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MAY 2025
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THE POWER OF A MOTHER’S LOVE
THE SACRIFICES THAT CHANGED MY LIFE
When I was young, we lived in a very poor part of town. The education options weren’t great, there was high crime, and we didn’t have much — of anything. But my mom wanted more for her children, and she was determined to set us up for success. So, she
sometimes — she’s getting older and just won’t learn the word no. She loves giving to others.
Since she retired, she’s hosted people to live with her just because they needed a hand up: a cousin during a job transition, and one of my daughters. When her
worked six days a week, earning overtime pay to make sure she could move us into a better part of town within a better school district. Neither my mom nor my dad went to college, and very few of her family had, but she knew education was a pathway that could give us a brighter future, and a better school would help us get there. Ultimately, by doing that one thing — putting in those extra hours of work every week — meant we could make that move. I credit all the success my siblings and I have achieved to that loving act.
brother was diagnosed with six months to live, she brought him to her house and cared for him 24 hours a day. I know how hard those months were before he passed away — even though it took a lot of her energy to care for him, she knew she needed to be there for him. It’s just who she is. She’s an active and involved grandma who loves seeing her grandchildren happy and prosperous. She never misses a sporting event, school activity, or milestone. Parents
My mom would do anything for her kids, no matter the cost. She’s shown up for me throughout my life. Doting, family-focused, and kind, so many things about her make her incredibly special. Her unwavering support, endless patience, and selfless love have truly shaped who I am today. Family has always been a central part of her life. She came from a large family, one of a dozen brothers and sisters. She always did whatever it took to support her kids, providing for everything we ever needed. And she still does that today. Even retired, she still works to help her family. When my children were young, she babysat for me and my sister plenty and ran the kids back and forth to practices. She’s the person who will give until she has nothing left. I know it exhausts her sometimes, but it’s her nature, and she will never stop giving, whether it’s her grandkids, nieces, nephews, kids, siblings, or her church community. She’s been this way her entire life, and it honestly drives me up the wall
just expect to see her at school functions. Even if I can’t attend a game, she’s always cheering on my children. I feel extremely blessed that my kids get to be close to her, and they know Grandma is always there for them. My mom taught me how to see things through the eyes of others, passed on her empathy, and showed me the true meaning of selflessness. I’m so incredibly grateful for my mother and to have learned from her example. Her love, sacrifices, and giving nature have touched not just my life but everyone fortunate enough to know her. As Mother’s Day approaches, I am very grateful to the woman who taught me the important things, from being able to empathize with others to putting your loved one’s needs above your own. I owe many of my most human traits to my mom.
–Jeremy Rafferty
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Treat Mom to a Magical Morning The Ultimate Mother’s Day Breakfast Plan
We should all show appreciation for the moms in our lives year-round, but Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to do something extra special. For many busy moms, a relaxing, stress-free breakfast in bed is the ultimate treat. But a Mother’s Day breakfast doesn’t have to be an over-the-top display or super complicated to prepare. A little planning, a few thoughtful details, and helping hands make all the difference. Start with a menu she’ll love. Mother’s Day breakfast in bed should be simple but meaningful. Breakfast go-to menus like pancakes and French toast are delicious and easy to make, and you can add a parfait or fresh fruit and a glass of freshly squeezed juice for a special touch. If she loves eggs and toast, go in that direction. Preparing Mom’s favorite dish or incorporating ingredients that remind her of a family tradition can take the meal to the next level. Present it beautifully. You can elevate even a simple breakfast with a few thoughtful additions. Ditch the disposables and use real plates, silverware, and linen napkins. Deliver the breakfast with care on a lovely tray accompanied by a small vase of flowers. A handwritten card or note goes a long way to showing your appreciation. Keep everything organized neatly, and make it easy for her to enjoy.
Make it a team effort. Get the whole family involved — minus Mom, of course! Even young kids can pitch in by spreading butter, arranging fruit, folding napkins and helping to make a card. Older kids can help out more with the actual cooking. To make Mother’s Day morning stress-free for everyone, do prep work the night before. Chop fruit, prepare the coffeemaker, and organize all the ingredients. And don’t forget the cleanup. Working as a team to wash dishes and put things away will ensure a dirty kitchen doesn’t ruin Mom’s special day when she gets up. Remember, you don’t have to prepare the perfect meal to make Mother’s Day memorable. It’s all about showing your love and appreciation. This holiday is an opportunity to bring the entire family together to create a special moment for the most important woman in your life.
Here’s What Federal Employees Need to Know EARLY RETIREMENT WITHOUT PENALTIES?
Qualifications A person must meet several eligibility requirements to receive a DSR. First, it is only an option for employees with involuntary separations, like when an agency lays off employees due to budget cuts, loss of a position due to organizational changes, or a transfer of your position to somewhere outside your commuting area. You also have to meet certain age and service requirements. You must be at least 50 and have at least 20 years of federal service. If you have 25 or more years of service, you can use a DSR even younger. In both cases, at least five of those service years must be in civilian roles, and your military service can account for 20 years. Finally, you can’t have turned down a “reasonable offer” for another position that is a good match for you, within your agency, within your commuting
area, and no more than two levels below your current pay grade.
Benefits Those who qualify for a DSR get a variety of benefits beyond early retirement. DSR allows you to receive your pension immediately without any reductions. When you reach the minimum retirement age (ranging from 55 to 57 based on your birth year), you’ll receive your first supplement. DSRs also allow you to carry your federal employee health benefits into retirement. If you are facing a reduction-in-force, knowing your options is essential. Discontinued Service Retirement could provide a path to early retirement without sacrificing your pension and benefits. It’s a valuable option that can ensure a smooth retirement even if the unexpected happens.
