Michelle Bruns

I admit it. I used to be one of those people who felt sorry for single moms, especially when I was put into the situation myself. But, once I took my little peanut home, I discovered more and more benefits of our “just you and me, kid” situation. And, I’m not alone on this topic!

According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau statistics, the number of single parents living with their children in 2006 totaled 12.9 million; of these single parents, 10.4 million were single mothers. Undoubtedly, there are plenty of mothers in the same parenting situation that share my positive feelings.

For those of us who bear the badge of single motherhood, regardless of whether or not we chose it, we can still make the best of it. Being a single mom has its ups and downs, but when you come to a place where you can celebrate the advantages you have as a one-parent household, you may just view single parent status in a whole new light.

Experts say that the first year of a newborn’s life is the most stressful on a married couple. According to Marguerite Kelly, award-winning columnist and co-author of The Mother’s Almanac, some fathers-to-be have fears of their own. Your hubby may not be ready to share you, or is afraid that you will monopolize the baby and make him feel unnecessary. Many marriages are strained under these types of fears, but I didn’t have to choose.

Which brings me to the best part of being a single mother: not having to share my time between my two guys. The first year is an amazing time for mommy and baby, and raising my son on my own gave me the luxury of giving all of my time to my newborn. This little benefit was a great gift for the two of us. Other moms agree that the ups of single mommyhood definitely outweigh the struggles.

Straight and narrow
“I soon discovered after the birth of my child that my husband did not share the same ideas on raising children as I did. But, now I have the freedom to teach my kids the morals and values that I feel are important, setting the tone for who they will be. It has been a healthier environment for everyone.”
- Gen M. mother of two, Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Hang time
“I struggle with the fact that I have to go to school and work and try to be a parent, but when I get home from a long day, I just have to focus on spending time with my children. I feel lucky that they still think I’m a cool enough mom to hang out with!”
- Lori C., mother of three, Henderson, NV

Lean on me
“Divorce is a tough, emotional situation. It can be even harder on the kids. But, I had the advantage of my children needing me. I didn’t have the option of being down in the dumps. I had to keep their spirits up, which in turn, kept my spirits up by default. It has even brought us closer as a new family.”
- Margaret S., mother of two, Poughkeepsie, NY

Room to grow
“Becoming a mother changes you. When my son was born, I had the stress of worrying about how my growth would affect my husband. But, when we separated, I was free to grow and change for the best of my son. I am truly blessed.”
- Vicki M., mother of one, Portland, OR

Sound off: What are you thoughts on single parenthood?