Excited/Scared/Alone

Updated on September 11, 2009
G.P. asks from Port Matilda, PA
36 answers

I am 22 weeks pregnant with my first child. She wasn't planned at all but I'm very excited and cannot wait for her to come into the world. My problem is that I'll be doing it alone and it's a lot harder then I thought it was going to be being pregnant alone. The simple things like making her a book of pictures of her family, her ultrasound pictures ect.. should be a fun thing but I always end up thinking "what am I going to tell her when she's older" about her father, and then the water works start. I know a lot of it is hormones but I think a lot of it is also being scared that I'll somehow end up the "bad guy" in her eyes one day. I know it's not going to be easy but I love her more then I ever thought I could love already and she's not even here. How do I calm myslef and enjoy life more without worring so much and causing myself to have nervous breakdowns

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So What Happened?

Oh my goodness! Never in a million years did I think I would get so many wonderful people responding and certianly not with all of the supportive loving caring words all of you have said to me. I feel 100X's better already it was so very nice to read all of your words and not feel so all alone! Thank you so very much for all of your kind words! I love this website already!

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T.D.

answers from Scranton on

Well the only thing you do is stay strong. When the time comes tell her the truth about what happened with her father and etc. Women are stronger than men since we have the babies and know how to clean up all sorts of icky stuff! :) If you like just holler! :) Someone will be listening!:)

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D.S.

answers from Allentown on

I know it will be hard and I'm going threw the same thing.Just try to remember that when the time comes you'll know what to say.Just enjoy all the wonders of being a mom and take thigs one day at a time...

1 mom found this helpful
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J.S.

answers from York on

I know exactly how you feel. I went threw my entire pregnancy and am still doing everything myself. My daughter's father has chose not to be in her life or see her, which is really screwed up because he just had a baby with someone else and is in that baby's life. Ok no need to talk about all that. I don't know anyway to help you though cause I cried then and I still cry sometimes but I keep tellin myself that it's for the best and someday my daughter will have a father that loves her.

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L.S.

answers from Philadelphia on

You're right about so much. It'll be hard to do it alone, it's exciting, it's hormonal, and you're going to worry. Welcome to motherhood! You're going to worry about a lot of things... forever. My kids are nearly grown, and I still worry about things. My mother calls me and worries about what I'm doing, and I'm 45. It never stops. But you'll learn to handle the worry, and that will happen mostly by experience. Each time you worry about something, then successfully get through each challenge of child-rearing, you'll feel more confident. But be prepared. The worrying never goes away completely. It's just part of the deal. When you love someone that much, you worry about them.
And don't worry too much about your daughter growing up and thinking your the bad guy. Very few of us get through motherhood without our children declaring "I hate you!" at least once. Eh. They do that sort of thing. (I always told my kids, "It's not my job to make you love me." And that pretty much stopped that tactic of theirs.) Be honest with her as she grows up. Give her as much information as she can handle at any age, and if you know that what you teach her about her father and you is grounded in truth, then no matter how she reacts to it, you've done the right thing. At some point down the line, probably 20 or more years from now, she'll appreciate what you did for her and how much you sacrificed. Love her and be patient. Be consistent, and be the mother. And even though you'll worry, all of the wonderful things about motherhood -- especially, the love that you and your daughter put out into the world -- will far outweigh the difficult moments.

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J.F.

answers from Philadelphia on

It's OK! It's OK! I know this is easy for me to say and for you to do, but try not to stress too much about it. I think the thing that will help the most is to really think about why you're not with the father of your baby. Typically, the reasons will be very good ones, ones that would mean if you'd tried to stick it out the relationship between you two and between you and your baby would be much worse off.

I think what I hear the most about people who have rough relationships with their kids, is more about communication with their kids, trust issues, stuff like that. And you simply can't stress about that, because it's gonna be too far in the future. Just do the best that you can, take it day by day, and just try to keep being there for her.

As far as telling her about her biological father when she's older, my personal opinion is to be honest without being derogatory toward the father. It could be as simple as "your father and I couldn't live together" when she's young and leave it at that. These days, it's really common to have a one-parent family, so it's not like it was years ago when people who came from one-parent families had this huge negative stigma to deal with.

