Tag Archives: blended families

Why Does Life have to be so Complicated?

Ours is a blended family, although most people would never realize it unless they asked. My husband has been Dad to my oldest daughter since just before she turned four years old. She’s now 16. We’ve been down some bumpy roads, and in fact at times, it feels like a roller coaster. Dealing with her grandparents on the other side has been an exercise in frustration, yet she has managed to maintain a relationship with them. I’m glad for that, but it has been an ongoing struggle. Her grandmother has been very ill, and lost her battle with cancer. My … Continue reading →

Tips for Dealing with Stepfamily Holiday Stress

When holidays become nightmares instead of joyous occasions, it’s time to do something different. It takes effort and everyone has to be willing to compromise. Now, some people might stop me there and say, “You don’t know my ex or her (his) parents!” No, I don’t know them, but I know what I had to deal with in the past, and it wasn’t pretty. Even if your ex and his or her family are difficult, you can find ways to make things go more smoothly. I hope some of these tips will prove helpful. Put the Kids First If all … Continue reading →

A New Frugal Living Blogger

Hi there! I’m Nicole Humphrey, the Families.com Scrapbooking Blogger. I used to guest blog on the Frugal Living blog from time to time, but it’s official, I am now a full fledged Frugal Living Blogger and will be seen here often. I have really enjoyed being a part of this ever growing community over the past few months and look forward to forming even more new friendships in the days to come. Although I introduced myself several months ago, I’d like to do it again because much in my life has changed. I am a 32 (almost 33 now) year … Continue reading →

Step-Daughters With Uninvolved Mothers

“I do it all and my step-daughter never appreciates any of it.” “My step-daughter’s mom isn’t even in the picture but she still respects her more than me!” “My step-daughter seems to resent me even though I’m doing nothing but loving her with all of my heart!” “My step-daughter believes that her mom is going back for her some day despite the proof to the contrary.” “I took her shopping and all it did was make her depressed!” I can’t even count the number of times I have heard step-mothers repeat these phrases or variations on this theme. Being the … Continue reading →