What I want

Not sure when this began happening... Nearly everyone I graduated with has a child, not to mention nearly everyone younger then me now has a child.

Although I feel as though my life is getting more stable (I have my Master's Degree, a decent job, I have found the right guy-- but not yet married, I live on my own), there are still sooooo many things that have to fall into place before I can afford a child!

I am drowning in student loans (probably like most people my age), and a tiny bit of credit card debt as well. I barely make enough to afford my apartment and put groceries in it. I am behind on several utility bills, and my car is about to be layed to rest any day now. On that note, how in the world will I afford a new car!? And I can bet my credit score isn't too hot at the moment.

Although I believe I have found the "right guy", we aren't engaged or ready for that yet. We have been together over 3 years, and although I'll be 26 soon, my significant other still has a year left of school to finish. Then we'll be drowning even more in student loans! HA!

So let's imagine I did get engaged, how in the world would I... #1- expect my significant other to afford a ring, #2- afford a wedding, #3- get a house..... because I most certainely can NOT have a baby in an apartment even though there is an extra bedroom. Our neighbors can't even stand if we close our door the wrong way- let alone a crying baby!

In conclusion, I probably won't be having a child until I am about 40. I envy all of those who I went to school with who are able to make this dream happen. Maybe you can give me some tips on how to move this along quicker.