Running the Single Mom Survival Marathon

Somedays  it's everything you can do to survive as a single mom. No mother's day out or weekend with the girls. Just you and your family and the daunting challenge of trying to inch out a life. 

Sweetpea and I have been a tiny family of two since she was three years old. I've thought about remarrying and been serious about it a couple of times, but life just kept and keeps getting in the way. But lately the marathon of motherhood seems more like a sprint with hurdles way too close together.

I've worked since Sweetpea was three and done a pretty decent job of supporting the two of us. Unfortunately the nasty bites of the economic times have nipped at our heels of late. A major step down in my career - my choice -  partnered with my daughter's dad's decision to stop supporting her at age 18 have made things tight...especially with all the cost of college.

Training Tips on Single Mom Survival

1. Keep your focus on the end prize...raising a happy, well-adjusted kid.
2. Keep your faith and teach your family to have faith - you will need this in the good times and the bad.
3. Teach your children to know that there is something better for them out there.
4. Love your children unconditionally.
5. Take care of yourself so you will be there for your family.
6. Stress the importance of family however it might be packaged.
7. Let go of anger and regrets in your life - neither help you move on and grow.
8. Don't beat yourself up for your mistakes - do learn from them.
9. Live everyday - sounds easy but as you get older you will realize that it is a consious decision and not an involuntary action. 
10. Don't wait for a better life...this is the better life.
11. Extend your family with a circle of good friends.
12. Ask for help when you need it.

Tip 12 was always a tough one for me. I never wanted to impose or pester, but have learned that it is okay to ask for help - whether it comes in the form of prayers or plumbing. There are special angels out there to intervene for us single moms in times of need.  Just remember my dear friends to hold tight to your faith in the race and accept grace in the finish...enjoy the run!

Much love,
Miss Fanny