My name is Heidi Farrell and I’m glad you’re here!
If you’re anything like me, you have wondered
My journey as a stepmom began 12 years ago. I went from being a late twenties single gal to an instant [step]mom overnight. Now that was a shock to the system!
Since getting married, Tim and I have added three other children. The age range of all our kids these days is from 24 down to 6. My stepdaughter graduated college and recently got married, and my stepson is currently in college. Our three younger “ours” kids are 10, 8, and 6.
I am a stepfamily life coach for individuals and/or couples. I love talking with stepparents and helping you walk through issues – big or little – that are causing you stress, anxiety, conflict, or frustration. After listening to you, I help find practical tools to draw boundaries and establish peace in your hearts and homes.
In addition to having a whole lot of real life experience in the challenging role as a stepparent, I have been trained in the area of stepfamilies. I am honored to work with you and be a part of your story!
Writing About Our Journey
I guess I was bound to write, and it just so happened that years later I would be writing about our stepfamily journey! But why did I start writing about something so vulnerable?
I started this website as a blog to share the joys and struggles I’ve experienced in my stepmom and mom roles, and to reach others in the same boat. I have only ever wanted other stepmoms and moms to know they aren’t alone and that each challenge is an opportunity to learn. And in our family, there has been plenty of learning over the years!
After all, we’ve seen every stage of child development in our house — often at the same time! We have also dealt with a lot of conflict of personalities, backgrounds, stepfamily issues like transitions between households and later having primary custody, and differing discipline styles, which all inevitably led to challenges.
You’re Not Alone
Facing our fair share of stepfamily struggles caused us to evaluate how hard we wanted to fight hard for our marriage and our family. I’m so glad we were able to get the help and support we needed to truly value each other. Stepfamily life isn’t for the faint of heart, but when we know we have someone supporting us on our journey, it sure helps make us feel less alone.
My family is in total support of my writing, and they have access to every post! Like me, they believe that if anyone can be reached through our story, even the tough and not-so-pretty stuff, then it’s all worth it.
I currently write monthly “ours baby” articles to Stepmom Magazine as a contributing writer, etc. I also have an e-book for stepmoms who are expecting or have added an “ours baby,” with stories of other stepmoms and insight to avoid feeling resentment and instead revel in the joy of adding a child to a stepfamily.
I’m passionate about coaching stepfamilies!
I am a recognized Smart Stepfamily provider and have completed advanced training in stepfamily therapy with Ron Deal. I will assess your situation and offer helpful perspectives and practical tools and goals to start making your day-to-day life at home more pleasant and manageable!
In addition to writing and coaching, I love being a homeschool mom to my 3 younger kids and serving moms in my community by leading a local mom’s group, and speaking at events for moms and stepmoms. I also stay active by teaching Sunday School in our church (with Tim), teaching a Pre-K class in our homeschool community, and making music in a local symphony.
Oh, yeah.
Way back before my crazy stepfamily life ever began, I studied music and earned a Master’s Degree in Music Performance on oboe, as well as a degree in German. My love for music and traveling took me to Germany where I lived and studied for 3 years.
When I got home, I worked various jobs. But it wasn’t until I was teaching oboe to students at a summer fine arts camp that I met my husband, who was also on the music faculty. And that’s where our story began.
Let’s Connect!
I love God, my family and connecting with other moms, step- or biological! Reach out and say hi, schedule a free 15 minute coaching consultation, or inquire about a speaking or podcast guest opportunity. I’d love to connect! And while you’re here, feel free to dig around the wide array of blog posts! Also, come visit me on Facebook & Instagram.
Or send me a note at: notjustastepmomheidi@gmail.com