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Timber & Nathan
We activated our account on Parent Profiles in Aug. 2008. 3 days later we were contacted by a birthmother! We were quickly matched and we spent 4 months getting to know each other through emails, texts, and an in-person meeting. Our beautiful daughter was born on December 20, 2008. We spent 3 days caring for her, but our birthmom ended up changing her mind and we lost our daughter two days more ...
Unplanned Pregnancy, Pregnancy Options, Abortion Alternative, Adoption Alternative
The most important thing to remember during your pregnancy is that you have options. You may feel trapped, stuck, or confused, but you're not alone and you have many important decisions to make, decisions that will affect you and your unborn child. While the decision-making process may be a difficult experience, think of it as a journey. Each step on the way will teach you more about yourself and give you a clearer perspective and understanding of your situation and your needs. While all your options will require ample planning, choosing to parent requires the most.
If you think that parenting is the right choice for you, it's time to start getting everything in order. The first thing with which you may deal is a negative reaction to your decision. There will be people--family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers--who will try to force their opinions on you. While it's important to respect and listen to your loved ones' opinions, that doesn't mean you have to do what they want. This has to be your decision. After all, you'll be the one living with the decision and the consequences or results of that decision.
When considering the option of parenting, there are some essential elements that must be planned before the birth of your child. The first is shelter. Finding a safe place to live is vital to the health and wellbeing of yourself and your child. Even if that safe place is living with a friend or family member, that's ok. There's nothing of which to be ashamed. Eventually you'll be able to find a place of your own.
The next thing to consider is providing for your family--both nutritionally and monetarily. Whether you'll be a single parent or part of a couple, you may have to work outside the home. If this is the case, daycare may be a necessity. Also, providing nutritious food to your family can be expensive. However, there are programs available to you that can assist in the cost of buying milk, formula, cheese, and other foods. These programs were set up to help people in need, to help people get back on their feet. If you have the need, make use of these programs; that's why they were created.
The next element to consider is weather-appropriate clothing. Because buying clothing can be pricey, it's important to consider other options than buying from department stores. Secondhand stores are a great resource because you can buy gently-used or new clothing that will be great for your entire family. If you live in a cold climate and need to buy winter coats, enlist the help of local charities, as many gather and collect winter clothing for those in need.
Throughout this process, remember that you have the right to parent your child. If you decide to place after parenting, that's acceptable, too. The important thing is that you do what's best for your child. And if you feel that parenting is best, follow that path. Making an informed decision is the best possible choice. Don't let anyone pressure you into making a choice that you don't want to make. This is your journey. Embrace it.
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