Ok, I actually HAVE Carrara, and children. When we moved in 2 years ago they were almost 9 and almost 12. First of all, not sure if the sealants are better now or what...but I have had ZERO issues with staining. I have come into the kitchen in the morning to see a spot of tomato sauce or tea that was left on the counter and I cringed, certain it would stain. It absolutely did not. I knew about etching going into it, and yes it does etch. My marble is honed, and the etches are not all that noticeable. I have noticed that they also sort of "fade" after a while, but then there are new ones. :) To me, I'm like, "eh, it's marble...it's a dynamic, natural stone...it's not going to remain pristine." I could have had quartz or corian if I wanted that look. I also have a walnut topped island, and the wood isn't pristine either. If you want a softly colored, mellow stone and can deal with some etches, get the Carrara. It really is lovely...I enjoy having it in my kitchen.
Q
