4 years as a stepfather. How did that happen?!

Life just sometimes takes you in unexpected directions. In this Vlog, I discuss just how much life has changed in the four years since I returned from the New Zealand/Australia trip, as well as some of the daemons I battled on that epic adventure.
#reallife #stepparents

[@kennyg4744]

What a beautiful heart warming HubNote, Ian.

[@allanmollison6971]

Congratulations Ian, you made the right choice with Miss HubNut and the Hublets.

[@4RingsRetro]

I'm also a step dad, and have had the best 5 years of my life since meeting my now wife and her kiddos. Not being their biological dad doesn't mean I can't and don't love them and do anything for them. They have given me a purpose I lacked before, and I am grateful for them letting me in to their lives. Such amazing characters and I can't wait to support them growing up. It's a steep learning curve, but the most rewarding thing I've ever done.

[@1Haloninja]

On the Internet that is usually a pretty bleak place this is a lovley thing to hear. Thank you for sharing. Both you and Ms Hubnut are rays of sunshine. Health and happiness to you and yours

[@brianodowd3625]

Ive been a step dad to two girls for almost 40 years. Only advice my dad gave me was 'Don't step into those childrens lives if you're going to step out again '. Proud of you. Keep it up.

[@Oldsmobile69]

I'm really happy for you. I remember the hairy hippy from years ago. Even though we don't know each other, to me you're like a nice neighbour who's life I've been seeing unfolding over the years.

[@romac9516]

It takes a certain kind of person to integrate into a family so seamlessly. Your supervision of mini-hubnut doing the engine was a poignant moment, he clearly has lots of respect for you and that's all you can ask for really. Love Miss Hubnut, she's such a legend getting stuck in to Chemmy etc. And both of you work very hard for the channel, something which I believe a LOT of your viewers do appreciate.

[@hadtopicausername]

As a bachelor who is about your age, this one certainly resonates with me, as I'm increasingly getting the feeling that a change would do me good.

[@djwwautodiagnostics]

Im 41 and married with 2 children. My wife and children give me the strength to be the best version of me. My life is enriched by the peiple I'm surrounded by. Not gonna lie. Life isn't always easy. In fact sometimes its bloody hard. But my family give me the strength to dust myself down and go again. Thank you my family 😀😀😀😀😀😮😮

[@romac9516]

So nice to hear. I never had a family (no regrets) but one thing I recognise in my male friends is their willingness to give 100% of themselves to their family. Massive respect.

[@LIEGELEAF1]

You seem to get on well with the Hublets, these things aren’t easy so well done and stick with it!

[@edsilvester]

Crickey Ian. Got me blowing snot bubbles.

[@blinkstoofast]

“We come back to a good place” at 04:40 - that’s absolute gold.

[@3wheeler1000]

I have been a stepdad for 10 years now. The kids are now leaving home (as they are both over 18) and are an and have been an absolute pleasure.

[@volvo480]

I've become a stepfather in 2008 of a 3-year-old, now 19 and very happy to live in a family with lots of love, a little sister who was born 2 years later and a fleet of 3 cars of which 1 he has done lots of tinkering himself, with me just handing (and funding) him the tools and parts. He and his mother have changed my life for the good, forever. ❤

[@Simon-ui6db]

It takes a special kind of man to become a step father, and be a good one at that. Cleary nailed it. Hopefully you have many many happy years together as a family.

[@Cpt_Winky]

Watched this. Went immediately downstairs to tell my partner how much I love her. Shucks 😊

[@johnstoner9008]

I'm blessed like you. I've been a stepfather for 23 years... like you I have a lovely little family 😊

[@thesmallerhalf1968]

Having followed you since pre-NZ, I have seen how your channel has evolved and grown as your new family became involved. It has enhanced the enjoyment of watching, and enriched the direction and content. It is clearly difficult to build and sustain a channel, apparently inheriting a ready family is a big help.

[@interphase]

That's heartwarming. You're a good dude, and your little family are a cracking team that's way stronger than the sum of its parts.

