Have you ever noticed how easy it is to romanticize the process of dating? First you meet someone and sparks fly, fireworks blaze the sky, and unexplainable chemistry draws you together. Butterflies fill your stomach and warm fuzzies your heart—and before you know it, you’re in love.

Okay, let’s get past that right now, shall we?

Initial chemistry may be what draws you together, but you better add some substance quick. The introduction suggested that because coupleness does not equal familyness, couples should avoid getting so enthralled with a dating partner that they fail to keep in mind the complexity of becoming a family. I encourage you to keep this essential concept in the forefront of your mind at all times, even while taking initial steps to meet someone. To that end, the next few chapters will help you explore your emotional, psychological, spiritual, and relational readiness for dating and at the same time will keep an eye on the kids and the impact dating has on them. Let’s begin by getting a sense of the purpose and overall process of dating for both you and the kids.