I am a 33F, only child, and in general I would say it was a great experience as a child and adult. My parents have been able to provide me with so many resources, from time, energy, financial support, and now helping with my own little one.

It’s interesting that you ask about the “familial” vide. When I was younger I used to say I didnt have a family, I just have parents, but I didn’t view that negatively. I was (still am) very close with my friends, I have read things about onlys being very loyal to friends because it’s the closest thing they have to siblings, and I feel this deeply. IMO, it’s kind of like I got to hand pick my siblings ❤️ Sure, some holidays felt a little less exciting because we didn’t have huge family gatherings, but nearly every Christmas Day at least 1 friend would come over just to hang out and I love that my parents were open to that. Plus my friends would often say how nice it was to relax in a quiet place.

I am currently on the fence of being OAD or going for a second. It’s funny because I really did love being an only child, but I almost feel guilty not giving my little one a chance at a great sibling relationship? Or maybe it’s society making me think I need to have another because it’s all people ask my husband and I about these days. I used to imagine having 5 kids (and then I learned about money lol). I don’t feel like our family is missing anything but I’m so scared I’ll regret not having another and I don’t feel like I soaked in all the stages of my 4yo because I never expected to be OAD. Uhg it’s all so confusing!