My two closest friends are mother's of two children, and one of my sisters is the mother of an almost one year old. I have watched all three of these amazing women raise their children, each in their own way. My sister quit her engineering job and after three months of working. She couldn't bare to be away from her daughter. She hated the separation and missing the new achievements her daughters was getting through daily. She now works on her photography business from home, and spends every minute with her daughter. She recently brought her daughter in for a routine checkup, her pediatrician was amazed at her daughters advancements in speech and interactions. She doesn't speak in words yet, but she sure does try to communicate with you. She can say book, duck, button, eye, and if you say nose she'll point to her nose :)
One of my friends has two sons. She chose to continue working after having her first son. She lives in a very fortunate arrangement, with her parents. While she works part time her parents take care of her children. Her children are also far advanced. I can have full conversations with her five year old son. In fact I recently had a thought that in a few years he will surpass me in intelligence. His mind is quick and detail oriented. At four years old he pointed out to me that I laughed at him about something, and it hurt his feelings. He constantly reminds me that children are intelligent thoughtful beings, never to be underestimated.
My other friend also has two children and her first is a girl. My friend quit her job and became a full time mom when her daughter was born. She had a very particular way she wanted to raise her children and she has accomplished this. Her daughter, age four, speaks english and telugu. She loves to dance, and dress up like a girl. She refuses to leave the house without a bindhi and some bangles. I'm hoping to give her her first bharatnatyam lessons.
These are all mothers and children I am close to. They are each raising their children in different manners, yet all their children are above average in most categories. The only commonality I have seen in all homes is a safe loving environment for children. Princess Diana once said, "All children need is a little tender loving care." I truly believe this statement. This is why babysitters fail in most cases. They may look after the children, and provide them with everything they need, but in most cases they do not love the child. A mother's love is irreplaceable.
Aiya, I was initially going to post about my great adventures last week, until I read your comment. I agree most children that do well have amazing parents in their life, that guide them along. Mothers are truly unsung heroes. My post is a tribute to the great mothers I know. Thank you for reminding me!
