Hi Jo, I'm in my 40s and I've never had an urge to have kids. I find that it's something I seem to have to explain to others I meet. When I say I don't have any, they always ask me why? It's funny because whenever I meet people with kids - I don't ask them why did you have them? I think people should do whatever makes them happy in life.
Never wanted children, was adamant that’s how it would be for me … until the night of my wedding when suddenly I just realised I could ! …. Can’t explain it. Just a huge feeling. Children all grown up now and draining my emotional energy and bank account. But within it all there are great spikes of joy and absolute unconditional happiness which are often fleeting …but are addictive. Can’t describe it anymore than that Jo. I think we all get moments of absolute bliss in lots of different ways from all the things that we do in life. So it’s not exclusive to raising children. And I believe you have it in your life with all the things you invest in and love. Blimey ! That was all a bit deep !
Hi Jo, I’m 54 and never had children, I am also an only child and both of my parents have died. I’ve never had a highly paid job and could never have afforded a child and so it was a situation that always eluded me. As I get older I do think about how I will cope with nobody around but years ago I worked in a very exclusive nursing home and the people in there who had children didn’t see them very often either.
I have never wanted children either, it is so refreshing hearing someone openly talk about this and have it resonate with so many. Thank you for sharing!
None of my 3 adult children intend to have children. I support their decision. I also know of many women who are raising their grandchildren due to a variety of circumstances.
As a father of two young children I have found no greater joy then caring for them. The little nuances that peak thru their personalities, the love and affection they show you, and the responsibility to show them how to navigate the world… it’s all been such a blessing.
Due to circumstances, I didn't want to have children in my twenties, but I did have a son and a daughter in my late thirties. I was not the maternal type, but I fell in love with my babies instantly and absolutely! Thirty years later they are still the loves and joys of my life.
I was a determined and content career woman until the age of 34. I then had two children at 35 and 38 - an older mum! They are the best thing I have ever done and I am so grateful. Life takes you along different roads. My sister is childless and has never regretted it.
Jo I just love all of your content. This blog evoked varied emotions for me for lots of different reasons, it also confirms what I already know which is that you are real and that you are your most authentic self. This is one of my favourite Blogs. Sending love 😇TFS
Hi Jo, I'm 74 and don't have children. I had a short starter marriage in my 20s and was glad I hadn't had children when I divorced. I was career focused in my 30s, travelled and had fun! When I was 41 I met the love of my life who was 60 and after losing a totally unplanned pregnancy we decided to spend our years travelling and enjoying our holiday home in Portugal. I sadly lost him 6 years ago, but have never regretted not having children, I have younger cousins and friends and don't worry about my eventual demise. Take care and focus on your lovely life! 🩷 X
I am 69. Always wanted children and had four wonderful human beings. Now have four granddaughters from two of my kids. We all live in different countries so seeing each other is a real treat but also happy to have my own life with my husband of almost 50 years!
I always wanted children but it never happened. I only wanted them if I could stay at home and look after them and was never in that position. I really worry as who will be there for me when I’m older as I have no siblings either. I often think how sad it would be if I ended up in a home . I lost my mother 2 years ago very suddenly and I managed to be with her so she wasn’t on her own, I miss her every day . Thank you for sharing your thoughts , you always seem so bright and cheery x
Jo, I'm 80 and never regretted not having children. I loved listening to you talk about your decision. It was a lovely change from the usual frou-frou which I obviously enjoy because I subscribe but this was special. And welcome back to Dave.
Jo, I am 65 and feel exactly as you do about having children and being around children. You don't miss what you never had. My child was a gorgeous Labradoodle named Annie Oakley. She was my whole heart❤.
I admire your honesty Jo. Children can be a joy but not always. So many women don’t admit their feelings about children. They can definitely bring you happiness but sometimes sadness too. Unfortunately that’s my personal experience. Great video Jo. Lovely to see your friends having lunch and great to see Dave back. Xx
I yearned for children very young, i had my first daughter at 21 she is now 50 with no children, no desire ever to have any, neither of us were wrong, it’s just how we both were, i think she is amazing for making the choice not to have children, and be happy with that, we are all different well done Jo for having your own life.
Never had a paternal bone in my body. My friends have kids, as do my siblings - I'm a fantastic uncle, but I can give them back at the end of the day :-)
Hi Jo, Karen here, been following you for a couple years. I never had a nurturing or maternal drive and I was keen on advancing my career in my 20’s. My husband & I married early and when I turned 30 he asked if I would have children with him or he would find someone who would. He had the drive for the both of us! Turns out that our two sons are my best work! They are fine men today and have sustained me after their father passed away unexpectedly at 61. I stayed home for 5 years then got my career back on track when they were young with a couple wonderful Nannies and my husband being primary caregiver. I achieved my career ambition about 10 years after I would have if I hadn’t taken a break. My husband fulfilled his dream of being a wonderful and involved father.
