A mom who is currently expecting her 20th child shares her experience and opens up about the challenges and joys of raising such a big family.
Raising 19 children is no small feat, and Desiree and Christopher Hart-Spegal know this firsthand.
The Fort Worth, Texas couple are currently expecting their 20th child, making them a soon-to-be family of 22.In a recent interview with “Truly”, the pair shared the joys and challenges of managing a household of this size, from massive laundry loads to significant food expenses.
How one family blends and grows together
Desiree and Christopher met in October 2013, each bringing children from previous relationships.
Desiree had three kids, and Christopher had eight. After marrying in July 2014, they welcomed eight more children together.
The Hart-Spegal family now spans a wide age range, with children from 22 years old to just 19 months.
Despite the chaotic nature of their lives, the couple loves being parents to such a large brood.
Daily routines: chores, food, and organization
Life in their 37,000-square-foot, five-bedroom home is busy. Desiree, co-owner of a car dealership, revealed that she handles laundry every day—two loads on weekdays and up to 10 on Saturdays.
Food management is another significant challenge. Christopher explained they spend about $26,000 annually on groceries and $300 per restaurant outing.
Cooking breakfast alone can take Desiree up to three hours, and cleanup afterward consumes even more time.
Desiree describes their household as “organized chaos.” She takes on a watchful role, ensuring everyone behaves, while Christopher has a more relaxed parenting approach: “As long as nobody’s dying or breaking things, enjoy yourself.”
The cost of raising a big family
With 19 children, the expenses are immense. The couple estimates spending $10,000 on Christmas presents and an additional $5,000 on birthday celebrations yearly. Maintaining this lifestyle involves careful budgeting and relentless organization.
The Hart-Spegal family shares their journey on Instagram (@perfectly_blended_family).
While they’ve received support from many followers, negative comments about their family size are frequent. Critics accuse them of overpopulating the world or question the quality of one-on-one time with each child.
One person said: I hope they are very rich otherwise I’m paying for them.
A second wrote: I spend the same a year on food for a family of 4. Good on them if they wre making it work
While a third commented: I admire her I had 6 an I went crazy with them but Tk God there all grown.. Smh!! If God send them that many Kid’s then there truly blessed..
Another added: Sad truth is 2 people can’t look after that many and give the individuals the attention they need . Usually left to older siblings
Christopher insists they ensure every child feels valued: “We have an open-door policy. If you need time, you get time.”
Despite the challenges, the couple cherishes the unique joys of having a big family. “There’s never a dull moment,” Desiree said. “You’re never lonely.”
Even with the chaos of everyday life, Desiree and Christopher make time for meaningful moments with each child. They admit they rarely get privacy, but they wouldn’t have it any other way.