"Raising You Alone"

My sister gave me a wonderful book right after Logan was born. It is called, "Raising You Alone." It is a beautifully illustrated story that explains to little ones some of the challenges and differences in being raised by a single parent. Each time I read this story, I am brought to tears.

As a single mommy, to an only-child, I often wonder if my son is being deprived...deprived of love, companionship, and security. I do the best I can but often wonder if it is enough. I wish I could give him the world and everything good in it...the sun, the moon, the stars!

Logan's father is a great dad. He adores his little boy and is very active in his life. He treats his son with respect and guides him with a steady hand. The lessons he teaches him are those that only a father can. For that, I am grateful.

Each day I pray that I will make the right decisions for my son and he will grow to be a kind, loving, and secure young man. I hope the lessons I teach him as a single mommy will be enough.

"Will I ever have enough

to give you everything I think you'll

want or need?

Toys and books and clothes and college?

All the big and little stuff

that says I love you,

and I want you to succeed?"

"I will be there when it matters -

cross my heart, no matter what.

If it's important to be there, I'll find a way.

Out on the field, the court, the stage -

I'll try to be there on the dot.

I want to stand and clap my hands at every play."

"There isn't anyone

that I will ever love as much as you.

And so I promise you, by all the stars above,

no matter who or what or when or where

our lives may lead us to...

I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU!"

"You are a part of me, you know.

The very heart of me, you know.

You are the greatest blessing

I have ever known.

Maybe my dream did not come true,

but I am still here loving you.

Now you and I can dream a new dream,

all our own.

Until that dream comes true,

I will be raising you alone."

Excerpts from Raising You Alone