my "family recipe"

i wrote this awhile ago for a newsletter i was editing/publishing and decided it would serve well on my blog! i have edited it to fit where we are now. enjoy the surprise it may hold!

Start with an eternal Foundation. Take one pregnant homeschooling mama with on-going patience; one artistic designing papa with a flair for the particular; one lovable Bug-a-boo [sometimes called GaGa] with a passion for bugs, amphibians, dress-up, ballet and anything pink; and one busy squeezable "horsey riding" Bean with a tendency for multiple clothing changes and breaking out in song or spontaneous sillyness [the latter two make for a pair of perfect princesses who flutter around with a pearly glittery glow about them]; tie them together with an inseparable bond.
Put them all in a small, drafty, yet cozy, pink and white abode in the artsy village of Venice with equal parts of love, faith, prayer and future uncertainty, tossing in a founding father’s ingredients for a well-educated individual, acknowledging the past while blazing a new trail still looking to what’s ahead.
Season with hugs, kisses, bright smiles, tickles, laughs and occasional tears, squelching the whine when necessary. Watch the chaos because it may ensue but will dwindle when seeking downtime.
Mix in a few past acquaintances and make them friends, adding a new batch of acquaintances every now and then while waiting for them to rise to the occasion.
Add a dash of creativity and amazing ideas [occasionally sharing with others at the rate and intensity of a fire hose putting out a fire] on a regular basis while using Apples to find new networks, new information and great (i)deals. Throw in a few temper tantrums and visits with in-laws for flavor, as well as some surfing and the occasional business venture for variety.
Serve up with dedication and kindness, adding a movie or two as a garnish.

**Note: Be careful not to let the ideals overtake the reality as the reality can be deliciously sweet!

what's YOUR "family recipe"? please share it here!