Leigh - October 15, 2007

How did you become a single parent?

I had dated my ex for about a year and a half and had lived with him the majority of the time. At the end of the relationship, my ex had quit working, taken up extra curricular activities that I disagreed with, and basically lived off of me. I was determined to live better than that and decided to leave. I found out shortly after that, that I was pregnant. I told the father and he moved two weeks later to Washington state. I have no contact with the father and he doesn't support me or my son.

What makes you special?

I have determination and drive for creating a better life for my son and me. I want to be able to support myself and my son without being dependant on another for help. I am still in school obtaining my bachelors for software engineering and I am confident in my endeavors of providing the best atmosphere for my child.

Tell us about your children: age, grades, interests, etc.

My son, Carter Lee, is 20 months old and is the brightest candle on the birthday cake. He has an infectious smile that can vanish the sourest moods and a giggle that can make a grown man cry. He loves his dog, Max aka Puppy, and absolutely LOVES trucks or anything close to them. I can't tell you how many toy vehicles I have in my car because Carter wanted to take his "uck" along with us. He attends the child care center across the street from my place of employment and loves all of the teachers there. He says "hi" to anyone in listening range and blows kisses to you when he is leaving. He is a God sent blessing in every way.

What is your greatest strength as a single parent?

I believe respect is my greatest strength as a single parent. Actually, it has been my greatest strength through out my life, with or without my child. I believe in the motto "You give respect to get respect" and want to instill that in my child. Respect has brought me to where I am today and will continue to lift me beyond my expectations.

What is your greatest weakness as a single mother?

My greatest weakness as a single mother is my time management. I have a real struggle with this daily by trying to fit everything in and still have time for "us" time with my son, which is my favorite time of all.

What are your hopes for the future?

I want my child to acheive his goals, what ever they may be and I want to be his example that what ever he wants he can have by working hard.
My short term goals are that I want to become a Software Engineer and provide for my family the life that they deserve and prepare for their beginings in life.

What encouragement would you like to pass on to others?

Do not give up and know that if help is needed, help is there. It may be hard to ask for help, but overcoming this may be the stepping stone you need to acheive your goals. And of course, provide a place for your child to come and feel comfortable when he or she needs you.