Ha! This never fails to cracks me up. Research always shows non-parents are happier than parents, yet parents insist they're happier with their kids. You wouldn't know, would you, since you're stuck with your kids now! I joke, but my husband and I decided not to have kids and yes, we have money, time, and are very happy! Don't knock it til you try it! Oh wait... you can't! ; )

I haven't seen the Newsweek article, but if that is what they say, I'd venture that it is merely an indicator of an increasingly selfish mindset in the general population. There is nothing more selfless than being a parent.

Camille, I had an extended adolescence. It wasn't until my mid-30s that I got married and started a family. So I do know what it's like, as I mentioned in my post, not to have the responsibility of children. And I remember that time in my life fondly.

Would I chose to go back to that time when I didn't have my little rugrats running around driving us crazy? No way. Been there, done that.

I couldn't agree more with you Jeff on your last point. It takes a lot of personal sacrifice to be a good parent. Not all of us have it in us to do that. And there's nothing wrong with that. We all make our choices and live with them, happily or not.

I have found that many of those without kids usually fill their lives with things that border on responsible, but when it becomes a chore or they are bored with it, can abandon it without regret (jobs, hobbies, marriages etc). They have that luxury, but could never do the same having kids.

Another of my favorites are the idiots that insist they don’t want kids and try to substitute pets for children, then try to convince the world that having multiple pets somehow equates to having kids. What a joke.

Bottom line: the decision to pro-create is and should be personal. They both have their rewards.
I am with Mr. Cruz. There is no better sound than coming home to my kids everyday.
Sometimes its tough, but sometimes it sure can be rewarding.

The question should be..are you more relaxed as a parent? The answer for that is no.
But if you ask me (I have 4 kids)..are you happier as a parent? The answer is yes.
Exhausted, but yes, yes and one million times yes...
No money, job, no luxury can buy the happiness our children bring to our lives.

i would have to say that i am happier with my son. i did the single scene had a great job and made GREAT money, i lived all over the united states. but now i feel like i have a purpose in life. no matter what i have a specific responsibility. and it is not a bad thing to be responsible about or for something.

i love the first post. that makes me laugh. i am glad that person has decided to wait. what ever works for her. but let me set the record straight... she has only seen it from one side. me on the other hand i have lived both sides of the coin and can give an informed response -- I LOVE BEING A PARENT. and i wouldnt change a thing in the world.

i look at my son and it gives me such a sense of accomplishment and reason. i am more blessed now with him in my life than ever before . and yeah i am tired and the house is always in disarray from my 2 year old, but to hear that little boy say "mommy" makes it all worth while. all the money in the world or the time doesnt mean a thing if you dont have someone to pass it all along to nor could it ever change my mind about being a parent.