Get to know me and allow me to share some perspectives on current adoption or foster care issues and new projects I’m working on. 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 September 23 I recently went on a solo trip. I started the tradition of going somewhere apart from family a number of years ago. Family trips are wonderful times to bond and make memories, but for the family caretaker, they can also be stressful times of focusing on others. We spend time making sure everyone is happy, rested, and fed. Solo trips or those with friends can be times when we can focus on our own inner worlds. We can be introspective and journal and rest if we choose. On this trip, I pushed myself to try hikes and adventures that tested my limits and kept me busy. I consciously chose to keep family stresses at home. I focused on being present and soaking in the beauty around me. There are many ways to process family life, especially when foster care or adoption is involved. Introspection and calm will help some days, whereas challenging ourselves and trying new ways of viewing the world will help at other times. Either way, tuning in to our inner selves and lives is a good and healthy practice we shouldn’t be scared of.