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beautiful handmade jewelry, unique paintings or other art, or one-of-a-kind home decor items. Many of these markets have live music and tasty food options, making for a memorable outing. Sip on a warm cup of cocoa while browsing for gifts that truly stand out. BLACK FRIDAY YOUR WAY! With the holiday season right around the corner, the excitement (and stress) of Black Friday shopping is on the horizon. While many gear up for the retail chaos, I’ve stumbled upon some alternatives that help you sidestep the madness and add a sprinkle of joy and creativity to your celebrations.
THE GIFT OF YOUR TIME As we embrace the spirit of giving, consider volunteering your time this holiday season.
ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS Instead of braving the crowds at the mall, why not take advantage of the beautiful Orange County outdoors on Black Friday? Hit the trails at a local park or take a leisurely stroll along the beach. Nature is the perfect escape for reflection and relaxation, allowing you to recharge before the holiday rush. While you’re out enjoying the fresh air, consider supporting local artisans by visiting farmers markets or boutiques. You might discover unique handcrafted items — think candles, local jams, or homemade soaps — that make thoughtful gifts while supporting your community. GET CRAFTY Ever thought about creating your own gifts? Imagine a cozy afternoon filled with laughter, glue, and perhaps even a touch of glitter (because who doesn’t love a little sparkle?). Invite friends or family over for a DIY gift-making party. You could whip up personalized photo frames, knit scarves, bake cookies, or even concoct homemade bath bombs. Not only is this budget-friendly, but it also adds a personal touch that store-bought items often lack. Plus, crafting together is a great way to celebrate the holidays with friends. Let’s be honest — who wouldn’t appreciate a gift made with love? GO LOCAL Another fantastic way to shop is by checking out local craft fairs or artisan markets with talented creators showcasing their products. You might find
Many local charities and food banks are in need of extra hands during this busy time. Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding, and you might find a new appreciation for what you have. After a day of giving back, gather with friends for a potluck dinner to share stories about your experiences. It’s a wonderful way to bond, and everyone leaves with full hearts and bellies. STAY PUT, CHILL OUT If shopping isn’t your thing at all, why not treat yourself to a mini- vacation? Rent a beach house or a
cozy cabin. Explore the local art scene or enjoy a day at a nearby amusement park. A staycation allows you to unwind and rediscover local attractions you might have overlooked, creating holiday memories without the stress of traditional shopping.
So, as we approach Black Friday, let’s step back from consumerism and embrace the spirit of the season in a more meaningful way. These alternatives can bring joy and connection that shopping simply can’t match. It’s wonderful to celebrate the season by prioritizing experiences over material goods. After all, isn’t that what it’s truly about? Happy holidays! —John Bledsoe
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INJURY-FREE RUNNING SIMPLIFY THE SEASON
SINGLE PARENT HOLIDAY TIPS
cultural or family traditions that celebrate your unique background. This can help foster a sense of belonging and excitement for your children, making the holidays feel special in a new way. PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE During this busy time, it’s crucial to prioritize self- care. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Schedule some time to recharge, whether that’s enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, taking a walk, or indulging in a favorite book. Communicate with your friends and family about your needs; they may be more than willing to help lighten your load during the holidays. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential!
often mean more than store-bought presents. Encourage your kids to participate in the planning process to teach them valuable lessons about budgeting and generosity. CONNECT WITH OTHERS Don’t shy away from seeking support. Connect with other single parents in your community or online for shared experiences and encouragement. Many local organizations host holiday events specifically for single-parent families, which can be a great way to bond with others facing similar challenges. Sharing laughter, stories, and even a few tears can create a camaraderie that makes the season brighter. EMBRACE THE JOURNEY As you embark on this holiday season as a single parent, remember that you are not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help. Focus on creating joyful memories with your children and embrace the changes that come with this new chapter.
The holiday season can be a magical time filled with joy and celebration, but for single parents navigating these festivities alone, it can also bring stress or loneliness. As you gear up to celebrate your first holiday season as a single parent, here are some tips to help you embrace the joy while managing the challenges. EMBRACE NEW TRADITIONS This season is the perfect opportunity to create new traditions with your children. Whether it’s baking cookies together, decorating the house, or having a themed movie night, find activities that everyone enjoys. Consider incorporating
BUDGET WISELY Holidays can be financially challenging,
especially for single parents. Set a budget to avoid overspending, and think creatively about gift-giving. Experiences or hand-crafted gifts, such as a family outing or homemade treat, can
‘Water’ You Waiting For? Spice Up Your Hydration Game With These Additives
Hydration is essential for your health, but are you feeling a little parched in the flavor department? It’s time to give your water a splash of taste with additives that fortify your health. From zesty citrus to invigorating herbs, these fun and flavorful enhancers will have you reaching for your water bottle in excitement. So, if you’re thirsty for change, get ready to add a little pizzazz to your glass and stir up your wellness game with these refreshing twists! LEMON Restaurants serve water with a wedge of fresh lemon for a reason. Citrus fruits are among the most popular water additives thanks to their refreshing flavor and nutrients. Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. Adding lemon slices or juice to your water can help increase your fluid intake and reduce the risk of specific health issues related to vitamin C deficiencies. MAGNESIUM Magnesium is a powerhouse mineral that helps regulate blood sugar, maintain healthy blood pressure, regulate nerve and muscle function, and support a wide variety of other bodily processes. You can add magnesium supplements, including flavored powders, to your water to reap the powerful benefits of this nutrient. Magnesium can also boost your mood, help you sleep better, and improve your exercise performance.