But you simply can't afford to stress about 'what ifs' for stuff that's gonna happen years from now! :) You'll just make yourself crazy! Try to do something nice for yourself to reduce your stress, come to peace with your decision regarding your baby's father, anything like that. The stress you're putting yourself through now is only making your life miserable and isn't great for your baby, so try to find something that will allow you to come to peace with your decision, ok?

*hugs* Hang in there - I'm sure you'll do fine as far as your baby is concerned!

J.

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T.C.

answers from Washington DC on

Hi G.,

I am a single mom of one and it can be hard and depressing at times. Just try to stay positive and look forward to a bright future for you and your daughter. My son's father was in and out of my life through my pregnancy and when my son was born. I used to always ask why me. Then I took on the attitude why not me. It only made me a stronger person.

My son is three now and he is always asking for his dad. It is at the point now that I just asked his father to stay away until he is ready to come into his life when he is ready to be a dad. It hurts the child when the father comes and goes and makes empty promises.

Try not to think about what your going to tell your daughter. You have a long way to go before she asks. At that time, you may have already been blessed with someone who can be a father figure to her. However, do tell her the truth when she is old enough to know...about her father. Try to surround yourself around positive people and have a good support system.

I hope this helps!!

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D.J.

answers from Philadelphia on

You will be completely fine. I did it alone with my daughter. The thing that really helped me were my friends. It was me and my girlfriend in every dr visit, ultrasound and even at delivery. The hospital actually gave her the overnight daddy bracelet so she could stay with me. She and I went shopping together and she was literally the daddy figure. They don't start asking about daddy's till later and they really become understanding about it because your bond with her will be so strong she wont even miss him. My daughter didnt even think twice about her father. She knew it to be me and her always. I am married now but I can truly say that I miss my single mom days with her and it was so much fun aside from being difficult but you learn to manage.

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D.D.

answers from Pittsburgh on

HI I was once a single mother, twice. It is a little harder but you have a better bond with your child. You will be able to get through it. I had my son at age 17 he wasn't planned and his father is a dead beat dad still. He is 9 now. It was hard going to school and work but you get through it. My mom was there for me and I had a great daycare provider that loved him like he was her own. And then after 1 failed marriage and being a single mother of 2. I met a wonderful man who takes care of my children like they were his own and I am a stay at home mom who basically has a daycare in my home. You will get through it, It will be hard the first couple of months until the 2 of you get on a routine and then things get easier. One more piece of advice. Have somebody that will be watching your pets while you are in the hospital bring home a blanket that the baby has used, with her scent on it home to the dogs. So that they can smell it and get used to her scent. If you have any other questions you can reach me at ____@____.com. I hope I helped.

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A.G.

answers from Washington DC on

Dont ever think your daughter will resent you in the future! My mom raised me pretty much on her own and since I was 8 years old or so and really started to understand, I told people that my mom was my role model, that she works harder than anyone I know, and until this day, I admire her more than anybody really. I actually never thought of not having a father in the household as a bad thing. I knew where my dad was, he lived a few blocks from me and would come by a few times a year to say hello, but not a child support check, nothing from that man, and I knew my mother was a better father and mother than he could ever try to be.
I would never say that parenting is easy. I actually think pregnancy is fun and parenting is the hardest job anyone can have, and I am not alone. So big ups to single mothers and father because yall are really superwoman/man in disguise.

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S.R.

answers from New York on

Congratulations G.! You're going to be a great mom, and you're going to manage just fine. And, you may not be alone for long. I have a close friend in manhattan who is 7 wks preg, and she's doing it on her own as well. If you think you'd like a penpal for support, I'm sure she'd appreciate it as well. Just let me know and I'll get you her email address. You're inspirational to so many, I'm sure. Take care!
S.

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H.T.

answers from Dover on

Hi G. -

I know that its a very scary thing. I've been raising my two boys, ages 3 and 20 months, by myself since my oldest was born. Its scary being alone and pregnant, but just remember that you are a strong woman that can raise that little girl no matter what life throws at you. You dont need to think about what to tell her about her father when she gets older....you will think of the right words when the time comes. In the meantime, concentrate on that beautiful little girl that is about to become the center of your world and all the wonderful things that you will learn and teach. Think about how happy she is going to make you. The rest will fall into place. Good luck..and I'm here if you ever need to talk!

