Are there any single SAHPs?

[heatherdeg]

If so, I have a dear friend that is newly single and really desperate to continue staying home with her kids (3 and newborn). Would appreciate ANY insights, advice, etc. you can give to pass on. I've already passed on the in-home daycare idea except that she will be losing her home and doesn't even know what state she'll be living in soon. She's already having problems because she and stbx only moved to the state they're in less than 6mo ago.

Horrible sitch. Thanks for any help.

[phathui5]

I was briefly a single WWKP (work with kid parent). I got a job in the babysitting room at the YMCA and they let me keep ds with me. I didn't make much, but it was enough to pay for a cheap apartment, electricity, home phone and food. We didn't have a car, cell phone, etc.

[heatherdeg]

Oooo... good one. And I guess I shouldn't say "desperate" as much as "driven".

Will pass THAT one on. Other thoughts... on work, on affording it, etc. welcomed.

[Pumpkin_Pie]

I did it as a single mama to my DS. I lived on a retirement account that I cashed in for about 5 months, and then I took in kids to watch at my home so I could stay home with DS for a year and a half. After that, I found jobs that I could take him with me for about 6 more months. I still actually work at one now that he is 3.5, but it is only VERY part time on the weekends.

[Lilypie32]

Once I found out I was divorcing I started an online medical transcription program. Six months later I was working full time from home and making enough to live okay. I love the work too.

[Pumpkin_Pie]

Lilypie, what program did you do? I have been wanting to find one for ages, but am so afraid of scams. I worked in healthcare for nearly 12 years, so I think it would be an easy switch.

[heatherdeg]

Originally Posted by Lilypie32

Once I found out I was divorcing I started an online medical transcription program. Six months later I was working full time from home and making enough to live okay. I love the work too.

You know, I actually started an online transcription program but I really found that there was seriously no way for me to do this with the kids. I mean, *I* had to sleep sometime, too. This one has one that's past napping age and a newborn... but even with naps lining up, that's about 2 hours of napping (at best) plus when they're in bed (so assuming you don't sleep deprive yourself, another 2-ish hours?)

I could see once you have work running the first round of transcribing through an automated thing and buying some time that way...?

I'd actually love to go back to this myself, so if you can help me figure that out--it would be helping TWO mommies!

[Abraisme]

I used to be a single, sahm. I had a small Ebay business where I bought clothing wholesale (or cheaper) and re-sold it. I also was a nanny for a little girl 2-3 days a week during that time. I always made enough to support myself and my son (I have never recieved child support), which was enough for me. I wish your friend luck!