family planning/thought on the words #16

family planning

These two words together mean, generally, contraception.
This would be to space out the arrival of children, or to eliminate
the possibility altogether.

When I was in school I was surprised that one girl said she intended
to get married and start her family when she graduated with her
bachelor's degree. She said she didn't think 22 would be too old
to "start a family."

I really thought that was an odd thing to say.
I had not ever considered that being married and having children was
"starting a family." It seemed to me that she was already part of a
family. Also, 22 wouldn't be old at all.

Planning
planning committee
outline
structure
bones
scaffolding

strategy/wiles/cunning
thinking ahead
knowing how to do a thing and laying out the steps in order

I see I have not expanded at all upon the notion that is treasured by so
many people, the 'family' as a resource, a support, an emotional treasure.
It didn't occur to me to do that.

I am in favor of planning, but not to an OCD level.
I want some flexibility within the plan.