by GIFT Coach | Dec 14, 2016 | Blogs by Sally Ankerfelt, Faith and Values, Faith communities, Foster Care Adoption, General Discussion
The influence of Christmas surrounds us whether it is part of one’s faith tradition and beliefs or not. Most people probably “know” the Nativity story— even non-Christians. This blog written by GIFT coach and Lutheran minister, Sally Ankerfelt, continues our...
by GIFT Coach | Jan 28, 2015 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Blogs by Gayle Swift, Foster Care Adoption, General Discussion, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Strengthening Family Relationships
Adoptive parenting brings complexities that can challenge and defeat the best of us. For families whose children had difficult starts and who must cope with the fallout of trauma, the course is even more arduous. Both parent and child benefit from thoughtful and...
by GIFT Coach | Oct 14, 2014 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Blogs by Gayle Swift, Faith and Values, Foster Care Adoption, General Discussion, Infant Adoption, International Adoption, Open Adoption, Strengthening Family Relationships
Mention November and most folks think of Thanksgiving. For us here at GIFT—Growing Intentional Families Together—November brings thoughts of National Adoption Month and our gratitude for the blessing of family. Here are some ways to celebrate adoption. National...
by GIFT Coach | Sep 16, 2014 | Blogs by Guests, Difficult Discussions, Foster Care Adoption, General Discussion, Infant Adoption, International Adoption, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Strengthening Family Relationships
In this week’s blog, we continue last week’s exploration of Difficult Conversations in the context of adoption. GIFT—Growing Intentional Families Together—is pleased to include another important voice from the wider adoption community. Beth O’Malley M.Ed. She is...
by GIFT Coach | Jan 29, 2014 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Faith and Values, Foster Care Adoption, Foster Parenting, General Discussion, Infant Adoption, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Strengthening Family Relationships, The Adoption Process, The Adoption Triad
Welcome to another installment of The Adoption Blog Carnival, a smorgasbord of adoption conversations from several bloggers. Check them all out. Each one has a useful tidbit that you’ll be glad to know. We are please to participate in this group effort to...
by GIFT Coach | Dec 31, 2013 | Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Blogs by Gayle Swift, Faith and Values, Foster Care Adoption, Foster Parenting, General Discussion, Infant Adoption, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Strengthening Family Relationships, The Adoption Process
As 2013 draws to a close, it is natural to reflect on the year and to consider the lessons learned, the challenges met, and those that still remain. As you set your intentions for 2014, frame goals for body, mind, and spirit. Make connection a high priority. Carve...