There are many studies on the adverse effects of divorce and the trials of blended families. In this episode, Darren & Paige are only looking at the "Lemonade" of blended families. That is right put on your "Rose Colored Glasses" and look at all of the benefits of a blended family. If you want all of the hard things that come with a blended family check out all of our other episodes. :) 

For the kids

• More Christmas presents
• Two birthdays,
• Two of the holidays
• More Grandparents
• Bonus parents.
• Kids can see a better model of a relationship. If you are moved past the old baggage.
• I broader world view. More aunts and uncles, grandparents and parents.
• Kids tend to become more flexible because of conflict resolution and multiple households.
• Kids typically score higher on emotional skills: forgiveness, generosity, and negotiation.
• More siblings. Sam would be an only child 100% of the time. Not just 50%.

For the Parents

• Sometimes we don't have the kids. Some alone time.
• Sometimes a step-parent can fill a gap in the bio-parents. My kids' step Dad is a captain for sailing. and an Architect.
• Sometimes kids bring different perspectives or talents to the family.
• If you can move past old baggage, you can be more realistic about your relationship.
• Financial stability over a single parent. More than one source of income.
• Kids might be more honest with step-parents, be prepared to listen and take the input.
• Learning to love not just by instinct. More kids to love.
• Different world view. Blended Families include in-laws and the families are already grown up.
• We make sure we have learned from our mistakes of our first marriage.
• Teaches patience.

How to make Lemonade

• Some of our kids did not start out liking the whole blended family.
• We have to approach things and find Lemonade.
• Make a conscious effort to be part of it.
• Try and find something positive out of something really bad.
• It takes effort and flexibility.

Lemonade Moment of the Week

Darren getting older gave us an excuse to go out. But everything is locked down. Except the drive-in.