What do you do when you’re family is unhappy about your pregnancy?
So I’m a woman in my 30s. I met my boyfriend last summer and found out I was pregnant in February. I have 2 other kids with my ex and literally did not date for 10 years because I focused on them. So I’m not someone that’s known for sleeping around and bringing men in and out of my children’s life. I understand that the timing of this pregnancy was not ideal but stuff happens and we’re both stepping up to the plate. I already have everything I need for baby and am not asking for anyone’s help with anything.
I am not living with my boyfriend. I rent a unit from my parents (they have several rental units) which I get at a discount (50% off) because I do all the landscape care (mowing, shoveling, gardening, on a 1.5 acre lot). So a few people have accused me of “mooching” even though I work my ass off for them and take care of their properties during their frequent vacations. It’s mutually beneficial and my mom wouldn’t want me to move out because it adds a lot of work for them- tho my dad often threatens to increase the rent to normal price despite everything I do. When my mom reminds them of what THEY would have to do or how much they’d pay to hire someone, he usually chills out but other people have heard his complaints and assume he’s unhappy with the situation.
Anyway, My boyfriend and I were both happy about having a baby and will eventually move in together. But I don’t want to rush my other kids because they are my first concern. My mom agrees that they need time to adjust to this relationship and transition slowly.
Several people in my family are very unhappy because I’m unmarried and living in one of my parents’ units. Several people suggested I immediately get married even though we haven’t been together even a year yet and are super disappointed when I say I won’t. Others have suggested I get an abortion and say I had a miscarriage. I’ve told them that’s not an option and the reason I didn’t tell anyone until I was too far along for it to be an option.
My grandma has said she has nothing nice to say to me or about me right now. My mom was excited but everyone is wearing on her and she’s just depressed/upset now.
I don’t know how to handle this. Normally, I’d advise people to ignore it, ignore them, live your life without their negativity. The problem is, my kids are very attached to this family and our traditions (ie easter this coming Sunday). I feel like I’d just be doing them harm by ripping them away from them. But I don’t think I can handle the negativity that’s going to come with the next several family events. I’m so hormonal that it’s just going to be tears. I’m so anxious and depressed about facing all of them that I can barely function right now. The people I’ve loved my whole life are treating me like shit simply because I won’t rush into a marriage just because I’m pregnant.
Achieve your health goals from period to parenting.