BrainPop Jr. is how I bribe my 6 year old son to finish his work some days. ;) He loves it. I originally thought it was kind of pricey, but he has learned so much and enjoys watching the videos, the cartoons and playing the games. It has definitely been worth the cost to us. I'm glad I splurged on it.

Its definitely not a luxury vehicle, but I've had my RAV for 15 years now, minimal repairs. I'd buy another to replace it, if I had the money. I agree with the tire suggestions.

I think it will give you a little bit more. We only had about 4 weeks of practice with Hypnobirthing before my delivery. But even with just a little practice, it made my natural at-home birth a pleasant experience. I like the descriptions of the previous posters. It really does put you in a state where there is less pain. I had a 10 hour labor and the only part that was painful was the last 5 minutes. That's a huge change from my first child, when I was scared and in pain the whole time. I haven't heard of Hypnobabies, its been 6 years since my son was born, so I would check that out. Anything that can make childbirth a pleasant experience is worth the time and effort and expense, I think. Good luck!

Mine are 12 years apart, not by choice. It was infinitely helpful to me to have a second set of hands to help out. They are like siblings in some ways, and like two only children in others. But there is no sibling rivalry, no vying for attention, as mentioned by others here. I'm not sure how I would have done with more than one in diapers at a time, so in hindsight, my situation was perfect for me. Whatever happens for you, go with the strengths and enjoy it! :D

I say go for it. My daughter was 12 when my son was born and she was great help to me. They are very close, even though my daughter is off at colege now. She misses him terribly. Like the other posters I was more tired this time around, but also more relaxed. I didn't read a single parenting book with my son. lol I had all the books and magazines when my daughter was born. I am very glad that we ended up with a surprise baby, and getting to homeschool him and be with him all the time is wonderful. I get to enjoy ALL the moments. :D

Have you looked into Unitarian Universalism? They are open to just about anything, and you can still be as Christian as you want. You just may be surrounded by 500 other beliefs too. :)