer your question I’ve been a long time follower (over 12 years!) on my other account but just started vlogging travel/lifestyle content a few weeks ago. It’s so fun! Would appreciate a watch from anyone if they’re interested!
Good channel primarily for baking is John Kanell’s Preppy Kitchen. Accurate recipes and he explains a little bit of the science behind the process: youtube.com/@preppykitchen?si=rpl13XVOZqtb9fnu Good for family recipes - Nicky Corbishley’s Kitchen Sanctuary. Her books are good too and her recipes always work. youtube.com/@kitchensanctuary?si=onJQThwfq3w7ZU54
TH-camr recs - defo Caroline McQuistin, Jess Harris. I really like Toast with Hope (she does more on TikTok but has just started TH-cam as well) for cooking!
I had difficulties getting pregnant. Our boy has just turned 2 and I can't tell you how many times I was either called "an old mom" and also how many people tried and persuade me to go for another child because they know someone who knew someone who got pregnant easily the second time around... Honestly I hate these comments.
thank you so much for another amazing vlog! I love @secondhandhuns (Verona is such a fun vlogger and she and her girlfriends are like the gen z sex and the city gang) and also adore @HannahLouisePoston (for deep dives into fashion) and for street style I love @NotSoBlonde1 (mostly Paris street style, such a unique way of interviewing people) and for all the fun content around how to decorate your home or make candles or soap @rajivsurendra
As a (very happy) only child myself, I always find it incredibly rude when people criticise anyone who chooses to have only one child! There are many positives to being an only child that are rarely talked about, it's almost a bit of a taboo. Good for you guys for thinking about what's best for your family rather than just going with the 'norm' 🥰
I appreciate you sharing your experience. Like Anna and Mark, my husband and I are very much only interested in having one child. He’s our entire world and I am not sure why people think that’s a bad thing. He gets all of the love, resources, and financial stability that we have to offer. ❤
As a fellow only child…you said it lovely!!! It’s a really wonderful thing. My parents are divorced and remarried now. They are still best friends and neither had any more kids, so I’m double lucky xXx heheh xXx
I‘m an only child, so is my husband and we’re parents of one awesome son. I try to omit the “only one“ from my vocabulary, as we’re no lesser parents. Our son is very intense and needs a lot of attention, so we made the decision to focus on him and still have time to focus on ourselves as well. We are well connected, he has friends around during the school week and on weekends, he knows how to share and is just a good person. I haven’t regretted the decision to have one child at all. He’s all we wanted and more, I’m a mum and that’s all I’ve ever wanted. x
I don’t have kids and I’m the one reminding friends of the horror they went through with number 1 (particularly births) because they are programmed to ask if they want a 2nd one even though most of them don’t!!
There's actually a lot of online and in real life talk about having only children in today's world. Typically bigger families get met with stigma as well, but that said it all depends on where you live/your community. My sister has 6 children and always get negative comments about having that many.
Caroline Winkler is a queen that everyone needs in their life!
I’m just in the midst of watching this and had to comment on your discussion of being happy as a family of 3. I have a 5 year old son and my husband and I have always known we would only be having 1 child. We are so so content and feel so complete as our family, but we do always hear comments that we’ll “change our mind”, etc. It was just so validating to hear what you had to say on this topic. Much love from Toronto to you, Mark and Ralph! ♥️
I’ve watched TH-cam for yearsss and definitely agree it’s getting exciting again! I love watching Jess Harris and Xanthe Ross for chilled cosy content that makes you enjoy the everyday ☺️
The title made me chuckle because it sounds like you just popped out several children over the last week 😂
😂
As an only child, I must say that I loved being in a family of three! I definitely feel the judgement these days at 32 and choosing to not have kids, especially as my friends have all started having them the last few years. No outward judgement from them but I feel it from older generations who don’t really understand why. Very pro the you do you life 🙌
omg i love that you've put so much effort into the adent calendar !!!
Love to watch abbey young.. she has soo much knowledge when it comes to beauty products and each of her recommendations until now were brilliant!
