It’s that time of year when our thoughts turn to succulent turkey, cranberry dressing, and fluffy yeast rolls. When we need stretchy pants because we fully intend to eat two slices of pie and seconds -or thirds- of three kinds of potatoes. But in the midst of all the feasting, it’s easy to forget what this day is truly about—gratitude.
The holiday season brings family and friends together, making it the perfect time to reconnect—even with those hard-to-reach teenagers. Anyone who’s spent time with teens knows that keeping their attention can be a challenge. Between the constant pull of screens, plans with friends, and their unusual sleep schedule, it’s easy for them to drift away. It’s normal for teenagers to pull away a bit from family as they start to explore their own identities and independence. Developmentally, they’re focused on figuring out who they are and may feel more connected to their peers.
At the risk of sounding like a slowing down old geezer, I will admit that one of my favorite things to do this time of year is sit on the front porch with my wife and watch the sparrows, finches, doves, cowbirds, and various other warblers visit our feeders and poke around in the yard. It is an opportunity to leave the phones in the house and chat while listening to avian choirs. Spring and early Summer are just fantastic with the warmer/hot days and cool nights. This year has been really unusual with warmer afternoons followed by lightning shows, heavy rains and then cool air.
There’s no doubt that Christmas cheer can feel more like seasonal stress when you’re hustlin’ and bustlin’ throughout December. However before you settle on plans for you and family, consider these 4 easy tips below.
2022 was a year for the books. On one hand you may wonder, “where did the time go?” but on the other hand we can look back and see how we grew as individuals and as an organization. Before we crunch the numbers and quantify our efforts, let’s highlight where it all started – at home. For us, our home-base is the network of families, donors, and staff members who make the mission possible. Our vision to help heal at-risk children and families begins and ends with our team – so thank you!
In the world of parties, dances, balls and soirées, there is an old phrase quoted in our title. It is important for those attending events to not forget the one they arrived with. It is not a good look and one can cannot anticipate a good outcome if they wander from their partner and ignore their presence. The ride home will not be pleasant and the relationship will likely suffer damage. Cowboys say it like this: “Don’t forget the one who brung ya.”
Autumn, fall, spooky season, Q4 – there are many names for this special time of the year. While the holidays can be a joyous and celebratory time, we know it can be a difficult season for children in foster care who are away from loved ones. We may never be able to make up for who or what is missed presently in that child’s life, but we can do activities to hopefully make them feel loved, valued, and connected wherever they are. If you’re looking for a few ideas to make these last few months of the year special for your foster family read on!
Plan to involve your kids in your holiday meal preparation. It is a great opportunity to make memories, foster relationship with your children by sharing your kitchen experiences and equip your kids with kitchen skills all at the same time.
From selecting recipes and shopping to for ingredients to greasing pans and stirring it all together, parents who cook with their kids create magical moments that will be cherished for years.
This month, Michelle Rivera, CK Lead Case Management Supervisor, shares her family’s recipe for Sweet Potato Casserole. Please enjoy!
Christmas is just around the corner and as we prepare for this time, it is important to prepare our foster children as well. Letting them know what to expect can help provide the stability that they need.
Summer has arrived and it is time for adventure! But before you start with the fun and games, keep in mind these important summer safety tips.