Dr. Laura,
My father has been listening to you since I was young. I am now 29, married, and a mom. I grew up riding in the car with my Dad while listening to your program. I overheard a lot of conversations with my mother about said program. And I was there the Christmas morning my father gave my mother a copy of "The Proper Care & Feeding of Husbands". Unfortunately, the later was not well received.
I am a stay-at-home mom of one daughter. A year ago, when going through the turmoil of failed infertility treatments, trying to conceive again, I found your book, "In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms" in audio book format. I spent the next few days running errands, daughter in tow, listening to your book. The passersby must have thought me insane because I was laughing one moment and crying the next.
I didn't realize you had suffered through infertility, as well. I also didn't know you were a mom of a single child. I was feeling so lost and down because I didn't think I could truly call myself a mom, if I only had one child. I felt like the rest of the world was judging me because my life and parenting was just way too easy. I was, obviously, judging myself as well.
Your book made me realize that what I do, no matter for how many children, is the most important thing for me to be doing. And no matter what the naysayers think, my life and my job of staying at home are the best choices for me and my family.
I have since been on a mission to make all new moms feel the same way. I grew up with a mother who worked constantly. Growing up, I was taught that stay-at-home moms are lazy and not having a lofty career goal was inexcusable. I never realized I could be proud of staying home and taking care of my family. So, I have spread the word with my friends, most of whom are just starting out, that staying home is the best thing for a mother do to.
Since my father retired this past summer, we have spent a lot of time together. We have many discussions about you and your beliefs. He is very proud of the choices I have made to make my husband and daughter a priority.
Thank you for your show, your books, and the confidence you have given me to be proud of my life's work. I'm still dealing with the sadness of not being able to have another child, but I am so proud I am there for the one I have. And my husband couldn't be happier, as well. Thanks!
Sincerely,
Lindsey