[@jameswelsh5672]

Fantastic heartwarming story Ian. I really look forward to watching your videos and it's great for you to have Miss Hubnut and the Hublets by your side. Keep doing what you are doing as it never gets dull.

[@LordClunk]

I knew when I was doing right with my step kids when for last fathers day they bought me a £150 Lego set, and got their real dad a box of chocolates. It was nice and humbling especially when you consider that a previous step child hated me and accused me of beating her, which was a very traumatic experience. Taking on my current step kids after that took a lot of courage and a lot of double guessing if I was doing OK. Mrs Clunk would often give me feedback to my actions and assure me that I was doing OK.

[@HA05GER]

Yeh I've seen that first hand. Anyone can be a father but not everyone can be a dad. As a step dad to 3 I totally get it and seeing my cousin see his stepdad as his dad and not my uncle just shows that blood means nothing. It's the man the picks you up when you fall, feeds you and is there when your sad and so many other things. Your obviously doing something right.

[@volvo480]

@@HA05GER same here, my stepson sees me as his dad. One of the reasons my stepson wanted a driving license very badly was that he could go to his biological father and, more important, leave at his own accord. Ironically, with the same make and model car, even the same trim level, his father drove as a company car when they were new 25 years ago: a Volvo S70 2.5 Europa.

[@scottishcarenthusiastsandtrain]

Well done Ian, you have a lovely family unit, Little Miss Hubnut done a fantastic Job on the day at Rustival at the Merch stall, a very polite young lady.

[@richh7872]

Glad everything's gone so well for you Ian. I like many people got made redundant during covid. I started talking to my now wife on facebook during lockdown, after many hours of video calls chatting while we were both stuck at home and a slight relaxation in covid rules we decided we had to meet. My car was playing up so I threw a bag on my old motorbike and rode 4 hours to see her in winter 🤣 Another lockdown followed and I've never gone back other than to sell my house! Her 17 year old (at the time ) son was a lot easier to get on with than I think I would've been at that age and shook my hand when he met me. The 2 lads (20 & 27) are too old to really need me for anything but they've both been very welcoming and the youngest still lives with us. It's crazy to think how much my life's changed since the beginning of 2020. Met my amazing wife, new town, new job and a lot of new friends

[@colcandy5341]

Hi Ian, have been a Stepfather for about 14 years. I may not be the best out there but I can assure you that they are the best step children. Would not be without them or their mum.

[@fulwell1]

There are a lot of folks, myself included, that are incredibly fond of you, Miss Hubnut and the Hublets - yes, some of that is because of the nature of what you do, but it extends beyond that massively so. I count myself very privileged to have had many chats with you and Miss Hubnut (admittedly mostly on Twitter rather than here) and am grateful for the friendship that you've both extended. You also know how concerned many of us were around the time of the Croatia trip and moreover the NZ trip and seeing you come out the other side of that and then quite literally decompressing once you got back to the UK was something of a pleasure. I can't say I am surprised that you get on so well with the Hublets - firstly, they are two of the loveliest young people anyone could choose to meet, but secondly because you yourself are a thoroughly decent, honest and friendly guy. I am deeply chuffed to see you all being successful in so many ways and hope that the successes keep on coming!

[@craigcottingham35]

Yes Ian, I've very much the same story. 17 years later all I can say is how lucky I am to have a soul mate with now growing adults that appear to tolerate me well. I too watch itchy boots & I admire her but I do fear for her safety sometimes. 🙏❤️

[@peteredwards7872]

A wonderful,warm piece to camera. Huge respect to you for making and posting this video 👏👍

[@anadolman3246]