I appreciate you sharing your feelings. I’m about to turn 44 and feel the maternal instinct bypassed me too. I think I was only ever meant to be a dog mother. Until last year I hadn’t completely ruled having children out, but when my sweet dog passed last year I realised so clearly I would never desire to have a child as much as I wanted my dog back.
I love hearing your views on life! There are far too many people, unfortunately, who have children that have no business having them! Love the dress ! Have a lovely week, my dear London friend! Welcome back, Dave! It was so wonderful to see you!
I’m the same Jo - I never wanted to have children and found someone who felt the same. I’m a great nurturer to my fur babies and the students that I teach.
Thank you Jo, I’m 37 and even though in my heart I know I don’t want kids I see all my peers posting pictures off happy families and I feel like there is something wrong with me and I will miss out on. However I have to remind my self that my husband myself and our pug are our own little family and aslong as we are happy doesn’t matter about anyone else. Love seeing you living life to the fullest! Sending so much love to you x
I can't imagine not having children. My 7 grands keep me young. But I love that you are happy in your life.❤ For most of history, women had no choice in marriage or children.
I never had the desire to have children either. My husband and I have been together for 45 years and when I look at our friends with children, grandchildren and now starting into great grandchildren, I am perfectly happy with life as is🤷♀️
I totally understand when you say the maternal instinct bypassed you. I feel that way about owning pets! I have simply never had any desire ever to own any animal. We're all different and that's what makes life interesting.
Hello Jo, I felt so differently to you, as I had my first child at 20 and my second at 23. I don’t regret having children but just wished I’d thought more about it first. I’m now 62 and haven’t got any grandchildren, because they don’t want children. At times I do feel robbed of the life I could have had before I had the children. Take care Jo. See you next week ❤
I never wanted a children, yet got pregnant had my son, I was a great mom, found the joy of bringing him up. Obviously, there were ups and downs, regular life...now he is 26, doesn't like me, doesn't speak to me, doesn't answer my calls, nor calls me. Life took him on a road that is totally different from what I thought.
I think at the end of life we just want to be comfortable. I have children but I don’t think I want them to be with me when I am at the end. I understand the being alone bit entirely. You will be fine 😊
Admire your honesty when speaking about not having children Jo. Beautiful that you were with your Mum, holding her hand till the end. That is so very special. Lots of love. Xx
I’m 74. I never wanted children as I had horses,dogs etc. but it my late thirties we thought “now or never “so I had my gorgeous daughter and now two grandchildren.I never regretted it as I love them dearly but I can fully understand why you never had any. Until that point I had no maternal instinct at all. Of course when she arrived the bond between us was unbelievably strong and still is.However I still get people asking me why I had only one- it’s because because one was enough!
I fell in love with a man and moved across the country to be with him and eventually get married and have a family. It was something we both wanted but weren’t ready for right away so were happy to wait and just enjoy each other. When we decided we were ready, I told him I wanted to be a stay at home mother and fully take care of the children as I never had that as a child and he said that we could just send the children to daycare. i was not OK with that and eventually we decided to part ways. after that relationship, I just never found another person I wanted to have children with or maybe I felt that that stage of life had passed me by. but honestly, i know it’s not the same, but I was so happy and in love with my animals that I’ve never really regretted not having children.
My heart goes out to you as you continue to grieve the passing of your mom, the loss of a loved ones often brings up philosophical musings for sure. Respect and love you and your choices and life, thanks for sharing with us!
I have one child, a daughter who means the world to me. Everything I worked for and accomplished in my career was to make a better life for our family. I don’t think I would have had the ambition to succeed if I didn’t have a child. I’m very proud of the legacy I will leave to my family.
I wanted children and feel lucky to have 3 amazing grown up sons. They are independent spirits and only one lives in the uk now. I miss them very much but am glad they all have happy and fulfilling lives ❤️
My biological clock was ticking loudly by my late 20's so I tried foster care for a couple of years. Only proved to me how difficult & expensive it is to be a single parent while working a full time, low pay job. And so I never fantasized about being a single mom after that. 4 decades later, I accept my not being a mom like I accept that I never became a rock star or an astronaut. Just wasnt in the cards. Maybe next lifetime the stars will be in alignment.
Thank you for being so honest about not having children. Thankfully, we live in times, where everybody should live life how they want it and decide their own path. I feel the very same as you regarding children. By the way you look great in all your clothes 👍
If woman don't have children,then there is no next generation. The most important thing a woman can do is to bring about the next generation . This is not the case in any other culture only in the west.
Hello Jo, I admire any woman who knows who she is and what she wants in life as many women I have met through my life said that they did what was expected. Once married, children are the next step but so many women have said that if they had their life again they wouldn't have children. You are drip fed this idea that babies are beautiful and life will be perfect but reality is a life of worry and stress and it doesn't always strengthen the marriage, it puts pressure on both sides. I am glad ideas are changing. Best wishes CC
Jo, the Boden dress on you was fabulous! The colors and print are just gorgeous! So glad to have Dave back - he's a hoot. I also never wanted children and have never once regretted that decision for a second. I wish more people would give a lot of thought before bringing children into this world - it is the most important decision you'll ever make. Cheers from the U.S.🎉
Loved being a Mum but last 4 years left me with an empty nest and too much time on my hands and mind! Having to build a new identity for myself post divorce too but now I spend time with grand babies ❤❤❤❤
Beautiful , beautiful musings about a tiny foot carrying one thru’ decades of life, love, adventure . I adore my children and new grandies but also totally appreciate and relate your sentiments .
