Hi, I'm Marisa— and I'm a bonus mom.
The term 'bonus' mom comes from the idea that a child has biological parents and any additional parental figures are simply a "bonus." That's me, or at least how I've learned to see myself in this equation.
I came into my son's life when he was eight years old. In a whirlwind journey filled with love, challenge, and learning, I quickly saw him as my own.
Biology has never mattered to me.
My son has a father and mother, and I became, at first, "his father's girlfriend," then "stepmom," and now, simply "Marisa."
My role as one of his parents and as a 'bonus mom,' is one of the most important roles I've ever had. And even in the unfortunate dissolution of my marriage to my son's father—that truth and purpose will never change.
So, here is "Momish Moments"— a page dedicated to sharing my authentic truth as a non-biological primary caregiver. And a space where others can share their hearts and stories, too. Welcome to a safe space.