BRADY EVENTS AND MARKETING INC. www.elizabethmarasco.com www.kudosjourney.com
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Hello Friends,
As we approach the end of the year, it's a perfect time to reflect on the blessings in our lives and to celebrate with those we hold dear. This season encourages us to reach out to loved ones, make thoughtful gestures, and reflect kindness.
In this issue of Kudos, we feature inspiring stories of seniors embracing independence and vitality. You'll also find insights into the benefits of vitamin D and the nutritional power of pumpkin, highlighting how these elements contribute to well-being at any age.
We recognize that this period can be both rewarding and challenging for caregivers. To support you, we're hosting a special virtual event, "Caring for the Caregiver," on November 21 at 3 p.m.
This workshop offers valuable insights into self-care and strategies for maintaining well-being while caring for others. Whether you're supporting aging parents or seeking to ways for a little self care, this session is designed to prepare and refuel you. You can RSVP for free at kudoscaregiver.com.
Warm regards,
Elizabeth Marasco
Brady Events and Marketing Inc. Kudos Magazine Publisher
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Join Kudos for an incredible opportunity to showcase your brand across digital and print media, social platforms, and video services.
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ThePower of Pumpkin
A HEALTH AND WELLNESS HERO
Pumpkins start appearing on doorsteps, it’s easy to think of them as nothing more than ingredients for seasonal bright orange skin lies a se packed with benefits ellness. Pumpkins aren’t —they’re an autumn support your body in
Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin
At the heart of pumpkin’s health benefits is its vibrant orange color, which comes from betacarotene, an antioxidant that your body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, supporting your immune system, and promoting healthy skin. In fact, one cup of cooked pumpkin contains more than 200% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A! As we head into flu season, including pumpkin in your diet can give your immune system a much-needed boost to help ward off colds and other seasonal illnesses.
But that’s not all. Pumpkins are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to your diet if you’re looking to stay full and satisfied while eating healthily. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels, making pumpkin a good option for anyone watching their weight or managing conditions like diabetes. Plus, its low-calorie content means you can enjoy pumpkin in a variety of dishes without guilt.
Pumpkin Seeds: Tiny but Mighty
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are small but packed with nutrition. They’re a rich source of magnesium, which supports bone health, muscle function, and even heart health. Magnesium is one of those minerals many people don’t get enough of, and just a handful of pumpkin seeds can help fill that gap. In addition to magnesium, pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, which plays a key role in immune function and cell repair. They’re also full of healthy fats, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Pumpkins for Skin and Heart Health
The antioxidants found in pumpkin don’t just benefit your immune system they’re also great for your skin. Beta-carotene helps protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays and can prevent premature aging. Plus, the vitamin C found in pumpkins supports collagen production, which keeps skin firm and elastic.
Pumpkin is also a heart-healthy food. Its high fiber content helps reduce cholesterol levels, and its potassium can help lower blood pressure. These benefits combine to promote better cardiovascular health, making pumpkin a great food to include in your diet for longterm wellness.
Versatile and Delicious
One of the best things about pumpkin is its versatility in the kitchen. You can roast it, blend it into soups, or use it in smoothies and baked goods. Adding pumpkin puree to recipes is an easy way to boost your intake of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Whether you prefer savory or sweet dishes, there’s a pumpkin recipe.
Take advantage of the many health benefits that pumpkins offer. This humble squash isn’t just a symbol of the autumn season it’s a nutrient-dense superfood that can support your immune system, improve heart health, and keep your skin glowing. So go ahead, embrace the power of pumpkin, and make it a delicious, healthy part of your wellness routine this season.
The Key to a Healthier, Happier Life Vitamin D:
Vitamin D may not be the first to come to mind when you think of essential vitamins. But the reality is, this powerhouse nutrient plays a crucial role in your overall health and chances are, you might not get enough of it! Studies show that many people consume less than the recommended amount of vitamin D. This deficiency can lead to various health problems, from weakened bones to a compromised immune system. So, let's dive into why Vitamin D is important and how to ensure you get enough.
The Sunshine Vitamin
Often called the "sunshine vitamin," Vitamin D is unique because our bodies can produce it when our skin is exposed to sunlight. However, with more time spent indoors and the use of sunscreen, many of us need to catch up on the natural production of this vital nutrient.
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium, which helps maintain strong bones and teeth. You risk developing brittle bones, osteoporosis, and fractures without enough Vitamin D. But that's not all—Vitamin D also supports your immune system, helps reduce inflammation, and even boosts your mood by regulating serotonin levels.