Unlike my normal habit of dashing off a one line response, I saw this yesterday and thought it need a bit more consideration, hence only posting after having thought about it overnight. What comes through in this video is, I think, what really matters in a marriage/partnership. You appreciate Miss Hubnut for her skills and qualities which dovetail with and enhance your own, and the way that has enhanced you life, not only professionally as 'Hubnut' but also personally as, among other things a stepfather, where her parenting skills have created a family that is welcoming and inclusive. You also clearly admire those same those skills and qualities. That may sound like the same thing, but I think admiration shows pride and being proud of your partner, who they are and their achievements is important in any relationship. Finally, there is that extra factor, call it attraction if you wish, but more than physical it is about a realisation and understanding that life with her will be better than it could ever be without her. t is the X-factor if you will that is the basis of a solid long term relationship. Hope that makes sense, and sorry sound like a smart arse. I promise it's just this once; or at least it is until the next time!

[@Clodhopping]

I'm genuinely so pleased that you've found your new family. I'm a stepfather, however, because the father of my partner's two boys lives only 2 minutes away, I was pretty much superfluous to them. Obviously though it was much better for them to have their dad nearby. I was told to stay in the background to help their father adjust to my presence, and my partner said my role was to support her, not to become a quasi father. I've always done the school run, collected sickly ones from school, carried tired ones up to bed, cooked, ironed, mopped up their sick in the night and latterly been a taxi for them. 12 years later I'm almost invisible to my adult stepsons and never receive so much as a birthday or Xmas card, and they don't know my surname. Their dad is extremely socially awkward and lacks empathy, and it seems they've inherited that trait. Personally I wouldn't choose this path again.

[@hubnotes]

As I said, there are no guarantees things will proceed as well as they have for me. But I was wrong to be scared of step-parenting in my case.

[@thatcheapguy525]

a very positive heart-felt video Ian. seems like you are all gaining from this family relationship. "packed up and left my previous life" (hope I'm quoting correctly) sounds hard. been there done that a few times. every cloud has a silver lining, its all part of the renewal process of life.

[@luviskol]

A wise man knows when to hide in the bedroom when chaos happens downstairs - vlogging optional

[@depniff]

For me this is one of your best videos on either channel. You didn't need to do it but it says so much about what you are all about. Thanks for taking the time to share your perfectly worded thoughts. The past four years has been your greatest repair job (of you).

[@duringthemeanwhilst]

Ian. we have never met but I've been a subscriber since the Favorit delivery days and feel like I sort of know you - well, the KZbin you anyway but I've a feeling you aren't too different in reality. I've enjoyed all your adventures and mishaps along the way! You and your family unit are quite the marvel and in Carly you have found a true wonder woman 🙂 Just let her organise your workshop!!

[@TurboTimsWorld]

Totally agree with letting Miss HubNut tidy and organize the workshop space, but Ian buy a 6X4 garden shed and keep that in a mess and ban Carly from it as your Man Cave LOL x

[@CauliflowerMcPugg]

My wife and I have been together 20 years this year. Time has whizzed by so fast. Her annoying little ways drive me mad, but I wouldn't have it any other way. She is the light of my life, and I'm so glad you have found yours.

[@daniellee9015]

Absolutely brilliant video Ian ❤👍you are an amazing person and your family is amazing I think your a brilliant dad to the hublets if I could step out of my self I'd be you your content is amazing brilliant

[@Shane_Marsh]

You're doing a cracking job Ian 👏

[@MrTimcoronel]

Ian, we only met very briefly when you were in Melbourne and took Dinsdale the noisy Morris Nomad for a spin, but it's been very clear through all your vids that you are un bon oeuf. P.s: be careful how you use 'rooted' when Australians are in earshot ;)

[@cornishhh]

I'm really pleased that you're happy. I'm sure you're contributing strongly to the happiness of your adopted family too. A win, win, win, win situation.

[@meirionevans5137]

Don't worry about hug shortage, my daughter was similar, she's 30 now & hugs me til i can't breathe!

