Get to know me and allow me to share some perspectives on current adoption or foster care issues. In addition, the newsletter will immerse you in the beauty of nature and offer encouragement to get through the month ahead. The newsletter comes out bi-monthly, so it won’t clog up your inbox.

By Charlyn Spiering on July 23 My kids’ most-requested vacation destination happens to be a tiny town in the Midwest where the tourist attraction for them is their aunts, uncles, and cousins. This isn’t always a trip that is emotionally easy for all of us. It is wonderful that all of the kids feel connected to family and proud of their heritage, even my adopted kids. But as much as we want them to, things don’t always go smoothly with any family. There can be times when worldviews clash, when strong personalities make disruptive choices, or when large groups have difficulty making decisions. For adoptees, family times can also be a reminder of the members that are not present.  In all the excitement, I find that quiet times for self-care stolen away from the fun can make for valuable memories as well.