Editors Note - December 2010

Do you ever get so wrapped up and busy with everything going on around you that you fail to appreciate all the things that are taking place right under your nose?

It seems like this time of year I always have to tell myself to slow down. And I always say, "Next year I'm going to commit to less, to relax and enjoy the season more with my family." Well, I'm saying that again this year. It's been a crazy couple of months and I'm just hoping the new year brings with it a new, much slower pace around here!

We have some great things this month in Wichita Family Magazine. Wichita Family contributor Erika Marie has put together a story that helps local families find ways to give back during the holiday season. Many of us are experiencing hard times so showing our kids how to serve others is a way to not only help those in need, but also give our children perspective on what is really important. Check out this story to find a list of great local ways for your own family to give back this year.

Many of these needs are around throughout the year, it's only during the holidays that they get the extra exposure. Maybe a good New Year's Resolution would be to commit to giving back in a charitable way as a family at times throughout the year, not only at Christmas. One ongoing need is the hundreds of local children who are in need of forever families through adoption. This month we're giving you a glimpse into just a few of those kids' lives and talking with Youthville about the adoption need in our community.

JL