Testmonials from Parenting Solo Readers

From letters and e-mails in response to some of my past columns:

“I have been reading your column for awhile and am just wondering if you have ever thought about writing a book. You have a story to tell and I think you are very good at being able to write about your feelings and reach folks on an emotional level. You don’t seem to have a problem with just putting it all our there, which of course is what it takes.”
— Jennifer Klepperich, Livermore, Calif.

"Just want to thank you for always sharing your most personal feelings on the ups and downs of raising children on your own. I too will be in your same shoes in less than a year and am finding it difficult already. I admire your decision not to remarry until your son is grown. I too made that same decision and am very happy I did.”
— Claudia Rego, Castro Valley, Calif.

“I just wanted to tell you what a joy it is to read your column. I am a single Mom with an 18 year old son and some of your articles have made me cry, some have made me laugh but almost all of them I can relate to. You are a wonderful Father and your Son is truly blessed. I think the majority of singles out there that really go through all the heartache and experiences that you have are Women. I don't really know that many Dads that have taken on the responsibility that you have.”
— Kelly Meltzer, Castro Valley, Calif.

“I've written to you once about how much I appreciate your thoughts on your son. ... It always gives me a fresh look at my children (3, 5, 8, and 10) and helps to appreciate the average moments. I think it was brave of you to speak about the 'waiting for sex' subject today in your column. You don't see that often these days in the media. Your column is a great witness, besides being entertaining and having great parental advice. Thanks for your integrity.”
— Debbie van Sprakelaar, Fremont, married mom

“Big smile on my face! Great story on the PRIDE in your son! I have two kids of my own (25 & 21)—the pride doesn't end – it just keeps going! Great story--thanks for sharing!”
— Janet Gebhardt, San Leandro, Calif.

“Thank-you for your column, ‘Not yet ready for life as an empty-nester.’ It made me cry all over again! I'm going through the same thing. Unlike your situation, I am female, married, and have three daughters. My oldest is 24, the middle one is 19 and at college, my baby is 17, and will be entering her senior year soon. I am having one heck of a time letting go. I thought this was a ‘female’ thing, so your column was an encouragement to me, coming from a dad.”
— Barbara Hoeffler, Pleasanton, Calif.

“I have been reading and really understanding your columns in the Argus for a few months now. I finally felt compelled to write to you after reading about your mission trip into SF. It is encouraging to me to be able to read about a stranger’s journey into “what’s next,” realizing that I am not the only one trying to figure this out, and how we both seem to be finding ways to write our next chapters. I wish no one had to be on this journey. But I read about how you’re trying to find your legs as well. That’s what I enjoy about your writing.”
— Meg Williams, Fremont, Calif.

“I admire your courage to speak public about (celibacy). I too believe that living celibately by choice is best as a single parent. Although I have made a few mistakes over the last eleven years, 95% of the time I have remained true to my values. I too have found someone who is willing to wait for me. It is difficult not to feel like we are "weird" by today's standards. I have even had leaders of churches that I have been involved with tell me I am asking too much. Luckily, my boyfriend is an understanding and patient man. Because of our decision to wait we have become best friends who also happen to love each other deeply. He respects my commitment to my children (13 and 18) and loves me even more for it. Thank you Doug for sharing so much of your single parent life. It has been a great inspiration to me.”
—Lisa Rodrigues, Tracy, Calif.

"Great article! Great beliefs! (on celibacy)"
— Tori E. Lyon, Hayward, Calif.

“When I read your other article and this recent one I was struck with your heartfelt and truthful words about being a single parent: and the trials that we go through. Your love of family and church hit so close and literally jumped off the pages. I wanted you to know that you are not alone in this! There are so many of us that are trudging through the trenches trying to be what God wants us to be (and smile through it, even though at times I just want to stamp my feet and scream!). … I just wanted to encourage you (its so worth it – our kids are worth it)."
—Debby Leglu, Livermore, Calif.

“We love your columns and I had all my children read especially the one about your new girlfriend and waiting. My sons don’t have Girlfriends yet (ages 24 and 22) but my 19-year-old daughter has a recent first boyfriend and it was a timely piece and a great conversation piece as well for all."
— Robin and Bob Peterson, San Lorenzo, Calif.

“I have read and enjoyed your column in the Argus for some time now – and have often thought of emailing you. So many times, while reading, I've had that feeling of "yes, been there and done that" or "that's exactly how I felt!" Though I'm not the type that usually emails perfect strangers, your articles struck a chord with me and I wanted to let you know. I'm also a single parent – I have twin sons who are 21 years old and attending UC Berkeley. They live with me and commute."
— Lorraine Burkholder, Fremont, Calif.

“(Your article on dating) was really good. I am recently divorced and your article pretty much nailed how I feel.”
—Mark Lupica, Tracy, Calif.

“I read Doug Mead’s column often and enjoy it very much. The article on Feb. 19 was really sweet. I really re­lated to it. I, too, have a child who is 18 and in college. Though she lives three hours away in the dorms, I laughed when your son complained that you are never home. When you asked him if he wanted to hang out, he responded no, but the dog misses you and come spend some time with him. When my daughter gets home for breaks, she always is holed up in her room yet com plains when I leave. Her re­sponse is, ‘don’t leave, Jessie (our cat) will miss you.’ I guess all our kids really need is our physical and emo­tional presence nearby.”
— Fran Herts, San Leandro, Calif.

“I read with pleasure Doug Mead’s column. I am in agreement with your article on “Searching for truths on their own terms” (Nov. 13, 2005). Any other words of wisdom to help me understandour children’s views on life is definitely appreciated. I enjoy reading your observations, ideas and suggestions. I believe my mother role is one of my most important roles. I am another single parent who continues to strive to be a better parent.”
— Vangie Ford, Castro Valley, Calif.