My son is almost 3 and it’s highly likely that he’ll be my only child. I tend not to get asked that much about having another but when I do I just tell them I had a difficult pregnancy and a traumatic birth and I don’t know if my body can go through it again while still being a present mother for my son. There are more reasons than just this because building a family is a complex thing but you know, this is the response I find gets less following up comments. It really shouldn’t have to be like this though, and I hate that every time I look a little extra tired or bloated I can feel the eyes on me wondering if baby number two is on the way. I’m happy as a trio too Anna, I tell my son that 3 is a strong number, it’s the number of sides in a triangle which is the strongest shape and used in engineering all the time, so being a unit of 3 is a good thing. Sending love to everyone else that is having to deal with other peoples uninvited opinions on your reproductive choices (or lack of)
I love that “3 is a strong number” analogy!
My son is almost 3 too! I am currently pregnant with my second baby to make it this far. I had back to back miscarriages trying to get them here. I have a friend who has had 4 miscarriages and would deeply love to have a child. It's been hard to have people assume in the silence.
I feel the same. I have a 3 year old daughter and people keep asking about us having another and saying she needs a sibling. But I feel like I’m finally getting back to doing the things I love. And our lives are becoming easier. And our daughter is amazing. Of course I’d love her to have a sibling. But for me and my partner’s relationship one child is enough.
One and done here- love being a 3 (with our dog too!). You’re right about finding a community. I am also an only child myself 😊 as with anything in life, children, careers, relationships other peoples opinions or reactions are often more a reflection of themselves and imposing/justifying their own choices.
The advent calendar is adorable. Have fun!
The Advent calendar for Ralph is lovely😍! And something he’ll remember and cherish. Is it going to be a tradition for every upcoming Christmas? I love the thought of making memories for your child♥️. My eldest son is celebrating his first Christmas in his and his girlfriends own home. I feel very proud and happy that he has taken many traditions from us parents and his childhood home into his own home⭐️.
I have never regretted only having one child. We have been able to do so much for him that we would never have been able to have a done for 2. Including helping him buy his first house . He has never suffered from not having a sibling.
I was such a good, more patient mother when I had only one child. 9 years later, Nicky came along...much more on your plate, one is plenty!!
I can completely relate with your family of three comment. I too decided to stop at one, but I feel that a lot of my friends who chose to have more than one take my decision to mean that I disapprove of theirs. Not at all, I just like my situation the way it is!
Tbh, as far as parenting (or non parenting) goes, I think it's a case of you're damned if you do, damned if you don't! So, no kids, one kid, 3 or more kids are all the "wrong" choices when people are judging! As long as you're happy with your decision, then they're always the right choice.
I do think there's a bit of self validation in the judgement of others, but we're all different, and what's right for me is totally wrong for someone else, and we need to accept and respect that.
One and done club here! Aml my friends with two always seem on the verge of a breakdown! I feel finally can enjoy life again! Also, only childs are becoming for of the norm now.
Jess Harris is heel fijn om naar te kijken! Heerlijk cozy en doet veel koken. Echt een aanrader. Ook Molly Camsie is heel fijn om naar te kijken
I feel like you would love Michel Janse! Late twenties girlie living in California, lifestyle plus cooking content! I also love Jaci Marie Smith’s vlogs
I have been absolutely loving your recent vlogs!
I love your hair as well!!!!!! Just great hair looks Devine and casual ❤
The homemade advent calendar is so freaking cute!! Maybe something for me to take on next season!
I love Katie Fawn! She’s so funny😆
I have one baby too and we’re happy as three as well ❤
Anna, I look forward to your long form content on here every Monday morning ( Australia time) like hearing a great stylish friend in their daily life
I’m one and done and I love how easy it is to travel as a family.
Happy Christmas Anna! All the very best to you and your family x
Oh my how fantastic, your house is looking so great with all the Christmas decorations. Both my sisters have young kid's. But my middle sister has just had a baby about 6 months ago so her tree has been up for like 2 weeks. PS I love your Christmas tree ( so gorgeous ) 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
This is great! The decorations are so precious. 🎄
Omg remember when THE Rashida Jones commented on your Away suitcase in real life?!
I think the handmade Christmas 🎄 cards are so thoughtful of you.
The advent calendar came out so well!
Hi Anna, I really enjoy your videos, such cosy vibes! Love the painted cards, might give it a try!