[@davidking9707]

Having met you and Clara in person and I can clearly see that you are both made for each other. I have been watching your videos for the last 5 years and I became hooked. I have a lovely missus and we've been together for 7 years and living together for 6 years. When the relationship between me and my daughters mum broke down, it tore me apart. My music, song writing and my love for classic cars kept me sane. Stay happy and beautiful :)

[@eeeandeee]

The mechanics of Life can be a challenge and I am so glad you have found your place in the machine :-)

[@merbertancriwalli8622]

Ian -what comes across in all of your videos is that you are a good human. That's what counts when you meet new people and from a distance that's what's help you through acquaint you with your new family. I still remember dropping my son at my ex's and he would say "Oh no - not James" You've done well.

[@alansmith1770]

Ian I have been following you since NZ and have been a channel member for 4 years. I applaud you & Carly you really lift my spirits. I will get to meet you soon I hope. The Hublets are really making headway and it is your combined guidance that is helping them. Best wishes on your 4 years together and many more to come

[@frankcorr6566]

Congratulations Ian. You made the right decision.

[@geoffersk3684]

Was just thinking about this the other day, found your channel around 5 years ago and seen your journey. Thanks for all you've shared, you are indeed a wonderful person, your new little family and huge 112,000+ virtual friends on the main channel are testament to all that 👌❤

[@tristanpage6805]

Loved that. Time goes so fast. Landed fully on your feet.

[@roseybut]

Ian, thus far you've lived a life that's full. The addition of Carly and the Hublets have clearly enriched your personal life and shot the channel into the stratosphere. I'm looking forward to the next 4 years. Thanks for sharing your very uplifting personal thoughts.

[@01jvb]

Well done. It probably took some courage to do that video. I agree Miss Hubnut's dedication to the Friendship stall at Rustival was amazing - I walked past 3 times during the show and couldn't believe she was still there (and each time she appeared to have a queue of people waiting to talk to her). Make sure you look after yourselves at an event like that - it's no good missing lunch for anyone !

[@johnnorth9355]

My wife and I adopted two siblings aged 4&5 over 25 years ago and even that seems like a blink of an eye. Family life has it's up's and downs but gives substance and meaning that nothing else would have done for us . I think the pair of you will do a fantastic job as role models not just now but long term. Just make sure you find time together as a couple and all will be well.

[@andydavies858]

Hi Ian. What a heartwarming video. I’m a Dad and a Step Dad. My wife and I brought 2 families together. We are very lucky in that we have our children (we don’t have step children, they are all our children) and they all get on, all 7 of them. We had the one between us. But we are a big, close family unit. It’s amazing what life can give you when you least expect it.

[@noddz146]

Buddy, I know I've said it before, but you are genuinely an inspirational fella. Step kids can go one of two extremes … they are either your best mates … or they never accept you and use phrases like "you can't tell me what to do, you're not my Dad" Fortunately for me, my only stepson I had was of the former … we built a HUGE bond for the three & 1/2 years I was there, and probably still would be there had his Mum not said "I didn't sign up to be with a cripple" just as we walked out of the hospital where I was informed that I will definitely lose one leg from below the knee at some point in the future, or possibly both!! Anyway … that was 2013, and I'm STILLi very regular contact with Reecie, and we often say "love ya loads" to each other! Reecie is loved just as much as my blood daughter, and will always remain a BIG part of my life ❤️❤️ Thank you for sharing this really quite personal video … IAN … you are flippin' AWESOME, you have such a beautiful heart, and a kindness that is getting more and more scarce nowadays. God bless you bruvva! ❤

[@hubnotes]

Oh gawd. That wasn't a joyous moment for you!

[@sonofatwitch82]

You are so right, I suffer with anxiety and depression and it can be really tough at times, watching your videos improve that sp thanks fpr making things a bit easier for me

[@alansmith1770]

I have anxiety problems but Hubnut cheers me up no end

[@habsom1406]

I've watched countless Hubnut car videos over the years, but for me, this one was probably one of the best. You're a very tender soul Ian, bless you and bless all your family. Miss Hubnut is lucky to have you and vice versa. 🙏❤😎

[@ruglund]

amazing update. been following your adventures for many many years now, this update warms my heart. looking forward to future endeavours.

