Adjusting

All of the adjustments we will all enjoy when A moves in.... I figure it can't hurt to get started reading:

On Step-parents and parents: http://www.parentalalienation.com/stepparents.htm

The importance of family meetings and family activities: http://www.kidshealth.org/kid/feeling/home_family/blended.html

Strategies to be aware of: http://www.flc.org/hfl/parenting/stepparents.htm

Building trust: http://www.familytlc.net/step_parenting.html

Blended families: http://www.helpguide.org/mental/blended_families_stepfamilies.htm .

The balancing act will be interesting. I am excited for G to help out with Baby Jack. He's happy that he can help be a role model, as the older brother. I am nervous about the compromises that we'll all have to make, space-wise. G sharing his room with the baby made the most sense and I've verified with my friends that had to double up as kids (their own experiences and other-wise) that there's no permanent damage. The challenge will be including G, making sure A's happy, making sure the baby's taken care of and finding time for myself while making sure that G and I still have quality time, in addition to couple time with A. No pressure!

I need to ask A where he'd like G's playspace to be. The living area by the kitchen seemed like a good place but I forgot about A's piano. The crawl space was my original idea for baby W's belongings and G's toys. A was less enthusiastic but I can't think of an alternative. G has to have a place to play. How else will he feel welcome? Hopefully, we'll have no bumps moving to a bigger place next year.