It is totally different to be a working parent with a partner. Or a LP without a partner. I've done all variations and LP working with no partner IS the hardest.
The sole responsibility, the relentlessness, the fatigue, the panic levels - that Gretchen describes perfectly above - when one of them is ill.
I don't argue back when friends or colleagues with partners who travel a lot say to me 'I'm a single parent for half the time too!". I grin but really I'm thinking "fuck off you idiot you have no bloody clue."
On top of that, to be my version of a 'good' parent, I am exhausted and the things that i don't have time for are me (my health and appearance, I look like shite these days) and the house (a fucking disaster, shit tip).
I am often lonely for grown up companionship, or sexual interaction, or just someone to share life's ups and downs with.
I'd also love it if there was someone to make me a cup of tea or hot water bottle, particularly when I'm sick. Or someone else to dash out to the supermarket when we run out of milk instead of piling us all into the car.
However, as Olly and others above explain, the positives are amazing. I'd never co-parent again and I hope that my girls grow up feeling empowered to know that they too, can do ANYTHING.
I am organized in a way that I never knew possible and I am a much harder person than i was before ex h blew up our lives. I don't take shit from anyone anymore, whereas i was a bit of a people pleasing, wet blanket before! Surprisingly, I have learned that people still want to be your friend when you stick up for yourself. And, my career has moved on further. Who knew?
I'd LOVE to read your blog. The camaraderie would be important.