Support of Family and Friends

A significant portion of the things you’re going to read the first time you come to this site were drafted as I sat on a couch, overlooking
an absolute paradise in the Kawarthas.  My only company was Cooper, our black golden-doodle.  As a single parent of two amazing girls, this
get-away was made possible through the wonderful support of my family and friends.  I’m very thankful for the village around me doing what
it can to help… I sincerely have no idea how I would manage without them. 

This experience was made possible through:  a friend’s generous offering of time at her cottage; my parents hosting my girls; and, friends helping
to ensure my girls got safely to and from their extra-curricular activities.  Knowing that the girls were well cared for and supported made
it possible for me to enjoy and utilize the peace and beauty of my surroundings.

It’s true that you don’t know how well supported you are until you really need it.  I am blown away with the offers of help I’ve received.  I
personally find it difficult to ask for specific help, partly because I feel that it’s MY job to get my girls through this journey and partly because
I am sometimes so overwhelmed that I don’t even know what help I need most. 

It can be difficult to accept help, too.  I remember being approached by another mother at my girls’ school.  She told me that a group of Moms
wanted to make meals for us and that I needed to let her know what our food requests were.  I was so touched!  However, I felt really uncomfortable
accepting their offer.  When I hadn’t responded to her request, she texted me that I needed to let them know what we would eat if we didn’t want
hot-dog dinners every Monday!  How amazing!

I’m so grateful for the support of my family and friends.  This help is both heart-warming and re-affirming that I’m not alone.