OK, from my point of view, kids are expensive. And I went the thrift-store, make our own pleasures route - until the needed More.

More education tops the list, the younger daughter is going to one of the Big Eastern Universities That Everybody Has Heard Of But Nobody Can Afford. That one took up fencing and last year fenced her way into the NCAA finals. Fencing is an expensive sport that she happens to love and is good at.

The elder daughter is/was less expensive, but still was a financial drain.

In my opinion, you shouldn't have kids (dogs, horses, rats, etc.) unless you are willing to give them what helps make them the best they can be. And that is expensive - in time if nothing else.

I'd have a nicer house, more bikes, nicer clothes, and a bunch of other things without my children. But in the end, that is just Stuff.

That's the bad news. The good news is there is no feeling on earth as wonderful as being proud of your children. That's not Stuff, that's Real.

So, have a baby or not? It's your call, of course, but being a parent is the hardest job you will ever do. Don't let anyone tell you different. But there are rewards, however intangible they may be.