Today was a beautiful day in June. The skies were blue with temperatures in the 70s. I think what made the day particularly special for me was the opportunity to spend time with students of The Family Foundation School, a boarding school for troubled teen girls and boys at the location where The Family Foundation School originated. The opportunity came when Ann and Gerald Janauer, administrators at this college prep boarding school, opened their doors to host a graduation BBQ for a family of students and staff.
The afternoon brought back many amazing and wonderful memories from my time at the school which were spent at this location some 20 years ago. The backyard games capture the flag, canoeing and fishing pond, indoor and outdoor 12 step meetings, the feelings of accomplishment when we worked hard to install the first Family School basketball court with its single pole/basket. I am greatful for the time that I spent with other troubled teens who, like me, were growing through our difficulties using the 12-step program. We spent intimate time together and came to know each other as “Family” – relationships that still exist today.
Below are several pictures from today and the same location from “back in the day” – enjoy
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Thanks for the stroll down memory lane Mike. It’s clear that the lawn was the host of many types of awakenings.
Mike,
Being a FFS parent, it is interesting seeing the history behind it all. Thanks for sharing. It just reinforces all the good that a school like FFS is doing for our children. Thank you.
–Arlene/Sarah F2
Arlene – Thank you for your comments. For me it does do just that – it helps me keep it green as they say. I have now been both the struggling teen and the parent of one. If nothing else – reflecting on the past reminds me of the 12 step program expression = “you need to give it away to keep it. That is how my parents started and out of their efforts for their own recovery came the opportunity for healing for me, my sisters, and the many others who have lived here over the years.