When we were younger and trying to decide if kids were the right thing for us....we listened to everyone's arguments and opinions about whether we "should" have kids and we determined that there is no unselfish reason to *not* have kids but there is also no unselfish reasont *to* have kids.

Once we go that out of the way, it was a lot easier for us to really listen to what our hearts were saying. And both of our hearts (eventually) said a resounding NO we don't want kids. Even with the pressure of friends having kids and wanting our kids to all go to school together, etc, etc, etc. It's just not right for us, and I still feel that no-one should assume that it's the next thing in life (whether you're thinking adventure or responsibility, it just doesn't have to be next).

We've both looked at the issue from all sorts of angles and know that being parents to human children (we have 4 furry four-legged kids already), is just not something we *want*. And it's not that we don't like all kids (although some I can't imagine having to be around all of the time!!)...we just spent an inordinate amount of time and money decorating our yard and buying way too much candy for the kids for Halloween and wholly there sure were some cute ones!

The only acceptable reason to do anything, ever, is because you *want* to.

Okay, now that that's out of the way, if it really is something you want to do, you will definitely find the way to do the other things, like riding, that you want to do, too. If you want it, the fear and worry will dissolve, and you find every solution you need. I just really hope that your DH and you both want the same thing and both have the same expectations going into it. Talk with him. Often. Deeply. Sort it all out. Listen to your heart. Then dive right in, whichever way you go!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~