Hello and welcome!
Nick and Cole - 2007 |
It seems only right that I introduce myself and explain a little bit about my past, my present and my future.
Past
I had a baby when I was seventeen.
Being a teen mom was one of the hardest things I have ever gone through, but it was also the most rewarding as I’m sure any parent at any age will tell you. Of course every parent has their own struggles, each different and unique but can almost always be related to one another.
Having a baby at a young age really flipped my life upside down.
- I dropped out of high school.
- I stopped having a social life.
- I grew closer with my parents.
- I was forced to be responsible.
- And I felt I finally had a purpose, a reason to wake up every morning.
Fortunately for me I had, and still have, an awesome family who has been nothing but supportive and generous. My mom showed me the ropes of motherhood with everything from breastfeeding, to soothing Sidney (that’s my daughter’s name!) to sleep. I was not one of those teenagers who took up babysitting for a part-time gig. In fact, my daughter’s diaper was the first diaper I had ever changed.
Actually…
I was an irresponsible teenager who couldn’t keep a job,
stayed out late partying and
was disrespectful towards authority.
I listened to angry anarchist punk music,
wore Doc Marten boots and
went on rants about inequality.
Surprisingly though I was a virgin and got pregnant my first time ever having sex. So YES you can get pregnant the first time! And not all teen moms are sluts, so don‘t stereotype. Just saying.
In fact, Sidney’s father (Nick) and I are still together. When Nick found out I was pregnant a month into our relationship he surprisingly stayed. What a moron! Haha, just kidding. My dad got him a great paying job where he worked, and Nick took the responsibility of being the provider. Almost 6 years later we’re still together. They say it’s the worst of times that keep a couple strong and bring them closer together. I think that saying must be right because Nick and I have been through a lot together, and our relationship has only gotten stronger.
Present
Well through hard work and determination I graduated high school! I took correspondents (courses through the mail) and when that started to take too long I went to an adult learning center. So, now I have my high school diploma and I am looking into college programs.
I’ve been working odd jobs here and there, anything to keep the cash coming in. Even though Nick and I had our own apartment, after his place of employment shut down and he got laid off we weren’t able to keep up with the rent. Luckily for us my parents were willing to let us live with them again.
Now Nick and I are both working odd jobs and looking into post-secondary school. Living at my parents house has given us the chance to go for our dreams. It also helps that Sidney is now 5 years old and in school full-time.
Even though I am currently 22 years old I have grown a lot. I can’t even recognize the person I was almost six years ago. Like really, what was I thinking? I might still wear my Docs, and have strong beliefs, but I have calmed down in every other way. I hold my tongue, I’ve toned down the make-up and traded my zebra print pants and ripped up band shirts for a more casual look.
All stressful things aside ($$$), I’m happy with where I am. My daughter has grown up to be an intelligent, caring and beautiful little girl and I couldn’t be more proud of her.
Future
I have no idea what the future holds for me, but I have a feeling it’s going to be great! Truly, I never pictured myself where I am today but I like it.
I also have a lot of goals. They change, and some get scratched off the list altogether, but I think it’s good to keep track of things you want to achieve.
My Current Goals?
- Go to college
- Become healthier through healthy eating and exercise
- Pay off debt, and save money
I understand that it takes a lot of work and determination to complete goals, but I’m so ready for the challenge.
What are some of your goals?
Thanks,
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Hey Cole,
ReplyDeleteToday is the first day that I've gotten to come back and really "meet" you through your archived posts. I'm glad I had the time. =0)
Congrats to you and Nick for making it through teen parenting - together. I love this post - past, present & future. You're amazing. And I think you should wear your zebra striped pants once in awhile!
~Kim
http://2justByou.blogspot.com
PS - I'm going to try to read some of your other posts later when I can too.
Thank you! Teen parenting definitely wasn't easy. Actually, parenting at any age isn't easy.
DeleteAnd I would totally wear my zebra print pants once in a while, if I could get them over my hips! :P
Very sweet story, Cole! I give you credit for making a "go" of it. It could't be easy to keep everything in perspective when you were 17. Nice that you have supportive parents to guide you along. Sounds like you have a very sweet and much-loved daughter.
ReplyDeleteI, too, had a late start with my education. But, I'm in University now...at 59! Just keep believing in yourself. You can do anything!
I wish you the very best for your future. Hugs, satinka
Thank you :)
DeleteIt's been difficult, but thankfully I do have a supportive family.
I think it's great that you're going to University! That's amazing :)
Take care,
Cole