Hey - I’m a first born. When the new borns came along, I was expected to be their babysitter. I was a built in nanny, cook, and housekeeper. I ended up raising my sisters and by the time I left the house, I didn’t want to get married because I’d already been a surrogate mother and wife.
However, meeting the right man, the baby of his family, a gentle, fun loving guy who was actually doted on by his family When his mother came to live with us, I found out just how spoiled he was.
We raised an “only”. She married a guy with lots of brothers and sisters. She’s part of a big family and it’s funny to hear her reactions to them. Her husband likes that she’s an only but said he can certainly tell.
Our son-in-law was talking about some virus he read about that attacks ants and makes them do it’s will. I’ve read that certain mental illnesses may actually be caused, at least in part, by virus or bacterial infection. Nurture has as roll in our outcome, but I believe that nature is probably a bigger part of that equation.
By the way, are you a middle kid? Just wondering.
Glad it worked out for you. Somewhat similar story. I work out with a guy who is in mid 40's. Super nice guy, good job. Never married-still lives at home. His mom washes his clothes and makes his breakfast and dinner. He still does stuff like when he was in college-going out to bars. He asked me one day if still living at home at his age is the reason why women turn him down for dates or don't date him after a few dates when they find out. I didn't know what to say. My gf knows him and laughs all the time that it's way past time his mom cuts the cord.
No I’m the 2nd and last kid. My father used to half joke that I was the child that broke them of wanting to have more kids. Have 3 myself. Wanted more but the wife nixed the idea.