I used to think I had to speak up to belong.
For the introverted stepmom who feels overlooked in loud rooms—this post is a reflection on the power of deep listening, self-worth, and quiet connection.
Read MoreLast year, while RVing across the U.S., I had the chance to visit Bryce Canyon—and let me tell you, no photo can quite capture what it feels like to stand there in person. The colors, the silence, the sheer majesty of rock formations carved over millions of years—it took my breath away.
But more than that, it woke something up in me. A reminder of just how delicate and sacred our planet is.
As a mom, stepmom, and now a grandmother, I think a lot about what we’re passing down. We talk about values, respect, communication—all essential in our stepfamily dynamics—but what about our relationship with the Earth?
The way we care for our home, our environment, is also part of the legacy we leave behind. Our kids, stepkids, and their children are inheriting more than our stories—they’re inheriting this planet.
It’s easy to feel like one person can’t make a difference, especially when so much feels beyond our control. But if merging a family has taught me anything, it’s this: small steps matter. Small actions repeated over time can shift an entire dynamic—whether it’s in our home or in our world.
From choosing reusable products, to being mindful of waste, to simply showing our children what it means to pause and appreciate nature—those choices add up. They shape our families and our future.
This Earth Day, I invite you to do something simple and intentional. Go for a walk and notice what’s blooming. Turn off the TV and sit outside for five minutes. Ask your stepchild what their favorite part of nature is and really listen.
It doesn’t have to be big. It just needs to be consistent.
Because this Earth? It’s not just ours. It’s theirs, too.
I’d love to hear how you're celebrating or reflecting today. What’s one thing you’re doing—or teaching your kids—to help protect our beautiful planet?
Drop your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media @StepmomCoach.
Tags
Bryce Canyon, Earth Day, Earth Day 2025, eco-conscious parenting, family travel, family values, generational impact, intentional living, legacy building, merged families, mindful stepmom, motherhood and nature, nature reflection, parenting and the planet, protecting the environment, Reflecting on Earth Day from Bryce Canyon, RV life, self-care in nature, stepfamily legacy, Stepmom Coach, stepmom inspiration, stepmom journey
The original content you just enjoyed is copyright protected by The Stepmom Coach—aka Claudette Chenevert—who proudly offers information, tips, products and other resources for building better relationships “one STEP at a time” via 1:1 coaching, self-guided coursework and more. Suitability is to be determined by individual users based on their own concerns and circumstances, as The Stepmom Coach does not endorse and is not liable for opinions expressed by third parties (i.e., advertisers, affiliates, audience members, clients).
For the introverted stepmom who feels overlooked in loud rooms—this post is a reflection on the power of deep listening, self-worth, and quiet connection.
Read MoreMother’s Day can be an emotional rollercoaster for stepmoms. I still remember my very first one—hoping for a simple card, a small acknowledgment that I mattered. Instead, I got nothing. No mention, no nod, no recognition. And what stung the most? Someone else was acknowledged.
I didn’t speak up. I held back my feelings. And by the end of the day, I broke down in tears. My son, only a child, felt my sadness and acted out. Looking back, I realize I had placed expectations on people who barely knew me. I hadn’t yet found my place in the family, let alone earned the space to be celebrated.
Now, years later, I understand that Mother’s Day doesn’t have to fit into one mold. In this blog, I share what I’ve learned about honoring your role, setting boundaries, and creating celebrations that reflect you—not what others expect.
Read More