People say "it takes a village to raise a child." Thank goodness I have a kick-ass village.
I have been feeling so much gratitude for my village over the last couple of months. Some things have happened recently that would be impossible to handle alone. I have a dear friend who has needed a lot of rides to medical appointments. Between several other friends, we have been able to get her to all of them. Another loved one was recently diagnosed with cancer, and I have taken some time to be with her. There are times I bring my kids with me and other times I leave them behind. I have left them at home, or with friends that are able to help out if I need to be away for a long period of time. I often worry I might be leaving them too much, but at the same time I'm grateful for being able to help my friends (and set an example of service), and I'm in turn, grateful for friends that have helped me with my kids. Last month, I wasn't paying attention to the timing of an event Sean was attending, and wasn't able to pick him up when he was finished. I reached out to a newish friend who was able to help pick up my slack. Other friends have taken my kids to lunch or dinner or to their houses to play several times. It can be so hard for me, and others to ask for help, but there are just some times we can't do everything ourselves. I really hope my kids are watching and taking note of how our friends are helping each other so they can continue to do this when they are adults.
I often feel overwhelmed with being an only parent. However, I have surrounded myself with excellent people who love me and love my kids. People who are kind and patient and willing to help me when I need it. Friends that sit and listen to my complaining, friends that encourage my kids to do their schoolwork, friends that hug me when I'm crying when life gets too heavy. I'm just so grateful for people that continually show up.
