I grew up in a family that had no divorces, no single moms - just a typical (or so I thought) family in a small town. I thought when I married and had a family it would be the same. Wrong!
My sons married girls that had been divorced and had children, then they had several children of their own. This made an interesting combination to say the least!
I learned that it is better to let go of some of your own ideas of what a family is like and learn how to get the most benefit and fun out of what life has dealt you.
I believe young families should begin their own traditions, even though this meant that some of my traditions had to be set aside. It is not worth having children and grandchildren upset over what family they need to see whenever, and try to please everyone. You just can't do that to a blended family and feel right about it.
Our family has chosen to let the grandchildren chose when they can come to our home - it may not be on the exact day we had in mind but it is a time when they can come and be with us without worrying about getting to another Grandma's home, etc. They are more relaxed and enjoy the time spent with us.
As you get older you realize that life is just too short to worry about things you really can't change. Just enjoy what time you have with your children when they do come. Make it special and they will work real hard at trying to please you!! No, it is not always easy but over time it all works out for the best!
