"Young" Parenting

I caught a lot of crap in the beginning of my pregnancy about being so young. I could understand it then, because we were pretty unstable and never knew where we were headed in life. My favorite was hearing "No more partying!" Are you serious? My party has just begun!

As of now, We aren't heading anywhere, we're there. I got my dream of being a mother and feel like it's a shame that I still have to "prove" to anyone that I'm capable of being a good Mother despite my age. Is it so hard to believe that a young, energetic, happy person can make a good parent? Not only do I have the patience and energy for a child, but I was a child myself only a short time ago. This means I can relate to him and somewhat still feel what he will be going through very soon. I have pretty vivid memories of the feelings I got when put in certain situations while growing up. I feel like, if anything, it HELPS my parenting.

I can still laugh at the silly cartoons with him.

I can still run around the yard with him every day.

I can hold on to the patience needed when being asked a million questions, because I know the horrible feeling of being told "because I said so."
I actually still go through most of the normal problems with my own parents, so upon learning how to deal with said problems, I'll be better prepared for when my son and I face the same problems.
I UNDERSTAND the world he will be growing up in, and therefore can protect him better. We're both growing up in the same time, see?
If there is any concern as to whether or not a child has good parents (no matter what age!)... look at their smile. Every one of your answers are hidden right there.

Much love,

Janee'