My Supports

Aside from your typical monetary supports (to help pay bills, for food, car repairs, and entertainment) social connections, friendships, and family are probably my biggest supports. My family is always there for me, if I need it- but I've always STRIVED to not need them. Growing up, I wasn't very social- except with my small group of friends. We'd do everything together-
and as we grew up,
and got older,
and graduated,
and got jobs,
and separate lives...
we didn't do that much together- and this effected me the most.

I relied very heavily on my friendships, I've said this in previous posts. They've supported me through a lot of tough times, however,  I knew, from the experiences above, that they might not always be there for me- so I did a thing...

I moved 3000+ miles away from all of my supports- to learn to live on my own- without the physical presence of those friendships...
 
It's been hard at times being alone... having to go out and explore a brand new city alone- without those supports or friends to keep me company. But I'm doing it; I'm moving forward and currently only rely in a few texts, maybe some calls or FaceTimes, and a letter or post card to remind me that I'm still a part of their lives just as they have been a part of mine.

I think the biggest challenge I'd have being out here all alone would be if I became pregnant... this is a long shot mind you- but it would be a very tough experience to go through without my family. My mother wants a grandchild (a granddaughter to be precise- there's only 2 girls out of the 12 grandchildren she already has!) And I know both my parents and my biological sisters would support me in anyway I needed (being the baby of the family and all). I know that I wouldn't have to worry too much about child care because my mom and dad would take my child in an instant if I asked (don't worry- I'm definitely going to put my future child in a CDC at least half-day to give them the socialization!) If there were an emergency, I know I could count on my family to help me out, emotionally, physically, and financially.

If this scenario did happen right now, it would be a very big financial burden for myself- I don't think I would be able to afford a child- having to enroll them in a CDC (and probably pay for alternative care while they're on the waitlist- which is ALWAYS long at the Navy CYPs). Not having an emergency contact incase I couldn't be there, juggling full time work and school- It would be a financial, emotional, and physical burden. I would not have the help or support from my friends or family- except through forms of communication. I know that there are many women and families out there who have/ are going through this scenario and have survived or are still struggling but continue on- and I most certainly give kudos to the mothers and families out there who are able to manage this all on their own.