Thank you Jo for another lovely Sunday vlog, the picnic on your roof all the food looked so yummy and the sun was out thank goodness and lovely seeing Dave back 😍
I think about having kids pretty often, it's something i would like to do one day. My theory is that each type of relationship helps us to learn something about ourselves. Our relationship to parents, friends, etc are all necessary to our development as people because they teach us new things, I would really like to know what the relationship with my own child would teach me. Also, I think it would be cool to keep seeing the world through their perspective.
My daughter chose to be childless and is a dedicated teacher and loves her career. I supported her decision as I knew that being a Mother is a lifetime commitment. I look at her life and she made the right decision for herself. People who are childless choose a meaningful path for their lives and I believe they are happy. I am glad that you have chosen a fulfilled life!
I appreciate jour candor and raw honesty regarding your lifes journey. I am a bit younger but very similar in a lived life. We do the best we can with what we were given and a life truly lived is a blessing. There are so many ways to have people in your life and your own children is just one of them. Be resilient and kind and you will be found.
My mom was supposed to be childfree. But at that time it was unacceptable. That's why she didn't enjoy motherhood. She performed parental duties, and she was not enough for more (which gave my sister and me a feeling of not being needed, there was no warmth from her, but there was a sense of alienation). Therefore, you need to be honest with yourself. If you can't, then you have to live as your heart tells you, not society.
As a rather sensitive child I clearly remember picking up that some children had mothers who weren't exactly loving the role! Main reason being that they usually ended up playing in our garden. My mum was at her happiest bringing up three kids and being a full time 'housewife' as they were called at the time. She had a hard time when we all left the nest though. Not easy being a woman is it?
Great vlog! Thank you for bringing up such an important topic. I’m in my 50s and married for almost 20 years. Neither one of us wanted to have children (me because of school and career and my husband because of environmental and political reasons). It’s wonderful to have a slightly older woman honestly speak to this topic. Thank you thank you!
Hi Jo lovely thanks for sharing your week your happy and full of life doesn't matter that you never wanted children Life is for living and we all head off in different directions to find our own happiness 😊 and you really do have the most beautiful and interesting life.
I had 3 children and none of them want children. I think it’s great that they are taking time for themselves, traveling and having the dream jobs they wanted. Couldn’t be prouder Marie
Hi Jo. Your Boden dress is lovely, but I really like your belt! I'd love to know where you bought it. Great to see Dave back. Your spread for your soirée on the roof looked absolutely delicious. Have a great week! 😊
I never wanted to have children either. I am 55. It is nice to see that other people have felt the same way. We are all different and the decision to have children is not for everyone.
A great, thought-provoking and honest vlog Jo. I’m a middle-aged, childless male whose friends all have children. I’ve never really had that ‘urge’ either, and subscribe to the ‘never do something just because someone else is doing it’ mantra. Keep up the videos - they’re great!
“How very simple life would be if only there were two of me.” This is the opening line of a poem by Don Blanding called “The Double Life.” There should be a correlation poem for women trying to choose whether to have children. What is important is that we as women support each woman’s choice. I support your right to choose what is right for YOU.
I absolutely love your style and you always look so amazing. Thank you for sharing about not having children, I have always felt the same way and it was refreshing to hear you speak about this topic. ❤
I think it’s a very personal choice and no one should question another’s choice! I knew early that I was maternal and some friends didn’t choose that route and that’s fab for them! Love love this white suit and your hat! Giving Diane Keaton/Annie Hall! 💕 Oh I had the Barbie case (I’m born 1970) a pink barbie car and camper and house I think a plane too!! I wished I had kept them all! I also had Wonder Woman doll and that was my total fav! Oh the Barbie museum is soo cool!! I’m on cape cod ,ma, so no Barbie museum near me! 😢 💝
Dear Jo.,, thanks for your weekly update… and welcome back, Dave 👍….. I love listening to your stories , love your white/cream suit… you absolutely rock it’ What a glorious time with your girl friends and those gorgeous children . May the sun shine for you all 👋😘
Thank you for opening up your heart Jo about your life and your mum. All my life I’ve only ever wanted to be a mum and I feel very lucky that I had 6 children. My husband’s the same, he always wanted to be a dad. Like you, I respect everyone’s choices but my heart goes out to those that have no choice.❤ Great to see Dave again! I wonder why he goes all that way to stay indoors and watch TV? That’s something I can’t get my head around!😆
I love love your dress Jo! But then again I love all your clothes. You all dress up way better in EU than we do here in Canada. As for the kids conversation I didn’t know if I wanted to have children. I don’t enjoy other people’s kids much but when I decided to have my own it was a whole different thing. I loved being a Mom until they left home and have their own lives. I can’t let go. I miss them living at home but still independent. So this makes me think I shouldn’t have had kids. It changed who I am. But I am so proud of the 2 kids I raised. They’re great adults with successful lives and careers. I am proud of them. BUT I don’t know I would have kids if I had to do life over again. I lost myself in my Mom role cause it was so fulfilling to me and can’t find something else to take up that space. I’m single too which might be part of the issue.
