Photo by Stacy Kinzler
CUPID'S EBB AND FLOW This issue of Savvy covers some heavy topics that families deal with: coming together and breaking apart. I know what you're thinking—"But, it's Valentine's Day!"— and don't worry, we have all that touchy-feely, fun stuff, too. But, sprinkled between some great V-day crafts and love-themed recipes you'll find info on how to focus on your familial love by caring for your blended family, navigating a divorce so everyone comes out on good terms, and the love and compassion it takes to welcome new members through adoption. Arkansas has the highest divorce rate in the county, but Arkansans are also the most willing to give love a second chance, having the highest rate of second marriages nationwide. Second and third marriages often come with a few strings attached, in the form of kids and co-parents, and without a little work, communication and flexibility, it can lead to tension within your home. We talk with Beth McAlpine, parent education coordinator at Centers for Youth and Families about tips for blended families to achieve sibling harmony, be the best stepparent you can, and ways for co-parents to work together. She gives great insights on page 18. The journey to harmonious co-parenting begins when couples make the decision to part ways and work together to stay amiable for the kids. Beginning on page 34, we let local lawyers and a licensed clinical social worker weigh in with advice on communication, re-entering the work force, child support, mediation and the importance of putting the focus on the kids. Finding love doesn't always have to be romantic. In this issue, we put a focus on adoption and share the stories of two very unique local families who heard the call to adopt, and welcomed new family members into their homes. Meet Dina Vinson on page 26, and read her story of how a mission trip to Ethiopia with her husband, Kent, led to the adoptions of their son, Tyce, and daughter, Jett, as well as a career change to become an adoption specialist and aid others in their search for love. Many teens in Arkansas are in need of adoption, and they are so often overlooked. Read the story of how Dawn Bailey found her son, 17-year-old Chase, who had spent more than seven years in the foster care system. Dawn and Chase are an inspiring duo who share tips on how to love and how to learn to be loved on page 30. We hope you find some good family guidance in this issue and will take some time to celebrate love this month—whether it's with a significant other, friends or the whole family!
Amy Gordy Editor, Savvy amy@arktimes.com
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FEBRUARY 2018 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM