by GIFT Coach | Nov 30, 2016 | Adoption Attuned Parenting, Blogs by Gayle Swift, General Discussion
Conventional wisdom says hindsight is twenty/twenty. With Thanksgiving now in our rear view mirrors, what lessons can we bring forth throughout the holiday season? Intentional Parents can choose to sustain a gratitude perspective amidst the onslaught of holiday noise...
by GIFT Coach | Jul 20, 2016 | Adoption-attunement, Blogs by Gayle Swift, Faith and Values, General Discussion
As coaches committed to Intentional Parenting, we strive to support parents’ efforts to successfully fulfill their Purpose for becoming a family and to identify the Values that define them. Adoption is a complicated process which usually involves much...
by GIFT Coach | Jul 6, 2016 | Blogs by Gayle Swift, Faith and Values, General Discussion, Post Adoption Challenges & Behaviors, Strengthening Family Relationships
Authentic listening is one of the most essential communication skills and one of the hardest to master. Often, we listen with an ear to refute or rebut what the speaker says. This is especially common when we listen to our kids. We seek ways to convince them of the...
by Gayle Swift | Jun 15, 2016 | Difficult Discussions, General Discussion, Strengthening Family Relationships
We all strive to get along well. But, conflict, breaches and breakdown inevitably touch every relationship. This is especially true within families, the home of our most intimate relationships. Here we are most deeply invested, most passionately committed, most...
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...
