Beyond The Shadow
The name "Beyond the Shadow" embodies a journey of transformation and resilience, signifying the move from darkness to light and encapsulating the challenges faced by individuals and families grappling with addiction. Shadows often represent fear, uncertainty, and struggle, but our focus is on what lies beyond—hope, healing, and the possibility of a brighter future. We aim to illuminate paths toward recovery, demonstrating that with support and understanding, it is possible to emerge from the shadows and embrace a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
The Gift Of Hope
The holiday season can be a challenging time, filled with fear and uncertainty. But this Christmas, I offer you the gift of hope—a guiding light that shines through the darkness, transforming fear into possibility and doubt into belief.
What The Holiday Card Does Not Show
Holiday cards hold deep meaning as a tradition, not just a festive greeting, but a quiet declaration that life is okay and we’re thriving. Behind every card, there’s a story of resilience, pain, and growth, making them a powerful reminder of our journey.
Preparing for the First Overnight Visit: Navigating New Territory
Preparing for an overnight visit with a loved one in recovery can be challenging. Setting clear expectations, planning activities thoughtfully, and establishing boundaries are essential for a smooth transition. These strategies help create a supportive environment for reconnection and rebuilding relationships. If you’re facing this, know you’re not alone—many have been there and are here to offer guidance and support
A Thanksgiving Tradition of Gratitude
This Thanksgiving, start a meaningful tradition with gratitude napkins, a simple yet powerful way to reflect on your family’s journey and celebrate growth, healing, and hope.
Facing Relapse with Compassion and Courage
Relapse can shake the foundation of recovery, but it's also a part of the journey. This post offers insights into navigating relapse with compassion, love, and ongoing commitment to recovery, reminding us that recovery is a continuous path of growth and healing.
Navigating College Culture: Beyond the Frat Party
Reflecting on parents' weekend at my daughter’s college, I found joy in connection and lessons in staying true to my values amid college culture.
Finding Light in Every Day
Gratitude isn’t just for November; it’s a daily practice that illuminates life’s big and small blessings.
Unmasking the Heart of Recovery
Recovery is about removing the masks we hide behind, embracing vulnerability, and discovering true strength and connection.
The Serenity Prayer: A Guide for Life and Recovery
The Serenity Prayer offers timeless wisdom for navigating life’s challenges, especially in recovery. It teaches us the power of acceptance, courage to change, and the wisdom to know the difference—guiding us toward peace and strength.
Recovery As A Road Trip
Like a road trip, recovery is full of unexpected detours and delays. Embrace the journey, take care of yourself, and keep moving forward—there’s always hope ahead.
A Heartfelt Thank You to the Village Behind Woodhaven
A heartfelt thank you to the staff, builders, designers, family, and community who made Woodhaven Recovery a reality. Your unwavering support has helped create a place where young people in recovery find healing, hope, and a sense of belonging.
Embracing The Eye Rolls
Parenting a teen in recovery can be difficult, but not every eye roll or mood swing signals relapse. Sometimes, these moments are simply part of their journey toward independence. As they grow, we celebrate these signs of progress on their path to adulthood.
Birthday Reflections
Celebrating milestones and growth, this reflection honors the incredible journey of two remarkable young adults—one thriving in recovery, the other blossoming into adulthood. Their resilience, compassion, and strength inspire every step forward. Happy birthday to these remarkable young people!
A Mosaic of Recovery: A Symbol of Purpose and Connection
The Tree of Life mosaic at Woodhaven Manor embodies growth, strength, and connection. Each stone represents the unique journey of recovery, woven together to form a strong foundation of support, hope, and renewal.
Beyond The Shadow: Creating the Life We Imagine
Building a purposeful future through vision and action: A personal journey in creating a supportive environment for adolescents in recovery.
Happy New Year (In September)
Reflecting on the new school year as a time of renewal and sharing the importance of combining education with recovery at Woodhaven Academy.
Parenting Shifts: From Active Addiction To Early Recovery
Understanding the shift from active addiction to early recovery, and the evolution of parenting during this challenging journey.
Why Extended Care is Essential for Some Adolescents
Why extended care is crucial for adolescents in recovery, and the need for specialized programs to bridge the gap between short-term rehabilitation and long-term recovery.
Trusting My Daughter As I Bring Her to A Party School In A Party Town
Parenting through the challenges of college life and alcohol use, with hope and trust in her ability to make thoughtful choices.
We Will Never Be The Same
Embracing growth through struggle, we emerge stronger and more compassionate than before. Our family will never be the same, and that’s something to cherish