Love today’s blog! Jo, the Borden dress looks fabulous on you! The colors are terrific. It’s great how you keep your circle of friends close to you even with your busy work schedule. Seeing the children was fun. You do have a nurturing spirit even without children of your own. Thank you for sharing the Barbie exhibit. My first Barbie was the blonde Barbie in the black and white swim suit. Memorable! ❤ It’s great to see that Dave is back from his vacation. A hug to Myrtle.
So much better that people lead the life they want than get married and have children under some sort of expectation upon them. I have one adult child and had a decade of people asking about when I'd be having, more. I think younger people are much more open minded in this respect and accept different people have different lives be it through choice or circumstances. x
Hi Jo... Taller Teresa here from Waco, TX, USA. I've been watching about a week and enjoy your vlogs. I subscribed immediately and I've also subscribed to Paula's and Filipe's utube channels. I'm 74, retired, single and and 6'2" tall. Your utube video popped up on my cellphone and I decided to watch it. You're a breath of fresh air. 😁
I never wanted children Jo - it was my husband that was so passionate about having them he convinced me / I now have two amazing kiddos and whilst I would not change them for the world now it has taken a lot of soul searching to realise that my own dreams have to wait now and the noise 😂 xx I adore your Boden dress - and so many other outfits you wear - u r my escape and I thank u for that weekly xxx
Hello, Jo .... New Recruit here and it's great to be aboard, lovely lady ..... Got a lot to catch up, but I'm looking forward to it ! Love your chat and style already ..... Just Wonderful ! Thank you. Kind regards, Mark in Leicester ♥️👏😘
Having my boys at 39 and 40, I am so glad I didn’t miss out on having my babies. Nothing compares to it, and they have grown into such wonderful young men, truly amazing, ❤.
Wanted ten sons. Got one lovely daughter but she abandoned me for 20 yrs now. Painful. Her father passed and left her quite an estate and lots of stress. She is repeating his life. Heartbroken but carrying on. Love you Little Minx.
Hi Jo, I'm in my 40s and I've never had an urge to have kids. I find that it's something I seem to have to explain to others I meet. When I say I don't have any, they always ask me why? It's funny because whenever I meet people with kids - I don't ask them why did you have them? I think people should do whatever makes them happy in life.
I’m with you, Jo. I’m 53 and knew from a young age that I didn’t want children. Absolutely. No. Regrets. Xx
I lost my mum aged 17. It was the most devastating time of my life. But when I had my son in 1984 my whole life changed. He is still my world xxx
xxxx
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Never wanted children, was adamant that’s how it would be for me … until the night of my wedding when suddenly I just realised I could ! …. Can’t explain it. Just a huge feeling. Children all grown up now and draining my emotional energy and bank account. But within it all there are great spikes of joy and absolute unconditional happiness which are often fleeting …but are addictive. Can’t describe it anymore than that Jo.
I think we all get moments of absolute bliss in lots of different ways from all the things that we do in life. So it’s not exclusive to raising children. And I believe you have it in your life with all the things you invest in and love.
Blimey ! That was all a bit deep !
Hi Jo, I’m 54 and never had children, I am also an only child and both of my parents have died. I’ve never had a highly paid job and could never have afforded a child and so it was a situation that always eluded me. As I get older I do think about how I will cope with nobody around but years ago I worked in a very exclusive nursing home and the people in there who had children didn’t see them very often either.
Same here and have also see many people who as they've got older never see them..
I have never wanted children either, it is so refreshing hearing someone openly talk about this and have it resonate with so many. Thank you for sharing!
Jo, I'm 56 and never had a desire to have children and it was an issue finding a mate. I have no regret not having them and am perfectly happy .
So soul filling to hear you talk about something deeply personal ( children) rather than focusing on appearance
My son doesn’t want children. His life goals doesn’t include them and I support whatever brings him happiness.
Same with my two son’s. X
@@ren278 my son doesn’t want any either.
None of my 3 adult children intend to have children. I support their decision. I also know of many women who are raising their grandchildren due to a variety of circumstances.
As a father of two young children I have found no greater joy then caring for them. The little nuances that peak thru their personalities, the love and affection they show you, and the responsibility to show them how to navigate the world… it’s all been such a blessing.
Totally agree with you! They bring you so much joy that nothing else does 👍
Due to circumstances, I didn't want to have children in my twenties, but I did have a son and a daughter in my late thirties. I was not the maternal type, but I fell in love with my babies instantly and absolutely! Thirty years later they are still the loves and joys of my life.
