Having a stepmom isn't uncommon. The movies you watch always portray the stepmom as some evil, nasty witch that does not want you as her stepchild. Truthfully, I think that Hollywood has lied to the majority of us. I know they lied to me. I was blessed with a great stepmom.

For many years, people that knew me assumed that I didn't like my stepmom. That is, until they heard me talk about her in a loving manner. They would be curious, so I would be asked, "You and your stepmom really do get along?" When I told them that we, in fact, do get along very well and that I love her to pieces, they would be so confused. Filmmakers and writers have brainwashed many of us from a young age into believing that a stepmom is the worst possible family member.

I'm incredibly thankful for my stepmom. I love her, well, like a mom. She is a mom. She's human and she's a good person.

Thank you for always treating me like one of your own. You didn't have to accept me. You didn't have to like me. You didn't even have to love me, but you do. You've shown me time and time again that you truly care about me.

Thank you for always being supportive of me. You hosted birthday parties, helped me pick out my prom dress, and attended my graduation. You made sure that I knew you were proud of me.

Thank you for always giving me advice when I asked. Even if I didn't agree with it, or even take your advice, I appreciate your willingness to guide me in a good direction.

Thank you for always being a friend. I can count on you for a good time, a shopping trip, a movie night, or just a listening ear late at night in our pajamas.

Thank you for always keeping our secrets from my daddy. I can always count on you to be my confidant and not worry about any judgment. I'm reassured knowing that I can trust in you.

Thank you for always putting up with me. There are times I know I've been a huge brat and you could have said that I was too much for you to handle, but you didn't. You never gave up on me, even during my moody days.

Thank you for the times you took my side. Sometimes, my dad can be a little stubborn and I needed an ally that he'd listen to. You are that ally.

Thank you for always taking care of my daddy. He's the number one man in my life and I want him to be happy. You make him happy.

Thank you for showing me what a true stepmom is. I'm really thankful that you came into my life.

You will never realize how much everything you did and everything you were meant to somebody as young and confused as I was. You were a blessing in disguise. I love you.