If you are a stepmom, you know how frustrating it can be.  For example, the other day when I dropped my stepkiddo off a bit late at school I asked the lady at the front desk where I should sign her in.  She replied, “well the ‘real parents’ sign over here…” (Oh, ouch, I wasn’t aware that I’m not real, thanks for letting me know).

Then there’s the lady who would not help me resolve a situation for my stepkiddo one day. However, when I conferenced my husband on the line, she helped him with every question and request he had.  (I think I’m catching on, he must be “real.”)

Or how about when a coach recently introduced me to some of the other moms.  They greeted me with big sports-mama smiles.  Then the coach clarified that I was the STEP-mom.  And I watched the smiles fall off their faces.  (How dare a stepmom invade our mommy club?)

I hear a lot of these stories from stepmoms.  There are mildly uncomfortable situations, annoying situations, and despair-filled, heartbreaking, overwhelming situations.  It’s a frustrating place to be.  There can be a lot of “I-feel-like-I-just-got-run-over-by-a-truck” kind of days.  It’s good to know that I’m not alone.  Often stepmoms are just trying to help kids get to and from school, to and from appointments, cook, clean, help with homework, do the laundry, and so on.  All for kids that are not her own.  It’s unfortunate that sometimes others can make it more difficult.  Nevertheless, I see the amazing things that stepmoms do to support and care for their stepkids.  I marvel at this.  These are some strong, brave women with really big hearts!

Today I am thankful that there is hopefulness amidst difficulty.  I am thankful for this hope that God promises.

Romans 5:3-5 (NIV) “but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

I’m also thankful that God provides rest for us weary stepmoms!

Matthew 5:28 (NIV) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

What are you thankful for?