Christine Lampard has opened up about how she navigates being a step-mum.
The Northern Irish TV presenter is step-mum to husband Frank Lampard’s children, Luna, 17, and Isla, 15 who he shares with ex-wife Elen Rivas.
The Newtownards woman and football manager Frank and also have a daughter Patricia, four, and a son, Freddie, who turns two in March.
Read more: Christine Lampard gives an insight on parenting with hubby Frank
Christine and Frank have been together since 2009 and got married in 2015.
Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Christine said: “The girls [Luna and Isla] were four and two when I came into their lives and now they are young women all of a sudden, talking about going to university.
“We are in such a different place now. For me it was all about being their friend and being there when they needed you to be there. That was it.
“You’re not their mum, you’re not their dad, but you are there if they need and want you, and that is I find the best way to navigate through everything.
“And it’s worked for me because now they are two little mates who will text you and say, ‘What do you think of this?’. We are very, very lucky.”
Also in the same interview, the Co Down woman shared her Christmas plans.
She said: “I love getting merry at Christmas. I keep looking at the clock to see what the most appropriate time is to get the mulled wine out — 10am I reckon.
“I cook better with the mulled wine out, I don’t stress as much. The more the merrier. As long as I’m still responsible I have no problem with it.
“My family is coming over from Ireland and we will all be together. My mum will help a lot, as much as I’ve told her to relax.
“Frank will probably walk past occasionally and stir a pot, which winds me up, and then he walks off and that’s his role done.”
Christine also opened up on how her life has changed since having her two children.
She told The Sun: “Before having children I liked things done a certain way.
“I’m quite stuffy around the house. I like things to be in order. I like knowing what’s coming up, but certainly having children has chucked that out of the window.
“I’ve had to absolutely relax on everything. Some days, one of them might not feel well or something unexpected pops up, and at times it is just hard to get out of the house.
“I remember when my little girl was born I thought I’m never going to leave the house. There was a list of things I had to remember just to be able to walk around the block.
“My brain isn’t capable of dealing with everything, but weirdly when your second one comes you have to force yourself to be much more relaxed.”
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