If you are a federal employee facing the uncertainty of a reduction-in-force when the government releases employees, there’s a little-known option that could make a big difference in your retirement plans. Discontinued Service Retirement (DSR) allows those who may not yet meet the retirement requirements to leave the workforce early without penalties. If you meet the proper criteria, DSR allows you to leave with your pension intact, keep your federal health benefits, and even begin receiving a supplement at your Minimum Retirement Age (MRA). With DSR, you won’t have to worry about a reduction in your benefits, even if you are forced to leave your position earlier than planned.
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ESCAPE TO THE AZORES A Journey Back in Time
If you enjoy trekking through timeless volcanic landscapes dotted with crater lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs, not to mention awe- inspiring marine life, the Azores may be the vacation spot for you! The Azores are an increasingly popular tourist destination, often called “the Hawaii of Europe” for their remote mid-ocean location and volcanic origins. The archipelago encompasses nine major islands 1,000 miles off the coast of Portugal and is one of the best whale-watching sites in the world. Visitors should plan their trip from the end of April to the beginning of May to view larger migratory species, such as the blue whale. This autonomous region of Portugal offers untamed beauty and plenty of outdoor activities, from kayaking to hiking. The climate is subtropical, with year-round temperatures ranging from 57 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Pico island’s rocky shorelines ascend as high as 7,713 feet atop the Ponta de Pico. Religious festivals and traditional holidays tie these predominantly Roman Catholic islands together. Beyond that, however, the islands’ culture, dialect, and cuisine vary widely. The largest island, São Miguel, is home to numerous hot springs and Europe’s only two tea plantations. An emblematic nature area, Sete Cidades, includes the famed Lagoa Azul (blue lagoon) and Lagoa
Verde (green lagoon). Numerous healing hot springs in Furnas offer opportunities for wellness and relaxation seekers. Ilheu de Vila Franca, a flooded crater islet accessible from the
southern shore of São Miguel, offers exceptional visibility of unique marine life, plus snorkeling, swimming, and cliff diving.
Wine lovers will enjoy the island of Pico, where vintners produce the islands’ complex volcanic wines. The Azores Wine Company offers tastings, tours, and overnight stays. The island of Santa Maria has the only white-sand beaches in the region and Faial Island’s bountiful hydrangea gardens have earned it the nickname “The Blue Island.” Foodies will also enjoy famous local foods, including octopus stewed in wine, kale soup, fried mackerel, and fresh yogurt and cheeses. Taken together, the Azores have something to delight any traveler.
SILKY CHOCOLATE MOUSSE This light, airy chocolate mousse is flavorful and requires only two ingredients. It’s the perfect easy-to-make treat for a weeknight or special occasion.
Train Your Brain!
INGREDIENTS
Inspired by TheKitchn.com
• 1 1/2 cup heavy cream, divided • 1 cup milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips (6 oz)
• Optional garnish: grated chocolate, crushed nuts, toffee, or brittle
DIRECTIONS
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, put 1/2 cup of cream in the microwave for 1 minute. 2. Stir in chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. 3. In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of cream with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. 4. Set aside 1/2 cup of whipped cream for topping, and continue whipping the remaining cream until stiff peaks form. 5. Gently fold whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture in batches, mixing until combined but still light and fluffy. 6. Spoon into four ramekins or glasses, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. 7. Top with reserved whipped cream and garnish if desired.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE page 1 The Woman Who Taught Me Everything page 2 Breakfast Ideas to Wow Mom Discontinued Service Retirement Explained page 3 Europe’s Hidden Paradise: The Hawaii of the Atlantic Silky Chocolate Mousse page 4 Why Forest Bathing Is the New Social Activity for Older Generations
Forest Bathing Brings Purpose, Health, and Connection NATURE’S NURTURE FOR OLDER ADULTS
If you’re older, you’ve probably heard countless times how important it is to socialize and involve yourself in a variety of activities. When you attend a dance, swim, or exercise class, you are physically active while surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals, which has physical, mental, and emotional benefits. However, not everyone is interested in joining a class or team. But you might prefer to do something out in nature that provides the same benefits. In Japan, forest bathing is the term used to describe nature-related activities that appeal to older adults. The term “forest bathing” might conjure images that feel right at home in a Cialis commercial, but it actually refers to any activity where you spend time in nature and utilize all your senses. While many studies tout the benefits of spending time in nature, researchers from Penn State University and two universities in Taiwan recently discovered an additional benefit that
makes forest bathing even more appealing: Fostering social connections around nature-based activities could improve health and quality of life. The researchers questioned weekly visitors (over age 65) to a nature preserve in Taiwan about how much they think
about their futures, the purpose of their lives, and more. Those who talked about their experiences in nature with others often had a greater sense of attachment to forest bathing and a stronger sense of purpose in life. “Forest bathing seems to connect people to the moment and the world,” stated Liang- Chih Chang, professor of living sciences at the National Open University in New Taipei City, Taiwan. “When elders use that same experience to develop social connections and support, they may experience a broad range of benefits associated with physiological functioning and cognitive health. These are associations, not cause and effect, but the potential consequences are exciting to consider.” So, the next time you and your loved ones want something to do, consider exploring your local parks and nature preserves together. You’ll be amazed by the benefits it brings to your life.
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