> I expect that people will be resistant to the idea, and I am open to criticism because I don't count myself as the most wise person on earth. I know that I'll get moral support, rebuke if necessary, and a whole lot of love and prayer from not only those I know in person, but also from my friends here. So I wanted to share this big important part of my life with you all and ask for your input, advice, and council on where to go from here.
>
> Shan-[sigh]-dar

Yow. Life is not a straight line, is it?
As Christians, we have the privilege to humble ourselves before God and experience his love and forgiveness; keep remembering that, Shandar, even when you can't *feel* it, you know He is there for you and will contiune to sustain you.

Since you asked, here is what came to mind regarding your situation:

You need to be deliberate in seeking out practical, moral, and spiritual support for what is probably going to be, realistically, a difficult year of adjustment. You & Hannah need to prepare both separately and together so you can get through the inevitable rough spots.

Separately: May I encourage you to find someone--a mentor--who will be able to give you advice & support and *whom you will allow to keep you accountable* in being the husband you need to be for Hannah, and in being the father to your baby? Your single buds are probably not going to be able to provide the best perspective--how about someone you respect in your church who's maybe a little bit older and already married?
A man you would feel comfortable meeting with regularly to pray with and talk about life honestly, to help you become the godly husband & father you want to be.

Together: There's lots of great material on building a Christian marriage & family--get your hands on some and spend some time reading out loud & discussing together. You may already be familiar with Campus Crusade's "Family Life Today" --if not, see link below. There's a wealth of resource there. They also host seminars that are awesome. Get someone to send you to one as a wedding present--you will be making a wise investment in your marriage.

It will be hard at times, but you know, there will also be some of the sweetest moments of your life in this next year. Look forward to them together and then treasure them when they happen. Keep their memory in the forefront of your thoughts and they can help carry you over the low places.



koala(((hugs)))mom