Solo Mom: Passing the torch

Happy New Year! It’s that time of year when we're all trying to make changes, ostensibly for the better.

When I first took over Single Parents of the Triangle two years ago, I resolved to make it an active group with something for everyone. I had a lot of help from several assistant organizers, but we’ve definitely accomplished that goal.

Last year we celebrated our 1000th event, and membership has grown to over 250 single parents! We’ve gone hiking, camping, eaten out, dined in potluck-style, visited the beach and several museums, hit just about every park and playground in the Triangle area, swam, picnicked, partied, and numerous other things.

And now, while our momentum is strong, it is time for me to pass the torch on to someone with fresh new ideas. I’m still a member of the group, in fact an assistant organizer myself now, but the lead responsibility is now in the capable hands of a dear friend.

It’s bittersweet for me. On one hand, it is somewhat of a relief to not have the major responsibilities – the administrative duties, the problem solving, the obligation to make it out to almost everything …

But on the other hand, it’s almost as if “my baby’s all grown up now” and it’s time to let go. Part of it, of course, is that my real babies ARE growing up, and getting into other activities to which I need to devote some time as well.

When I first joined SPOT the group was a huge support for myself and my children. I’m very much a “pay it forward” kind of person, and I wanted to do my part to make sure others received the care that we did. Two years later, I am confident I’ve done my part, but also confident that my successor will carry on that effect.

I’ll still be participating in and leading some events of course, and will continue to write about my adventures in single-parenting. With any luck, I can continue to “pay it forward” here with some decent advice, or at least some amusing stories.