The holiday season has always been my favorite time of the year because it is an opportunity to reflect on what is truly important in life and also a time to celebrate with family and friends. These are special times where we make lasting memories with our loved ones that stay with us over the years.
When our kids were young, we started many family traditions, including visiting Holiday Fantasy of Lights at Tradewinds Park (holidaylightsdrivethru.com). Now that they are all grown up, I especially treasure this time of year because everyone comes home to celebrate the holidays with us. Although our boys are older now, they thankfully still humor my husband and me and go with us to check out the amazing display lights.
While the holidays can be a beautiful time, full of wonderful festivities and cherished memories, it can also be a difficult time for those of us who are missing loved ones or dealing with challenges. Our family, like many others, has lost dear friends this year and we have family members dealing with health challenges. Sometimes it’s hard to focus on the positive when surrounded by challenges and heartbreak. It’s nice to have the support of friends and family, but we also have support in the community available for those who are struggling this time of year and any time of year. Eagles’ Haven Wellness Center, located at 5565 Coral Ridge Drive just south of the Sawgrass, has free wellness classes as well as licensed mental health clinicians who can assist you in finding the mental health support you need. Additionally, if you dial 211 in Broward, you will be connected to someone who can assist you in finding resources available in Broward County. I know it’s not always easy to seek out help, but I want everyone to be aware of these free resources that are available in case you, a loved one, neighbor, or friend need them. It’s so important to take good care of ourselves and to look out for our loved ones, friends, and neighbors.
As 2024 comes to a close, we all have much to reflect on. Each year brings its challenges and how we navigate through them and who we have around us can make all the difference. While it is an often-used phrase, it is one that I regularly look to “Be the change you wish to see in this world”. As the world around us appears to become more divided and contentious, we each have an opportunity to make it better by practicing understanding, graciousness, and compassion. While no one of us can change the world, each of us has a part in making a positive difference in our homes, our communities, our workplaces, and our world.
Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, another holiday, or no holiday at all, my family and I wish you and your family a happy and healthy December and all the best for the New Year ahead. May we all be blessed with supportive family and friends and surrounded by love and care.
Please reach out to me and my team at HD095@myfloridahouse.gov or 954-956-5600 if we can ever be of assistance. We will have some upcoming community events and town halls so please email us to sign up for our newsletter in case you don’t already get it. It is an honor to be able to serve District 95 and the Coconut Creek, Parkland, Margate and Coral Springs communities. Thank you for allowing me to serve as your State Representative. I look forward to hearing from you!
Christine Hunschofsky
District 95 includes Coconut Creek, Parkland, Margate, and a portion of Coral Springs.
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