It's an understatement to say that having kids changes everything, especially our financial situation. I know as a single parent it's hard to see forest for trees while trying to juggle work, bills and kids. It can be difficult enough to imagine how to pay for plumber and soccer classes much less saving enough for a down payment on a house. But it is possible.

When Shirronda and I first decided to purchase a home together, one of things we did aside from making a wishlist for type of house that we wanted was to decide what to do with house. We knew eventually we would move into our own single-family homes but we were in agreement that we would always keep two-family for girls. They can share one of apartments and rent out other or they can live in their own unit. Whatever they decide to do, at least they will have options.

Keep you eyes on everyone. Just because they might not ‘look’ like an attacker, doesn’t mean that some guy in a business suit can’t be one. If someone is approaching you, look them in eye, hold out your hands in front of you and yell “Stay Back!” or “Stop!” Most sexual assailants interviewed say that they leave a woman alone if she showed that she wasn’t someone to be messed with or wasn’t afraid to fight back.

It’s called putting up a verbal boundary or verbal self defense. Many who have used this as part of their self defense training say they were amazed when they stepped toward a threatening stranger and yelled “Back Off!” in a strong, assertive, projecting voice. And would-be assailant did just that.

Using pepper sprays can work in same manner. Just by aiming at a potential attacker and yelling, “I have pepper spray!” can be a deterrent. That’s if it is in your hand at time.