Dear Abby: New reader poll may show that times have changed

DEAR ABBY: Years ago an advice columnist posed the question to her readers, "If you had it to do over again, would you still have children?" I'm wondering when the information was collected, and what the results of that inquiry were, and if you asked the same question today, what the majority of your readers would answer.

- Ready2bdone in Phoenix

DEAR READY2BDONE: The columnist was Ann Landers (my mother's twin sister) and while I remember the poll, I don't recall the date. The results were considered shocking because most responders said they would NOT have children if they had it to do over again. I'm printing your question because it will be interesting to see if feelings have changed.

DEAR ABBY: My widowed 82-year-old mother will return home soon after a stay in an extended care facility. She'll need unskilled 24/7 care for a month. I don't work, so my siblings expect me to take care of her. When I said I'd do it and Mom could pay me, everyone was outraged! What do you think?

- Mind Your Own Business

in Washington State

DEAR M.Y.O.B.: If you need the money, make the deal. If you don't, then give your mother the help she needs out of love, respect and gratitude for the care she gave you when you needed it.