Tanya, from Denver (submitted March, 2004)

Name: Tanya
Home state or country: Denver, Colorado

I never, ever thought after being a single mother for more that 10 years that I would end up with a new husband and four additional beautiful children.  My mother had prayed for many years for a large family, and she was only able to adopt me.  So, my two daughters were all she ever imagined as grandchildren.  Until my second marriage and here she is with seven grandchildren now!  She just loves it.  Her long awaited prayer has been answered.  Much to my amazement the first day the children met they acted as if they knew each other for years and years.  All has been simple with the children, and their unfailing devotion and love towards each other have been the true miracle. Since I was an adopted child, I know that true love is not only for blood relations, therefore, coming into this never seemed impossible to me, and I have had high hopes for success in blending our family. Unfortunately, it is the adults in the family (my in-laws) who struggle with letting go of control, old pain, and heartache (surrounding the divorce of my husband and his ex-wife).  I also believe that his ex-wife and children still are dealing with it all, but we all have been through a divorce and need healing too.  Our biggest problems seem to be with his family not approving of me, or supporting our marriage, and then that makes it very hard to see through the smoke when the fires become ignited!  Overall, my stepchildren and my children are very happy, we do have divided homes and three of John's children live with their mother, but we get to see them often.  In-laws and financial difficulty have proven very challenging and have put much stress upon our marriage. We also have a young toddler, Titus, who is our 7th child bridging together the other six children. Many prayers for God's provisions and his will would be much appreciated and best of luck to all of you wonderful blended families!