There are a lot of single parents out there and while most are daring enough to take on the challenge, it is a fact that most of them are having tough times raising a child all by their lonesome. Not that this is something that they chose to do, external factors are simply something beyond their control. But we should take our hats of to these people who have taken on the challenge. Raising a child on their own is not easy.



If you have always been alone or are suddenly single, enjoy the time with your child regardless of your status. They are only young for a little while. Don't mope past the whole stage of their life!

Get new hobbies. If you find yourself dwelling about your alone status too much, fins a new hobby to occupy your time and hands. Learn to sew, take a writing class, teach an art class - there are endless things to do! Be active and don't give in to pity parties about being a single parent.

Don't feel alone. Lots of other parents are single parents. They face the same issues and challenges you do and have the same struggles. Strike up a conversation if you know of another single parent.

What other questions do you get tired of hearing about as a single parent? How about, "When are you going to date/remarry?" I would love to blurt out, "Well, as soon as the ink dries. Is that OK with you?"

As Americans we seem to have a problem with an adult being alone. Married people want their friends, family members and co-workers to be paired off too. Granted, they always mean well, but it can be annoying with the questions. Just because they are half of a happy pair doesn't mean everybody else wants to be.

Maybe you don't like being single and are trying to find someone. Being asked will be even more frustrating because you are looking. You want to snap out, "You try and date with children in the house and maintaining the balance of life still." It isn't easy.

Is living on one income really that different than two? I ask myself this often. You still have to budget the money. What I have found is that two incomes just seems to buy larger things and have larger bills. If one income were to fall short, the other could make up for it I suppose.

I fell into a bad cycle when I first separated from my spouse. I will get into my "credit" lessons and share them in a series beginning next week. I hope to save many of you the headaches and tears I have had learning about finances. My first article will be all about credit cards.

As a parent, and/or a partner, you can help each member of your family rediscover the happiness and sanctity of solitude, a place and time for reflection, in a space of their own creating. Designing a space proves surprisingly easy for most people; it turns out most of us know just what we need. A few inexpensive materials, and maybe one treasured item or two is all it really takes.