No matter how long you’ve been a step-parent or have been a part of your stepchild’s life, there will inevitably be times when you you are reminded that you are not a biological parent. And even though there was probably a legitimate and logical reason that this little reminder came up, it can hurt nonetheless. Since I've been part of my husband’s son "D’s" life for more … [Read more...] about 5 Tips to Help Step-Parents Stay Sane
Managing the Shared Custody Shuffle
Every other weekend, one night a week, summer vacation, alternating holidays... does this sound familiar? Welcome to the language of custody arrangements. When my husband and his ex-wife divorced, their agreement called for 50-50 shared custody of their son, "D." Every Sunday, one parent drops D off at the other's house for the week. It's worked out well for D because he has … [Read more...] about Managing the Shared Custody Shuffle
Co-Parenting Triangles: The Parent, The Step-Parent & The Ex
This Saturday was my step-son's fourth birthday and we threw "D" a party with a Lightning McQueen theme, because "Cars" is "his favorite movie. His mom and her boyfriend, his grandparents, and his aunt and her fiance all came to the party, and our little man had a great time. Everyone got along and the level of awkwardness was almost non-existent. But it got me thinking about … [Read more...] about Co-Parenting Triangles: The Parent, The Step-Parent & The Ex
Bringing A New Baby Into My Blended Family
Several weeks ago, I wrote post in which I discussed my nervousness about how well my husband's son "D" would acclimate, once we had our first child together. My fear was that D would be confused about my role in his life once the baby was born, or that the baby would imitate him and call me Rosa instead of "Mommy." Those concerns have recently become more pressing … [Read more...] about Bringing A New Baby Into My Blended Family
The Trouble With Labels: What Do You Call A Stepmom?
During the weeks that my husband's son "D" stays at our house, he's my virtual shadow. I get him ready in the morning, pick him up from school, sit him on the counter while I cook dinner, and bring him along whenever I run errands. He asks for me when I'm not around, tells me how he's feeling, lets me smother his little face in kisses, and loves me unconditionally. I've become … [Read more...] about The Trouble With Labels: What Do You Call A Stepmom?