Well it's been a journey. But the last few years have been good and getting better. They're 10 and 12.

As far as self sufficient?  Yup.  Been a single parent for over 11 yrs.

Few years of government assistance, but always pushed to find employment that could keep us from needing help.  I've been with my current employer over 5 yrs now and bought a house in late 2016.  I did get some help with childcare periodically via friends and family, but mostly managed to wrangle it without having to ask for help. 

I'm rigidly independent and DESPISE having to ask for help with anything. 

So far so good with one bump in the road. I have 4 that finished college and all have great careers. One is in college now and a few more that will go in the future.

I think I was.
We all survived those years.

I am doing everything in my power to be a successful single mom.  I am not sure i am achieving it though.  My son is 7, extremely ADHD, and some days simply getting through it until his bed time is the best I can do.  Its a process and we are both learning together.  Not going to lie, some days it's a struggle.