Hi Dr. Laura, 

I was at home for 26 years with my 4 children even after their father left. I originally thought that being at home the first years was the most important. I learned over time, they needed me all through their years and to some degree more. 

My oldest son informed me years after high school how much he used me as the excuse to not go and do things that would have led to things like drugs and alcohol. He would tell them I was waiting at home or I was picking him up and if he did not show up I would be out looking for him. The best excuse ever for not succumbing to peer pressure. 

When my youngest was drinking and I was finally able to get control of her, she hated me for a long while.  But she graduated high school and now has a wonderful career. Had I been working I would have missed the signs and I shudder to think where she would be today. I recall a paper she wrote which still gives me comfort today. She was so happy I stayed home, and kept the constancy of home, school and friends even though it would have been better for me to have moved and gone back to work. 

I praise God He gave me all that I needed in order to be there for all of my children. My reward today is to witness the loving and caring man, husband, father and son my oldest has become. And how each of the others are functioning and productive individuals who, when their time comes, be loving and caring parents. 

Thank you Dr. Laura for all you do. God bless you. 

Sincerely, 

Anna