I'm new to this community My bf is currently going through a very high conflict divorce. He has a 3 yo daughter that I totally love. I have no kids of my own. We just had a GAL evaluation and we're waiting for the results. For the temporary orders, he only had the financial part and the custody part is pending the GAL report. We're both totally nervous yet very hopeful. Technically the report was supposed to be due today but we didn't receive anything, so hopefully tomorrow we'll find out. *jitters*

Being a stepparent is kerrazy. It has frightened me, challenged me, and inspired me. She is a very gifted child and learns very quickly. We have been starting pre-reading activities with her and it's amazing to watch her learn. I've also been reading a book that's been helping me to deal with my own emotional anxiety surrounding this process, called "Scream Free Parenting". It's fantastic and I highly recommend it, especially to new step parents. I learned that when sd3 is testing me, it's not because she doesn't respect me and wants to challenge my authority, it's that she wants to know that she can depend on me and trust me. This is especially important because bm has high conflict type 2 personality disorders and does not provide her with an emotionally stable and safe environment.

This is a tough journey but I have never regretted anything. Even though I'm not her bm, I still feel like a mom to her