So you're bummed cuz you're NOT pregnant? I just had to respond to those feelings you're having. I got pregnant at 17 (certainly not on purpose but I wasn't using birth control for whatever reason either - guess I thought it couldn't happen to me!) After much debate (abortion - thought of that for like 5 minutes - we were both against it; adoption - thought about that one for awhile) well, I ended up having my son and keeping him. Let me tell you it was VERY difficult to finish school and go to college with a child. My boyfriend and I broke up when our son was 2 but I still finished school and graduated from college. My son is 14 now and while I wouldn't take him back for anything, let me tell you that I often thought about what could have been and all the fun things I was missing out on. When all my friends were going away to college, living in dorms with their friends, involved in tons of activities, going out and just having fun being young and single and enjoying life, I was quite limited on what I could do. I just wanted to say from someone who's been there that you should just enjoy being young and single. Don't rush into having kids! You've got so many years ahead of you! Do all you want now and then get married and start a family. I am 32 and some of my friends aren't even married yet and some of those who are married don't even have kids yet. I know you may want to have a kid now but it really is a HUGE responsibility and your life will NEVER be the same!

Good luck to you and in your future!

Thank you for your story. It is really encouraging. I am 19 and I have a 6 month old. I just started college this semester.I get really bummed out because it's so hard to go to school, take care of her, clean the house, do my homework, and cook. But I know their are women who have it harder than me. I'm very blessed that I have a boyfriend who supports me. Some women have to do it alone and I admire them. I don't know if I could. Anyways, thanks for the encouragement. Have a nice day.

I really appreciate your reply! It is truly my passion to tell my story to all who need/want to hear it so as to be an encouragement to others so they will know that if I can do it, they can too! Granted my son is now 14 but I certainly haven't forgot how much I struggled and what I had to overcome to get to where I am today. I clearly remember going to this meeting/orientation thing when I first went on welfare and I had to watch this stupid video, the whole time I was thinking that I can't believe I am sitting here, about to start collecting monthly welfare checks and that this is what I had made of my life! I told myself that I wouldn't become a statistic. I wouldn't stay on welfare. I was going to do something with my life! It took alot of work but I finally got there! You are very fortunate to have a supportive boyfriend. Use all of the resources available to you and you will get through it - I promise. And in the end you'll look back and feel a great sense of accomplishment and one day you'll be telling your success story and be able to help others just like I'm doing today. Good luck to you! Hang in there! Annette