Visiting Angels November 2018

Visiting Angels November 2018

November 2018

5274 Scotts Valley Dr., #102 Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-430-0616 www.VisitingAngels.com/CentralCoast 229 Reindollar Ave., Suite E Marina, CA 93933 831-392-0876

A

e S

A Time for Stories The Bonds of Thanksgiving

A s a young girl, there was nothing I loved more than visiting my grandparents for Thanksgiving and listening to them tell stories. I wanted to hear about how they met, what it was like during the Great Depression, and how they saved to build their house one room at a time. These stories made me feel more connected with my grandparents, and I still see Thanksgiving as a time for stories. When families gather, they are able to enjoy spending time together and sharing stories about loved ones who can no longer attend the feast. Stories are how we remember the bonds we share with other people. For me, I am truly grateful this year for the relationships in my life. I value the connections I have with my family, my friends, my coworkers, and all our seniors and clients. It is a gift to have people we care about in our lives. My son-in-law’s grandmother comes for Thanksgiving every year, and she really looks forward to it. Last year, we were sitting together and she said, “The thing I miss most is seeing my family. I miss being around the kids. I really feel like my old self when I’m over here for Thanksgiving.” Her words got to me. How often do we just expect to see our family members when we go home after work? Nearly everyday, our family is home waiting for us, and even if your kids are grown, most people can make plans to see them without much struggle. We don’t realize how precious the time we spend with our family is until it’s gone. This is something a lot of seniors experience. Their family has grown up and moved away, and they can’t go out like they used to. It can get lonely, which makes Thanksgiving an even more special time of the year.

Our Visiting Angels do a lot to help make Thanksgiving special for our clients and their families. Whether our client has family coming to visit, or they are going to visit their family, our caregivers can help them bathe, get dressed, and tidy the house. This gives the senior and their family less to worry about so they can more freely enjoy each other’s company. If a senior isn’t fortunate enough to spend the holiday with their families, our Angels can still work to make it a nice occasion, cooking Thanksgiving favorites and sharing a meal together. With Thanksgiving fast approaching, there’s a beautiful quote from William Arthur Ward that I have been thinking about: “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” I believe there are countless reasons to be thankful everyday — from the air in our lungs to the bonds we have with our loved ones. When we remember these simple pleasures, every day becomes a celebration.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Cindy Saunders, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

831-430-0616 | 1

Personalized Homecare ... When You Need It ... From People You Trust!

An Attitude of Gratitude Should Last Beyond Thanksgiving

Taking the time to acknowledge who and what you’re grateful for is a Thanksgiving tradition far more important than turkey or football. It’s the cornerstone of the holiday and the reason we feast together in the first place. But when you really think about it, should expressing our gratitude and appreciation for others be limited to one day every year? Of course not! Why Gratitude Matters As we get older, it’s easy to succumb to negativity and pessimism — “Kids these days,” “The world isn’t what it used to be,” etc. The crabby grandparent and angry old neighbor are archetypal depictions of later life. But these fictions don’t have to be your reality. Recognizing and acknowledging gratitude will help you take stock of the positive aspects of your life and dwell less on unhappy thoughts. Being grateful has also been linked to significant health benefits. According to gratitude expert and author Dr. Robert A. Emmons, “Preliminary findings suggest that those who regularly practice grateful thinking do reap emotional, physical, and interpersonal benefits. Adults who keep gratitude journals on a regular basis exercise more regularly, report fewer illness symptoms, feel better about their lives as a whole, and are more optimistic about the future.” ‘Tis the season to flock to the stores to find the hottest deals on the coolest products just in time for the holidays. For older adults, however, braving a crowded parking lot and long lines can be a painful, difficult ordeal. Luckily, you don’t have to participate in this “rate” race in order to give your grandchildren presents they’ll cherish for years to come. Follow these steps to generate ideas for affordable, unforgettable gifts. Step 1: Make a Budget Regardless of how much you’ve saved for retirement, you need to consider the finances. The best way to establish a budget is to set aside a holiday fund including the total amount of money you’re comfortable spending. Divide that total by the number of grandchildren you have, and you’ll now know approximately how much you can spend on each gift. Remember, too, that many presents don’t have to come with a price tag. Step 2: Talk to the Parents Parents are the best resource for ideas of what is and isn’t an appropriate gift. They can tell you what each child is interested in, as well as list any gifts to avoid. Parents’ insights

How to Practice Gratitude In the above quotation from Dr. Emmons, he mentions the practice of keeping a gratitude

journal. This activity is a great way to start seeing the world with a more positive, appreciative eye. As often as you

can, take a few minutes to write down the acts, people, and moments that you’re grateful for. Some will be big, others small — but all will have an impact on your mood and bring a smile to your face. Before you know it, you’ll have an entire book full of good memories and warm feelings. While keeping a journal is great, there are other ways to go about cultivating and expressing gratitude. The easiest one is simply to say “Thanks” whenever you can. It may seem insignificant, but you’d be surprised what a difference it makes. When you approach the world with the perspective that every day is Thanksgiving, it’s only natural to be grateful. We all have moments when we want to curse the world, especially as we get older, and those experiences are perfectly normal. Just as frequently, though, we have moments that are worth celebrating, often with people who are worth appreciating. Which will you think about more? will prove invaluable when it comes time to make a decision, especially because different parents have varying ideas of what’s acceptable. Step 3: Give an Experience Consider giving an experience-based gift rather than a toy or material object. Maybe you want to give all of the children in one family tickets for a getaway. Perhaps you want to accompany them to a museum or sporting event. No matter the experience that fits your family best, these gifts can create lasting memories for everyone. Step 4: Add a Thoughtful Touch After you’ve purchased all of your gifts, take the time to add something personal to each of them. A handwritten letter, old photos, or other mementos could end up having just as much of an impact as the gift itself. It will also let the child know that you’re thinking of them, which is especially meaningful when you can’t spend the holidays together. Step 5: Have Fun Buying gifts for your grandkids should be a joyful experience and a way to express your love. That’s what matters most of all.