[@TurboTimsWorld]

The funny thing is as a mechanic of 30+yrs I came to HubNut after looking up holiday places to visit in Wales and finding Miss HubNut's channel first! My situation was reversed as in My ex and kids moved out to go to Aylesbury and my parents moved to North Devon to retire and I was left in Swindon ! (not quite as bad as it seems) So a lady came into the workshop with a MOT fail and I did a few of my best chat up lines and spent 4 days welding her fiesta up on the side and have been married to her for the last 20yrs (plus??yrs??) We now live in Devon to be more available to my parents and my Kids drive them selves down here to visit! P.S. we have a Rover Streetwise tucked at the back of the workshop carpark when your next down here.

[@stevejelly3161]

You're a nice bloke mate 🙂.... i'm so pleased for you !!!!!!!!!

[@manicmechanic6406]

Well said life is amazing when you give it every chance

[@dorsetoctaviaman]

This is a lovely video, Ian. You've titled this "...as a stepfather. How did that happen?" but I think you really have done a great job giving the Hublets such support (with Carly, of course) through those very difficult early and mid-teens years. For example, it's wonderful how you bond with Mini HubNut assembling a 7cc model engine, and clearly, from all the hints that you drop about him visiting Whiteland Restos and Cambrian Classics, he's going to be something special as a mechanic or engineer, a very good bloke to know... Hope that the latest set of driving lessons with Little Miss HubNut forge just as strong a bond. And I also hope that when they see their Dad, he's very proud of how they're growing up.

[@johnscarsandstuff]

Congratulations to you and Miss Hubnut. It's clear from your onscreen chemistry how right you are for each other. Having met you both and seeing Carly in full swing at Rustival, I'm amazed at how much energy she has and how devoted she was to making sure people had the best time. Unfortunately I was having a full internal episode of depression. There were times when I just wanted to cry, but I was glad that Friendship Corner was there. It's a shame that my mental state rather spoilt my memory of the day, I was fine before and after. And in no way should my feelings be seen as a reflection on the event itself.

[@KieraHafermalz-Wheeler]

congratulations Ian! so beautiful to see!

[@Bicyclehub]

It’s obvious that you are a well-matched couple. I have noticed in livestreams how well you communicate together, never talking across one another and sharing equal talking time. Miss Hubnut has been brilliant for the channel, funny, warm and enthusiastic. The Chemmy engine swap was a super series of videos.

[@alansimpson835]

You look really well on it Ian. Miss Hubnut is clearly a very sincere person who cares a lot about you and The Hublets are a great pair. It was lovely to meet them at Rustival and nice watching you doing a bit of driver training. Clearly they have a lot of affection for you too You look and sound like you feel like you belong and that's a great feeling

[@chrisrogers2848]

Lovely story Ian, so glad it worked out for you. Next month, my stepdaughter turns 16 - she’s been ‘my little girl’ since I first met her at 15 months old when she toddled across the room to slap me on the knee! It can be a difficult role to fill sometimes, but the good times make it all worthwhile.

[@stephenshippam9374]

How time goes bye so quickly, great video

[@mickles1975]

Me listening to this video while I open another tab to plan what to watch next. KZbin recommends this video. Well done, KZbin.

[@PeterBurke7463]

Ian, this video has put a smile on my face. You have certainly spoken to me, as someone who is recovering well, from being in a dark place, mentally, its almost a year to the day, from it all actually hitting me, and starting. Many congratulations on a wonderful 4 years, with Miss Hubnut, and the hublets….

[@mikepowell9326]

What a lovely genuine man you are love to miss hubnet ❤

[@rickbaines8262]

You all just seem a natural family unit, glad you've found each other, you all deserve it.

