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Being a parent is difficult enough, but being a stepparent can sometimes seem impossible. There are so many areas you have to learn how to handle sensitively – and on the line are children whose lives have already been torn apart by divorce.

Meeting the needs of his kids, her kids, our kids -- it can be a difficult and challenging process. Bringing together multiple, sometimes broken pieces of two or more families can be overwhelming. Dealing with ex-spouses, custody issues, and the insecurities of children whose parents have broken up can be overwhelming.

Having the support of other step moms and step dads who have been there, hearing about different ways to handle situations, and learning to cope with the challenges will make your new life and new family all the more enjoyable. Sometimes, it just takes knowing someone else has experienced what you're experiencing.

If you are already in a blended family situation or getting ready to form one, this weekly newsletter will be a quick and easy way for you to receive updates about the Stepparenting site and the resources collected there to help you.

You will have the option of being able to forward the newsletter to someone you feel may benefit from it, and your address and contact information will remain completely anonymous. Your information will not be sold to third parties for any reason.

If you would like to receive the BellaOnline.com Stepparenting newsletter, please fill in the «subscribe newsletter« box at the bottom of the page with your email address. You will be sent a confirmation email to verify that your address works.

Don't hesitate to let me know if you have problems subscribing, or have any questions related to stepparenting and blended families. I would love to hear from you about your family and experiences. If you would like to recommend the newsletter to others, they can sign up through our Web site at http://www.bellaonline.com/site/Stepparenting.

You can also become involved in the online Stepparenting Forum at http://forums.bellaonline.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=294&page=1

Feel free to suggest topics, respond to messages, or request articles on specific issues. I've been Stepparenting for the last twelve years; I am eager to share my experiences with you and hear yours. If I can help you solve a problem or work through an issue, I am glad to be able to help.


Shadra Bruce
Editor, Stepparenting Website at BellaOnline.com