[OurHandprints]

I have a few friends and co-workers that are parents and they tell me the struggles they have to raise a child, and that's when there are TWO parents. They tell me they can't fathom how it would be like to be a single parent - and how hard it must be. I can only imagine! I watched this video that not only is this mom and single mom with 4 kids, but her youngest was born with a kidney dysfunction and she's had to go through all this struggle. I just can't imagine how she does it all! The video is really, really touching too. YouTube - Handprints of Hope - Keston

There are other videos that you can watch, that are just as touching! You can check out the series at PCH Handprints

[scandi]

As a single parent by choice of 2 special needs kids adopted from foster care - I make it buy making sure I have a hobby to do to get away from it all once and awhile. for me that is scrapbooking. You have to have supports from all areas. My dad and my co-workers are great. You don't have to use any services but being open to using all services available to you really helps. I have even found providers who are adoptive parents. And because of a recent runaway incident I "bonded" with a local cop who is an adoptive parent.

While I don't tell the world about my kids past it does help alot to have the schools, law enforcement, providers etc on board by knowing that you have issues with the kids so that they can support you when something happens vs blame you for not doing something.

It is hard but very doable and rewarding.

[OurHandprints]

Yeah I imagine it must help a ton to have a great support network like that. That's really awesome that you adopted on your own and gave your kids a great home. Being able to affect one or two lives in such a positive way is incredibly important. It seems people get so caught up and overwhelmed with "the world's problems" and their seeming insignificance in the face of all those problems, that they don't realize there really are things they can do to make a difference. Cheers to you I hope your kids are doing well.

[qs mom]

All I can say is you just do it.

I'm a single mom to a special needs child. He's great most of the time. It can be difficult, but it needs to be done.

I've recently (6 months ago) started attending a different Church. They have a separate children's Church. So, that is my time. I get to sing, worship and interact with others in great ways. As an adult without trying to quiet my son down, without him asking me a million questions. The Lord works in mysterious ways.

I had surgery 2 weeks ago, and we have missed service for 2 weeks. Both my son and I really miss it.

You do need to find something to bring you back to being you - not someone's mom.