Divorce is painful for everyone involved, including the children. Kids are resilient, but they are dealing with some heavy emotions, thoughts, and questions. Unfortunately, many children cannot or will not express how they feel about their parents’ divorce, even if asked. In our conversations and research, we’ve found similar themes in what kids might tell […]
Our last blog focused on the false promises you make to yourself during or after divorce. These promises–sometimes called inner vows–are made when you experience deep pain. A false promise is a way to take control of the future so you avoid future pain. It’s a way to claim authority over your life that supplants […]
Blended families are unique–and no family is a copycat of another. Each one is made up of people with different backgrounds, personalities, struggles, past influences, and experiences. When blended, this group creates its own unique design and dynamic unlike any other. We receive many emails and messages on social media from people beginning to blend. […]
The pain of divorce is real and raw and cuts you to the core. As a result, you probably made promises to yourself–sometimes called inner vows–so you won’t experience that kind of anguish ever again. That’s an understandable response, but those promises you make to yourself after a divorce can cause more harm than you […]
It’s been long said that expectation is the enemy of joy. That should be the mantra of your blended family, especially in the critical first year or two. Paint it on your walls, write it on a sticky note on your desk, needlepoint it on a throw pillow…do whatever you need to do to keep this saying […]
Let’s face it–there’s no handbook for raising children, and parenting can be super challenging! That’s especially true when we go through a divorce, try to co-parent, or remarry and create a blended family. Emotions can run high–especially guilt. Before we know what happened, we realize we are parenting or co-parenting from a place of guilt […]
How Alienating Your Co-Parent Could Harm Your Child. Co-parenting can be a huge challenge, especially when one or more of the parents is engaged in child manipulation and parent alienation. It is one of the most common issues blended families and single parents face–but almost no one talks about it. The divorce decree may outline […]
We learned a thing or two from that season (and subsequent ones), and that experience has helped us navigate the holidays better. Scott & Vanessa Martindale The holiday season is such an exciting time for many of us as we gather with family and friends, sit at the table, share meals together, and reflect on […]
Blended families face unique challenges that bring out a wide variety of emotions in you and your children, especially when you are beginning to blend. Feeling anxiety over blending your family is common, not only for you but also for your children. That anxiety and sadness can linger and interfere with their daily lives. The […]
Managing Finances as a Co-Parent Even under the best circumstances, talking about finances with an ex-spouse can be tough. But let’s face it — kids are expensive! So, good stewardship and regular communication in your blended family and with your ex are essential. Let’s get into it. Blending a Family Means Budgeting Well Child support […]