So Much Has Changed In Two Years

Our little blended family has changed so much in two years that it is quite pleasing for Trucker and I to behold. We knew it would not be an easy road, nor a pleasant one for a time. However we didn't know how soon it would actually start to take place and happen. But I have to say we both couldn't be happier about the change in our family. We have came a long way and have finally bonded together.

During the last few months we have really noticed a difference in the lot of us. We enjoy our time together, we laugh, joke and still have the occasional argument like all families but you now hear and notice that we are like any family out there. We no longer stand out as the Stepp (like the play on the name?) Bunch.

Take for example this particular weekend. We all went shopping for new school clothes for the kids. Rug Rat 1, 2 and Princess. One or two years ago this was a much dreaded family outing. One in which you had rather take a beating than go on together. It meant hearing "she got more than me", "it's not fair", "don't touch me", "I wish you didn't live with us" and many more cruel words. As said "a beating would have been preferable for any of us". But this weekend we all actually looked forward to the outing, the time together and the fun we have when out.

The car ride the 35 miles was actually a laugh riot of kids and giggles. Lots of stories told and shared and not to darn many unpleasant words. Most all of them said while joking around. Princess helped Rug Rat 1 to pick out her many outfits of clothes and Rug Rat 1 actually listened and let her into the same dressing room. Not one single moment of yelling happened. It was truly a sight to behold and admire. They both now LOVE helping one another find clothes and shop together. It's a miracle to say the least. Rug Rat 2 actually let me pick him out some clothes as well. Although Trucker is the one who took him to the dressing rooms. LOL. Through out the entire mall experience Trucker and I noticed a camaraderie of joking, fun and just actually getting along. I cannot tell you what a pleasant afternoon it made for us all.

After the mall we went out to eat at a restaurant we had not been to before. More laughter followed and neither of us could quite comprehend what was taking place. Had aliens came down and stolen our kids and left ones that actually liked one another? Had someone (anyone) slipped some sort of drugs into the food and drinks that day? After eating the main courses we went to order desserts for the kids. The waiter suggested one of those Chocolate Lava Cakes and spoons so all the kids could share it together. Trucker and I instantly looked at each other our heads swiveling so fast we looked like the Exorcist girl with eyes bugged out. Dare we do this? Should we end the perfect day in possible disaster? Every child at our table said "that sounds good". So we ordered one, not two or three like two years ago, but ONE dessert to share. Where we setting ourselves up for disaster and embarrassment for the entire restaurant to see? Molten Lava Cake arrived amidst the scurry of changing seats. Rug Rat 1, 2 and Princess all gathered around the cake. Spoons flying digging into the lava and ice cream. There was smiling, laughter, and giggling!! It has happened. A family that can share one dessert with three spoons and survive it will last an eternity together.