3 Simple, Doable Resolutions for Caregivers

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3 Simple, Doable Resolutions for CaregiversThinking of you, dear friends, today. Wondering how it is in your world. Have you taken time to reflect on the season or are you weary, worn, and ready for a break!

Christmas, with all its activity, is still a time of wonder.

I pray that in the hustle and bustle of the season, you have not lost sight of the wonder of the Christ-child, born in a lowly manger so long ago. How he freely came, dwelt among us, gave his life for us, and paid the ultimate price that we might be free.

I pray today that you can and will enjoy that freedom regardless of the circumstances that surround you. If you are in a warm home reading this on your computer, you are far richer that many.

Even if you are stretched to the limit caring for others, you can count your riches: a chair to sit in; food to eat; a warm blanket at night.

And, should you feel you have nothing to give, you are giving everyday. Your life given to help others; your smile when nothing else will do; a gentle hug to one who needs to feel loved. You have much to give.

You, dear friend, are not just another name on a list. For me, you are a very special person; chosen to care for others.

You are an Answer to Prayer! Wow!

My heartfelt prayers today are for you, your family and those in your care. I ask for you peace, rest, and contentment.

I’m looking forward to a new year of sharing with you. Please do let me know what your needs are; how I can help you.

God bless you and keep you; and Merry Christmas!

Hugs,

I am so looking forward to hearing from you personally in the new year. I have a few surprises up my sleeve; you won’t want to miss out!

Healthy Snack Options for the Holidays

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Healthy Snack Options for the Holidays‘Tis the season for holiday treats. Caring for family and others can get complicated as you work to provide healthy alternatives when the focus seems to be on elaborate, calorie-laden foods.

Here are some ideas for trimming calories and sugar while still providing ready-to-eat snacks. With careful shopping and a little planning ahead, you can be the caregiver in the know!

1. If your situation calls for the familiar fudge and cookie scene, consider the size of servings. Make your fudge thinner and cut smaller cubes. Making other candies and cookies, do the same. This really will make a huge difference for those who just grab a cookie or two as they pass the dish!
2. Consider pop corn as an alternative. Use air-popped corn and drizzle with almond bark while still hot. You can add sliced almonds, crushed peppermint pieces, or chopped dried fruit pieces for variety. Experiment with herbs or cheeses like Parmesan sprinkled on warm popcorn.
3. Keep veggies handy in the refrigerator. Celery sticks with cream cheese or peanut butter make a great snack. Use a low calorie dip or yogurt for your carrot sticks, broccoli, and cauliflower.
4. Don’t forget to use dairy products. Cheese cubes or cheese sticks are a good snack providing calcium and protein. Boiled eggs are another good item to have on hand as a quick snack without adding unwanted calories.
5. Chips are a popular snack but can provide too much sodium and fats. Look for some fabulous newer products such as humus chips (try them before you snub your nose!) or reduced sodium varieties. Note: reduced fat products often have increased sodium so read the labels before buying. Consider fresh salsa as a nutritious dip.

Here are a couple of bonus tips I have found most helpful for our family. First, use foods that take longer to eat; such as an orange that has to be peeled first or nuts that have to be cracked.
The second tip goes with number one above: smaller servings. Think smaller servings in all your snacks like individual pudding or fruit cups or mini tarts with fruit.
Another simple way to cut calories is to use almond bark and add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds and chopped dried fruit. Spread thin and break into small pieces when cool. Soothes the sweet tooth with fewer calories with the addition of nutritious fruit and nuts.

Have a great holiday as you care for others; let me hear your ideas.

Hugs,

Tips for Visiting Bereaved during Holidays

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Tips for Visiting Bereaved during Holidays Holidays are a time for food, fun, and families. Sudden death of friend or relative during holidays can cause added stress and confusion as to how to react; what to do.

I know, dear reader, you are a caregiver, either as a mother, family member, or professional. You hurt when others hurt. You are wired to help; you want to be there for those you love. You strive to keep normal holiday activity going at home as well.

Here are a few tips I trust you’ll find helpful as you face difficult situations through this season. Let me hear from you with pointers you may have.

1. Do not feel you have to bring a dish of food each time you visit. If they are involved in an active church or have a large family nearby, there is probably an abundance of prepared foods already. If you want to bring something, consider the list at the end of this article for some helpful ideas. I speak  from experience, these items are appreciated and often much needed. Not only are you bringing useful gifts, you are helping in ways you cannot imagine.
2. Ask about their needs beyond tangible items. Is there something you can do to help prepare for holiday activities? Decorating? Shopping? Addressing cards? Run errands? Clean house or yard?
3. Be sensitive to their time needs when calling or sending e-mails. Keep conversations relatively short and to the point. Spend more time listening than talking and hang up soon. Do not send unnecessary e-mails and messages that give them more to deal with.
4. Allow them to discuss their loss if they want. Some will need to talk about their loss more than others. When ready, they may need to spend extra time reminiscing, crying, and sharing. Be a good listener but learn when to give a hug and move on. Trust the Lord to give you wisdom.

Here are very practical items you can bring instead of food dishes.
1. Paper products such as paper towels, toilet paper and napkins. A thoughtful gift is small packages of Kleenex that can be put in each room or carried in pockets. I recall times when I would have given a mint for a simple tissue to dry my tears and blow my nose!
2. Paper bowls and plates and silverware are always welcome. Also, if there is to be lots of food brought in, think about bringing a few storage bowls with lids of various sizes for leftovers or to send food home with someone.
3. Consider coffee, creamer, sugar, hot chocolate and other drink mixes. Perhaps a few packages of cookies nice for them to have on hand as well. Be sure to provide paper cups for both hot and cold drinks.
4. Whether the family is larger or small, think about a few items to have on hand when they are not up to cooking. Sandwich things like peanut butter and jelly or packaged tuna or cheese and crackers are good. A few apples, oranges and grapes are welcome choices. Consider a jar of peanuts or mixed nuts.

The list is endless as you consider the needs of a household. As always, the best gift you can give is yourself; a sincere hug and prayer goes a long way in the healing process. Just knowing you are there for someone lifts their spirits and gives strength to continue on.

Praying for each of you a blessed and safe holiday season as you care for others along your path.

Hugs,

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