H.

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M.S.

answers from Philadelphia on

Hi G.. I wasn't in the same situation, but I did raise my daughter without her father for the most part. During her early years, he was a part of her life sometimes and not at others, but from the time she was about 7, I decided that it wasn't a safe environment for her to be in (his girlfriend started threatening my daugher and he didn't do a whole lot about it) and she hasn't seen or talked to him since then. She is 12 now. I'm now married with a newborn son. My daughter obviously knows that my husband isn't her dad, but they have a very good relationship. She has no desire to see her dad. She remembers that he let her down and wants nothing to do with him. And she doesn't resent me or look at me like the bad guy either. I'm sure you will be a great mom and provide your little girl with all the love in the world. Good luck being a new mommy! Children are wonderful, precious gifts from God. Cherish every moment with your little girl because they grow up quickly.

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L.N.

answers from Washington DC on

Oh G., lots of happy hugs to you. just to comfort you, a lot of presents dads are useless. heck, they're useless period. so you won't be missing much on help from his side.
you'll do fine. you'll tell her the truth when it's the right time. until then. when she asks you point out the people who are present in her life, like grandparents or uncles etc.

good luck and congrats
vlora

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K.H.

answers from Philadelphia on

Hi G.,
I just joined this group and was reading through requests and your touched me enough to send my first message! I am a single mother and have been since the day my son was born. hen I became pregnant I was happy but at the same time I felt scared, ashamed and very alone. His father was never good to me and I knew I was better off without him. After I left his father at the end of my pregnancy he moved on with another young girl and now has 3 more kids plus a 4th with her on the way. He has been very consistent in being absent in my sons life. Sometimes 4 years have passed before calling his son. He has also been very good at breaking every promise he makes to my son. However, I can confidently say to you that, yes, being a single Mom is tough, BUT, It is the best thing I have ever accomplished. My son is now 10 and he is my hero. Without him I would not have come as far as I have. I now think before I act and I always strive to do better. The best advise I can give to you is to never speak negatively about your daughters father to or around her. Allow her to form her own opinion of him as she matures. Answer her questions honestly at an age appropriate level. Let her know that whatever her feelings are that they are ok. When you are ready to date again consider the morals you would like to teach her. I choose to not allow men I date around my kids. I have a serious boyfriend now of 2 years and I was very careful about how I began to incorporate everyone together.
If you ever want to chat I would be happy to chat with you. Or if you just need to vent I am a good listener as well. Good luck to you and remember... your daughter is a gift and you will never know love until you have a child!
K.

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H.F.

answers from Pittsburgh on

First of all, you need to know that part of the tears and the apprehensions is from the extra hormones that your body is producing. When you feel it coming on, take a deep breath and try to relax. I'm sure you will do fine.

As for thinking about what you will tell her about her father when she is older, you have a lot of time to work that out. Personally, I think I would say that he gave you a wonderful gift in your daughter but was unable to be part of your lives. Try not to worry so much about that time though. You can think about what you will want to tell her but I know from watching my single aunt and her now grown daughter that you will overcome that obstacle when it is time. Just remember to tell her how much you love her.

Also, when you start to get upset, try to think about the positive things you will be giving her. You mentioned pictures of her family... You are giving her a mom who loves her more than she could imagine, 3 dogs who will most likely be very loving and protective of her... those are just the beings you mentioned in your message. I'm sure you have a lot more to offer as well.

Good luck with your pregnancy and try to remember in the first few months to sleep when the baby sleeps. It will help (especially being a single mom) stave off some of the sleep deprivation that comes with being a new mom.

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D.F.

answers from Pittsburgh on

First of all CONGRADULATIONS!!!! and what a special due date :) recently my family and i have been through alot and it just keeps coming, and i can be a very stressful, excitable, and emotional person and i was getting to the point of crazy. My husband told me something that took a bit to sink in but it seemes to be working. "when you get upset or to emotional about something, Be upset for five mins. and if you being upset made anything better keep being mad, i know it sounds stupid and trust me we fought sometimes his "words of wisdom" tick me off even more. but after a while it started to work and for the most part i dont even need the five mins anymore. I also started making a list. if we have a problem wether money the kids work whatever i think of a few very small thing i can do to make the situation better. (very small, like we need to save money so i but filled water bottles in the back of the toilet so it uses less water) just the simplest things u can come up with. I hope this helps you good luck and always remember everything will be OK!!!

