I grew up in a commune, so I know all about how that works. You may have other authority figures but they are a step away from parents. It can work, but it can also be particularly soul wrenching when the tie is severed. I know someone who went through that. Had a relationship with a couple that had a child, and was sort of a co-parent. She had a falling out with the mother, and she in told told her she can't see the child anymore.

There is trust, yes, but it's nice to have law to turn to in case of need. I don't want it to get to that, obviously.

I call my mom by her name, and refer to her by her name a lot when talking to other people, but I still eed to clarify she's my mother, just like I clarify my significant others are significant others.