My name is Katherine. I'm new to the group and new to the site. I'm also new to pregnancy. I have my first ultrasound in two days, but I'm relatively certain that I am entering my second trimester. I live with my boyfriend of 11 mos., Ben, and we found out that we are expecting only two weeks ago.

Both of our families are located very far away, and so we are basically alone in this. Mainly because of insurance reasons, it is the most practical and reasonable option for us to stay put, in spite of my strong desire to be near family. I have a lot of support from Ben, but he has about as much experience as I do with pregnancy.

Ben's family is being very supportive, which is helpful. However, my own parents were very surprised at our news, especially considering that we are not planning to get married - at least not until after the baby is born. Ben and I love each other very much, but we both feel it is best for us to determine how our baby will effect our life together. In any case, my parents strongly feel that the best option is for us to terminate the pregnancy, which was a deeply hurtful and shocking realization. They have begun to come around to the idea, telling me that they will support me no matter what, but they are not ashamed to outwardly express their disappointment and true feelings.

If there is anyone in South Florida looking for companionship, or is in a similar situation, or is (graciously) willing to offer advice or friendship, Ben and I would love to hear from you.

-Katherine, 24, South Florida

Hi Katherine! My name is Betsy and my boyfriend is Jon and our baby wasn't planner either (We're due in March 2010). I used to live in south florida but now I live in Orlando. I'm glad Ben's family is supportive of you guys right now and it sucks that your family isnt exactly warm to the idea. My family is supportive but cautious and Jon's dad just said "Who knows, you might not even regret it".. nice huh? The thing I realized about being a parent is that nothing matters except your little one. that means your baby comes before your parents, yourself and if it comes down to it, your significant other. We are not getting married until after the baby comes too and my family had a problem with that at first. We decided to wear promise rings, make it very known that marriage is inevitable, and give my family permission to tell others like their friends that we are married for the sake of saving face. I think that was really what it was all about for my parents anyway. Tell your parents that this baby is their grandchild and will be here whether they like it or not (i believe 2nd trimester is too late to terminate) and if all else fails, order in, rent "Juno" and make other plans for the holidays. Hope this helps, I'm right here with you!! Take care.

Hello Kathrine,

I got pregnant with my son earlier than I planned. My boyfriend kept at me and at me to have kids. ( I know weird huh? ) And one day I said "ok I will consider the idea"  Well, thats all it took. 2 weeks later I was pregnant. I have to say I was thrilled with being pregnant. I loved every minute. Up to the last 2 weeks. Then I was ready to get him out. He was a week late and a big baby.  Honestly, the MOMENT that baby is put in your arms the world snaps into a strange new reality.  Your whole world changes. I thought it was cheesy when I heard that but it is soooo true. I would kill for my child in a heartbeat. I would die for him in an instant. No one will ever love you like they do. No one has ever needed you like they will. And you feel like a very important person. So you become a totally different person. Things that used to be sooo important before, like getting drunk or shopping trips all day for the perfect summer dress, just isnt important anymore. And let me let you in on a little secret... you wont even miss them. There will be times later when they are fussing or sick or just being a pain that you miss your old life, but those are fleeting and will completely disappear when that baby smiles at you of throws its arms around you in a huge loving hug.  Being a mom is the most important rewarding thing I have ever done.  Dont be scared you can do this! And you will be glad you did.