Bring your mom, daughter, granddaughter, aunt, niece, neighbor, or friend and enjoy a time of fellowship, inspiration, and fun! This unique gathering is designed to bridge generations and offer encouragement for women at every stage of life.

The event will feature Ingrid Dawkins, a West Point graduate, author, and personal trainer, who will speak on the topic “Be Fit to Serve.” Ingrid will share how our physical health directly impacts our ability to serve others with strength and energy.

You’ll also be inspired by Stonecroft speaker Rose Bitner, who will present her powerful testimony “From Feeling Totally Rejected to Finding Total Acceptance.” Her message promises to speak to hearts and uplift spirits.

Tickets are just $20 at the door, and gluten-free meals will be available. Please RSVP by June 13 to cwcchagrin@gmail.com or call 216-706-9150 to reserve your spot.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect across generations and leave refreshed in body, mind, and soul. Grab the women in your life and make it a memorable day!

The post RSVP By June 13th to Join the Chagrin Valley Christian Women’s Connection for a Multigenerational Luncheon! first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Storytelling Through Movement: Pick a story from a different culture that includes elements of dance or movement. For example, after reading a traditional African folk tale or a Latin American story, encourage your kids to act out the characters’ actions, like jumping, spinning, or mimicking animals in the story. This allows them to experience storytelling through physical activity while learning about customs and traditions from around the world.
2. Cultural Crafting: After hearing a story from another culture, engage your kids in a craft that ties into the tale. If you tell a Native American story, you can make dreamcatchers or paint rock art. If you share a story from Japan, try origami. These activities inspire creativity and introduce new traditions while allowing them to express their understanding of the culture through art.
3. Outdoor Cultural Play: Explore traditional games from other countries. You might try playing “kabaddi” from India or “la cuerda” (the skipping rope game) from Spain. These games get kids moving and active, while offering a glimpse into the playtime traditions of different cultures.

Through storytelling, we can inspire our children to be both creative and active, all while broadening their understanding of the world’s diverse cultures this summer.

The post Exploring Creativity and Active Play Through Storytelling This Summer first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Forest Bathing for Mental Clarity
Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a practice that originated in Japan in the 1980s. Unlike traditional outdoor activities such as hiking, forest bathing focuses on immersing yourself in nature to engage all the senses. It’s not about physical exertion but about slowing down, breathing deeply, and allowing the calming atmosphere of the forest to restore your mind. The sights, sounds, and smells of the forest—like the rustling of leaves, the fresh scent of pine, and the visual serenity of tall trees—have been shown to reduce stress, lower anxiety, and improve mood. Spending time in Bedford’s local parks and green spaces can be your own form of forest bathing, providing a simple way to lower cortisol levels and find emotional balance.

Water Calming for Emotional Peace
Another Japanese-inspired practice, water calming, involves connecting with bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or ponds. The gentle flow of water has a soothing effect on the mind, offering clarity and calm. The concept of mizukokoro, or “water mind,” encourages individuals to engage with the rhythmic flow of water to clear mental clutter and find peace. Whether you’re near the Cuyahoga River or a local pond, listening to the calming sound of water can help release tension and provide mental clarity.

Embracing Nature for Emotional Healing
Both forest bathing and water calming underscore the profound impact nature can have on our mental health. By spending time in Bedford’s natural spaces this June, you can tap into the therapeutic benefits of these practices, promoting healing, inner peace, and emotional balance. Take time this month to embrace the calm of nature and experience the rejuvenating effects it can have on your mental and emotional well-being.

The post Healing Through Nature: Embracing Forest Bathing and Water Calming in Bedford This June first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Get Outside and Get Moving: The weather is warming up, so take your workouts outdoors! Go for a run, bike ride, or hike in one of Bedford’s beautiful parks. Not only does outdoor exercise boost your mood and fitness, but it also reduces the need for energy-consuming indoor equipment or gym memberships.

2. Eat Local and Seasonal: Spring is a great time to dive into local, seasonal produce. Head to the Bedford Farmers’ Market and pick up fresh fruits and vegetables. Eating locally grown food is not only healthier but also reduces your carbon footprint by cutting down on the energy used for transportation.

