Friday, March 1, 2013

Single Mama No More

A great deal of things have changed since the last time I posted.

I'm engaged!

I can't believe the whirlwind we have both been through in the last few months. From meeting, falling in love, getting to know each other's families and introducing my children to this wonderful man who I am so grateful for - all in God's timing. We prayerfully considered each step, and are looking forward to becoming a family in the truest sense of the word.

Some of the most important things about him to me:

He is a believer, and puts God first in his life - always. That, to me, is the most crucial for a successful relationship.

He accepts me for who I am, thorns and all. He sees and recognizes all of my strengths and weaknesses  at face value, and doesn't try to change or "fix" me.

He makes the boys a priority, prays for them, talks gently with them when they misbehave, and encourages and welcomes the involvement of their entire family, former in-laws included.

He is a solid, stable, caring man, who is honest (even to a fault) about where he stands. It's refreshing and encouraging to be in a relationship with someone who is open and sincere - it allows me to focus on building him up instead of figuring him out. Everything he has ever told me has been backed up by reality.

He provides for and cares for me on a daily basis, often thinking of things before I do. He even bought a heating pad for his house so that when my back bothers me, I can be comfortable.

He and I share a great deal in common, but in the areas where we are different, we can appreciate each other's strengths. Nothing is better in a relationship than being a great complement to another person. It makes each person feel like a part of a team.

He views us as equals, and I don't feel as though I have "baggage". He sees the things I've been through with grace as benefits - I've demonstrated to him that even in the most dire of circumstances, that I will be faithful to God, and that's what was most important to him in a spouse.

My parents are thrilled, and both like him very much. He asked for my father's blessing before he proposed, and I can't remember seeing my Dad so happy in all of my life.

Friends who have met him can see his role in my life as well, and they are excited to be a part of the wedding. I can't wait!

I'm blessed beyond measure to have Rob in my life, especially because I've spent so long raising my sons alone. I know how challenging it is to take on this two person job without daily help and encouragement. I do know, however, that the experience of single motherhood will have changed my life forever. My heart's desire is to help to build up and encourage single mothers in any way I can for the rest of my life. My commitment to women who have shared in this struggle is very real.

Know that despite my joy, I am remembering each and every one of you daily who are still fighting this struggle alone.




4 comments:

  1. Thanks for finally talking about > "Single Mama No More" < Liked it!

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  2. I love your blog and I hope you keep posting, even though your "status" may have changed. You have lifted me up for years, as I walk this path of single motherhood. Blessings!

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  3. AnonymousMay 01, 2013

    Hi Erin,

    Seems to me all the work you put into finding yourself again the past years has continues to bear fruit.

    Congratulations on finding a "worthy" partner. Now the real hard work begins haha. A partnership in the way it was intended is a beautiful thing. I'm sure you will honour each other.

    Cant help smiling, great news.

    Andre

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  4. Hi there Erin, I really like your blog and I was wondering if you'd be open to looking at an infographic I just made. I think it would spark a lot of discussion with your readers. If you're interested, please shoot me an email and I'll send it over. Thanks and congrats!!

    Kevin

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