My “real mom” waited 10 years to have me after she had raised my 4 older siblings (the oldest is 15years older – 3 sisters & 1 brother) It was real hard to grow up in that household with that many “parents” each with their own ways. At times though it was nice to have someone to talk to when you really didnt want to ask your real mom.
By the time I was a teenager, of course they were all married with children and even more critical and opinionated! I was never smart enough or did anything right. When I finally got married and had my own children – I felt that I could never be as good as parent as they were. I was so overwhelmed because in my eyes they were perfect and I couldn’t even come close! I became so obessive – my house, husband and children had to be perfect. One day I finally “woke up” and realized that they weren’t perfect (actually far far from it) and I have been able to relaxe and enjoy my life. I do greatly miss the years that I missed when I was so anxious and worried over everything!