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K.K.

answers from Washington DC on

G.,

I have been a single parent for a while. My daughter even had a step-father for almost four years and I was still pretty much a single parent. The thing that you have to realize is that it isn't always roses and it isn't always easy. There will be trying times, but as long as you know they will pass you can make it through them. Don't feel guilty about what to tell your daughter or about your choice not to be with her father. My daughter is six and her father and I split when she was seven months old. I was pretty much a single parent up until then as well, which is why it wasn't such a hard choice to end my marriage. He hasn't been a consistant presence in her life and he usually comes around more often when he thinks there is a chance of reconcilliation. My duaghter doesn't remember him ever living with us-so the fact that he isn't around doesn't really bother her. She asks questions and I answer as honestly as possible. Don't hide anything from her and she will be more understanding. I think when parents hide things and their children find out after the fact it creates a much more difficult situation. Also, don't wait to explain things when you think she will understand better. When she starts to ask those difficult questions at age two or three-tell her the truth! They understand a lot more than we give them credit for.

You have to be a constant, positive force for your daughter and that will be hard. You will make mistakes. Don't let them overwhelm you just pick up and keep going b/c she will forgive you as long as you have her best interest at heart. Lean on your family when you can. I am for the first time in my daughter's life sending her to her grandparents for the entire summer! I get to be me for a little bit and it has taken me a while to realize that is okay. I think sometimes it is harder for us to let go of that control since we don't share our responsbility on a daily basis. Don't be afraid to ask for that 'me' time b/c you will need it.

I will end my novel. I hope this helps a little bit. Best of luck to you and your new one!! They really are a gift!! :O)

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K.J.

answers from Philadelphia on

Awwww sweetheart!!! You've already answered your own questions.... "but I love her more then I ever thought I could love" you said - that's all the both of you need :] You sound like a really sweet person and I know you are a strong, sweet, independent woman and your daughter will have the best mom ever. Remember - it's all about how YOU make it. There a tons of single moms out there - and every family is different {so you'll be the 3 dog/one baby girl mom} and that is wonderful. She will love you unconditionally, with her whole heart. Babies come out with a clean slate - it's up to you to teach them all the right stuff, and I have no doubt you will. Just beacause she's not going to have a dad - means nothing - please know that that's ok. It's up to you to have fun with the scrapbooks and pictures etc - just tell yourself I am strong, and me and my little girl will love each other, and I will give her all that she needs, and all the right tools. Deep breath sweetie, and give yourself a hug {I would give you a big long hug if I could} All will be well and trust me when I say, your motherly instict will kick in - and both of you can lean on each other, forever.

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A.W.

answers from Washington DC on

Hi G.,

First and foremost, congratulations!

Well, as with a lot of the responses that you have already gotten, I am a single parent also where he hasn't been around at all.

Even since I was pregnant with her I was wondering the same questions you are... "what do I tell her...she's going to hate me..." Things like that. My daughter is three now and I still ask myself the same questions. It's getting harder now because she attends day care and she sees the other children’s fathers coming to get them and they yell "daddy" all that good stuff. At one point she was just calling random male friends of mine "daddy". I didn't let that fly, and all I needed to say was that's not your daddy.

I know the day will come when she is going to just come right out and say it and the best advice that I have received thus far came from my mother. She said to just tell her the truth. Let her make her own decisions based off of your story. Chances are she isn't going to make you the bad person. Let her try to meet him. Let her try to contact him and she'll see for herself how he is. It will hurt her, but it's better than lying. Another tid-bit of advice that I was given was to try and try again to get him to be a part so that you can at least tell her that you tried and you won't feel like you're just lying.

I'm sure you have tried already just being pregnant as I did, but keep trying. You never know he might change his mind after she is here. You might be pissed that he wasn't there for you during your pregnancy, but at least he will be there.

