Editor Notes
Dear Maryland Families, Maryland Family Magazine pauses to reflect on the true essence of the season: thankfulness. This November/December issue is lovingly dedicated to you, the heart and soul of our great state. Maryland is a tapestry woven from countless family stories, each one as unique and vibrant as the next. We celebrate every kind of family: the multigenerational households sharing stories over Sunday dinners, the single parents juggling work and wonder with unyielding grace, the blended families forging new traditions, and the chosen families bound by love rather than blood. No matter your shape or story, you are seen, you are valued, and you are cherished here. We've checked in with a phone call, shared a meal, or simply listened without judgment. That's the beauty of our state: a place where people genuinely care about people. From community volunteers to neighbors lending a hand, our bonds remind us that we're never truly alone. This holiday season, let's lean into that strength. Be there for our families and friends, not just with words, but with presence. Hold space for joy, offer comfort in tough moments, and above all, be profoundly thankful for one another. A special note of thanks to our dear contributor, Heather Lageman, whose thoughtful and intentional articles in this issue illuminate the power of gratitude in everyday family life. As an educator, author, and unwavering advocate for connection, Heather brings wisdom and warmth to every word she shares. Her insights remind us that thankfulness isn't a fleeting sentiment but a practice we nurture, one conversation at a time. I encourage you to explore her latest book, co-authored with a talented group of fellow writers called School Seasons xSELeratED . Heather, you are not just a brilliant mind but a wonderful person and cherished friend. Your light shines brightly in our pages and in our community. Wishing you and yours a holiday season brimming with laughter, love, and endless reasons to give thanks. Here's to the families of Maryland, may we continue to lift each other up, today and always. With deepest gratitude,
WELCOME TO MARYLAND FAMILY MAGAZINE
Natasha Parrilla
Natasha Parrilla Editor-in-Chief Maryland Family Magazine
2025
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Maryland Family Magazine
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