First off I'm going to state that I am not a stepmom, but I was a step-daughter and think if I had just a little insight to what this book revealed back then life would've been much easier. This is one of those books that will walk you through the steps that a stepmom must go through in order to be part of "The" family. While reading this book, do keep in mind that it is religious so if religion isn't your cup of tea it may not be for you. However if you can, it may really help you understand the life of a stepmom and what they go through.
This will be a bit different for a review, I'm going to share with you certain quotes and then life through the eyes of a step-daughter and a mom. Yes, mom because I think that this book would even help moms and not just stepmoms. (Sorry Karen but I think it would benefit everyone out there that has children)
For instance- Anger issues. What's the first thing that happens when your child lies to you or your spouse? How do you feel? Karen will walk you through how it feels as a stepmom, the hurt, resentment, anger, etc and how to overcome that. No you don't just strike out like so many do. Find out why it is happening.
For each chapter in "Stepping-Stones" there are several questions to answer and help you through the process. Each chapter begins with a verse from the bible, the story of the challenge, encouragement to get through it, a prayer and the questions.
My favorite part in the book was on page 131 where she talks about her life on a day of coping. "Peace in Coping" her family is at a soccer game and at the very end, their son runs off with his mom for the weekend and yells "Love you both," without fear of how his mom feels. I think this is a remarkable moment, I remember that feeling of dread or the look in others eyes. It takes a remarkable family to be able to deal with this. But with the steps inside this book you just might be able to achieve that. Shouldn't every child feel fearless, whether he/she is with mom or dad?
