Create a free profile to get unlimited access to exclusive videos, sweepstakes, and more!
Teddi Talks “Growing Pains” of Co-Parenting in Update on Her and Edwin’s Blended Family
The RHOBH alum opened up about her family life in a touching message to her stepdaughter, Bella.
Teddi Mellencamp Arroyave is feeling “blessed.”
Just 10 days after celebrating her 12th wedding anniversary, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum provided another positive update on her family life. The podcast host/TV personality took to Instagram on July 14 to share a photo of herself and her stepdaughter, Bella Arroyave — the eldest child Teddi’s entrepreneur husband, Edwin Arroyave.
Teddi admits co-parenting hasn’t always been easy
The post included a heartfelt and very honest message about Teddi’s co-parenting journey and the long-lasting impact Bella has had on her life.
“From the moment I met Bella, I was changed in so many ways,” Teddi wrote. “The instant love I had for her helped shape me into the mother and stepmother I am today. And while the growing pains of coparenting had its tough moments, nothing would break the love in my heart for her.”
She continued: “Now, at 14 years old, our blended family is stronger than ever, and I look forward to our ‘girl time’ together, continuing to build an unbreakable bond that transcends bloodlines.”
Teddi praises her stepdaughter’s mom
Teddi also shared some kind words for Bella’s mother, Christina Mecklenburg — a TV host who is now married with multiple kids. The RHOBH alum thanked Christina for being “the most incredible mama to Bella” and said she felt so blessed “to be a part of their world.”
Christina responded with a gracious and optimistic comment: “Aww you girls look so beautiful!!” she wrote. “Love you! And so thankful for what’s to come.”
Teddi’s blended family has made huge strides
As suggested in previous posts, Teddi didn’t always have a close relationship with Christina. In 2022, the mothers seemingly put their differences aside and came together for a girls’ night out with Bella, as well as Teddi and Edwin’s eldest daughter, Slate. Christina documented the outing on Instagram, where she posted photos of her and Teddi hugging each other at an Olivia Rodrigo concert.
“Took us 13.5 years to get here, but we did it,” Christina captioned the carousel. “Thank you for being such an amazing loving stepmama to Isabella.”
Teddi celebrates a big milestone for Bella
Teddi’s update came nearly a month after Bella’s eighth-grade graduation, where she was the valedictorian. Teddi and Edwin celebrated the achievement along with friends and family, including their daughter Slate and son Cruz. The couple’s youngest child — a 3-year-old girl named Dove — did not attend the ceremony.
“Boss baby had to sit this one out,” Teddi explained on Instagram. “It was in the evening and wanted to be able to actually hear the graduation and focus on Bella.”
