Single-Parent Superheroes
About a month ago, my husband, Jason, went out of town for a fun guy's event. I encouraged him to go because I knew it would be good for him to spend time with friends and recharge his batteries. Everyone needs a break from parenting every now and then. I was excited for him because I knew he would have fun, but I was bit anxious about taking care of our 14-month-old, Jack, all weekend completely by myself.
Jack and I stayed home on Friday night and played together until bedtime. After he went to bed, it was wonderful to have the house completely to myself. I enjoyed just vegging on the couch in my pajamas watching girlie shows my husband doesn't like to watch with me! I even slept in the very middle of our queen bed ... just because I could!
Saturday was fun too with lots of quality Mom-and-Jack
time. Saturday evening we went to a family cookout where Jack was able to play with his cousins. We had a great time, but by the time I got Jack in bed, I was completely exhausted, mentally and physically. I was starting to wonder how single parents do it day in and day out.
Saturday night ended up being a very long night. Jack started coughing and running a fever in the middle of the night. Neither one of us got much good sleep. And Sunday morning brought the dilemma of what to do about church. I had responsibilities that would be hard to get out of, but I knew I couldn't take Jack to the church nursery. Thank goodness I have awesome parents who live nearby. They were willing to stay home from church and keep Jack while I took care of my church responsibilities.
Needless to say, I was super glad when Jason got home!
But the weekend gave me a tiny glimpse of how truly difficult single parenting must be. How do single parents have the energy day after day to take care of active, busy children? Where do they turn for help in child-care predicaments ... especially if they do not have family nearby? Do they ever feel truly rested? Do they ever have time to themselves?
If you are a single parent, you are my hero!
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