by GIFT Coach | Aug 10, 2016 | Adoption-attunement, Adoptive Parenting Skills/Tool, Blogs by Gayle Swift, Family dynamics, General Discussion, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, RAD Reactive Attachment Syndrom
Family building via adoption requires effort, commitment, education, intentionality and a willingness to take a risk–by both parent and child. Each must muster the courage to open emotionally and be vulnerable to the other. When we dare to love, we also...
by GIFT Coach | May 4, 2016 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, General Discussion
I am fortunate to live where gardenias flourish. Year after year, blossoms erupt in fragrant profusion. Snowy white blooms contrast with brilliant spring green foliage. Today I plucked two flowers and placed each in a tiny bud vase. My kitchen quickly filled with...
by GIFT Coach | Feb 11, 2016 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, General Discussion
Busy-ness and the stress that accompanies it overwhelms most families. We scramble to find enough time to cram in the basics, get everybody up and out the door on time to face the day at school and work. Meals unfold in a hubbub of activity. You need two dozen cookies...
by GIFT Coach | Jan 7, 2016 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Faith and Values, General Discussion, Strengthening Family Relationships
As we zip into this new year, how can we keep the lessons learned while leaving behind the weight of anger and regret? By choosing forgiveness–not amnesia– we can avoid the potholes inherent in “expectation” and instead choose acceptance. This...
by GIFT Coach | Nov 18, 2015 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, General Discussion
Adoptive parents had a soul-deep desire for their adopted children. It is important that we help our children understand that we benefited as much as they did when we became a family. The previous statement is point number thirteen from GIFT’s Adoption...