Vitamin D Health Benefits
Boosts Immune Health
Vitamin D is a significant player in your immune system. Research has shown that individuals with adequate Vitamin D levels are less likely to catch colds or the flu. It helps your body ff infections and can even reduce the chronic diseases.
ves Bone Health Calcium isn't nly thing you need for strong bones n D helps your body absorb calcium efficiently. If you're not getting h Vitamin D, your bones can weaken time, increasing the risk of porosis, especially in older adults.
nces Mental Health — Studies have that low levels of Vitamin D are to mood disorders such as ssion and anxiety. Maintaining y Vitamin D levels can improve your and cognitive function.
orts Heart Health Research
sts that Vitamin D may also play a n heart health by helping regulate pressure and reducing inflammation an lead to heart disease.
revent Kidney Stones — When your lacks vitamin D, it can't absorb m properly. This unabsorbed calcium ns in the bloodstream and can form m oxalate kidney stones. However, studies question vitamin D's role in nting kidney stones, as not all stones lcium oxalate; some are formed from uric acid instead.
Signs You May Be Deficient
Fatigue, sadness, muscle weakness, bone pain, and frequent illness are common signs of a Vitamin D deficiency. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's worth talking to your doctor about testing your levels.
Vitamin D is essential for a healthy, balanced life. It's a nutrient you can't afford to ignore, from boosting your immune system to strengthening your bones and mental well-being. Make sure you're getting enough of this powerhouse vitamin your body will thank you!
How to Get More Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for a healthy, balanced life. It's a nutrient you can't afford to ignore, from boosting your immune system to strengthening your bones and mental well-being. Make sure you're getting enough of this powerhouse vitamin your body will thank yo
Getting enough Vitamin D doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some natural sources of this vital nutrient:
Sunlight (your body produces Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight)
Fatty fish (preferably wild-caught salmon, mackerel, tuna)
Egg yolks
Fortified foods (milk, orange juice, cereals) Supplements (Vitamin D3 is most effective)
PLAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT VITAMIN D
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CAREGIVING Caregiver for the
A COMMUNITY COMING TOGETH FOR ANIMALS IN NEED
Since its inception in 1977, Adopt A Pet in Fenton, Michigan, has grown into a cherished community resource, thanks to unwavering local support and the dedication of people from all walks of life. What started as a modest animal shelter has evolved over the years into a cutting-edge facility prioritizing its furry residents' mental and physical health. This transformation wouldn't be possible without the generosity of individuals, families, and local businesses, each playing a vital role in making Adopt A Pet a place of hope and healing for animals awaiting their forever homes.
Innovative Approach to Animal Care
Under the leadership of Director Jody Hulbert Maddock, Adopt A Pet has continually adapted to provide the best care possible for its animals. "We try to stay on the cutting edge," Jody shared. "The shelter industry changes a lot, and we want to be up to date on what's best for the animals, our staff, volunteers, and customers."
Over the years, this commitment to excellence has transformed the shelter's facilities. Once kept in traditional cages, cats now enjoy a more enriching environment with "catios" that allow them to experience the outdoors safely. The cat rooms are equipped with birdwatching videos, comfy spots for rest, and even "timeout" areas for postsurgery recovery.
The improvements extend to the shelter's canine residents as well. Dogs at Adopt A Pet now have spacious play areas, agility courses, and even scent diffusers to keep them calm and engaged. Heated floors provide extra comfort, especially during the colder months. Jody explains that these additions are all designed to reduce stress and help the animals thrive while waiting for their forever families.
Powered by Community Support
Adopt A Pet is a nonprofit organization that relies entirely on community contributions. Jody emphasizes that the shelter receives no government funding, making community support essential to its operations. "We have an amazing facility and do a lot for the animals' medical and mental well-being," Jody explains. "But in order to do that, we need help from our community." Community members can support the shelter in various ways. Donations can be made directly on Adopt A Pet's website (adoptapetfenton.com).
Julia Maienbrook, Alexandra Trieloff, Hailey Crump, Jace St Clair, and Jody Hulbert Maddock
A Place for Every Helping Hand
Beyond financial contributions, Adopt A Pet offers countless ways for individuals to get involved. Volunteers are always needed for tasks that range from daily cleaning to walking dogs and organizing events. "A lot of people have just a couple of litter boxes at home," Jody says, laughing. "We have around 30 litter boxes that need to be scooped every single day."
The shelter's needs are diverse. Volunteers can help with tasks like laundry, maintaining the shelter's lawn, or assisting with administrative tasks, such as sending thank-you notes. Even small gestures, like cuddling with the animals or playing music to soothe them, make a big difference. There's truly something for everyone, no matter their skill set or availability.
