A huge red and white, vertically striped tent stands in the grassy meadow. A breeze gently blows, bending the colorful and fragrant flowers that dot the green space. A bright blue sky, friendly clouds, and warm sunshine complete the scene and create the perfect day.

A band confidently plays “The Elephant March” to announce the arrival of this accomplished, mystifying, amazing, and truly unique circus … The circus that is our blended family.

Yes, this IS how John and I view our family …

We have a “big tent” philosophy. Our family includes and welcomes everyone—our immediate family, parents, first in-laws, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and even an ex and his wife. Perhaps best of all, we’re blessed with dear friends who feel like family. As our children grow and build important relationships of their own, we expect our family to grow as well. See, we need a big tent to fit them all!

Yes, we ARE well aware that our tent is a circus tent …

• We need flowing flaps to allow people to move in and out of the tent freely.
• We prefer a round tent so that everyone understands that “there are no sides” to choose.
• We strive to offer a safe place where people can express themselves and develop their skills and passions.
• We have an overabundance of clowns.
• We occasionally need a brave and hearty lion tamer.
• We must “watch our step” to avoid walking into “piles of poo.”
• We revere our Ringmaster and appreciate His guidance in our lives.
• We have opportunities to perform “death defying” acts at times.
• We expect everyone to pitch in and do his or her part.
• We welcome guests and long to bring them joy.
• We are a living, breathing, growing, and changing extravaganza.
• We usually have at least three rings “entertaining” us at one time.

Yes, this IS our circus and these ARE our monkeys …

 Although there are times we may try to deny this fact, we do love our family circus.