Hi Dr. Laura,
Thank you for changing my life. I have listened to you since 1993. I am now 41 years old and am a stay-at-home mom of two delicious boys.
When I was pregnant with my firstborn, I worked and listened to you. I was on three waiting lists for day care - and didn't think to consider quitting my job to stay at home. I had a difficult pregnancy and when they finally handed him to me, it was KABLAMMY!! I fell in love. As soon as I left the hospital, I quit my job, and took myself off the day care lists.
My son was not an easy baby. He had severe colic, often crying for two hours straight usually around 3pm. Back then, I would listen to you on AM radio and during that time, HE wouldn't cry. I think he was used to your voice, since he'd heard it while he was in my growing belly.
Why I'm telling you this is very important. I believe had he been in a day care, he would have been a shaken baby. His crying was so lengthy each day, sometimes I would have to put him down in his crib at hour two because I just couldn't take it any longer. At other times, when my husband would walk through the door, I'd hand him the baby and have myself a good cry in the shower.
He is now nine years old and is smart, thoughtful, and quiet! When my husband and I reminisce about him as a baby we say "He was a terrible baby, but a terrific boy".
When I hear of stories of babies being hurt or dead at a babysitter's hands I think back of how lucky I am to be able to stay home with my son. Thank you for telling me it was OKAY to be a mom. Since then, I have helped several pregnant women make the decision to quit their jobs and stay home with their babies.
With much appreciation,
Linhda