That’s what I say. Love of my life, not found that in a partner
I was a determined and content career woman until the age of 34. I then had two children at 35 and 38 - an older mum! They are the best thing I have ever done and I am so grateful. Life takes you along different roads. My sister is childless and has never regretted it.
Jo I just love all of your content. This blog evoked varied emotions for me for lots of different reasons, it also confirms what I already know which is that you are real and that you are your most authentic self. This is one of my favourite Blogs. Sending love 😇TFS
Hi Jo, I'm 74 and don't have children. I had a short starter marriage in my 20s and was glad I hadn't had children when I divorced. I was career focused in my 30s, travelled and had fun! When I was 41 I met the love of my life who was 60 and after losing a totally unplanned pregnancy we decided to spend our years travelling and enjoying our holiday home in Portugal. I sadly lost him 6 years ago, but have never regretted not having children, I have younger cousins and friends and don't worry about my eventual demise. Take care and focus on your lovely life! 🩷 X
A starter marriage! I have never heard of it put like that. I also had one and will refer to it like that from now on. 😊
I’m only 64 but never wanted children. 0 regrets. I only ever had love for dogs. I think mothers are amazing.
I am 69. Always wanted children and had four wonderful human beings. Now have four granddaughters from two of my kids. We all live in different countries so seeing each other is a real treat but also happy to have my own life with my husband of almost 50 years!
I always wanted children but it never happened. I only wanted them if I could stay at home and look after them and was never in that position. I really worry as who will be there for me when I’m older as I have no siblings either. I often think how sad it would be if I ended up in a home . I lost my mother 2 years ago very suddenly and I managed to be with her so she wasn’t on her own, I miss her every day . Thank you for sharing your thoughts , you always seem so bright and cheery x
Jo, I'm 80 and never regretted not having children. I loved listening to you talk about your decision. It was a lovely change from
the usual frou-frou which I obviously enjoy because I subscribe but this was special. And welcome back to Dave.
The maternal instinct passed me by too! I’ve never wanted to have children and at 53 don’t regret it at all.
@Deanne_Emily .....I tell all of my friends without kids that they are the smart ones!🥰
I’m so glad you said the unsayable. I feel exactly the same about children.
Jo, I am 65 and feel exactly as you do about having children and being around children. You don't miss what you never had. My child was a gorgeous Labradoodle named Annie Oakley. She was my whole heart❤.
I admire your honesty Jo. Children can be a joy but not always. So many women don’t admit their feelings about children. They can definitely bring you happiness but sometimes sadness too. Unfortunately that’s my personal experience. Great video Jo. Lovely to see your friends having lunch and great to see Dave back. Xx
thankyou x
I yearned for children very young, i had my first daughter at 21 she is now 50 with no children, no desire ever to have any, neither of us were wrong, it’s just how we both were, i think she is amazing for making the choice not to have children, and be happy with that, we are all different well done Jo for having your own life.
how interesting. Thankyou x
Never had a paternal bone in my body. My friends have kids, as do my siblings - I'm a fantastic uncle, but I can give them back at the end of the day :-)
Never had a maternal bone in my body! Love my nieces.
You are in the stage of life where you get nostalgic. You choose the life you wanted and have been blessed. Thank you for sharing.
just my own experience- having kids was the most fulfilling and best thing in my life.
Hi Jo, Karen here, been following you for a couple years. I never had a nurturing or maternal drive and I was keen on advancing my career in my 20’s. My husband & I married early and when I turned 30 he asked if I would have children with him or he would find someone who would. He had the drive for the both of us! Turns out that our two sons are my best work! They are fine men today and have sustained me after their father passed away unexpectedly at 61. I stayed home for 5 years then got my career back on track when they were young with a couple wonderful Nannies and my husband being primary caregiver. I achieved my career ambition about 10 years after I would have if I hadn’t taken a break. My husband fulfilled his dream of being a wonderful and involved father.
I appreciate you sharing your feelings. I’m about to turn 44 and feel the maternal instinct bypassed me too. I think I was only ever meant to be a dog mother. Until last year I hadn’t completely ruled having children out, but when my sweet dog passed last year I realised so clearly I would never desire to have a child as much as I wanted my dog back.
I knew when I was 14 that I didn't want kids Jo. I am now 61 & don't regret it one bit. Am maternal with my furbaby but not kids
I love hearing your views on life! There are far too many people, unfortunately, who have children that have no business having them! Love the dress ! Have a lovely week, my dear London friend! Welcome back, Dave! It was so wonderful to see you!
I’m the same Jo - I never wanted to have children and found someone who felt the same. I’m a great nurturer to my fur babies and the students that I teach.