I know I rambled on a lot, but I hope it helped and if you need any other advise for whatever, whether its this situation, child support, just general questions about raising a child or being a single mom, please feel free to e-mail me.

A.

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J.T.

answers from Altoona on

For the longest time I would get very upset and depressed about things. I would worry constantly. Especially when I first found out that I was pregnant with my son (he's almost two now). But my husband told me, all you need is a little bit of faith. Do what you can and don't worry too much. Things will always work out. And you know what? Since I've started living by that, everything has worked out. There's a good movie out that I think you can buy called "The Secret". Maybe look it up. It's helped me out too.

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D.B.

answers from Washington DC on

Don't worry about the father situation right now. I had my oldest son out of wedlock. His father was not in his life during the early years. I prayed and asked God for a husband and for my son to know his father and his siblings. Five years later God sent me a wonderful man, whom I married, and had 4 children with. Also my oldest son saw him as father. As time went on (age 10) my son was able to have a relationshp with his father, stepmom, and his siblings. He is now 22 yrs old. Tell your daughter the good things about her father when that time comes. Do not focus on the negative because when the time comes for her to meet him and have a relationship with him (I assume he is living)you don't want the relationship hinder because of negative words spoken to her about her father by her own mother. Enjoy your pregnancy as much as you can. Do not put undue stress on yourself or the baby. You want to have a healthy, happy baby. Your non-pregnancy related emotions can affect your unborn. So do everything in your power to not allow the negative emotions to affect you. Think on the beautiful baby girl that God has blessed you to carry in your body. Although the situation may not be right or what you expected, she is till a gift from God to be treasured and loved, even at this early stage in her life. I hope in some way this helps you. Be blessed!!

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S.W.

answers from Dover on

Do you have family around here? I just moved here and have had 2 girls so I have a lot of extra stuff- clothes, blankets, towels, etc. If you would like any of it to help you out I would be more than happy to give it to you. I know my one girl friend who was a single mom really had problems financially, but she was drained by the babies father before he took off. Also if you need someone to talk to I am available. I don't know anyone here so it would be nice to meet someone!
S.

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J.T.

answers from Pittsburgh on

Well, you have the hardest part out of the way...you know that it will be hard. It may be a little easier for people to respond if we knew why you were a single mom...nothing in detail, but was it just a bad relationship you left, did you lose your spouse/boyfriend...? I would definitely suggest creating a circle now. One of family and friends. Some people say that a child needs two parents. I disagree. A child needs all tghe love it can get from sensible loving adults. When times get tough (they will), just swaddle your little girl in love, and remember, it eventually gets easier. Try to find a moms group. I have been told that there is one at Mt. Olive Church in Chippewa (you were a featured request fron BF). And remember, life would not have given you this gift if you couldn't do it. It seems that you are one of those people who were brought up that a kid needs a mommy and a daddy. Nowadays, there are many, many children in single parent homes, so don't fret too much about that. Your daughter won't be the odd-man-out. When the time comes to start talking to her about family, the words will come to you. Wait to explain her daddy when she starts to ask. She might start with "where's my daddy'. Tell her that he had to go away somewhere important and when she asks when he'll be back, tell her you don't know. Who knows, by the time these questions start popping up, you may have a good person in your life.
I hope this helps a bit. I wish you luck!

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T.Z.

answers from Pittsburgh on

I also a single mom my son just turned 3 and his dad was never around. He wasnt there at all not when I was pregnant or anything. The one thing that got me through was my family and a very close friend. I would be lieing if I said the guilt goes away (for some it may but for me it didn't) I still blame myself alittle but then I think about things that his dad could do if he really wanted to see him. I know its hard with being a single parent. But it pays off in the end seeing your little one for the first time and seeing that little face lite up when you walk through the door after work/school. I would say just find someone family or close friend to talk about things with and to share the little things with. I shared alot with my family but my brother who was 10 at the time felt so special knowing he was the only one who felt the baby kick. At the time I was pregnant my best friend was my 10 year old brother. He just wanted to help me do everything. Just take your mind off of it and do something for yourself like treat yourself to something nice that you always want. Cause trust me time and your wants arent something you think of after you have your little joy. I wouldnt change anything now that I have my son. He is my world and Im loving it and its not your lose if he isnt around. And for when she gets older tell her the truth. My son knows his dads name and that he loves him but he cant show him cause he didnt know how. And he is fine with that for now. But you can always email me if you want someone to talk to.
Hope all goes well...
Hugs you'll make it through...
Brittany

