Hi my name is Doreen, and I'm a single parent who has raised 3 daughters, the oldest soon to be 32, a middle 30, and last teenager of 19, now at uni. I am also a grandmother of 5 yr old and 10 yr old boys, whose mum, my daughter is also single parent.
We are a very loving and supportive family, and have close family, and a few close dependable friends, who have seen us through traumatic times over the years,as I've battled with mental health issues, alongside work, financial worries and raising my family.
My faith has been intergral to my recovery and success in studies and work, and raising my kids virtually single handedly, apart from necessary social service intervention when I've been unwell.
I am lucky enough to have my children and grans stick by me, and i have involved them in my work eg of which is my latest book, to which they have contributed called 'Prayers for a Child', which has all children, young and old, or young at heart in mind. it can be viewed at Amazon.co.uk, as well as my first published book 'Perfect Circles vol 1', which I hope portray the message that we are not alone in the most important job in the world - bringing up children, our precious loved ones.
Now that my youngest has left home for uni, I spend more time on my own, but she still needs me on the other end of the phone, and for money and laundry LOL! But thankfully I am also a hands -on granny (nanny), and still have children around me, which I miss from my former work as a primary school teacher.
I enjoy, reading and writing, often keep a diary/journal, especially great for off-loading, or reflecting, or thanking our Maker for many blessings and mercies. Although I work from home part time, I keep in touch through technology and occassionally socialise. My other passion is knitting and painting and listening to music, and sometimes watching tv. Very creative and a life time of being a busy bee, I'm rarely still, but enjoy life as much as I can, whether in the garden, or walking or occassional holidays or short breaks, usually with family.
Just wanted to share the importance of reflection, and of showing our Creator we appreciate what He does for us daily, to help us cope with life's difficulties, and that praying is one way we and children can connect with Him. Bless.
Hi Sally W,
thank you for your kind comments.
I hope sharing my story and faith will also help you in your life and being the best thing since sliced bread to your child/ren, and to other single parents and children you know.
I have been plagued by illnesses, traumatic childhood abuses, and domestic violence and manipulative men, but the Lord blessed me with a quiet spirit, though I don't tolerate nonsense and stick up for myself and others, rolled out in advocacy against racism, sexism and mental health discrimination.
And He showed me that by forgiving those who hurt me, I can overcome the hurt which manifest themselves in mental distress or physical illnesses, and I can gain strength and peace of mind and contentment from Him, as I enjoy and give love to the family He gave me, and to others along the way.
May He bless you too 'exceedingly and abundantly', as He has me.
I'd love to know more about your life story too, and how you are getting on raising your family. I hope my story helps you too.
Thank you for your good wishes for my book. Bless, Praying Child.
Hello praying child, thank you for sharing your story, it is great to hear that you have a belief that has brought you through the tough times as well as the good.
Good Luck with your book