My DAR chapter hosted a Valentine’s Day party for residents at SafeHome last weekend. We brought lunch fit for a winter day–soup and chili–and provided entertainment for about a dozen children currently living at the safehouse.
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The kids played marshmallow pong, built spaghetti/marshmallow creations, made Valentine’s cards and played with the bubbles from a science class humidifier. For the safety of the residents, we were not permitted to take their pictures, so you will see only their busy hands and the supplies they used.
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I’ve never been to a safehouse and wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew security would be a priority; only our driver was given the address. I was so impressed by the new facility, it’s size, cleanliness, the safe perimeter outside, and the state of the art security both outside and inside from room to room. In spite of what may be a desperate situation for some of the residents, it’s affirming to be with children having fun on a Saturday afternoon.
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I have a favorite sugar cookie recipe to share with you that would make a great treat on Valentine’s Day. I received these as a hostess gift one Christmas, but they hit the spot whenever you decide to bake them.
“Best Sugar Cookies”
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Mix ingredients and refrigerate at least two hours. Roll dough into balls and flatten with a glass dipped in sugar (red at Valentine’s, green and red at Christmas, pink at Easter– go with the holiday flow :). Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Cool on wire rack.
If you are searching for a last minute Valentine’s Day gift, especially if that someone likes to read, well, you know me. . . Lila is eager to share her story. Jim and Bobbi Jean Bell whose podcast “Rendezvous with a Writer” was the day after Christmas have invited me back to talk more about Lila’s Journey in April. (Happy face inserted here.) I’ll let you know more as the date approaches. https://www.latalkradio.com/sites/default/files/Videos/Rendezvous-122624.mp4.
Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone! Bake some cookies. Or if that’s not your thing, there’s probably some chocolate out there with your name on it. Find it, eat it, and share a happy moment with a friend. Until next time . . .
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