[@rollingtroll]

Adorable update. Knowing you the way I do, which is only a very little bit, I'm not at all surprised that this worked out. But it's still always a gamble. And as someone who has been, and is still going through pretty rough times, it's always good to hear someone say 'it'll pass'. Even though you can't be sure, and neither can I, that it will, it's always good that there's at least a chance that things will look up. The state of the world as a whole has definitely made me restless though, I want to live life, before who knows what happens. But I can't force it. Let's hope 2025 is kind to all who deserve it

[@fsodn]

Heartiest congratulations! This is so wonderful!

[@tedburnard841]

Funny how life goes. I was a Batchelor until I married my Filipina wife at age 57. My step daughter and two step sons were already with partners and had kids of their own. Now retired in the Philippines (from Australia) and can’t imagine life without my wife, the three step kids and now seven step grandkids! They have all accepted me as part of their family and their lives now. Like you, I consider myself very lucky.

[@andysalter4473]

Massive respect to any man that steps up and in to the role of 'Stepfather' . And what a great family you are, I love it when the Hublets are included. It makes great content. Keep it up all, it's greatly admired and enjoyed! Cheers all!

[@edwardalannewton8591]

Ian Seabrook thx for sharing your life with us and I am learning from you and thx to miss hubnut and my question is 1. Would you go back to new Zealand again 2. Would you take miss hubnut with you for a holiday

[@hubnotes]

I would dearly love to visit NZ again and show Miss HuvNut the sights.

[@35dononeill]

This time 4 years ago, we closed our building due to covid. It seems to have just flown by. I remember hearing about the 1st covid death in Ireland & how scary & heart breaking it was. I also remember you putting out a video considering whether you would include Miss Hubnut in your channel. At the time you were a little apprehensive about it because it was early & you were unsure if you wanted that part of your private life to be exposed. Luckily, you did & your channel has been vastly improved because of it. I doubt you would have tried caravaning without Miss Hubnut.😊

[@FlakeDodge7]

You're a decent man, Mr Hubnut, and I'm proud to be a subscriber for so many years. Greetings from a father of a 1 month boy.

[@OverlandintheSun]

I know what you mean about travels, I drove through East Africa to Cape Town from the UK. It was an amazing trip, but ultimately I did feel selfish about it. So easy just to move on when you wanted. I'm a similar age to you, with younger kids (who had a good time at Rustival) they totally make life more interesting and complete. I think the travel and adventures also makes you a better parent.

[@steamsearcher]

Well done Ian, we began watching you during your 2CV adventure and stayed for the NEW ZEELAND ONE etc. The search for the ELUSIVE TYPEWRITER in various museums. I did 16 years with a first wife but towards the end it was very hard work with me making a decision to look for someone else. She had known my replacement for 4 years prior. New wife via the internet and soon joined with a Daughter now 16. Time fly's. David & Lily.

[@richardhoneybun5509]

Well done Ian you have a lovely family. When I moved in with my now wife she had three children, well adults who I get on with well so missed the bringing up children phase. The two girls have now brought four grandchildren into the fold so I'm at least now an experienced Grampy. It was a big change for me to start all this at 47 years old but have had 14 wonderful years now and hope you enjoy your new life as much as I have with mine.

[@AussiePom]

Ian if you got a chance would you return to NZ and Australia for another visit with Carly and the Hublets too if they wanted to go that is. You maybe seeing just a bit more than cars though.

[@tonysargent7787]

You have found a good one there You and Carly are doing a sterling job of bringing up the hublets another great video has always Ian and Carly miss/mrs hubnut and hublets and hubmutt 👍

[@Mighty_Cat_Mods]

What a guy! Mr Hubnut is a great inspiration. Your family is very lucky to have you 🐈

[@paulie-Gualtieri.]

Good for you Ian, delighted that things are feeling right for you. Please get Miss Hubnut to post some more delicious cake reviews.

[@ianturvey3894]

Well done Ian! It’s amazing when you have a little family, how much you put them first. We all think of the what if’s and where would we be today if we’d chosen a different path or choice. That’s life. Forget the past and look forward to what the future holds.

