You are doing a great job.

Last night Anton and I …

… made funny videos and ate gingerbread cookies. He put on his pajamas afterwards, and I gave him too long a cuddle, because he had a couple of difficult weeks – things for friends, for school, as you say. I wished I could hold him in my arms the whole time; or wave a magic wand and do everything right.

Then I went into my bed and stared at the ceiling. Parenting; not for those who weaken the heart.

Sometimes I walk and it seems to me that they are all together. Families glide down the sidewalk with giggling little children and chatty pretense. But then I actually talk to friends and neighbors and realize that all families are dealing with something. Remember that old saying? “Be kind, because everyone you meet is fighting a tough battle.” My friend, who is a pediatric therapist, says her drawer is full.

Anyway, all to say: DO A GREAT JOB; YOU ARE A GOOD PARENT WHO TRYING. A reader once said, “Bless you, new moms. If you work hard, you do a great job. “And I think that’s true for parents of children of all ages. I don’t know who should hear it (except me!), But I pat you on the back, send a hug and admire you. I love you. Xo

PS Home as a refuge, i what makes your child laugh?