Hello there. I know this may sound out of the question but it's crucial. You must find time for "YOU'. Even if it's just to take a bubble bath or go for a walk, etc. You can't give to your little one or anyone else what you don't have to give. I unfortunately learned this the hard way and had so much stress iin my life it resulted in a nervous breakdown. Don't do this. Love yourself and please ask somone for help if you need it. At 17 you are still so young that you can reverse whatever aging worries you but I'm sure you look great already. My recommendations to you would be to watch the Stress in your life, make time for yourself, drink lots of water and try to eat well. Lots of veggies/fruits. Stay away from too much sugar and caffeine. You can purchase some inexpensive moisturizers to use morning and night on your face and use sunscreen. Not sure what else because you are so young. Yoga and walking and also listening to music help me relax. If you have less stress and find happiness and positivity you will be amazed how you show it sometimes in your appearance. Your smile even your face can glow. Keep smiling.

Hi young mom, I believe you are already absolutely stunning, You should take great pride in what you are doing and accomplishing at such a young age. I believe your child will too, someday. When people ask me who is your Hero I reply people like you, too busy in their everyday lives trying to make ends meet not realizing how they can inspire others. The best thing I can recommend is to do what feels right to you, celebrate any quiet moment you might have, Make it a point to enjoy every meal, enjoy a bath whenever you can sneak one in or just a shower what I mean is live in the moment, you have a great journey ahead of you. But you have already taken a step in the right direction to share in this beautiful community. Many Blessings to you and your son. P.S. By the way, the aging process is going to happen no matter what, but you will work it out we always do.

Dear Young Mom,

At 17 you have an overwhelming task of raising a child properly while you are still learning and growing yourself.
I was a young mom living on my own at one time also. I was 22 years of age when I had my son and went through a divorce. I can relate to the pain associated with this.
However, I can tell you that my son is now 15 years old and I am almost 40. While it may look like your child will never get older and always be so dependent on you, I can tell you this from experience TIME FLIES. My child is now in high school and looking into colleges!!!!! I have no idea where the time went!!!!! Try to enjoy this busy time in your life. Enjoy his or her childhood. Let your child grow up enjoying it too. I know money and time are tight. Do the best you can. You owe it to yourself and your child to make good decisions for your futures. If you hate your job, go to college. Take out student loans and get grants. The money is there for you to get a college degree if you choose to. I was a waitress when I had my son and now I'm a teacher!!!!!!! He watched me put myself through college. At night we would both sit at the kitchen table and do our homework together. Even though I have student loans to pay off now, I can tell you the investment in school and in myself was well worth it. It has given me some piece of mind. Also, postpone having anymore children. You have your hands full already. As you know, while they are wonderful they are expensive and time consuming. Once you have them, they come first. Wait until you are married to a wonderful man to resume having children.
I would like to tell you that you have time on your side right now. Seventeen is very young. There is time to do everything you want to do in life. So don't worry so much. It all works itself out somehow. Eat right, exercise, try to get 8 hours sleep, Spend quality time with your child. Read to your child. Expect him or her to do well in school when they start. My son is on the honor roll, and the football team. He loves being a "smart jock." I can look back and know that I played a major part in him turning out so well. Do this for your child also. Being a good parent will be the hardest and biggest accomplishment of your life. What a proud moment when you watch him or her graduate from high school and go off to college or start a career. Do your best at being a mom. Set firm but fair limits for your child. Lots of affection from you. Pray to God for miracles. This works!!! Take care. I'll be thinking of you!