About Me
Growing up, I never envisioned myself being a stepmom. I never said, "Someday, when I grow up, I want to raise someone else's kids." It wasn’t something I aspired to, I don’t think any little girl grows up thinking they want to raise kids that aren’t theirs. I never imagined my life with Avery, Boston, and Harper, but now I cannot imagine my life without them.
Becoming a stepmom, I saw life differently than I did before. I had many people warn me about the kids. No one warned me of the jealousy I would face, no one warned me that I would constantly have to try to gain approval, attention, and fight to be number one. Being a stepmom can sometimes have the feeling of invisibility. I have to hold my tongue, take a backseat, my voice isn’t always heard, and I constantly come in 3rd place. As a stepmom, I play a mother's role but don't get the mother's credit. There are many joys in this season, but there is also sadness, pain, and frustration. It’s a life I never thought I would have, and didn’t think I wanted, but it’s a life I love and feel so blessed to have.
Maybe you feel the same way, stepmom? Maybe you need a place to feel seen and heard. Maybe you just need to know you are not the only one who has these feelings. Let's talk.
Official Bio
JoyAnn Elizabeth is a wife, stepmom, writer, and influencer. While she never imagined herself becoming a stepmom, today she can’t picture life without her three bonus kids - Avery, Boston, and Harper. Her journey into a blended family has brought both joy and heartbreak, shaping her into an empathetic and honest voice for other women navigating stepfamily life.
Joy speaks candidly about the realities many stepmoms face: feeling invisible, coming in last, and fighting for a place at the table. Yet through it all, she has discovered strength, grace, and purpose in a role she once never expected...and now wholeheartedly embraces.
A licensed business professional and passionate helper at heart, Joy balances her career with her calling to encourage other stepmoms. She co-authored the best-selling children’s book 'Happy as a Hippo' with her husband Brandon, and she continues to use her story to remind others they are not alone.
Joy is a follower of Christ and believes deeply in the power of community, truth-telling, and second chances. Originally from Missouri, she now lives in Missoula, Montana, where she loves running, traveling, and spending time with her family...preferably with a strong cup of coffee in hand.
Follow JoyAnn on Instagram: @joyann.elizabeth
