Hey

I'm almost 22 weeks now with a baby boy and getting ready to be a single mum. The most important thing I think is getting a network around you - family, friends, whoever shows interest. It's funny that some of the folk I thought would be there for me are kinda drifting into the background, and others I thought wouldn't be so supportive are stepping up and really being involved. So I'm kinda watching carefully to see who will be my "village" for this baby - you know the whole "it takes a village to raise a child" saying.

And I've read that it can help to let those in your village know what your needs are - they aren't mindreaders. So I have some friends who are willing to help with cleaning and cooking, some who are there to be called at 2am and some who are just there to be loving aunties and uncles and spoil the kid with love. You can't force people into roles they don't want - and that includes the baby's father!

Investigate with Centrelink too to see what support you may get and also try and find support groups. Do as much preparation as you can before the birth - I have this huge folder I call the " Baby Project" cause I know after the birth it's going to get harder!

Most importantly - try not to let the fact you may end up a single mum lessen the joy of having this baby. It's love and dedication and a stable environment that make a happy child - most research shows that the stable enviornment doens't have to be two parents! You're going to be okay - there are lots of us doing it this way and I just keep telling my belly "you are loved, and wanted, no matter what"!!