Tell me what you LIKE about being a Step Parent?

[WashingMatilda]

The more help I reach out for the more negative and downtrodden stories I seem to read! All we seem to hear about is the turmoil, the resentment, the guilt, the 'I wouldn't do it if I had my time again'

Can you tell me your nice stories please? What do you like about being a stepparent?

[Libby34]

My DSD is only 3. She told my OH last week that I am her best friend which was incredibly heart warming . I spend a lot of one on one time with her, including activities her dad is useless at, such as arts and crafts etc. I liked the part where I decorated her room, I liked seeing her face when she saw her room. I like shopping for her birthday & Christmas presents, I like the days out we have all together. I like that despite me and OH not having children together yet we already have a little family set up. The bed time routine is something I do, we clamber onto my bed and read some stories, chat about our day and then I tuck her in her bed. I love spending time with OH and DSD as a family unit, I love how she's eager to see me, I love how she follows me around like a puppy and wants to help me do whatever I'm doing even if it's putting the washing out. I love that she totally adores my 9 yo niece. Being a step parent means there are good and bad and you've just got to take it all. My OH is great - he isn't that Disney parent, he respects me and expects me and his DD to respect each other. It works well. Don't get me wrong I know she's only little so atm doesn't really understand the dynamics of her family, and our relationship may change in time but right now it is good. Oh and I do also like it when she goes home. But my absolute favourite part is when we're sat doing something, such as painting or a puzzle and out of nowhere she just looks up and says "love you"

[Chimpfield]

Unfortunately absolutely nothing. So pleased it is working out for you all though.

[LemonSqueezy0]

Doesn't that make up for a multiple of ills Libby - the unexpected, but very timely hug, and "love you!" mine races to the door to see me get in from work and honestly cherishes the time spent with me as much as with his dad. It's been hard work, but sometimes it is what you make it

[pinkbouqet]

Nothing.

[Whyarealltheusernamestaken]

Easy answer, I love my SD, I love how she makes my laugh and how spending time with her is fun. It's been tricky over the years but I wouldn't be without her

[steppinstone]

Absolutely nothing. We did have a nice day in the summer when we all went to the park and no big drama happened. I did practice my mindfulness so I would at least remember that...

I'm glad others have happier days more often. x

[strugglingstepdad]

Absolutely everything. The ups, the downs, the normal day to day dross! The looks on their faces when they get presents, when they see us at an awards night, when they couldn't wait for me to get up on me birthday so they could give me presents.

Of all the complaining we do, I think sometimes we miss that the good times often outweigh the bad!

[bluebell9]

When my DSD tells me she loves me and want to come and live with her Daddy and I when she's older.
When DSS gets excited about helping me cook and how proud he is of what he makes.
When they get excited hearing me come home from work and run to give me cuddles.
When I see how much DP and DSC love each other and feel proud to be included in their little family.
There are lots of things I love about being a SM. Its tough at times but the good times with the DSC outweigh the bad.

[bluebell9]

When my DSD tells me she loves me and want to come and live with her Daddy and I when she's older.
When DSS gets excited about helping me cook and how proud he is of what he makes.
When they get excited hearing me come home from work and run to give me cuddles.
When I see how much DP and DSC love each other and feel proud to be included in their little family.
There are lots of things I love about being a SM. Its tough at times but the good times with the DSC outweigh the bad.

[LucyLugosi]

I love watching what a great dad DP is.
I love the new things I'm able to show them and how DP says I enrich their lives. I love showing them things and explaining things.
I love seeing things from their perspectives, so exciting.
Outings, day trips (usually not perfect but I mostly remember the fun parts and not the arguments!)
Reading together and film nights, sitting round and playing cards...
It all sounds pretty idyllic - I'd say it's 50% me thinking I can't do it anymore and 50% stupidly happy!