GINGER Ginger’s spicy, warm flavor is great in teas and can transform your daily water intake. This root contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce swelling. It can also reduce pain, aid in digestion, decrease nausea, and help you heal from colds more quickly. People have used ginger for medicinal properties for thousands of years, and it’s a tasty way to drink more water. So, why settle for plain water when you can turn it into a wellness elixir? Incorporating these flavorful and health-boosting additives will make staying hydrated more enjoyable and support your overall well-being. Drink up!
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W ord S earch
Your Custody Game Plan
Apple
Basketball
Black Friday
Fireplace
Gratitude
Leaves
TIPS FOR UNMARRIED PARENTS
Nap
Parade
Navigating the world of child custody can be daunting, especially for unmarried parents in Orange County. With emotions running high and stakes even higher, understanding how custody cases work is crucial in ensuring you’re well-equipped to face the challenges ahead. THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK In Orange County, the family court prioritizes the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. Unlike married parents, unmarried parents often face additional scrutiny regarding their relationship and living situation. California law does not automatically grant custody or visitation rights to either parent based solely on marital status. Instead, both parents are treated equally in terms of their rights and responsibilities. This means an unmarried parent can seek custody or visitation rights, but they may need to establish paternity first. ESTABLISHING PATERNITY For unmarried parents, establishing paternity is a pivotal step in custody cases. Without a legal acknowledgment of paternity, the father may have limited rights regarding custody and visitation. This process can be completed voluntarily through a Declaration of Paternity or through a court order. Once paternity is established, both parents can advocate for their rights and responsibilities concerning the child’s welfare, which includes custody and child support. FACTORS INFLUENCING CUSTODY DECISIONS When it comes to custody arrangements, the court considers various factors to determine what is in the child’s best interests. These include the child’s age, health, and emotional ties to each parent. Additionally, the court evaluates each parent’s ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment. It’s essential for unmarried parents to demonstrate their commitment to their child’s well-being through evidence of involvement in their lives, including attending school events and health care appointments and engaging in everyday activities. SEEKING PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE Navigating custody disputes can be complex. It’s wise for unmarried parents to seek legal assistance. Experienced family law attorneys can help parents understand their rights and advocate for fair custody arrangements. They can also provide valuable resources for establishing paternity and navigating the legal system. TAKE ACTION FOR YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE Understanding the unique requirements facing unmarried parents in Orange County is the first step toward securing a positive outcome for you and your child. Establishing paternity, advocating for your rights, and seeking legal support are the first steps to a positive result. Contact the experts at The Bledsoe Firm to help you through this process.
Pie
Stuffing
Turkey
Veteran
Greek Chicken and Rice
INGREDIENTS •
2 tbsp olive oil
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1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes 1 cup uncooked long- grain white rice
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1 onion, diced
•
•
2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1/2 cup feta cheese
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tsp dried thyme
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2 cups chicken broth
DIRECTIONS 1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened. 2. Add chicken, oregano, and thyme and cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 3–4 minutes. 3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. 4. Stir in the lemon juice and feta cheese, then season with salt and pepper.
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23101 Lake Center Drive • Suite 310 Lake Forest, CA 92630
Inside
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Unique Black Friday Ideas
Holiday Magic for Single Parents
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Healthy Hydration With a Twist
Custody Tips for Unmarried Parents
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Greek Chicken and Rice
How to Turn Your Backyard Into a Touchdown Zone
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Score Big With Family-Friendly Touch Football GET IN THE GAME
FOLLOW THE RULES Before you start playing, ensure both teams agree on the rules. There are obvious ones, like where the end zones are, how many points a touchdown is worth, and how many downs each team has —
Ready to tackle some family fun? Nothing beats a good old-fashioned game of touch football when the weather outside cools. It’s the perfect way to get everyone running, laughing, and scoring a few points — without needing to be a pro quarterback. So, grab some comfortable shoes, and let’s dive into the playbook for the MVP of family games!
either to get a touchdown or, space permitting, a first down. You also must determine what constitutes a player as “down” — when one or two hands touch the player with the ball, whether they need to be touched on the torso or anywhere, etc. You
MAKE BALANCED TEAMS To get started, create two teams among your family, with at least two players on each team. While letting kids choose their teams is fine in most cases, remember that the more balanced the teams are, the more fun everyone will have. If you have an uneven number of players, you can follow an old playground rule and have one of the older players be the quarterback for both teams, ensuring everyone gets to play while the game remains balanced. Once you form teams, create the playing field by setting up small cones or beanbags to mark boundaries and end zones.
also have to decide if a team doesn’t score, whether the opposing team takes over from where the ball ended up, or whether each team has a set starting point for each drive.
Once you prepare everything, it’s time to hit the field. You can determine which team gets the ball first with a game of rock-paper- scissors and play until one team reaches a predetermined score … or it’s time to go inside and enjoy a family meal. Remember, the best part of family touch football isn’t just the touchdowns — the laughter, teamwork, and fun make every play memorable.
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