BABY ECZEMA LOTION

7 Steps to Bonding with Your Stepchild

Practical, realistic, and upbeat advice--from sharing a bathroom to initiating conversations--for people who "inherit" children along with a new spouse. The success or failure of a stepparent to bond with stepchildren can make or break a new marriage. But this book has a refreshing message--it is possible to achieve longlasting, rewarding relationships with your new children.

Most stepparents feel caught in a bind because in order to connect with their stepchild, they have to reach out--but not too much, too little, or too deliberately. And relationships with stepchildren are inherently different from those with biological children who love their parent unconditionally. But these 7 basic steps will give you the essentials, from deciding what kind of stepparent you want to be to realizing that love comes later.

This shot of Marcus reminded me of James Bond....007. You know, the secret agent, in all of the Bond movies.

Well...as has been no "secret" to you all......I have had a bit of a hard time since Barbie the goat died. I have been on the goat hill only once since she died and her death was October 17.

The goats, cat and horse are getting their regular care....regular food.....all of the t's crossed and all of the i's dotted........just not the Mama's love. Please don't worry about the animals.....I send Savior's cat food for the cats and the rest of the food and hay is in the barn....plenty.

I plan on changing that. This week I am going back on the goat hill. I cannot "stay away" because it is easier. I know it is freezing up there......soupy muddy up there and a lot of work that needs done before winter and babies come.

Thank you all for being so supportive...for caring so much and sharing your own stories of the loss of a loved pet or a loved human.

I think why it was so hard losing Barbie is that she did not want to leave.....and it was so very very sudden. I don't think I adjust too well at "not being able to save the world".....as my Mother warned me years ago to "quit trying".....as it wasn't possible.

"Click of the day" at shuttersisters...yeahhh!!
Since my kids are a bit older now, I forget how everyday things can be such a challenge for a baby! It makes you think a little when you watch a baby tackle something like a staircase...they have to take it one step at a time. I guess that's how we all face our challenges!