February Connections
February 9th, 2010
Here is the reprint from our February email newsletter, if you are interested in receiving articles like these, plus calendar items and announcements, sign up here: Community Connections
Wishing you all a belated Happy New Year! Our February issue likely finds you back to work, trying to stay warm, and hunting for cabin fever remedies. And just when you thought you’d made it through the holidays, here comes another one (see below). But the days are getting longer and signs of spring are on the horizon, so keep the faith, the sun is out, the crocuses are coming and even Valentine’s Day is doable!
“Love doesn’t make the world go round, love is what makes the ride worthwhile.”
–Elizabeth Browning
The “L” Word
Well here comes another Valentine’s day. Good news if you own a card company or have a sweetheart. Is it bad news if you don’t? Not necessarily…
The History of Valentines Day is a little gray with mention of Roman soldiers, saints and such- but no one can debate the be-all end-all of the day: LOVE. Yes, it’s true that romantic love has traditionally stolen the spotlight for centuries but these are modern times- times that recognize 152 types of intelligence and get this- somewhere between 3 and 11 types of love (depending on your source; the Greeks, the Bible or Psychology Today). We even have 50 ways in which to leave one.
So, here’s the good news- in addition to our romantic relationships we have many other outlets and inlets for love- BIG love. How about our friendships, children, family and pets? Yes, those relationships too are worthy of celebration on the 14th. So if romance is in your cards carry on- if for whatever reason it isn’t, read on!
5 ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day 2010…
1. Celebrate your friendships: see a movie, have a dinner party, go to lunch
2. Celebrate with the children in your life: make Valentines, bake cookies, get an ice cream together, see a movie
3. Send cards(or e-cards for a greener day) to people you know who may otherwise not be getting one
4. Do something nice for someone in memory of someone you love
5. Bring in some flowers or treats to a nursing home or shelter
Whatever you do, try to enjoy the day. Recall the love in your life that you have given and recieved. Maybe it wasn’t perfect. Maybe it didn’t last as long as you would have liked. Maybe it has at times caused more angst than assurance. Still, it’s good stuff.
This Month:
Cooking For You:
Cereal for Supper? If you are new to cooking on your own, or never mastered the basics in the kitchen, join our resident chef Ed Gurka for this hands on workshop that will have you cooking and eating deliciously and nutritiously! This is a hands on cooking class, you will be on your feet in the kitchen, learning how to use utensils and read a recipe. Space is limited, please call to sign up.
Wednesday 2/24, 5:00-7:00
Call to register: 846-0350
Next Month
Have you lost a loved one this year? Are you wondering if your grief is too strong or lasting too long? Join us for our 6 week support and education program, Building Bridges (with Hospice at VNS of Newport and Bristol Counties, to dispel the myths and shed some light on the real road to healing and peace after loss.
Wednesday, March 3rd 4:30-6:00pm
Call Alison to register
682-2100 x485
Coming Up…
Side-By-Side: Loss of a Spouse/Partner:
Are you grieving the loss of your spouse or partner? Join us for this 6-week program to share stories and support while exploring ideas for staying healthy through this challenging time.
Thursday, April 1st
4:30-6:00pm
Call to register: 846-0350