We have been to mostly ´poor´ countries and have experienced begging. It is a reality of the world that we don´t often see when living in countries like the US. Traveling in this way to these places truly opens up a new world is ways we can´t even imagine. I saw your comment on the other blog about considering a similar backpacking adventure once in a lifetime. I encourage you to do so but please do so in a respectful way to the places you are visiting. Best of luck and let me know if you do decide to go on such a journey.

I understand and agree with the point that mother´s are criticized no matter what they do. I´ve seen such behavior even within my own family and towards my own mother.

And yes, I would like to think of myself as a non-judgemental person….although I admit it does take a certain level of energy to truly fill those shoes. A level of energy that I don´t posses. That said, I´ve always had an uncontrollable weakness towards children. And although I don´t think any mother can be perfect, this woman is one of the worst examples I have seen.

Bolivia is different. We are enjoying it. We miss you guys and the magic bars!

Yet as a mom, I still have this underlying (and probably irrational) urge to defend her, because I feel like too often moms are criticized no matter what they do.

I know you to be a kind hearted, decent and really non-judgmental person, so I can only imagine what it would take to upset you to the point you express in this post.

I also appreciate your presenting a view of motherhood that isn’t that perfect rosy and impossible standard that really no mother can live up to.

Miss you guys. Still eating cake and hope you’re loving Bolivia.

-J. P. Cabit
Editor-In-Chief, Fedwick Agency