I spoke with you twice yesterday, each time for about thirty minutes. Both conversations ended on a beautiful note, with you saying, “I love you.” It warms my heart to see you moving from quick side hugs to full, heartfelt embraces.
I still cherish the turkey magnets you made with Grandma, crafted from faux leaves and straw. Mine proudly resides on our fridge all year long, even with one googly eye missing, while its felt feet and bow tie remain intact. On the back, you wrote, “I like you.” That was a significant step forward.
My love for you has endured through various challenges. Whether you were silent, drew a line in the sand with “You’re not my real mom,” or fought over grades and responsibilities, my feelings never wavered. I remember those sleepless nights when your dad and I worried about you during your teenage years. Through all the noise and tears, my desire for your happiness was unwavering. Who would have guessed that an unexpected pregnancy would serve as the catalyst for deepening our bond? It’s been a joy watching you grow and find happiness with your partner as you prepare for parenthood.
Our recent shopping trip for maternity clothes was a true highlight. Unlike past outings filled with disagreements about fit or price, this time was filled with gratitude and excitement about the journey ahead. You now reach out to me with questions about nursing and share your feelings about doctor’s visits and labor. Our talks have become richer and more meaningful.
I remember when I first met you at age five, a bundle of freckles and crooked teeth, hiding a world of emotion behind your bravado. Your dad worked tirelessly to bring you to live with us, and the day you arrived, you were perched on the curb with your grandma, ready for a new adventure. You were thrilled to move but less enthusiastic about having a stepmom. Honestly, I never anticipated this role either. But when I met your wonderful dad and you, his beautiful daughter, I instantly knew I wanted to welcome you into my heart and our family. I envisioned a future for you, filled with love and dreams, as if you were mine.
At our wedding, I wanted to honor not just our union but the blending of our family. I found the perfect gift—a silver charm bracelet with three hearts, representing each of us. I promised to support you in both joyful and challenging times. We’ve had our share of ups and downs, but through it all, we’ve emerged stronger and more appreciative of one another.
Navigating this journey as a stepmom was a learning experience. There’s no manual for this role, so I relied on my instincts. I bought you cherished childhood books, inscribing each with heartfelt messages starting from the first Christmas I celebrated with you. However, my attempts to create that mother-daughter bond through cuddling and singing often fell flat. You preferred your dad’s bedtime tucks and rolled your eyes at my silly songs. But I kept saying, “Sleep tight, see you in the morning, love you, goodnight,” even when you didn’t respond.
Over the years, I collected charms for your bracelet, each representing a moment in your life: a scooter, a soccer ball, a sandcastle. I organized birthday parties, cheered you on at your first soccer game, and even took you to get your braces. All of these moments were to show you I was here for you.
You are so different from me—graceful and athletic, with long, flowing hair and a natural beauty that shines in everything you wear. I was the awkward girl who struggled to find clothes that fit and never excelled in sports, while you took to them with ease. Yet, amidst our joyful times, I often wondered why it felt like you still longed for your mom. What could I do to fill that void?
As you prepare for your journey into motherhood, know that I am here for you, just as I always have been. This is a new chapter for both of us, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.
With all my love,
Sarah
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