3. Reduce Waste, Recycle More: Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home – it’s a chance to clean up your eco-habits too! Avoid single-use plastic and swap in reusable bags, water bottles, and containers. Be mindful of recycling in Bedford’s community bins and consider composting food scraps to reduce waste.

4. Use Eco-Friendly Products: Choose cleaning and personal care products that are natural and free from harmful chemicals. You’ll not only reduce your exposure to toxins but also help protect the environment from pollution.

5. Stay Hydrated, Sustainably: Refill your water bottle instead of buying single-use plastic bottles. Bedford’s local water is clean and refreshing, so why not reduce waste and save money?

Let’s make this spring not only a time to revitalize our health but also to contribute to a greener, healthier Bedford. Here’s to a season of fresh air, healthy habits, and eco-friendly living!

The post Eco-Friendly Health Tips for a Greener Spring in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Eco-Friendly Pet Products: Spring is a great time to make environmentally conscious choices for your pets. Look for biodegradable waste bags to reduce plastic waste. Eco-friendly pet shampoos, made from natural ingredients, can keep your pet clean without harming the environment. You can also opt for sustainable pet toys made from recycled materials or natural fibers, ensuring that your pet’s playtime is both fun and eco-conscious.
2. Keep Pets Cool: As temperatures rise, it’s important to protect your pets from overheating. Always provide access to fresh water and ensure your pets have a cool, shaded area to rest in. If you’re taking your dog for walks, try to do so in the early morning or late evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Additionally, consider investing in a cooling mat or vest for outdoor adventures.
3. Flea and Tick Prevention: May marks the start of flea and tick season. Make sure your pet is on the appropriate preventatives, and check them regularly for ticks, especially after outdoor activities in grassy or wooded areas.
4. Spring Grooming: Regular grooming helps remove excess fur and reduces shedding. Brushing your pet’s coat can also improve circulation and maintain a shiny, healthy coat.

By following these May pet care tips and choosing eco-friendly pet products, you can ensure that your pets stay happy, healthy, and environmentally conscious this spring.

The post May Pet Care Tips for Bedford: Eco-Friendly Products and Spring Safety first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Join us for an inspiring and engaging monthly luncheon hosted by the Chagrin Valley Christian Women’s Connection! The event will take place on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM at the Chagrin Valley Athletic Club located at 17260 Snyder Rd, Chagrin Falls.

This luncheon promises a delightful time of food, fellowship, and fun. The event will feature a special showcase by a Bainbridge Library trainer, who will introduce the Creative Lab Center and demonstrate all the innovative technological tools available for the community at the library. Whether you’re interested in learning about new tech or exploring creative resources, this session will surely inspire you.

In addition, the luncheon will host Tiffany Blevins, a powerful speaker from Ohio. Tiffany will share her impactful message, “A Night of Horror” – a touching story about a young man, a mother-to-be, and a successful woman whose lives collide on one fateful night.

The cost to attend is $20, and gluten-free options are available. Please RSVP by May 16 by emailing cwcchagrin@gmail.com or calling 216-706-9150.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to connect and be inspired!

The post Chagrin Valley Christian Women’s Connection May Luncheon — RSVP By May 16th! first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

One effective self-care practice is setting healthy boundaries. In a fast-paced world where people often feel overwhelmed by obligations, learning to say no is crucial for maintaining mental well-being. Whether it’s declining an invitation to an event or limiting work commitments, setting boundaries ensures you’re prioritizing your emotional needs. Recognizing your limits helps prevent burnout and allows time for self-reflection and relaxation.

Another beneficial practice is engaging in regular emotional check-ins. Taking a moment each day to check in with your feelings can help you better understand your emotional state and address any underlying issues before they become overwhelming. Whether through journaling, talking with a friend, or simply sitting quietly with your thoughts, these check-ins promote self-awareness and emotional clarity.

Additionally, practicing gratitude is a powerful tool for improving mental well-being. Reflecting on what you’re thankful for can shift your focus from stress and worry to positivity and appreciation. Taking time to express gratitude for small joys in life can boost mood and foster a sense of calm.

By incorporating these self-care practices into daily life, Bedford residents can strengthen their mental health and build a solid foundation for emotional well-being, particularly during Mental Health Awareness Month. Prioritize self-care and embrace mental wellness in May and beyond.

