This week’s part two

Dear Friends,

Our nation’s 250th is an opportunity for all of us to reignite our neighborly interdependence, as that’s what allowed us to create the United States of America!

If you're organizing a block party or potluck this weekend … 

Just a few reminders! Focus on keeping it simple. This is so hard to keep at the forefront of your mind, so I suggest making it a bit of a mantra and putting some Post-it notes around to remind you of this important goal. Keep fighting the urge to make it “perfect.” Know that your invite is a gift and an act of service.  

Ask for help! Not only does it ease your burden, but it allows others the opportunity to feel like they are contributing and matter, too. 

Most importantly, know what people (guests and your family) will remember is how you made them feel – welcome and relaxed – not the “perfect” decor or the perfectly manicured yard. 

And don’t forget to make your block party count by registering it here! We’d also love you to send your photos and stories to info@blockpartyusa.org! They help inspire others to throw block parties, too. 

If it’s become waaay too hot to go ahead with your weekend plans, remember we are having an American Summer, so you’ve got until Labor Day weekend for your do-over!

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As a parent coach, my focus is connection both inside AND outside the home!  

There are lots of family road trips happening this weekend and all summer, which is GREAT, as they are an easy opportunity to build connection and prevent loneliness in our own families, especially with our tweens and teens! 

The epidemic of loneliness and disconnection is also plaguing our own homes, and we need to make ongoing efforts to hedge it out. We can be intentional about finding ways to connect and be persistent, even with some predictable pushback! 

Every single one of us, and especially our kids, wants to be seen, heard, and loved for who we are, and if we can act and speak in ways that open that possibility, we are creating belonging, connection, and a sense of mattering. Car rides provide a “captive audience” to make that happen!

My family uses road trips to play and share music. We do this by giving everyone a turn picking songs or making it a game by working through the alphabet and choosing a song with an artist of the next letter (ie, A= Amy Winehouse, B= Boston, C= the Cure, etc).

Instead of everyone being physically together, but in their own separate worlds, you can share, create a bonding experience, and even expand your own playlists. It’s REALLY important to make it a safe space for them to share, so work hard to be curious, be open to learning, and avoid judging their song choices.

Maybe you can ask some questions like:

• How did you hear about this band/artist?

• What do you like about it?

• And when it’s your turn, and you choose a song from previous decades, tell a memory related to the song you choose. It gives you the chance to share a bit about yourself.

This summer, let’s create some new family traditions, memories, and a strong sense of family connection and belonging!

Happy 4th, everyone!!

PS: And if you missed part one, you can read it here!