Why is it that every single stepmom could tell you a flaw of her stepchild's mom? Is it because they're all inherently flawed? Something about the process of becoming a divorced mom that causes her to have so many shortcomings? I have a few theories...Why Bio Moms Have So Many ShortcomingsAll flaws may not be the same, but they're definitely there if you're looking for them.It could ... Read the Post
7 Tips for Getting Your Stepkids Involved in Your Baby Shower
When you have stepchildren, adding a new member to the family can be met with mixed emotions. Depending on their ages, your stepkids may be excited, but may also feel worried that with a new baby you and their dad won’t love them as much. You can make your pregnancy a time for reassurance by including them in any important milestones. One celebration you can involve your stepkids in is ... Read the Post
Custody Exchange Do’s & Don’ts
I'll never forget the first time I did a solo custody exchange. My now-husband was away for a military duty weekend, and I was designated to pick up his daughter from his ex-wife's apartment.I'm not sure if anyone else suffers from stepmom anxiety the way I do, but I had no less than a thousand different worries that day. What if I'm late? What if she refuses to exchange with me? What if his ... Read the Post
When the Ex-Wife Finds Your Vent Post
One of the most common questions I receive is, “What does your husband’s ex think about you running a stepmom blog?!”And for anyone new here, you may be surprised to learn we actually ran this blog together for nearly a year! She completely supports my mission to help stepmoms around the world. With that being said...Sometimes I overshare, or I share my side of the story which may not ... Read the Post
Things that Surprised Me when I Became a Stepmom
For some reason, when a stepmom seeks guidance from her friends, family, colleagues, etc., she's often met with the same line after expressing her frustrations: "You knew what you were signing up for."And frankly, that couldn't be farther from the truth. My parents divorced when I was 2, I've had 3 different stepmoms, a stepdad, and many step- and half-siblings. I was very familiar with ... Read the Post
Heartbreaking Words for a Stepmom to Hear
"I wish my Mommy and Daddy were still together. You and my stepdad could be like my aunt and uncle, but I just wish Mommy and Daddy lived together."My heart broke in that moment, but maybe not for the reason you'd expect.I hugged her a little tighter, and through the tears, I whispered back, "Me too, baby."I wish things could be simpler for her. I wish she could have a "normal" family ... Read the Post