Thank you Jo, I’m 37 and even though in my heart I know I don’t want kids I see all my peers posting pictures off happy families and I feel like there is something wrong with me and I will miss out on. However I have to remind my self that my husband myself and our pug are our own little family and aslong as we are happy doesn’t matter about anyone else. Love seeing you living life to the fullest! Sending so much love to you x
I can't imagine not having children. My 7 grands keep me young. But I love that you are happy in your life.❤ For most of history, women had no choice in marriage or children.
I never had the desire to have children either. My husband and I have been together for 45 years and when I look at our friends with children, grandchildren and now starting into great grandchildren, I am perfectly happy with life as is🤷♀️
Love your honesty…thank you ❤️
I totally understand when you say the maternal instinct bypassed you. I feel that way about owning pets! I have simply never had any desire ever to own any animal. We're all different and that's what makes life interesting.
Hello Jo, I felt so differently to you, as I had my first child at 20 and my second at 23. I don’t regret having children but just wished I’d thought more about it first. I’m now 62 and haven’t got any grandchildren, because they don’t want children. At times I do feel robbed of the life I could have had before I had the children. Take care Jo. See you next week ❤
Thankyou for your honesty x
I never wanted a children, yet got pregnant had my son, I was a great mom, found the joy of bringing him up. Obviously, there were ups and downs, regular life...now he is 26, doesn't like me, doesn't speak to me, doesn't answer my calls, nor calls me. Life took him on a road that is totally different from what I thought.
😢so sad 🎉❤ self preservation is key hunny. X
❤
🫂
We never know how things might turn out. Sad.
@@margothartwell6195 yet moms are always blamed for bad parenting.
I think at the end of life we just want to be comfortable. I have children but I don’t think I want them to be with me when I am at the end. I understand the being alone bit entirely. You will be fine 😊
xxx
Love your honesty…. It’s not the easiest topic to talk about… you did it well …🙌
Admire your honesty when speaking about not having children Jo. Beautiful that you were with your Mum, holding her hand till the end. That is so very special. Lots of love. Xx
I’m 74. I never wanted children as I had horses,dogs etc. but it my late thirties we thought “now or never “so I had my gorgeous daughter and now two grandchildren.I never regretted it as I love them dearly but I can fully understand why you never had any. Until that point I had no maternal instinct at all. Of course when she arrived the bond between us was unbelievably strong and still is.However I still get people asking me why I had only one- it’s because because one was enough!
I fell in love with a man and moved across the country to be with him and eventually get married and have a family. It was something we both wanted but weren’t ready for right away so were happy to wait and just enjoy each other. When we decided we were ready, I told him I wanted to be a stay at home mother and fully take care of the children as I never had that as a child and he said that we could just send the children to daycare. i was not OK with that and eventually we decided to part ways. after that relationship, I just never found another person I wanted to have children with or maybe I felt that that stage of life had passed me by. but honestly, i know it’s not the same, but I was so happy and in love with my animals that I’ve never really regretted not having children.
Children are fascinating. Their ideas,mways of seeing life is unique. I always wanted children, and could not conceive of life without family.
My heart goes out to you as you continue to grieve the passing of your mom, the loss of a loved ones often brings up philosophical musings for sure. Respect and love you and your choices and life, thanks for sharing with us!
Dave you are such a hoot! 😂LA just to stay indoors. Love that you love your life! 😉
It doesn't make sense to me. Gotta be something else or why bother.
I have one child, a daughter who means the world to me. Everything I worked for and accomplished in my career was to make a better life for our family. I don’t think I would have had the ambition to succeed if I didn’t have a child. I’m very proud of the legacy I will leave to my family.
Thats really interesting....poignant comment x
I wanted children and feel lucky to have 3 amazing grown up sons. They are independent spirits and only one lives in the uk now. I miss them very much but am glad they all have happy and fulfilling lives ❤️
Thank you for being so honest
My biological clock was ticking loudly by my late 20's so I tried foster care for a couple of years. Only proved to me how difficult & expensive it is to be a single parent while working a full time, low pay job. And so I never fantasized about being a single mom after that. 4 decades later, I accept my not being a mom like I accept that I never became a rock star or an astronaut. Just wasnt in the cards. Maybe next lifetime the stars will be in alignment.
Thank you for being so honest about not having children. Thankfully, we live in times, where everybody should live life how they want it and decide their own path. I feel the very same as you regarding children. By the way you look great in all your clothes 👍
If woman don't have children,then there is no next generation. The most important thing a woman can do is to bring about the next generation . This is not the case in any other culture only in the west.
Hello Jo, I admire any woman who knows who she is and what she wants in life as many women I have met through my life said that they did what was expected. Once married, children are the next step but so many women have said that if they had their life again they wouldn't have children. You are drip fed this idea that babies are beautiful and life will be perfect but reality is a life of worry and stress and it doesn't always strengthen the marriage, it puts pressure on both sides. I am glad ideas are changing. Best wishes CC
Jo, the Boden dress on you was fabulous! The colors and print are just gorgeous!
So glad to have Dave back - he's a hoot.
