Instant Family

Well I have been very busy these past few weeks, mostly learning what it is like to be a step mum. My partner Daz has five children, ranging in age from nine to nineteen.
Lately the eldest three have been around dad lots. Therefore I have found myself a parent to teenagers: instant family.

Three weeks ago Daz's eldest daughter arrived on the door step with her boyfriend from Melbourne (where they are currently living). They had no where to stay and Megan wanted to spend time with her daddy.
So for 23 days they stayed here. I had no idea how much looking after two teenagers take. How much money, time and energy goes into keeping them. It was worse when other brothers and sisters arrived. I have a deeper understanding of parenthood, and what parents go through. I have learned more than I could have imagined, especially about myself.
I am glad I get along well with the three children I have met. Hopefully I will get along as well with the younger two.

It's funny I never expected to be a step mum. I knew that Daz had five children, and I excepted that a long time ago. I however hadn't realised that I would be called a step mum, or treated as such. I thought that I would be more of a friend. Dealing with adults, not a maternal figure dealing with children. I didn't think I would learn and grow so much, or that they could teach me so much.
I'm very grateful to have these children in my life.