Hello world!
Wednesday, February 28th, 2007Being a step-parent is often challenging, frequently frustrating, and the rewards aren’t always obvious. I’ve found that the best way to deal with these struggles is to find other step-parents, swap stories and ideas, and in general, support one-another. It’s my hope that you will share the joys and struggles of you step-family with me, just as I am about to share mine with you. I’d love to hear from you!
I’ve been a step-mother for almost seven years now. In the course of those seven years we’ve had lots of ups and downs. Looking back on it, I’d say the first two years were the worst which is saying something since my step-daughter, April, is now a teenager. We spent those first two years locked in an ugly court battle, which while the worst experience of my life, was well worth the effort as we now have April 50 percent of the time.
After my son, Joey, was born three years ago, we seemed to become that much stronger as a family. He ties me and April together in a way that we never were before and that added bond has helped us all. We still have our bad days, but fortunately, we have more good than bad at this point.
Today was one of the good days. April had an 8th grade dance at her school that she’s been talking about non-stop for the past month. It was our weekend to have her, but she wanted to spend the day getting ready for the dance with her Mom so we agreed that we would change weekends if we could come to her Mom’s to take pictures before the dance. Surprisingly, her Mom agreed. Before today, I had never been welcome in her home.
The extra good news is that it went well. There was no arguing and no fighting; not even the exchange of nasty innuendos. Everyone took pictures, made small talk and laughed together. It was one of those priceless days that everyone was able to get along for April’s sake. Here’s hoping another one comes along again soon!
