As a single mum, I know what the days are like for us single parents. When you finish work, fetch the children, and step through the front door, a whole second round of duties begins.
You are the ones doing the work of two people with one set of hands, Mummy and Daddy, provider and comfort. You handle the household expenses at the start of the month, then soothe bad dreams before dawn.
You are the rule maker and the one that kisses it better. You make sure homework gets finished and boundaries are kept, then you offer a hug when tears start flowing.
There are no breaks, no backup, nobody to tag out with at bedtime. When your child refuses to sleep or tests your patience, there is no second adult to take over.
You stay in the room and see the routine through to the end. You do this not only because no one else will step in. You do it because you know your child does not deserve anything less.
And still, the kids are fed, clothed, loved, and safe. You keep their plates full, wash their uniforms, and give them a secure place to rest.
You're not doing it halfway. You're doing the work of a whole family by yourself.
People outside often view a one-parent household and assume something is missing. Don't let a soul tell you your family's less.
You're not half a home. You're twice the strength, and your babies know it.