I totally get you!
One thing that I have tried (that works for me) is an afternoon Siesta from 1:30 - 3:00. It took a little while for everyone to understand that I mean stay in your own room and play quietly, read or nap until 3. This mostly was put in place for my son...who cannot entertain himself.. but, it is lovely for all three kiddos and especially for me.
Stay strong!
My heart goes out to you. I didn't realise you were a single parents and your'e working! I take it in the State's your kiddo's are still on holidays? I'm in Australia and our long break is over Xmas (7 weeks) and each year it's the same. My hubby works Mon-Sat all day so we don't even see him in the mornings and then he's home around 5pm. He has Sunday's off but always busy trying to catch up with this house job etc........and I'm still with the kids. No family close by............may see parents once or twice over that period (one of those would be me going to my parents!) and zero friends nearyby. I actually end up getting really run down towards the end of that long break and get a little ill. I like the idea of the previous post about having an afternoon nap but with my two, I don't think I'd be able to. The best I can get is sit down to a movie with them and I'm alwasy that tired, I start to doze till my kids scream at me "Mum, wake up!" I've read of few post's and mentions you have "camp" during the holidays. We don't really have anything like that but each year I swear my kids are going into daycare for at least 1 day each week during that long break so I can get a break. I also wish that I did work during some of the school holidays so I could get a break from them............isn't that terrible! Anyway, sorry to ramble on. I do hope you manage to get a little break as we all know it can make a big difference to how were feeling.
BTW, just wanted to let you know I have read quite a few posts of your's on this board and you seem really tuned into your son. You seem to do all in your power for your son and you should be very proud of yourself. Like I said, I din't realise you were a single parent and working and for all that you do for your son , is pretty amazing. Your'e doing a great job!
Hi Tara4us....I really encourage you to try the siesta. Yes, it is somewhat difficult to get started. In the beginning for my son...I started in the morning telling him that we all were going to have a sieta. When it was time, I marched him in with hugs and kisses and ideas for what he would do. I also pointed out on the clock when it would be over and when he could come out. He is somewhat used to the clock because we have a rule that he can't come out of his room (and wake everyone else up) until 6:00. I would say for the first month ...he was calling from his room or asking how much longer, etc. But, now he does it willingly and I believe it is helping with his ability to think of things to do by himself. It definitely gives his sisters a much needed break .
BTW: We homeschool ..so my kiddos are home every day!