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J.W.

answers from Lancaster on

You'll never stop worrying and once she gets here you'll worry even more!! But as far as u being the bad guy....it wont happen...I have raissed my son by myself for 2 years and he loves me more than life....and when I go to explain about his father....he'll know no matter what MOMMY ha always and will always be there.....u'll reassure her that she was the greatest surprise u ever got and ttrust she will be okay with that.....and yes its hard being pregnant alone and even harder being all by yourself raissing a baby.....but once she's in your arms the struggle will seem so little compared to that love thats bursting out of u.....theres not a whole lote u can do to make the tears stop...I still cry but if u have family and friends to keep u busy throughout ur pregnncy and to talk to...it does help some...u jus have to keep telling urself this is the bestthing that could ever happen to u....keep smiling and stay focusd on that baby!!! Take care:)

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S.J.

answers from Philadelphia on

It is a scary thing to have to face along, but everything will work out fine. I was also alone when I was pregnant, with my second child. I was excited but was also depressed a lot with the same thoughts. I stayed that way until my son was born and I started to regain a little of my life back. I couldn't be happier now. Is there any way the father can be/will be in your child's life? Of course that would be great, but if not, it's really not the end of the world. Your daughter will look up to you and as long as you're doing your job and holding it down she'll love you. Maybe when she's older she'll question where her father is and I think as long as you're open to things like that it'll be fine. Good luck with your pregnancy, try and enjoy it as much as possible! If you need anyone to talk to I'm always here!

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A.Z.

answers from Reading on

(((((HUGS)))) I'm sorry I don't really have any advice for you, but I just wanted to tell you that my church has a support group for single moms. We are just a plain old non denominational Christian church. If you are interested you can email me at ____@____.com and I can give you more information.

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V.H.

answers from Altoona on

Hey G.! I'm in the same situation...but my daughter is now 7 months old. You can't worry about it - easier said than done, I know. But you won't be the "bad guy" if you're the best mom in the world...which I'm sure you will be! Just take it one day at a time. Babies are a blessing - which you'll soon discover and I'm sure the bond between the two of you will be amazing. If you need any help, feel free to send me an e-mail - ____@____.com luck and God bless.

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S.S.

answers from Dallas on

You know what they say...when life hands you lemons...make lemonade! I'm glad to hear you're making her an album...I'm a big scrapbooker! In the book incorporate a little about her father (try to be positive) and make it matter of fact. It won't be a big deal to her unless YOU make it a big deal. Many, many children grow up without 2 parents and in my case had both parents (both remarried) and extended families until I was in high school then my father and I got into a tiff and never spoke again, so I don't know what's worse...never knowing your father or knowing him and that he's around but not interested. Don't really bring up the father thing until she's old enough to and then speak honestly and very matter of fact-like so she gets the facts (only what she needs to know) and that you love her. I wish you the best of luck and hope you have some family or friends who can help you in the beginning...you'll definately need it! Always say YES to help! Even if you don't think you need it...you really do! Make sure you practice with a baby doll with your dogs before the actual baby comes home...it will make it much easier on them and you when you do bring her home (basically I mean, set up the limits soon as far as what the dogs are allowed to do...not jumping up on you or couch when you are holding the "baby", jumping a crib/basinet, etc.)

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D.L.

answers from Washington DC on

I know what you are going through. I have been there with my first pregnancy. I was alone and the father was pretty much not interested. I got through it with the help of my family and friends.I cried a lot but they reminded me that I was not alone. I thought about what I would tell my son about his absent father. They told me that whatever I decided I would not tell him alone. They prayed for me as I prayed for my son. I'll pray for you.

Get excited about this because you are capable of raising this child. There will be moments of doubt, but know that you can do it.

If you need someone to talk to about how to handle this or just to let it out, call me or send me a message. If you want someone to go with you to your appointments, let me know. If you need a friend, call me or send me a message.

