I am going to say, yes and no. I am going to say you might get a thank you here or there, but don’t expect it.

Most kids are not processing the fact that you are choosing to do what you are doing and don’t have to do it. They are possibly not going to realize this until they are much older or possibly when they have their own children.

Do you remember thanking your parents when you were growing up? I don’t as often as I should have. Now, I thank them all the time. Especially, now that I am a stepmom, and realize just how much they did for me and my siblings.

As a child you are expecting your “parents” to take care of you and do for you what a parent should be doing. Regardless of whether it is a stepparent or biological parent. You may never really get the appreciation that you deserve.

I am here to say it must come from the heart. I hope that your friends, significant other/hubby and family can share in this journey with you and give you some encouragement along the way. Those are where your “thank you’s” and your appreciation should come from.