I am still trying to figure out whether I want any kids at all but the opinions are so loud... The judgement about it all is unreal, I find it so hard trying to listen to my own feelings in the midst of all the noise. The thought of having 1 rather than 2 or more somehow sounds so much better to me personally so thank you for even bringing it up! ❤😊 You have a lovely family of 3 and nobody else but you should determine when it is complete.
TH-camrs I'm into are mainly still the same as 15+ years ago😅🙈 Anna, Fleur, Estée, Lily,.... Also Gaz Oakley, his content is amazing and relaxing if you're into food or gardening!
Sending love from Belgium and wish you and your family a cosy december. ✨
The homemade Advent calendar is adorable!
A pre-lit Christmas tree is a game changer!
Lovely Anna❤ Happy Holidays!
You should watch Inga Lam for calming cooking videos!
Hi Anna, I only had one child, a decision I have never regretted 🤗
Life choices are noones business but our own xxx
Lovely vlog 😊 Tish Wanders is fun for recipes 👍 Love from Italy
Marion’s Kitchen for a great YT cooking show! Abbey Yung for haircare
Also I love your Christmas cards!!!!!
Happy December! 🎄
I love Lucy Wood’s TH-cam ❤
I think the conversations around choices we make regarding children are generally quite triggering. We have made decisions which are right for us and our family dynamic and we need to respect that other people have done the same thing.
I do think it's interesting how things have shifted. When I was having my first 18 years ago, it felt like most people were having 2 or more kids (obviously not everyone). However, over the last 10 years or so, I feel like more and more people are choosing to have one child. I think there are a lot of factors contributing to that choice, ie economics and climate change and perhaps just what we want our standard of living and our kids' standard of living to look like. It's interesting.
Hi Anna! Happy Holidays ❤ Where is your grey crewneck sweater from at the end 32:15?
RHOSLC - When Todd said to John that him and Lisa should leave 😂😮😅
An you link that hair towel
Anna you are so gorgeous.❤️
Can you share the pancake recipe?
I have one child and my little family is perfect for us.
For a good natural green color, mix yellow and black
Brittany Bathgate and Hannah Ricketts 🙂
I enjoy Madeleine Olivia for cooking video’s and Sophie Floyd is a new comer on the make up scene.
To answer your question I’ve been a long time follower (over 12 years!) on my other account but just started vlogging travel/lifestyle content a few weeks ago. It’s so fun! Would appreciate a watch from anyone if they’re interested!
Good channel primarily for baking is John Kanell’s Preppy Kitchen. Accurate recipes and he explains a little bit of the science behind the process:
youtube.com/@preppykitchen?si=rpl13XVOZqtb9fnu
Good for family recipes - Nicky Corbishley’s Kitchen Sanctuary. Her books are good too and her recipes always work.
youtube.com/@kitchensanctuary?si=onJQThwfq3w7ZU54
TH-camr recs - defo Caroline McQuistin, Jess Harris. I really like Toast with Hope (she does more on TikTok but has just started TH-cam as well) for cooking!
Watch Jess Harris, a 30-something yearly living in London, just bought a house ;). She's lovely!
❤
Samantha Guerro and Lydia Tomlinson.. very different, but beautyfull… and Amelia Taylor ❤
Not you saying it’s an Alison ROMAN styling trick!
If you like cooking, and haven't already, check out Brian Lagerstrom!
I had difficulties getting pregnant. Our boy has just turned 2 and I can't tell you how many times I was either called "an old mom" and also how many people tried and persuade me to go for another child because they know someone who knew someone who got pregnant easily the second time around... Honestly I hate these comments.
Do you watch Mojave’s vlogs from New York? Stunningly beautiful
content including fashion, food and cuisine.
❤❤❤🎉
thank you so much for another amazing vlog! I love @secondhandhuns (Verona is such a fun vlogger and she and her girlfriends are like the gen z sex and the city gang) and also adore @HannahLouisePoston (for deep dives into fashion) and for street style I love @NotSoBlonde1 (mostly Paris street style, such a unique way of interviewing people) and for all the fun content around how to decorate your home or make candles or soap @rajivsurendra