This summer I've been doing something new, just for me. It's an exercise class called "Boot Camp." Basically, it's a simulation of basic training exercises facilitated by a personal trainer. With a little encouragement, this trainer has gotten me to accomplish things I never dreamed of, and I'm convinced that part of my "success" (read "why I haven't given up yet") is because of the simple, encouraging words I receive from him and from the other women in the class: "Good job!" "I knew you could do it!" "Keep going. Don't give up!"

Each time, I'm struck by those words, because, really, where else do we hear them? And yet, encouragement in the most challenging areas of our lives is something we all need, as human beings. I'm not just talking about exercise here. Think about what you might be able to accomplish in your life, in raising your children, or in your career, with a little encouragement.

So when I came across the free audio meditation, "Strength for Single Parents," on Stin Hansen's www.mythoughtcoach.com web site, the concept rang true to me. With some encouragement, you can get through the toughest days. In fact, that's what Single Parents at About.com is all about, from the articles, to the blog, to our Single Parents' forum.

And as much as I, as your Guide and advocate, want every reader to come away with the sense that he or she isn't alone, that there are others facing the same daily challenges, sometimes you just need to hear it. When you do, stop by Stin's site and have a listen.

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Thriving Single Parents of the Week: Gina and Carrie

Gina Davis and Carrie Abston are two single moms who were recently interviewed for an article that appeared in Indiana's Journal & Courier, titled "Single and Surviving: Parents Make Do During the Recession."

What really stood out to me was not just that these moms are doing what they have to to get by--including working from home to make some extra money--but that they both expressed some positives that have emerged in the midst of their struggle.

For example, Carrie pointed out that not having disposable income to spend on her children has resulted in their spending more time together. Likewise, Gina said that she and her children are bonding more, now that they're spending time together doing things that don't cost money.

Naturally, it takes a glass-half-full approach to life to be able to find the positive right about now, but the lessons your kids will take away from watching you struggle and endure are far more valuable than anything you could purchase in a store.

How about you? Has the recession, ironically, had a positive impact on your relationships with your kids? Take a moment to share your thoughts by leaving a comment below. And if you have any advice for single moms and dads who are struggling to get by in this tough economy, share it below or in one of the following "Readers Respond" features:

• How Do You Save on Groceries?
• How Do You Save on School Supplies?
• Budget Vacation Ideas for Single Parent Families

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Two hotels in Washington, D.C., Carlyle Suites and Savoy Suites, are offering a special deal this summer: For every five hours of documented community service you perform with your kids, you'll get 50% off a night's stay in their hotel. One of the neat things about the program, too, is that you can perform the community service at an organization of your choosing--right in your own neighborhood.

In fact, if this deal is something you plan to take advantage of, I'd recommend scheduling your trip around the tax-free shopping dates in D.C. or Virginia, so you can save on back-to-school shopping at the same time!

In addition, share your own money-saving vacation tips by participating in the "Readers Respond" feature, What Are Your Best Budget Vacation Ideas? or by leaving a comment below.

Read More Thrifty Thursday Blog Posts on the About.com Parenting Channel:

• Single Parents' Thrifty Thursday Blog Archive
• Cheap Birthday Gifts That Promote Fitness
• Cheaper Reading: Save by Swapping
• Getting Out of Debt and Staying Out of Debt
• Affordable Infant Car Seats
• Saving for College at the Grocery Store
• Recycle Old Jeans
• Plan a Fun Tween Sleepover Party

By now we've all heard the words of Michael Jackson's oldest child, Paris, spoken at the conclusion of his funeral yesterday:

"Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just want to say that I love him so much."

If you saw the video clip or watched the event live, did it make you wonder what your own kids would say? For me, there was some of that. But even more, it makes me think of all that I would want to have said to them--my last words, as a mother.

There's actually a file on my computer labeled "Will_Letter" that is a letter I wrote to my children three years ago, for them to read, in the event that anything were ever to happen to me. It was something I had wanted to write for a long time--consider it an insurance policy, of sorts. (Nothing will happen to me if I'm actually prepared, right?)

The letter includes the lyrics to the song I always sang to them as babies ("To Make You Feel My Love" by Garth Brooks, with some of the lyrics adjusted slightly), some verses, and some of the memories that have been most important to me.