More than Two (Children, that is)

Aunt Josie received an indirect query about the advisability of having more than two children.  Her answer is a resounding "It depends." 

It mostly depends on how needy the two children that you currently have are.  It also depends on the parents' resources, both emotional and economic.  Finally, it depends on your world view and view of family.  Aunt Josie would be remiss if she did not at least mention ZPG (Zero Population Growth) as a concept, but she also realizes that some people should parent larger families and have the wherewithal to do so.  How much love, energy, and enthusiasm do you have?  Also, it is unfair to expect your older children to help you parent the third.  If the parents are confident that they can handle three, having the third is a much more viable option.

Can you re-read the "Little Engine that Could" for the third time with gusto for that third child?  Looking at your first-born with unbiased eyes, will he or she be harmed by your having to devote more attention to that third child.  The first and second born will be held back slightly as the parents attention rightly focuses on the new-born to the detriment of supporting and arranging for the older children's activities.  Aunt Josie says to "go for it" only if you are convinced that your older children will not be harmed and you, the parents, have what it takes to spread yourselves a little thinner in addressing the needs of three children.