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On August 12, 2014 at 2:32am I gave birth to my daughter I'Mani at the age of 19. The day I went into labor I was so afraid. My mom and child's father was present. I was more afraid because I didn't know what to expect. The contractions hurt so bad, I got an epidural.

The day that I gave birth is when I realized that my life had changed. As a teen mom I didn't realize how serious life was about to get. I'm truly grateful for my daughter. This journey has taught me so much about myself and her as well. As I reflect on my teenage journey, I wouldn't have changed anything about it.

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Growing up I didn't have a two parent household. My mom and dad separated when I was about 5 years old. Having two parents living in different homes was kind of fun. My dad pretty much let us do whatever, my mom was more strict. I use to love going to my dad's.

My dad lived with his girlfriend at the time, she also had kids as well. They pretty much let us do whatever. We rode bikes, played tag at night in the back yard, they had a swimming pool, snacks, and we also had motor scooters. I loved my dad's house.

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I grow up in Chicago Il. I lived on the southside to be exact. Most of my family still lives there so I go back to visit a lot. Growing up I lived in the house with my mom, grandma, aunt, uncle, and my brother. We all lived in a four-bedroom, three bathrooms, two dining rooms, full basement and one living room house.

That house of one of my favorite childhood memories. Although I don’t live in Chicago anymore, I aways ride by the house. Also, I visit my favorite Chinese food restaurant down the street. I love visiting Chicago so much. I may move back soon.

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I love my mother, but we are nothing alike. Although we both were born in September, we act totally different. I’m more of a risk taker and she’s more of a think before you do kind of person. Our parenting styles are different. I’ve learned that my mother had a tough upbringing so she’s doing the best that she can.

Even though life has been challenging for her, she still tries to find joy in life. My life wasn’t so good growing up neither, but I’ve learned to shift life into a positivity experience. I believe and have faith that everything will work out. I try to encourage my mom to do the same

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Moving from Chicago to Minnesota was one of the hardest things I’ve done in life. My transformation was the hardest experience I’ve had as a teen. Back in 2011, my mom decided that she wanted change, so we moved to Minnesota. When we first got to Minnesota, we lived in a shelter for four months. At that time, I was a freshman in high school.

Living in a shelter was not fun at all. I wanted to go back Chicago so bad. My shelter experience made me be grateful for everything that I have today. Even though I left family and friends, it taught me that life can be uncomfortable but later you’ll have comfort again.