The Stepmom's Guide to Simplifying Your Life

This is one of the most useful self-help books I've encountered. Along with Stepmotherhood, by Claire Burns, it helped me to refocus my energy from the undifferentiated desires for things I could not change (e.g., I wish my stepchildren were more independent), to specific items that I could (an adult living in my house cannot leave empty food dishes on my bed). Sounds self-evident, but it helps to hear it from a neutral source.

and reality hits you like a slap in the face, buy this book! You will learn essential tips from real stepmothers who share true stories about their relationships. Learn the best ways to handle challenges with in-laws, ex-wives, your husband and his kids, all the while maintaining your sanity!

To say stepparenting is a challenge is an understatement. I know. I made lots of mistakes that reading this book would have corrected. It's the most complete compendium of thoughts and ideas on this subject that I know. Highly recommended.

Karon Philips Goodman's The Stepmom's Guide To Simplifying Your Life is a straightforward and "reader friendly" guide for stepmothers on how to better achieve balance and a stable family life through simplicity. From giving up unrealistic expectations (such as "I'll know how to be a good stepmom because I already am a good mom"); to setting reasonable and attainable goals; to the importance of good communication; to balancing one's authority as a stepmom; and much more, The Stepmom's Guide To Simplifying Your Life offers a wealth of dependable advice, illustrative anecdotes, and accessibly practical guidelines for stepmothers everywhere.

As a stepmom, it's a treacherous road we travel. So many false expectations that set us up for failure at every turn. Karon Goodman's book about simplifying is more than I hoped for! Her advice is written in a style that's very easy to read and sometimes with a pinch of humor, just when needed. There are Tales from the Blender -- short stories from other stepfamilies that tell about successes they've had which give ideas for mine. Her book is a breath of fresh air for those caught up in the down side of being a stepmom. Highly recommended!