Crazy lately

OK everyone is wanting to know why Im so hard to get intouch with lately.  So here goes.  I have been on an emotional rollercoaster with my 17 yr old daughter.  We just found out she is pregnant.  It has been tough to deal with emotionally!  I have decided that this is GREAT NEWS  and we are very excited to have a little one around the house.  Your prayers for her in the comming short months would be greatly appreciated! A few for Nanna would be appreciated as well! 

Im sorry Lashelle and Laura Ive been out of touch .. I hope you girls are doing well!! My thoughs are with you both as well as all of my other OH buddies!

Hugs.  Boy I need a drink!! LOL 
 

Ginger

Boy I don't know what to say.  I'm glad you decided it was GREAT NEWS after your initial shock.  Stay with us on the forum and keep us posted.  Linda

The shock is still here!  whew.  I feel like Ive been drug around a few blocks and then ran over with a big truck!  We will get through this!!

Hey Granny!!!! 

And we all bashed Sarah Palin. Feels different when it's you in the limelight huh? 

Well, I had my son when I was 16; a month away from my 17th b-day, so here's my 2 cents...

1.  Support your daughter as much as you can.  As disapointed, ashmed, afraid, angry, scared as you are, imagine it being 10x worse for her.   That was the worst! period of my life.  My parents were very unsupportive. I ended up moving against my will to Macon with my boyfriend's grandma who was not nice to me.  It was just HORRIBLE!

2. Make sure she finishes school!  I dropped out, partly because of so many problems at home.  Luckily God had his hands on me and Devon, and I got my GED, enrolled in commuinty college, founded a support group for single moms WHY ME (women helping young mothers excel), Transferred to Mercer in my Jr. year and ended up graduating before the rest of my high school class.  

3. Take advantage of all the programs available.  She is eligible for pregnancy Medicaid. Even if you have an HMO, it will cover any co-pays.   It will also assure the baby will be covered by newborn Medicaid from birth.   If she is still in high school after the baby comes she will be eligible for free childcare.   If she applies to college, your  income won't be counted on the FAFSA since she is a parent.     Take her to the Health Department asap to sign up for WIC. She will get good pre-natal eduaction, food vouchers, and will get free formula for the baby. You may not want to accept charity, but think of it as for the baby and not you.  if you have a local pregnancy crisis center, contact them. They will likely have free carseats, diapers, maternity clothes, etc.    Also call 211 for United Way to see what resources are available.

4. God will not give us more than we can bear. I now this seems crazy, but there is a  reason and perfect timing for everthing, even if it doesn't make sense to us. 

Ginger -

Your attitude is fabulous!  I know the shock must have been huge, but I admire you for looking at this as a blessing and being there for your daughter (and future grandchild).

LaShelle has some fabulous advice.  Not being blessed with children myself, I never would have thought of some of the things she mentioned.  If I can do ANYTHING to help, please let me know. 

We're here for you!

-- L

Thanks Ladies!!! I knew you would be and thanks so much for the advice.   There is so much to do and sooo little time to do it in!!  Hugs to you all and I 'll be in touch soon.
Hugs.

G

Sorry to hear about your daughter..... How is she doing? Has she explored adoption? Sometimes woman just aren't ready to be moms and there are so many folks that can't have children....

I'm sure whatever she decides you'll be there....

CC

Yes we discussed all options and she has decided to keep it.  Part of me is sad that it will shorten her childhood but another part of me is very excited to see her develop into the wonderful women that I know she can be.