The post Prioritizing Mental Well-Being in Bedford: Self-Care Tips for Mental Health Awareness in May first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Plant Growth Observation: One of the simplest and most educational experiments is observing plant growth. We plant seeds (like sunflowers or beans) in small containers and track their progress over the weeks. It’s a great way to teach kids about how plants grow and the importance of water, sunlight, and healthy soil. You can even teach them to recycle old containers as planters!
2. DIY Bird Feeders: Creating a bird feeder from eco-friendly materials like pinecones, peanut butter, and bird seed is a fun and easy project. It not only teaches kids about wildlife but also encourages them to care for animals in their own backyard. Watching birds visit the feeder is a rewarding experience for children.
3. Water Filtration Experiment: Use common household items like gravel, sand, and cotton to create a simple water filtration system. This experiment teaches kids about the importance of clean water and how natural filtration works. It’s a wonderful way to discuss environmental conservation and the need for clean water.
4. Creating a Solar Oven: One of my favorite experiments, especially as the weather heats up, is building a simple solar oven. Using a pizza box, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and black construction paper, you can create an oven that uses sunlight to heat and cook food. This hands-on project teaches kids about solar energy and its potential as an eco-friendly power source. We’ve used our solar oven to melt s’mores or heat up some small snacks, and the kids absolutely love it!

By doing these eco-friendly experiments, we can teach kids in Bedford not only about science but also about the importance of taking care of the planet—while having fun and learning together!

The post Fun and Eco-Friendly Science Experiments for Kids This May first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Speaker Series: Navigating Well-being in a Digital Age

Dr. Nicole Pucci, Clinical Psychologist, and Dr. Kelly Christian and Dr. Emily Lauster, of the Ethan D. Schafer Center for Learning Differences at Lawrence School, will discuss how to lessen the negative effects of screen time, as well as strategies to promote development, mental health, and social interactions.

Free, supervised children’s activities are available during the program — adults and children must register separately.
Wednesday, May 7, 6:30 p.m.
Solon Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library

Music Therapy & More

Join us for a hands-on program designed to teach families how to use music to improve their child’s academic, motor, communication, and social skills as well as behavior.

This program is designed for families and their children (ages 0–6) who have concerns about development.
connectingforkids.org/music
Wednesday, May 21, 6:30 p.m.
Solon Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library

About Connecting for Kids

Connecting for Kids provides resources, support, and community to families in Northeast Ohio who have concerns about their child.

We support families who have children with mental health concerns, developmental delays, and disabilities, as well as those facing major life changes.

Our offerings include programs, Resource Fairs, and a Family Resource Specialist (FRS) Program.
Programs include support groups for adults, presentations by professionals, and hands-on programs that caregivers attend with their child.

The FRS program offers a CFK staff member who meets with families and assists them in navigating resources.
All programs are offered free to families.

The post Connecting for Kids May Programs in Solon first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Start with a Plan: Grab your gloves, a trash bag, and maybe a buddy or two. Bedford has plenty of parks, trails, and sidewalks that could use a little TLC. You can take a walk along the scenic Tinkers Creek or jog around Bedford Reservation, keeping an eye out for litter along the way. Not only are you helping the environment, but you’re also getting some exercise – it’s like cleaning while staying fit!

2. Keep It Safe: Always be mindful of what you’re picking up! Avoid sharp objects or anything that looks potentially hazardous. If you find something dangerous, like broken glass or needles, it’s best to contact local authorities to safely dispose of it.

3. Make It a Group Activity: Gather your family, friends, or neighbors and make a fun challenge out of it. Who can pick up the most litter in 30 minutes? Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try setting a goal to cover a specific route and clean up as you go.

4. Don’t Forget the Essentials: Stay hydrated and wear sturdy shoes. And of course, don’t forget the sunscreen while you’re out there!

Plogging is a great way to celebrate Earth Day, keep Bedford beautiful, and get your heart pumping. So, lace up those sneakers, grab a bag, and let’s plog our way to a cleaner, greener Bedford this spring!

The post Earth Day Fun and Fitness: Plog Your Way to a Cleaner Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.