WOMEN OF THE ISLANDS - ELIZABETH JENNINGS-SCHUSTER
ELIZABETH JENNINGS-SCHUSTER
FULL TIME MOTHER
Samoan / Tokelauan
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My name is Elizabeth Jennings-Schuster. I'm from Anaheim, California. I am Samoan & Tokelau. I grew up in Orange County, CA and I am a full time mom of 13 but I also work from home in the mortgage Industry to help make ends meet.
You're the Mum & Step Mum of 13 children - tell us about your blended family
In my previous marriage, I had 7 children of my own. I had 3 boys & 4 girls ranging in age from 10-22 years old - Aramie, Ahrize, Aaron, Ahzira, Aelarii, Aroen & Sev'n.
My husband had 5 in his previous marriage. He has 2 girls & 3 boys ranging in age from 7-17. Sariah, Lawrence, Canaan, Gavin & Ari.
My husband and I have known each other since 1993. Life happened and we went our separate ways & now we've reconnected & have a child together. Our son Urban is 4 years old. Which brings our total to 13 children.
What do you feel has been one of the biggest things you've learned as a mother throughout your journey?
As a mother I've learned that its not an easy task raising 1 child let alone 13. Ive also learned that it is extremely important to raise them right. I try to instill morales & values that I grew up on. To be respectful, caring & God fearing.
What has been your biggest challenge & also your most rewarding moment as a mother/step mother in a blended family?
I'll be honest it hasn't been an easy journey. There are days when it gest overwhelming & I feel like throwing in the towel LOL
The thing that keeps me pushing & not giving up are my children & my faith in God.
Gods word tells us he wouldn't give us more than we can handle & that scripture is my "go to" every time I'm feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
I feel like I have to be strong for my kids.
SCHEDULE!!!!! LOL
My Schedule book is bursting at the seams with all the info that I put in it.
Our kids are in rugby, basketball, volleyball, acting classes, auditions, hip hop dancing, break dancing, just to name a few. Trying to balance this & working is a challenge.
The most rewarding moment as a mother in a blended family is seeing them succeed. When they get good grades, accomplish their goals, & do their chores RIght! LOL
What advice would you give to other Polys who may be heading into a blended family situation?
Every situation is different. In my situation, adjusting & understanding plays a big role. We each come with baggage & our own circumstances.
Ive learned that through love & faith anything is possible.
We have our trials and tribulations, we are by no means a perfect family but the love we have for each other is far greater than our differences.
What do you love about being a Pacific Islander today?
What I love about being a pacific islander is my culture. My mom was raised the fa'asamoa way & im so grateful to have been raised the same way. I love the beauty in my culture & hope to give back someday.
What's inspiring you about the future?
Im not sure what inspires me about the future but what I hope for is our children to live happy lives. I pray they make good choices and if I helped in any way all glory goes to God
