Dear Valued Users,
It's with a heavy heart that we announce the permanent closure of StepTalk.org on August 31st, 2025.
This decision wasn't an easy one. For over twenty years, StepTalk has been a source of support for stepparents around the world! However, over the years, the costs associated with maintaining and upgrading the site to remain secure, meet current standards and maintain availability have become unsustainable.
We are incredibly grateful for your support, contributions and the community you've helped us build. Your engagement has made StepTalk.org a special place and we cherish the memories and connections made here.
We would especially like to thank Aniki for volunteering to be a moderator and for caring so much.
Thank you for being a part of our journey and we wish you all the best.
Sincerely,
Dawn and The StepTalk Team
Comments
I will say that you should
I will say that you should think long and hard about whether to announce your intentions to your DH/SO first. My skids are older, and I never did feeding/caretaking, so I didn't announce. Well, the first time I did and I got a lot of grief from SO. Second time, I just did it and it went more smoothly. Been disengaged for quite a while now and its the only way to fly (for me anyways).
^^^Agree^^^ I didn't
^^^Agree^^^ I didn't announce, just did it by stealth. If you announce it can make DHs very defensive.
I don't think you should make
I don't think you should make a formal announcement.
However, to be healthy and fair, it might be necessary to state your new boundaries as you develop them.
For example: You all have become accustomed to me picking up your clothes after you. I have decided I am no longer willing to do that. From now on, I will only wash clothes that are placed in the clothes hamper.
Or, DH, I need to let you know I will no longer be available for childcare. You will need to make your own arrangements.
But for some things, like not arguing, no announcement necessary. Just leave the room, or absorb yourself in your book, or whatever you do to tune out.
Yes all true He will probably
Yes all true He will probably pout or be pissy at first, he'll get over it. Be matter of fact about it all, not spiteful. All that pent up resentfulness and bitterness can sneak out.
Got it...keep it quiet and
Got it...keep it quiet and just disengage in secret. My actions will speak for themselves and no fights will break out.
Thanks friends for the advise.
Good luck. Would love to
Good luck. Would love to hear how things progress