I also never wanted children and have never once regretted that decision for a second. I wish more people would give a lot of thought before bringing children into this world - it is the most important decision you'll ever make. Cheers from the U.S.🎉
Loved being a Mum but last 4 years left me with an empty nest and too much time on my hands and mind! Having to build a new identity for myself post divorce too but now I spend time with grand babies ❤❤❤❤
Beautiful , beautiful musings about a tiny foot carrying one thru’ decades of life, love, adventure . I adore my children and new grandies but also totally appreciate and relate your sentiments .
Thank you Jo for another lovely Sunday vlog, the picnic on your roof all the food looked so yummy and the sun was out thank goodness and lovely seeing Dave back 😍
I think about having kids pretty often, it's something i would like to do one day. My theory is that each type of relationship helps us to learn something about ourselves. Our relationship to parents, friends, etc are all necessary to our development as people because they teach us new things, I would really like to know what the relationship with my own child would teach me. Also, I think it would be cool to keep seeing the world through their perspective.
My daughter chose to be childless and is a dedicated teacher and loves her career. I supported her decision as I knew that being a Mother is a lifetime commitment. I look at her life and she made the right decision for herself. People who are childless choose a meaningful path for their lives and I believe they are happy. I am glad that you have chosen a fulfilled life!
….. supported her decision? Don’t think our approval/disapproval has a place here.
So relate to your views about children - my neighbours are in the process of raising "Hells Angels"!!
Love that comment
Didn’t want children, had one at 34 and changed my mind …. He’s actually rather lovely!
Dave is back! Hoorah! 🥳
I love the way you say :"rather" lovely! x
I appreciate jour candor and raw honesty regarding your lifes journey. I am a bit younger but very similar in a lived life. We do the best we can with what we were given and a life truly lived is a blessing. There are so many ways to have people in your life and your own children is just one of them. Be resilient and kind and you will be found.
My mom was supposed to be childfree. But at that time it was unacceptable. That's why she didn't enjoy motherhood. She performed parental duties, and she was not enough for more (which gave my sister and me a feeling of not being needed, there was no warmth from her, but there was a sense of alienation). Therefore, you need to be honest with yourself. If you can't, then you have to live as your heart tells you, not society.
As a rather sensitive child I clearly remember picking up that some children had mothers who weren't exactly loving the role! Main reason being that they usually ended up playing in our garden. My mum was at her happiest bringing up three kids and being a full time 'housewife' as they were called at the time. She had a hard time when we all left the nest though. Not easy being a woman is it?
Great vlog! Thank you for bringing up such an important topic. I’m in my 50s and married for almost 20 years. Neither one of us wanted to have children (me because of school and career and my husband because of environmental and political reasons). It’s wonderful to have a slightly older woman honestly speak to this topic. Thank you thank you!
Hi Jo lovely thanks for sharing your week your happy and full of life doesn't matter that you never wanted children
Life is for living and we all head off in different directions to find our own happiness 😊 and you really do have the most beautiful and interesting life.
I had 3 children and none of them want children. I think it’s great that they are taking time for themselves, traveling and having the dream jobs they wanted. Couldn’t be prouder
Marie
I really related to your talk on children, I feel exactly the same 👍
Hi Jo. Your Boden dress is lovely, but I really like your belt! I'd love to know where you bought it.
Great to see Dave back. Your spread for your soirée on the roof looked absolutely delicious. Have a great week! 😊
Hello Jo, I’ve bought that lovely dress! You look so nice in it and the pattern is fabulous 👋🏻🏴x
It's now sold out!! I have worn it constantly xx
Thanks for sharing this with us Jo and so lovely to see Dave again
I never wanted to have children either. I am 55. It is nice to see that other people have felt the same way. We are all different and the decision to have children is not for everyone.
A great, thought-provoking and honest vlog Jo. I’m a middle-aged, childless male whose friends all have children. I’ve never really had that ‘urge’ either, and subscribe to the ‘never do something just because someone else is doing it’ mantra.
Keep up the videos - they’re great!
Fondness all around when Jo is around Dave. ❤
Parenthood can be very overrated , sometimes brings more heartache than joy , it’s not all happy endings.
@@jacquelinehillson9589 totally agree!
“How very simple life would be if only there were two of me.” This is the opening line of a poem by Don Blanding called “The Double Life.” There should be a correlation poem for women trying to choose whether to have children. What is important is that we as women support each woman’s choice. I support your right to choose what is right for YOU.
Well said!
You’ve had a wonderful life .with wonderful friends .you are blessed ..everyone is different….
I absolutely love your style and you always look so amazing. Thank you for sharing about not having children, I have always felt the same way and it was refreshing to hear you speak about this topic. ❤
Hi Jo. Yes the ironing was from “Look back in anger”. Love the Boden dress ❤
I think it’s a very personal choice and no one should question another’s choice! I knew early that I was maternal and some friends didn’t choose that route and that’s fab for them!
Love love this white suit and your hat! Giving Diane Keaton/Annie Hall! 💕
Oh I had the Barbie case (I’m born 1970) a pink barbie car and camper and house I think a plane too!! I wished I had kept them all! I also had Wonder Woman doll and that was my total fav!
