Coping With Motherhood

What a huge change for all of you! Teens are difficult enough to deal with but not having raised them, it must be incredibly scary. Losing their parents is such a blow for all of you. You can always come here and ask us things, I survived my boys' teen years. Have you considered finding a parent support group in your town? They have them but I can't think of what they call them right now. Call your city's human resources department, they'll know. It will probably help to talk with other people that are raising their relatives' children. There's so many things for you to think about! Mostly, though, I think you just need to be there for them because these years are hard enough but when you've lost both parents--well, I can't begin to imagine. Bless you all, and I hope it gets easier for you. You can call on me anytime.

Wow, that must be tough. I can't imagine. I know a few times I feel like I've been thrown into the role of motherhood due to an unplanned pregnancy, but you're situation is completely different. Being that they are teenagers, I wouldn't try to be their mom, just continue to be their aunt. Make sure you take time for yourself as well. Being a caregiver is very demanding, especially with three. Take breaks as often as possible and do things just for you. Keep in mind, they are still coping with the loss of their parents. They love you, but you will never take the place of their mother, and that is a void that will forever be with them. Support them, comfort them, but don't take it personally that they will always prefer their mother to their aunt.