Why Our Family Needed to Upgrade From a Subaru Outback and What It Taught Us About Planning for Growth

Ever felt like your family is growing faster than your car? We’ve all been there—or at least, some of us have. Recently, I read a fascinating story about a family of five who realized their Subaru Outback just wasn't cutting it anymore. They tested the new Volkswagen ID Buzz and, while they loved almost everything about it, the price tag gave them pause. This struck a chord with me—not just as a family logistics challenge but because it mirrors so many of the decisions we make when growing our families.

The article, titled “My family of 5 outgrew our Subaru Outback. We test drove the Volkswagen ID Buzz and loved it — except for one thing.”, really got me thinking. How often do we underestimate the next step? Whether it’s a bigger car, a bigger home, or even planning for a baby, it's that moment when what used to work just doesn’t anymore—and we need a new solution.

The Subaru Outback served that family well for years. But as their family grew, the practicality, space, and comfort they once had started to feel cramped. Sound familiar? Maybe you’re considering expanding your family or thinking about the practical next step for your household. The choices ahead can feel overwhelming and expensive—just like that new Volkswagen.

But here’s something crucial—the lesson isn’t really about the car. It’s about readiness and finding solutions that work for your unique situation. If planning your growing family feels daunting, remember that there are tailored options designed with your needs in mind. For example, if you’re navigating the journey to parenthood, tools like at-home insemination kits offer a discreet, affordable, and accessible way to take control of your fertility journey. Companies like MakeAMom specialize in kits that accommodate different needs—whether it's low motility or sensitivities—helping people like you build the family they’ve dreamed of right from the comfort of home.

Back to the family car dilemma: The Volkswagen ID Buzz excited everyone—but one thing held them back: that price tag. This is a reminder that sometimes, what’s perfect doesn’t come cheap, and compromises or alternatives might be necessary. Similarly, fertility journeys can come with costs, emotional ups and downs, and the need to explore different options. But just like choosing the right family car means balancing budget and space, choosing the right path to parenthood means balancing your emotional, physical, and financial resources.

So what can you take from this story? Here are a few key takeaways:

  • Growth often outpaces your current plan. Whether it’s your car or your family, staying flexible and ready to adapt is essential.
  • Evaluate your true needs and priorities. Sometimes, we focus on flashy or expensive options when practical, tailored solutions might serve better.
  • Discretion and comfort matter. Just like a car that fits your family's lifestyle, products that support your fertility journey should fit your needs confidentially and comfortably.
  • Seek support and resources. There are communities and companies out there (like MakeAMom) that offer guidance and products to help you take the next step with confidence.

If you’re standing at a crossroads—whether it’s upgrading your family car or planning your family’s growth—remember that the journey is deeply personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What works for your family might surprise you, and that’s okay.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced when planning your family’s next big step? Was it choosing a car, making health decisions, or something else entirely? Share your story in the comments below—sometimes, just hearing others’ experiences is the best fuel for the road ahead.

And if you’re curious about options that empower your fertility journey at home, you might find it helpful to explore MakeAMom's range of insemination kits. They’ve helped many families take that next step with confidence, discretion, and care.

At the end of the day, whether it’s about finding the perfect family vehicle or expanding your family, it’s about making choices that fit you—with a little patience, research, and heart. Here’s to the exciting journey ahead!