Been reading through the postings. I realize you don't know me, but I want to say I'm *proud* of each of you for loving and caring for your child/ren. How do we do it? Sometimes, I'm not sure -- where does the energy and drive come from. Being a single mom to three children is something I hadn't planned to happen in my life ... but, as someone else posted, life just happens and you roll with the punches.

Alot of good advice given here. In between being the sole breadwinner, domestic goddess, justice deliverer, taxi driver, and boo-boo fixer, I'm not sure how we manage it all. But we do... because our children need us. They watch us every day and learn from what we are doing. They are little sponges. They see how we manage frustrating situations and learn from that. We have to be positive role models for them so they can become responsible and happy adults one day.

Firm, loving, consistent discipline is a must-have. My special needs child has to have consistent guidelines and clear expectations set so they can be followed. I think all children need to know the boundaries. They feel the love behind every action whether it is you hugging and kissing their forehead "just because", or guiding them to make right choices. Give them guidance -- they will thank you for it later.

Support network. Try to give yourself a circle of friends and family (if possible) that can help you. Some local agencies offer support groups and programs that can help. Talk to other parents -- find out if there are parents who might want to have play dates so you can have another person to talk with while your children play together. It's ok to reach out to others because you need to nurture yourself as well. You're not being selfish. You are keeping yourself rested and mentally refreshed so you can be a better parent.

I didn't mean to write a book here. I just felt compelled to say I am very proud of every single (no pun intended) parent here who loves their child/ren and steps forward to be a parent. We are amazing and I know our sons and daughters will be better people because we cared enough to *be there for them*. Thanks, everybody, for listening. Our children matter and we let them know that every day.

Hugs,

Cynthia