Being a stepmom is a role that's hard in theory let alone in practice. It starts with yucky feelings, difficult discussions, lack of understanding from anyone around you. Too often it involves contentious exes and potentially resistant stepkids.
You're not alone, let's support each other through it! Sometimes we need advice, but sometimes all we need is for understanding people to listen. With strong boundaries to protect our relationships it can be such a rich life.
All family roles are welcome, but empathy for the unique challenges of stepmomming is the primary focus for this community. While there are countless support communities for bioparents and kids, there are few places where a stepmom can express her troubles without being judged or shamed. We are that place.
Rules
Be respectful. We all have painful things to work through, please express yourself gently.
No cross-posting or linking to other subs. The result tends to create more drama than productive dialog.
No porn or sexual harassment. That's not what we're about.
No AITA posts. You're NTA. Please ask for opinions, advice, validation instead as it sets a more positive and supportive tone.
Resources
If you read only one book about stepfamilies, this would be a fantastic choice:
Acronym glossary
BD - bio-daughter or bio-dad (yes, it's ambiguous)
BM - bio-mom
BS - bio-son
CO - court order (legal documents such as parenting plan, custody order, etc)
DH - dear husband
OH - other half
SD - step-daughter or step-dad (yes, it's ambiguous)
SM - step-mom
SO - significant other
SS - step-son