Get Your Grandchildren the Perfect Gifts

Without Breaking Your Budget

2

| www.VisitingAngels.com/CentralCoast

WHERE LOVE GROWS Unique Ways to Display Your Family Tree

family photos, embroidered names, and even handprints! This is a great way for avid quilters to document their family’s story. Find some inspiration for your family quilt at MakeItCoats.com/us/make-family-memory-quilt. Family-Tree Shadow Box Show off generations of family photos in a beautiful shadow box. This project is a little more demanding, but the end product is well worth the effort. Once you’re done, you’ll have a priceless family heirloom that will be treasured for years. Learn what you need to create a one-of-a-kind family tree at CraftySisters-nc.blogspot. com/2010/06/my-family-tree-shadow-box.html. These are just a few ways to show off your family history. Feel free to come up with an original project! The best part of creating a family tree is being able to make something that’s as unique as your family.

Family trees are a beautiful way to remember our origins and gain a deeper sense of self. Many people spend a lot of time researching their genealogy to follow their family history back for generations. But what do you do with your family history once you’ve uncovered it? Here are a few creative ways you can display your family tree. Photo Wreath Who said wreaths are only for Christmastime? Seasonal wreaths have become very popular, and this wreath, featuring images of your family, will be an eye-catching piece you can hang on the wall all year long. Get step-by-step instructions for this simple project by visiting MyPrintly.com/ project/diy-family-tree-photo-wreath-tutorial. Memory Quilt The love of family can feel like a warm blanket, so why not make a literal blanket out of the record of your family’s love? There are a ton of great quilting patterns designed to feature

SUDOKU

Parsnip and Turnip Purée

Thanksgiving is a pretty paleo-friendly holiday, but mashed potatoes can be hard to resist. This year, swap out the starchy tubers for parsnips and turnips.

Ingredients • 1 pound parsnips, peeled and cubed • 1/2 pound turnips, peeled and cubed • 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 3 tablespoons butter or ghee • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme • Pinch of fresh ground pepper

Directions 1. In a large stock pot filled with 2 quarts water, bring parsnips and turnips to a boil. Cook partially covered for 15 minutes, until fork-tender. 2. Drain vegetables and transfer to a large bowl or food processor.

3. Add broth, butter, salt, thyme, and pepper. If using a food processor, purée until smooth. If using a bowl, mash until smooth and fully combined. Serve.

Inspired by Against All Grain

831-430-0616 | 3

Personalized Homecare ... When You Need It ... From People You Trust!

5274 Scotts Valley Dr., #102 Scotts Valley, CA 95066 24/7 831-430-0616

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

Scotts Valley Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday

www.VisitingAngels.com/CentralCoast Home Care Organization #444700002

Inside

1

What Are You Thankful For?

2

How to Give Thanks Year-Round

A Gift-Buying Guide for Grandparents

3

Amazing Family-Tree Projects

Parsnip and Turnip Purée

4

Local Events

Start the Holidays Right Great Events to Celebrate the Season

GOAT HILL FAIR WHERE: Santa Cruz Co. Fairgrounds, Watsonville WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 10 and Sunday, Nov. 11 ADMISSION: $10 WEBSITE: GoatHillFair.com Check out a craft fair like no other. Over 100 vendors will gather together to sell antiques, vintage treasures, and creative upcycled goods. You can even snack on some artisan treats as you stroll

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s trading his sleigh for a surfboard! Why trek through the crowded mall when the kids can meet Santa on a beautiful beach instead? Bring your camera and your wish list to this one-of-a-kind event where old Kris Kringle will meet with every little boy and girl to hear what they want for Christmas. Be sure to arrive on time in order to see Santa surf onto the beach. HOLIDAYS ON THE RANCH WHERE: Wilder Ranch State Park, Santa Cruz WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 8; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ADMISSION: $10 parking fee WEBSITE: bit.ly/HolidaysOnTheRanch Travel back to the early 20th century as the historic Wilder Ranch State Park gets decked out for the holidays. The sound of strolling carolers will help get you in the holiday spirit as you play games, participate in hands-on activities, enjoy hot spiced cider, and experience a Christmas season long gone. Come as you are or wear turn-of-the-century costumes and prepare for an amazing day of fun.

through the booths. If you’re looking for a unique gift this holiday season, start at the Goat Hill Fair. SURFING SANTA WHERE: Capitola Main Beach WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 24; 12–3 p.m. ADMISSION: Free WEBSITE: CapitolaVillage. com/event/surfing-santa

4

| www.VisitingAngels.com/CentralCoast