Oh the Barbie museum is soo cool!! I’m on cape cod ,ma, so no Barbie museum near me! 😢 💝
Dear Jo.,, thanks for your weekly update… and welcome back, Dave 👍….. I love listening to your stories , love your white/cream suit… you absolutely rock it’
What a glorious time with your girl friends and those gorgeous children . May the sun shine for you all 👋😘
You have friends and they are like your family - they will be there for you
Such an interesting video Jo. Thank you.
I think it is a personal decision. I wanted my two lovely kiddos. A boy and a girl who are now 33 and 39. They are such a blessing to me. ❤
Thank you for opening up your heart Jo about your life and your mum. All my life I’ve only ever wanted to be a mum and I feel very lucky that I had 6 children. My husband’s the same, he always wanted to be a dad. Like you, I respect everyone’s choices but my heart goes out to those that have no choice.❤ Great to see Dave again! I wonder why he goes all that way to stay indoors and watch TV? That’s something I can’t get my head around!😆
Dont justifie Jo! It is different for every woman!
Love the jacket and trousers. Look lovely Jo. Nice to see Dave back. Have a lovely week. X.
Very honest real conversation. Thank you for sharing. Respect you for this honesty
Everyone to there own Jo you choose your path in life and what a interesting journey you have had ❤have a brilliant week hoping for Sunshine
Hi Jo! Blimey Dave’s vitamin D levels must be on the floor!! 🤣 great vlog Jo, love your honesty, so refreshing 🫶🏻 much love xxx
I agree...I hope he is taking supplements x
You looked fabulous in the white suit. Love the mui mui hat. Have a great week 💕
Beautiful dresses the yellow one I loved 🌹 I never really met someone I wanted to have children with I loved my child hood
I love love your dress Jo! But then again I love all your clothes. You all dress up way better in EU than we do here in Canada. As for the kids conversation I didn’t know if I wanted to have children. I don’t enjoy other people’s kids much but when I decided to have my own it was a whole different thing. I loved being a Mom until they left home and have their own lives. I can’t let go. I miss them living at home but still independent. So this makes me think I shouldn’t have had kids. It changed who I am. But I am so proud of the 2 kids I raised. They’re great adults with successful lives and careers. I am proud of them. BUT I don’t know I would have kids if I had to do life over again. I lost myself in my Mom role cause it was so fulfilling to me and can’t find something else to take up that space. I’m single too which might be part of the issue.
Love your honesty x
Love today’s blog! Jo, the Borden dress looks fabulous on you! The colors are terrific. It’s great how you keep your circle of friends close to you even with your busy work schedule. Seeing the children was fun. You do have a nurturing spirit even without children of your own. Thank you for sharing the Barbie exhibit. My first Barbie was the blonde Barbie in the black and white swim suit. Memorable! ❤ It’s great to see that Dave is back from his vacation. A hug to Myrtle.
So much better that people lead the life they want than get married and have children under some sort of expectation upon them. I have one adult child and had a decade of people asking about when I'd be having, more. I think younger people are much more open minded in this respect and accept different people have different lives be it through choice or circumstances. x
I agree x
Enjoyed the Barbie exhibition - I never liked dolls as a child, but now I think Barbie is so cool!! As for having children I believe its a choice!
Hi Jo... Taller Teresa here from Waco, TX, USA. I've been watching about a week and enjoy your vlogs. I subscribed immediately and I've also subscribed to Paula's and Filipe's utube channels. I'm 74, retired, single and and 6'2" tall. Your utube video popped up on my cellphone and I decided to watch it. You're a breath of fresh air. 😁
Thankyou...please spread the word x
Oh Jo you are wonderful just as you are! Love your vlogs every week 🤩
I never wanted children Jo - it was my husband that was so passionate about having them he convinced me / I now have two amazing kiddos and whilst I would not change them for the world now it has taken a lot of soul searching to realise that my own dreams have to wait now and the noise 😂 xx I adore your Boden dress - and so many other outfits you wear - u r my escape and I thank u for that weekly xxx
Hello, Jo .... New Recruit here and it's great to be aboard, lovely lady ..... Got a lot to catch up, but I'm looking forward to it ! Love your chat and style already ..... Just Wonderful ! Thank you. Kind regards, Mark in Leicester ♥️👏😘
Having my boys at 39 and 40, I am so glad I didn’t miss out on having my babies. Nothing compares to it, and they have grown into such wonderful young men, truly amazing, ❤.
I love you Jo . just came across you...subscribed and addicted to you. You are a real darling and so authentic!! Lots of love from South Africa❤❤❤
Wanted ten sons. Got one lovely daughter but she abandoned me for 20 yrs now. Painful. Her father passed and left her quite an estate and lots of stress. She is repeating his life. Heartbroken but carrying on.
Love you Little Minx.
Don't let her break your heart, she obviously takes after her father and not you! ❤