School is out and so the dynamics of our family make a significant change.

During the school year Christi generally works four nights of the week sometimes as late as 10 p.m. This means the kids and I fly solo and I generally cover dinner, practices, homework, baths, etc. in some form or fashion.

Some days end on a positive note and some have room for improvement.

When the last day of school rolls around (and dance recital is complete) we move towards a normal family structure.

Christi is at home during the day with the kids and when I get home at night we have the TV version of days past with mom and dad surrounded by the kiddos.

Now, mind you that is about where the TV version ends and real life takes control.

Our family size and structure is anything but typical.

I used to think that I wanted my life to be ‘normal’, but I quickly realized that our life offers our family opportunities for which we should be thankful.  Taking a step back and realizing what you do have is something that should be done routinely.

Our kids are fortunate that by Christi owning a dance studio it gives her the ability to be home with them during the summer. They get to go do activities like bowling or going swimming and spend time with each other.

Sure, I get a little jealous while I am at work, but it’s an awesome privilege for the kids.

During the school year, I get to run kids to practices and help with homework.

While at times juggling their schedules is challenging, it is also an opportunity to show the kids what they mean to me.

It is also amazing to see when they finally grasp a new school concept or perform well in their afterschool activity.

Normal may seem inviting at first, but as I frequently tell people, I love our crazy life.

I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

The world has changed so much since the picture-perfect sitcoms of years past. I think it is important to not try to force your family life into a certain format.

Take a step back, realize what you do have, and build on that.

Quite often we have blessings in our lives that we fail to recognize as such.