STRONGER TOGETHER
Challenges and Opportunities in Blended Families
People talk about how many marriages end in divorce, but they rarely mention how many divorcees go on to remarry — 64 percent of them, according to Pew Research. Often, this leads to a blended family, a seemingly unique situation that’s actually quite common. Blended families can be just as strong, loving, and supportive as blood families. But all families come with challenges, and blended ones are no different.
When transitioning into a blended family, it helps to start with realistic expectations. A common downfall is expecting too much, too soon. Change takes time, and people — and especially children — adapt to change at their own pace. Not only may kids have trouble trusting a stepparent, they may also have trouble when they develop attachment to a stepparent. No part of this process is easy, and it can’t be rushed. Be patient, be persistent, and make it clear that whatever the children are feeling is totally natural and normal. This process can be aided by encouraging family time, just like with a blood family. Go to the zoo together, eat dinner together, and spend quality time with one another. Not only can this be fun, but it can also be a great way for blended families to get to know each other, which is the first step toward love and trust. The most important thing is open communication with respect and empathy. Kids (and adults) act out when they feel that they’re not being heard or understood. Some hard conversations are just difficult. Don’t ignore them, don’t try to sweep them under the rug, and don’t tell the kids that certain topics are off-limits. Encourage respectful, healthy interaction, but don’t shut down communication. Use lessons learned from the first marriage to avoid repeating mistakes in your new relationship.
HAVE A LAUGH!
Looking for a summer dessert you don’t have to feel guilty about indulging in? Try this easy, low-fat frozen treat! SUMMERTIME FROZEN YOGURT PIE • 1 premade graham cracker pie crust • 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip • 1 cup frozen or fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries) INGREDIENTS
• 3 (6-ounce) containers regular yogurt (berry flavors work best)
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine Cool Whip, mixed
4. Store in freezer for at least 3 hours, or until frozen through. 5. Serve frozen or slightly thawed.
berries, and yogurt in a bowl. Mix with a spatula until well-blended.
2. Pour yogurt mixture into pie crust. 3. Cover pie with foil or plastic lid.
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