From Dr. Jane Greer: Marriage and family therapist, author, radio host and Shrink Wrap Celebrity Commentator
Deciding to have a baby is a big deal. Some people spend a lot of time waiting for the perfect moment, while others have it set upon them and are unexpected. Many would argue that there is no one way to achieve this and there is not always an ideal time. Sometimes, though, signs start to point you in that direction. Here are three to watch out for if you find them happening in your life.
1) You are less interested in the social scene and want to stay at home more. Without even noticing the shift, you may suddenly realize that you and your spouse aren’t going out as much as you used to. Instead, you’re happy to stay home and settle in for the night. There may have been a time, not too long ago, when you were juggling multiple social plans, negotiating which friends to spend time with when, filling your calendar with dinner parties, parties and games, and rarely spending a free evening on the couch. Lately, though, it all seems cumbersome and you just don’t care anymore. You might feel like you’ve seen all the plays and eaten at all the new restaurants. You’ve basically covered the scene and now you’re ready to turn your focus inward. You feel like you’re ready for quieter time. All of these can indicate that you have a strong sense of stability and security with your spouse, are comfortable in each other’s presence, and don’t need to be out on the town for fun or gratification. In fact, you may be ready to share that comfort and familiarity, and probably soon be not so quiet, with a new family member.
2) You find yourself fantasizing about a baby and all that comes with it. Have you scoured the internet for colors for a future nursery, or are you clicking on all the links you cross on social media about popular and trending baby names? Wondering what it might be like to be pregnant, even sneaking through books on the subject you once thought was completely boring? Wondering what it might be like to have a son or daughter and then be surprised that you actually have a preference? If the answer is yes to any of these, it sounds like hope and possibility are already in your heart, and you may be ready to take the next steps to make it a reality. If this is the case, it might be a good time to talk to your husband and see where he stands on the matter. Maybe you’re both ready to talk about family planning.
3) You find yourself looking at other babies with interest and curiosity. Was there ever a time when you wished your friends would leave their babies at home when you met for lunch, but now suddenly you’re so happy to see the little ones when they arrive? Instead of finding the mess in the highchair unattractive and the crying and screaming annoying as you once did, you are now fascinated by it all and spend more time trying to make the baby smile than talking to your friend. When you get the chance to hold a baby, you may find yourself hugging them a little too tightly and feeling reluctant to give them back. You might even find yourself taking pictures of the little ones to show your husband how adorable they are later. These can all be signs that your maternal instincts may have been ignited and you may be ready to be a mom and have your own baby to hold.
