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Have you gotten any ideas that will help you out yet? I know you have asked
on several lists. As a single, working parent it may be hard enough to find
the time and energy to cook dinner, much less read and respond to e-mail.
Perhaps if you let us know what town you are in, someone will have a resource for
you.

My kids are teens now, and I have been pretty much a single parent for the
last six or so years. I'm hearing a familiar frustration in your writing, that
I felt when I was trying to do everything alone. It is hard to do, and the
guilt can be crippling. I felt very committed to unschooling, and since the
kids had never spent much time in school, I did not want to force them into it,
just because I was suddenly their single, sole provider. They were smart and
clever and understanding, and I assumed we could do it all. Whatever that
was...
Now, that we look back, we all can see that there are some things we would do
differently. I often ran out of time, money, or energy to provide my kids
with the guidance and encouragement they needed. There was a lot of love, and
hugs, and laughter, and tears, but very few of the presents, supplies,
excursions, workshops and classes that they were used to, or that our old friends were
doing. I was struggling to keep food on the table. Feeling angry, depressed
and defiant about our situation and yet, determined to stick to my ideals. The
kids became resentful about how hard life had become. We often talk on these
lists about keeping our kids with us as we are working/learning through
traumas, and healing together as a family. But as a single stressed out mom,
helping all of us recover from some harrowing circumstances, I needed lots of
guidance and support myself. Beyond Unschooling Support, I found some relief and
new friends by going to various weekly support meetings for domestic
violence/divorce/single parenting/healthy cooking, etc. They usually offered some kind
of child care, and my kids met other kids from similar circumstances.
Looking back, they might have enjoyed a year or two in school, had I relaxed
my standards a little. I just didn't think I could stand it. According to
their most recent discussion, I did not realize how much they were bored and
climbing the walls while I was at work, or in therapy, or at the doctor. One has
become very self sufficient, the other is still waiting for someone to
entertain him.
I'm trying to say to take care of yourself, heal and be happy, and share your
light and wisdom with your sensitive son. You'll both feel better.
I'm off to work now. A job I enjoy, but still overworked and underpaid.
Wishing you well,
Bird