The Next Family: How did you start your family?
Bridget: Karrie had 3 boys from her previous marriage and I had 2 boys from my previous marriage.
The Next Family: How did you two meet?
Bridget: We both were employed at the same place and had a few mutual friends at work.
The Next Family: Did you always want to have kids?
Bridget: Not exactly. However our boys came at perfect timing for each of us during our previous marriage.
The Next Family: Where do you live?
Bridget: We reside in Owensboro, Kentucky. Our oldest son lives in Lexington, Kentucky and attends college at the University of Kentucky. We have another son who lives in Louisville, Kentucky and attends college at the University of Louisville. Our other three boys live at home with us.
The Next Family: What is the greatest and the toughest thing about being a parent?
Bridget: There is no greater feeling than to see happiness in our boys lives. When they are happy, we are happy. Likewise their struggles are our struggles. The toughest part of being a parent would have to be the part of letting them grow into adults themselves and knowing when to step back. We have five boys with five completely different personalities. And we love it!
The Next Family: Does your family feel adversity?
Bridget: Karrie and I had to fight long and hard to be together. We both lost connections with friends who were not supportive as well as family. After being together nearly 6 years, we have reconnected with a few of those and we are extremely blessed with new supportive friends who we have met along the way.
The Next Family: Do you have any advice for LGBTQ youth?
Bridget: Be who you are and be the best version of you! Surround yourself with positive people who will offer you support. There are many support groups and people to lean on for understanding.
The Next Family: What is one life lesson that you want to teach your children?
Bridget: To love unconditionally. It’s the greatest lesson of all. To be forgiving toward others as well as themselves. We want our boys to be comfortable with who they are without the pressures of becoming what others may want them to be. And to always strive for greatness!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful family with us, you are an inspiration.
