Stepmoms often feel left out of the close family circle that’s existed since the beginning. We entered the picture late in the game, causing us to sometimes feel like outsiders. Here’s one story of mine that shows the complicated feelings that come with this role …

It’s easy for a stepmom to wonder if she really matters to her step-kids. A few years ago, I had this all too familiar experience with my stepdaughter. Here’s my story about a time I offered advice I wasn’t sure mattered…   Even though I’m …

  On Wednesday afternoons, I used to work out at my gym for two hours, taking a Pilates class and a spin class. One Wednesday, my 15 year old stepson asked if he could join me. I figured two hours would be a long time …

I recently read a blog on familyfusioncommunity.com, that reminded me of a story I did not want to share in my upcoming book, Stepping into a New Role, Stories from Stepmoms. Trish told a story about a time she wasn’t proud of, but she realized she couldn’t only …

I contacted Stepmom Magazine about being their cover girl for July. Though they didn’t choose me for that, they did ask me to write a story for their monthly feature, “Real Stepmoms. Real Stories”, I was honored to be asked to write for them. Actually …

The little voice in my head just wouldn’t shut up. “Will he mention me? Will he share that he appreciates me? Will he thank me, his stepmom, for being there for him? If not, then everyone will be wondering who is the woman next to …

The mantra running through my head as I drove toward my stepson’s school was, “Expectations are planned disappointments; expectations are planned disappointments”. Aiden was on his way back from a school weekend retreat that was touted to change lives. Well, at least change behaviors. I …

A fellow author from 4RV Publishing offered to host me as a a guest on his blog this week.  This is my second time as a guest on another’s site. Gotta love technology! Every time someone hosts me, it’s an opportunity to share about my …

“I got a job!” That was fantastic news. My husband and I told Aiden that he needed to apply for 10 jobs a week or he would have to pay rent. I have to admit, I did not come up with this plan on my …

Reading Jenna Korf’s article, “Stepmoms: Always the outsider” on her blog stepmomhelp.com,  reminded me of my first movie night with my new family almost 10 years ago. I had never felt more left out. Here’s my story about that memorable and oh so fun night …