An Unexpected Love Letter

An Unexpected Love Letter

When I tell people our story, I often hear, “Wow, that’s unusual,” or, “You’re really lucky,” or, “That’s actually kind of weird.”  And, while all of these things might be true, I think our story is beautiful, because our story is one of love and respect and kindness and it was completely unexpected.

When we met, I didn't know who you would be to me.  You walked into my life, and my daughter’s life, unexpectedly.  I was nervous and threatened and, I’ll be honest, defensive and unsure.  You didn't have to “prove yourself” to me, but you did – just by being you.

When your first baby arrived, I was enamored. He looked so much like my little girl when she was born.  I loved that Ashley now had a sibling; thank you for giving this blessing to her.  And, as he grew, I fell in love with him.  He’s an adorable, smart and well-behaved little guy – thanks to you.  And Ashley loves him. (And now loves the new baby, too!  He’s still so small & sweet!)

Ashley also loves YOU; so much.  She trusts you enough to confide in you the biggest secrets she has.  And because of that, you helped me keep her safe from the problems at school.  Not only did you help me keep her safe, you were on my team; working side by side, 2 moms with protective instincts, guiding my daughter to safety. And not only were you on my team, you were my support.  Yes, I have amazing friends.  But you share my daughter, and in that, share my love for her.  And when you love her you bless me.  And now, you homeschool her; keeping her safe while helping her grow.  Thank you.

And when Ashley struggles with all of the firsts a pre-teen deals with (lady times, and hormones and bras and panties), you are there for her, and it blesses me.  And when her attitude takes over her brain because she’s turning into a teenager, you’re there for her, and it blesses me.

And when I come to pick Ashley up, you smile and you’re friendly.  We chat and you let me hold your babies. You welcome me to your living room, to your couch, and you talk with me; about our families and our shared Ashley and her latest events and your babies.  And I don’t have any boundaries but I try to remember that other people do and I try to remember this is your family and it’s a blessing for me to be welcomed to join in for 20 minutes when I pick up Ashley and stay longer than maybe I should, just to hold the babies or chat with you.

And when I don’t see you for a few days, I start to miss our chats – and your babies!

So this Christmas, Ashley and I could not wait to buy gifts for your family!  It was a total JOY; because I think of YOU as my family! When you’re sad, I’m sad for you.  When you’re happy, I celebrate with you.  And if you ever need anything, I will be there for you.  Because you love my daughter, you are a blessing to me.  And if anybody asked me, I would call you my friend, even if that is weird. 

So this is a love letter to my daughter’s step-mom – there’s nothing “step” about you.  You’re family.