While in the kitchen some evenings, I tune into Dr. Laura. I think she's great! (I have picked up many traits from my Mom throughout the years.) I was lucky enough to hear her read this e-mail she received.
**Staying At Home In Southern California
I heard a call from a woman who said she just cannot see how it is possible to stay at home with her children. I only caught the end of the conversation so I don't know all the details but she ended her call with "But I live in Southern California." Her excuse is what has prompted me to write.
I am a 27 year old stay at home mom who also lives in southern California. October 5th of this year will be my 5 year anniversary of being an at home mom. My eyes began to tear and a lump grew in my throat as I typed those words. Five years. Five years of firsts, enjoyed by me first. Five years of hugs and kisses whenever I or they needed them. Five years of bandaging boo-boos, picking them up when they have fallen, teaching and encouraging them every second of the day. I wouldn't trade the last five years for anything. I wouldn't trade them for all the manicures and pedicures I could have afforded if I went to work too. I wouldn't trade them for a trip to the salon because I earn enough to reward my self. I also wouldn't trade the last five years for a bigger house, a nicer car, expensive vacations every year, designer clothes or shoes, a gym membership or any amount of money. Not even the largest amount you could fathom. My time with my children while they are still little is priceless. It cannot be bought. But it is worked hard for. I work harder as an at home mom than I would any where else. I am not talking about the normal responsibilities of a parent. I am talking about what it takes to scrimp and save and budget creatively. My husband makes a very modest income for a family of five in Southern California but it has never stopped us from researching and asking questions and following through with what ever it takes to keep me at home. I urge your listeners to stop using the excuse of "But I live in southern California." I am tired of hearing it because our family wakes up everyday and proves them wrong. It is not easy, but who said it would be? Fight hard for what is right because everyone else in the world seems to be standing up for what is wrong. Thanks for the positive message you send over the air waves everyday Dr. Laura. Candice in SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!**
Last Night when Dustin got home I told him what a great day I had! "What did you do? he asked. Then I proceeded to tell him about our day. I took Karlie to gymnastics. Fed the ducks. Grabbed some Taco Time for the ride home. Art work with Karlie. Laundry. Showed Karlie how my sewing machine works. Played outside. 10 underdogies. Dinner.
As I listed off all that we did, it seemed like a pretty simple, average day. Then why did I feel like it was so great? These two are why!
I had a great day because I was spent my day with them! I love being home with my girls. I wouldn't trade my last five wonderful years for anything!
