DEAR ANNIE Readers weigh in on whether or not to have children

Dear Readers: Someone requested that I pose a question to my readers that Ann Landers asked in 1975: “If you had to do it all over again, would you have kids?” I received an overwhelming response to this unscientific poll.

The largest group of respondents (77 percent) consisted of parents who would have children if they had to do it all over again. The second-most common respondents were people who didn’t have kids and didn’t regret it (12 percent). Next, at 9 percent, were parents who said that no, if they had to do it all over again, they would not have children. Lastly, 2 percent of people who responded didn’t have children but wish they had.

By and large, most people are happy with their decision about whether to have children. It seems that it really all comes down to attitude. Those who embrace their paths and practice gratitude live full lives no matter what their lives are full of.

I’ll be sharing letters from people who responded to the survey, starting today with the first group — parents who would still be parents if they had to do it all over again. Tomorrow we’ll hear from the next group.

Grandmama Janet: Although raising children wasn’t always easy, the joy they have brought into my life has been immeasurable, and my husband feels the same way. And now we have been blessed with two precious little grandchildren. It’s wonderful to be part of the circle of life.

Robin In Vermont: If we had it to do over again, would we have kids — SEVEN kids? Would we choose all the sleepless nights, the seemingly unending trips to pediatricians, dentists, optometrists? Would we pass on going to “grown-up” movies, plays and concerts with friends and instead attend Little League games and school plays? Yes. Our children have filled our lives with so much joy. Because my husband and I have had to work extra hard to carve out time together, we seem to treasure each other’s company even more. After 40 years of marriage, we still love dancing in the kitchen and stealing a kiss when we can (to the horror of grandchildren who catch us in the act).

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.