[@mattphillips4419]

You come across as a genuinely caring person, so it's no wonder you've fitted into Miss Hubnut's family, and no surprise the Hublets have taken to you like they have. You and Carly seem so well matched, the banter in the videos really hints at a warm, fun relationship. Long may it (and the videos) continue! 😊👍

[@alzdeane]

Ian, good to hear that :) I have 3 kids, but over the last year or two have become 'dad' to another, who frankly, was a bit lost and had little direction in her life. It's been a wonderful experience for me, and she's now far more settled and positive also. There are too many sh1t biological parents, unfortunately. I'm determined to be supportive and caring to those around me.

[@ImmediateWalter]

I'm happy to hear you're happy Ian! Warms my heart. 🥰

[@bombakdik]

Congratulations and hopefully many more years will be there for you both. Getting a bit nostalgic on George. How is he doing? All of this reminds me that I am somehow a part, well a subscriber, for over 5 years now. Blimey as you would say. Thank you Ian for getting me through during sad times of life. Ending with my traditional goodbye: Cheers from Belgium. 👍🧸

[@kodessa]

This was a very cool perspective to listen to. Thank you.

[@bigjohno242]

You’re a truly lovely man Ian . I’ve met you twice and you’re a true gent

[@Shaun_rennycinq]

Ian, its been a privilege to see snippets of your journey. You two make a great team and its clear to see and feel the happiness and love amongst the 4 of you. I resonate with a lot in this vlog and i admire your bravery in making a vulnerable video about it, like your car videos, this is life, its not sugar coated, its as it is

[@Driven247]

Couldn’t agree more, dark times don’t last forever and your life can change for the better without you ever predicting it!

[@alexmelli8253]

The night is darkest before the dawn. Great talk Ian. Thanks.

[@jamesmcneill9285]

What a lovely, lovely video - I did not need a Kit Kat advert slapped in the middle of it….. but if it pays the bills!

[@hubnotes]

Rebel. Buy a Mars bar instead. 😉

[@menditman2004]

Your a brave man 😂 As you probably know I’m currently single and going forward I’d like to find someone else, but I rather not be a stepdad though that may be difficult at my age, but we will see 😬 but my way of thinking now is just go with the flow and see what happens, so who knows 🤷‍♂️

[@hubnotes]

It is certainly difficult to find a partner without children once you're in your 40s or older, but while I initially thought I didn't want a partner with children, it turns out I was wrong...

[@frazzleface753]

Aww, congrats Ian. I've been following you for ages through your ups and downs and I couldn't be happier for you, Carly and the Hublets. ❤

[@nickduffy8482]

Ian, that was a very moving post and says a lot about the quality of your personality and strength of character. Thank you for your honesty and congratulations on your relationship and ‘little family’.

[@christoguichard4311]

Awww...I think Miss Hubnut and the Mini Hubnuts have been great for you Ian...and you for them. ❤😊

[@scottmcghee2246]

This is a great shot in the arm, all too often we like minded get stuck well and truly in a rut endless projects wiping out our ability to communicate with relatives or other humans, frustration, anxiety, depression and dare I say it reality can cause no end of torment if allowed. I thank you for reminding us that if we can it is most beneficial to be as human as we can be. Top job Ian

[@grahamparks6088]

I'm 56, I have 6 kids of my own the youngest being 8 yo.and 3 step sons, being a parent has its total loving times and it's testing times, youre doing a great job as a dad to a wonderful family of the hublets and Miss hubnut.

[@jkk244]

Good on you Ian. I got an “instant family” some 40 years ago when I became a stepfather to two great little kids (now adults obviously) and I love them immensely and them love me right back. It’s been incredibly rewarding and I wouldn’t change a thing. Becoming a stepparent caused me to really grow up and it has been incredibly fulfilling.

[@Parknest]

It is so true that you don't really know somebody until you live with them. I've been with my current partner for nearly 20 years (where has the time gone?). In such relationships you have to accept everything that comes with it including any children. There is no other way. Long may it continue with Carly.