If I had my child to raise all over again!

"If I had my child to raise all over again,
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I'd finger-paint more, and point the finger less.
I would do less correcting and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging and less tugging."
~Diane Loomans, from "If I Had My Child To Raise Over Again"

This particular poem really hits home. I was a working mom when we raised our daughter and my mother-in-law spent more time with my daughter than I did. This time, our son's medical issues and the loss of Mom have combined to force the issue of staying home with him -- and I couldn't be happier! The loss of income -- especially in view of the additional medical bills and lack of advance warning -- has made this a rough transition -- but SO worth it!

In some ways, my son's birth is like getting a second chance to be a better mom. I just wish I could have a "do-over" with my daughter and be better for her!