Most of us look forward to summertime with anticipation and excitement. The kids are out of school which means no more early mornings, homework, and car drop-off and pick-up lines. We get to spend more time with our children, bonus children, and blended family as we enjoy the summer weather, vacations, snow cones, and swimming […]
Dealing with narcissistic individuals, whether in a marriage, blended family, co-parenting, or parenting, can be mentally, spiritually, and emotionally draining. You can often feel alone and rejected in narcissistic relationships, and you may wonder whose perspective of reality is the correct one. However, with valuable education and strategies to help navigate these complex relationships, you […]
The holiday season sparks joy and excitement for many families. But for blended families, the season can feel anything but picture-perfect. Between complicated schedules, balancing traditions, and tensions between biological parents, the holidays can present unique challenges. Having navigated blended family life for over ten years, we (Scott and Vanessa) have experienced firsthand the ups […]
Scripture makes clear that we have an enemy, the devil. From the beginning account of his work in Genesis to the last references of him in Revelation, the Bible records his ongoing mission is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). He hates God and hates anything God loves, including human beings and their families. […]
Parenting teenagers can be challenging, whether you are a parent or stepparent. From their hormone fluctuations to their desire to be independent, teens undergo radical change in a short amount of time. As parents and stepparents, we may not know how to pray for them, and we may be overwhelmed by how much they need […]
What is one powerful expression of love that a husband can show to his wife? The answer is not based on love languages, the checkbook balance, the newest fashion trend, or the latest research. One of the most beautiful gifts a husband can offer his wife is praying for her regularly. Keep reading for a […]
You love your husband deeply and want God to work in his life. You know the importance of praying for him. But you feel like a deer in the headlights: you don’t know how to pray for your husband. You don’t know the right words to say. You’re afraid your prayers won’t be “good enough.” […]
Sure, I can be a stepdad; how hard can it be? If I only knew what I needed to know, my first question would be drastically different. Over ten years as a stepparent, I’ve experienced many seasons with my stepson. Some seasons, where he wanted me more involved and closer to the vest, so to […]
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. […]
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 […]