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K.F.

answers from Washington DC on

Let me just tell you I went through the same thing and it was so hard at first. I think being pregnant and being alone was the hardest thing for me to deal with and I also had the same questions and fears as you do. It's only natural, so don't worry. Try to keep yourself calm with all the loving thoughts you already have for your daughter and all the future plans that you will get to share with her. My son is almost six now and I did it all by myself and let me tell you that there is no greater satisfaction to know that I did it alone. It gives me so much self worth to know that because of me my son is happy, healthy and very smart. When you see your daughter smile for the first time all your worries that you are having right now will fade and you will realize that your why she is smiling. You will feel that every day for the rest of your life when she smiles or laughs with you. If you ever need to talk or vent or share how you are feeling please feel free to write me. Trust me I know how you feel. Have a good day,

K.

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D.S.

answers from Allentown on

it's hard to me to share how i feel, i could just say don't worry aboout it. your strong doing this alone you don't need anyone to help you. I wish sometimes i was alone, then realize how wrong I am. my husband helps, but sometimes i just yell at him about everything. I think it's just hormones. but truthfully it's not the hormones it how i really feel some times then after i had my first baby i went back to being happy all the time and thanking everyone for being there. Now she only 10 month old and i'm having another in July and it's hard enough working and finding someone to take care of the older one, now i'm going to have 2.

you know what i think, where all human and some time we make mistakes and we make the best of it. when you have her for the very first time you're going to love her and spend all the time with her. my daughter spends all her time with her dad and grandmother, which i had not choice since i'm a workaholic, which is not my choice either. I wish I had her by myself so i would spend time with her, but all in all things are going to work out fine. i know a lot of women you ended up alone with their children or child and they're doing great. you'll find someone who will care about you and your baby.. some men can't handle and some men can. just take care of yourself and the baby and later things will fall into place.

i hope this helps and if you need any more advice, e-mail me.
take care. :-)
D.

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R.N.

answers from Washington DC on

Hi G.,

I was 19 when I had my daughter by myself. I had the support of my mom, but mainly it was me. It is hard. My faith in Jesus is what got me through to this day. I cried a lot at the time because I thought that is was unfair to start my child off with only one parent. I don't know your situation, but kids appreciate honesty and candor. When she asks or before she asks you might want to tell her what you think she can handle about the truth according to her age. Fast forward 9 years later, we still have issues with her father, but she and I work through it together.

I would love to stay in contact with you if you need support.

Take care,

R Niles

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J.T.

answers from Philadelphia on

Congrats on the baby girl thats on the way...As for being a single mother, you are right that it is difficult. But all you can do is take one day at a time..You need to stay positive and look to the future..Sometimes, by the father walking away early on it is a good thing. At least you won't run the risk of him coming in and out of her life whenever he feels fit.He will ultimately do more damage by walking in and out then leaving early. When she gets older you can always just say that it didnt work out. Just remember that your little girl needs you and looks to you...My son is 5 months old and his father up and left when he found out I was pregnant...Every day is a new challenge, but I have SO much love for my son that it's all worth it in the end.Best of luck with the new bundle of joy and if you need someone to talk to let me know...

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L.

answers from Lancaster on

Hello, I am also a single mom. It is not easy. But it is so much fun. You are going to be great. Just be the best mom, you can be. Let the love inside of you carry you in its hug. Cry when you want. Let it all out. I should tell you not only em I single, I am blind. My daughter is the best thing ever. I think the only thing you, and your baby need is love. Girl you will make it. Wish I could give you a great big hug for giving your baby life. Smile you are a beautiful mom to be.

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K.C.

answers from Reading on

Hey G.
Well i would first like to tell you congratulations. I am not a single parent, however, my husband works really, really, long days so I basically know what its is like to be one. He usually leaves before the children wake up and gets home by the time they are in bed. Honestly, at first it was really hard but as time goes by it gets easier. I think the most inportant piece of advice i can give you is to develop a support system wheater it be friends or family. The busier you keep yourself i find the easier things feel. Taking care of the children is not what i find to be the hard part it is finding time to do things for yourself and fighting bordom. Good Luck and Feel free to keep in touch.

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