I used to think being a step parent was the hardest thing I did - because I constantly felt like I was walking a tightrope trying to figure out where I fit into it all without stepping on anyone’s feet. There are no other names for a step mom. My daughter calls my husband her Papa but Mom or Mommy has no variation (and absolutely no one can replace her, of course) but hearing this child you love call you by your name can be polarizing. I used to spend so much time considering how other people might be feeling and thinking that I had to make myself smaller that I didn’t see that the time I was spending supporting him, loving him and being happy together was getting it just right, and that this connection truly was just about my son and I. He didn’t come from my body but I know he was meant to be mine too. You saying that I’ll be there too in the mix of who he becomes truly means a lot and resonates in my heart. I used to think I had to stay back but the truth is I just had to always lean in. Adela is lucky to be your’s too and I hope she has a beautiful birthday!
You make me weep, with your words. Not in sadness, but just the realisation of that rare...actually unknown situation when I can finally organise what I think, when the thoughts and words are scrambled, and I want to say what I feel, but I can't sort it out in my head. Have you any idea, of the truth and the power of what we receive from you, for a simple subscription....what I get from your words and shared thoughts, is of such immeasurable value, that I cannot even express it. Thank you. That's all I can say, and while I know the inadequacy of my comment, I also feel that you understand it ❤
Ahh Jackie, thank you for this. I cannot tell you what it means. I pour ALL I AM into this Signal Fire, and to hear that it's landing how I hoped it would, is just so reassuring. Thank you. So much.
I just love this, Tyler, thank you for articulating it so beautifully. I have many thoughts I'd like to say, but much more to ponder still after reading this piece. Thank you, yet again. This will be shared with a few special folks I know. Hugs friend.
Beautiful….and so true and raw…. Your “step children” are blessed beyond words, actions or anything else!! I have watched how they have enriched all of our lives and will be forever grateful that all three have become all there is above tge “step”!!
I never wanted kids, never ever. Then I went and fell in love with a father of 3 and became a step mum. It’s been the greatest gift of my entire life, but there is no lying, it is HARD sometimes. So many moments of doubt, confusion, sadness, longing... anger, frustration, impotence. But the love makes it all worth it. Blood ain’t everything. Love is all.
I know I can’t claim sole custody of July 9, however it was a bit of a jolt hearing you open with those familiar strains. :). Thank you Tyler for sharing this Signal Fire and belated happy birthday, Adela!
I used to think being a step parent was the hardest thing I did - because I constantly felt like I was walking a tightrope trying to figure out where I fit into it all without stepping on anyone’s feet. There are no other names for a step mom. My daughter calls my husband her Papa but Mom or Mommy has no variation (and absolutely no one can replace her, of course) but hearing this child you love call you by your name can be polarizing. I used to spend so much time considering how other people might be feeling and thinking that I had to make myself smaller that I didn’t see that the time I was spending supporting him, loving him and being happy together was getting it just right, and that this connection truly was just about my son and I. He didn’t come from my body but I know he was meant to be mine too. You saying that I’ll be there too in the mix of who he becomes truly means a lot and resonates in my heart. I used to think I had to stay back but the truth is I just had to always lean in. Adela is lucky to be your’s too and I hope she has a beautiful birthday!
Ahh this means so much. I'm so glad this one resonated with you! Lean in. Always.
You make me weep, with your words. Not in sadness, but just the realisation of that rare...actually unknown situation when I can finally organise what I think, when the thoughts and words are scrambled, and I want to say what I feel, but I can't sort it out in my head. Have you any idea, of the truth and the power of what we receive from you, for a simple subscription....what I get from your words and shared thoughts, is of such immeasurable value, that I cannot even express it. Thank you. That's all I can say, and while I know the inadequacy of my comment, I also feel that you understand it ❤
Ahh Jackie, thank you for this. I cannot tell you what it means. I pour ALL I AM into this Signal Fire, and to hear that it's landing how I hoped it would, is just so reassuring. Thank you. So much.
❤️❤️ You are the best!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADDS!!
Look who is talkin!
Ha! I like to chime in from time to time 😜
I just love this, Tyler, thank you for articulating it so beautifully. I have many thoughts I'd like to say, but much more to ponder still after reading this piece. Thank you, yet again. This will be shared with a few special folks I know. Hugs friend.
I cannot wait to hear what you say after the pondering!
Beautifully expressed!!! And as her”step” grampa, I ditto the amazing message !! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, “Mandela”…
Best step granddad ever!
Wow, tears. I’m gonna go cuddle my child.🥹♥️
Cried quite a bit even writing this one...oof.
Beautiful….and so true and raw…. Your “step children” are blessed beyond words, actions or anything else!! I have watched how they have enriched all of our lives and will be forever grateful that all three have become all there is above tge “step”!!
So very sweetly said
Thank you so much. :)
As someone who has recently become a stepparent, I'm so grateful for your words. They came at a very much-needed time. Thank you, truly.
You're so very welcome. It's a long battle, but a worthwhile one. If you ever need to chat, let me know, we can compare notes.
I appreciate that immensely!
I never wanted kids, never ever. Then I went and fell in love with a father of 3 and became a step mum. It’s been the greatest gift of my entire life, but there is no lying, it is HARD sometimes. So many moments of doubt, confusion, sadness, longing... anger, frustration, impotence. But the love makes it all worth it. Blood ain’t everything. Love is all.
:) You hit the nail on the head my friend.
I know I can’t claim sole custody of July 9, however it was a bit of a jolt hearing you open with those familiar strains. :). Thank you Tyler for sharing this Signal Fire and belated happy birthday, Adela!
Happy Belated Birthday! Beautiful perspective Tyler! Surge soda, lol, that’s a blast from the past 😂
SURGE and JOLT! :)