I'm still relatlively new at stepparenting. I've already been handed a glassful of frustration, disappointment, and second-guessing. Despite this, there have been good moments. I have two twin SKs (nearly 4 years old), and my relationship with them is growing positively -- even if in incremental steps. (I should probably point out that I have no biological kids of my own and there are no plans to change that...)

This last Mother's Day was my first in this position and it left me reeling in my head. Where do I really fit in within this family? Am I really making a positive contribution? Is there something I should be doing differently? Do I have the right expectations? Etc... I get the impression from these forums that many of you go through the same line of thinking -- even if you've spent more time in a stepparenting role than I have.

Is there some positive sides of stepparenting that you've experienced? Any words of encouragement to pass along to the newbie? Though I see a rough road ahead, I'd like to think there's a worthwhile point to keep ahold of.

Also, my thanks. I don't think I'd be able to walk through it so well if there wasn't the insights you've already shared.