Local Businesses Play a Vital Role
Local businesses, too, have stepped up to support Adopt A Pet in creative ways. Jeremy Troutman of JT Concrete recently shared his expertise in helping create a new concrete puppy pad with glow-inthe-dark stones shaped like playful puppy paw prints. This addition serves a practical purpose and adds a touch of whimsy to the shelter's outdoor space, enhancing the animals' play areas and providing a safe, welcoming environment for everyone.
There are endless ways to get your business involved, from building new amenities to sponsoring events, businesses of all types have found meaningful ways to support the shelter. These partnerships underscore the sense of community that drives Adopt A Pet's success and demonstrate that even small contributions can leave a lasting impact.
Foster Pet Parents
Fostering animals is another critical area of need. Volunteer Julia Maienbrook shared, "I foster for many reasons, like to give these babies the extra love they need." Julia emphasizes that each foster family allows Adopt A Pet to expand its reach, helping even more animals find homes and thrive. By offering a temporary home, foster families provide animals with the stability and affection they need to prepare for adoption, ultimately creating space for more pets to receive the shelter's support.
Essential Needs
Caring for the shelter's animals involves ongoing expenses, including medical treatments and daily supplies. Adopt A Pet always welcomes donations of cat litter, bleach, and dry and canned food for puppies and kittens. These everyday items may seem small but are crucial for the shelter's operations.
The shelter's commitment to health and wellness goes beyond basic needs. Every animal receives comprehensive medical care, from routine vaccinations to
How You Can Make a Difference
Adopt A Pet thrives because of community support, and there are countless ways to get involved. Here's how you can make a difference: Donate: Financial contributions are always appreciated and essential for sustaining the shelter's operations.
1. Volunteer: Whether you can help with cleaning, organizing, walking dogs, or simply offering a comforting presence, there's a role for everyone.
5. specialized surgeries when necessary. Jody explains, "Each animal that comes into our care receives whatever medical attention they need, whether it's a simple vaccine or a complex procedure." These efforts ensure that every animal is given the best chance to live a happy, healthy life.
2. Provide Supplies: Essential items like bleach, pet food, and cat litter are always needed.
3. Support as a Business: Support through sponsorships or professional services plays a vital role.
4. Foster: Opening your home as a foster parent gives animals a safe cospace to prepare for adoptio
Grateful Heart
I N E V E R Y D A Y L I F E
As the holiday season approaches, many of us turn our minds toward gratitude, reflecting on what makes our lives richer and more fulfilling. Yet, cultivating gratitude doesn’t have to be reserved for a single day or season. Making gratitude a daily practice can bring positivity, strengthen relationships, and help us savor the small moments that bring joy. Here are simple, heartwarming ways to invite gratitude into your family’s everyday life—not just during Thanksgiving but all year round.
Ease into the Fall Time Change
Transitioning into the fall time change doesn't have to be a struggle. Here are some practical tips for families to help adjust to the shift and stay healthy and energized during the season.
Start a Family Gratitude Jar
A gratitude jar is a beautiful way for families to recognize and celebrate the good things around them. Choose a jar, decorate it together, and keep it somewhere visible, like the kitchen or living room. Each day, encourage family members to write down one thing they’re thankful for and drop it in the jar. These notes can be small, like “warm blankets” or “Mom’s pancakes,” or big, like “getting a new friend at school.” Set a time each week to read a few notes from the jar. Over time, you’ll see how many beautiful moments fill your lives!
Practice a ‘Thankfulness Round’ at
Mealtime is a perfect opportunity to bring gratitude to the table. Share a prayer before your meal. Have everyone share something they are thankful for that day. This ritual builds gratitude and opens the door for connection, helping each family member feel seen and heard. It doesn’t have to be grand sharing simple moments like “seeing the sunset” or “laughing with friends” is just as powerful. It teaches everyone to appreciate small joys and listen to each other’s experiences.
Turn Ordinary Moments into Opportunities for Thanks
Whether during a car ride, a walk, or bedtime, expressing gratitude can be a powerful habit. For example, before heading to sleep, each family member could share one thing they’re thankful for from the day. These small pauses help build a mindset of appreciation and make gratitude feel natural and effortless. Over time, your family may find that gratitude flows more freely and becomes part of your everyday conversations.
