I’m MNing from a coffee shop whilst eating cake and drinking tea alone.

[JuanSheetIsPlenty]

Which is probably a totally unremarkable thing for all of you but for me it’s the first time I’ve managed to do it in about 6 years. I’m a single parent and youngest has SEN which means he really struggled with any clubs/sports/activities etc (and school for long enough) I also work school hours and any time off work Is to cover school holidays or his appointments. Weekends he is always with me. His dad walked away years ago. But today. He is in an activity. He went last week for 45 minutes and today he is staying for 90 minutes. So I’m having a cup of tea and a slice of cake by myself, all to myself and I don’t have to share it or manage behaviour or stress about him getting upset. It’s bliss!!!

Sounds like a little bit of bliss!

I remember the morning when our son was first away at overnight respite. It was the first morning that I could lie in my own bed and not have to listen for him stirring; the first morning when I wouldn't have to get him up, dressed and fed. It was weirdly peaceful.

Hope it becomes a regular activity for you OP and that your son enjoyed himself too .

Delighted for you, OP! But sad that it’s such a rare treat.
Have you checked with your local churches to see if any of them offer respite help for parents and carers of special needs children or adults?
One of ours does this via a drop in centre. It could be a real relief to you if you knew you’d have that hour free every week in future.
If you prefer, they can sometimes provide a CRB checked volunteer to sit with your DC in your home while you go out for a break.
Maybe worth enquiring locally?