Try a ‘Thankful Acts’ Challenge
A simple way to encourage gratitude is to start a “Thankful Acts” challenge. Each family member can pick an act of kindness to show appreciation for someone else. It might be writing a thank-you note, doing a chore without being asked or making a small gift. Acts of kindness remind us to recognize others and build a culture of gratitude within the family.
Embracing Gratitude Beyond Thanksgiving
Practicing gratitude daily can transform how we view life’s ups and downs. By focusing on what we have instead of what we lack, gratitude encourages us to see the world with kinder eyes. These small, meaningful activities invite us to notice the beauty around us, bringing peace and joy to our lives. As we move through Thanksgiving and into the rest of the year, let’s embrace gratitude as a holiday tradition and a way of life that b i us closer to each other and the world around
Embracing New Beginnings
AT ABBEY PARK OF GRAND BLANC
The thought of downsizing can be filled with mixed emotions, especially for those who have spent decades creating memories in their family homes. Yet, moving to a senior living community like Abbey Park of Grand Blanc can open the door to a new, fulfilling chapter. Residents find a supportive environment that balances independence with gentle help when needed, enriching their lives in unexpected ways. The stories of residents, like Rex and his wife Judi, and Jackie a widow, illustrate how this transition can bring comfort, companionship, and joy.
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Coming Full Circle
Jackie’s Journey Home
Jackie Croteau’s story is an example of resilience and the powerful pull of home. After over fifty years in her family house, she and her husband initially downsized to a smaller place to accommodate his health needs. When he passed, Jackie decided to move to Tennessee to be closer to her grandchildren, seeking comfort and a fresh start. But soon, she realized her heart remained in Michigan. The friends, the community, and the familiar surroundings
were what truly made her feel at home. Upon her return to Michigan, Jackie found her perfect place at Abbey Park, where she quickly made her apartment feel like home. Her spacious second bedroom now serves as a perfect showcase for her stunning doll collection, each piece a testament to her passion as an artist and doll maker. The beautifully arranged dolls tell the story of Jackie’s creative gift and love for craftsmanship.
PUSH PLAY TO HEAR JACKIE’S STORY NOW
Jackie Croteau
Her apartment also offers the independence she cherishes, including a private kitchen where she can cook for family and friends when they visit.
Jackie’s uplifting energy is felt throughout her home, with decor that shares stories of her life and passions. She has become a beloved figure within the Abbey Park community, always ready to welcome newcomers with a warm smile and gentle guidance.
Jackie’s days are now filled with laughter, friendship, and a renewed sense of purpose as she engages in community activities and outings, sharing her talents and warmth with everyone she meets.
Resisting to Relaxing
Rex and Judi’s Story
The decision to move to Abbey Park was not an easy one for Rex and Judi Harris. After years together in their longtime family home, they had already downsized to a condo, thinking it would meet their needs. But as time went on, it became clear that a bit more support could make a real difference in their lives. At first, Rex was quite resistant to the idea of moving to a senior living community. It took the gentle but persistent encouragement of his family— especially his son, who laid out a timeline to help him make the decision—for Rex to fully realize he needed more help than he had acknowledged. Now, he’s deeply grateful he took that leap.
Rex and Judi Harris
At Abbey Park, Rex and Judi have created a warm and inviting space, filling their apartment with beloved items that bring back precious memories. You can hear the gentle ticking of their German cuckoo clock, which has been with them for years. It sits next to a large digital clock a blend of the old and new that brings comfort and practicality to their home. This soothing sound serves as a steady reminder of their journey and brings a sense of peace to their space.
What once felt uncertain has transformed into a new beginning filled with friendships, laughter, and a genuine sense of belonging. Rex, once hesitant, now takes joy in greeting new residents and helping them settle in, offering the same warm welcome that helped him and Judi feel at home. Abbey Park has given them more than just a place to live; it has brought them community, support, and renewed happiness in this chapter of their lives.
Judi, who has always cherished special mementos, has thoughtfully arranged pieces from her treasured blue glass collection across the cabinets in their apartment. Each piece carries a memory, and seeing them displayed brings a quiet joy to her day. For Rex, creating a familiar and comfortable environment for Judi has become a heartfelt way of showing his love and care. Abbey Park has given them the stability to enj th se meaningful touches of hom
Yumm...
INGREDIENTS:
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups almond flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
For the Filling:
1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pumpkin Pie HEALTHY
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 350°F
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour and salt. Add the melted coconut oil and honey, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, covering the bottom and sides evenly to form a crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth and well combined. Pour filling into pie crust.
Bake Pie:
Approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the center is only slightly jiggly. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
Enjoy:
Let the pie cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
