“It’s all about giving and loving.”
-Fran Fauntleroy
“It’s all about giving and loving.”
– Fran Fauntleroy
Fran Fauntleroy is busy. Living these days in a luxury retirement community has not induced her to lie back and put her feet up. In fact, our interview had to be squeezed in between her chopping ingredients for a mouth-watering hors d’oeuvre (tomatoes, olives, boursin cheese, and more) and having family for dinner at The Tradition-Woodway.
Food, actually, has played a central role in her life. Case in point: the upcoming fundraiser benefiting her passion of many years – Pathways for Little Feet. The November 9th fundraiser, “Little Plates Chef Competition,” will feature 13 chefs offering delicious tastings in six categories! But more of that later.
First, about Pathways for Little Feet. “In 2008, I was sitting next to Kerr and Jill Taylor at a dinner, and they had just returned from Russia,” said Fran. “They had visited an orphanage, and they saw this one little boy with his arms up. After returning home, Kerr said he kept seeing this haunting image and kept responding, ‘I have to help orphans be adopted into loving homes.’ Out of my mouth popped, ‘I want to help you.’ It was a God thing.”
The result was that the three at dinner eventually founded Pathways for Little Feet. It is not an adoption agency; the non-profit provides loans at the end of the adoption process when the family is matched and when money is so often needed. (Pathways now gives post-adoption counseling and therapy grants for the child or the family as a newer program.)
“We give an interest-free loan of $10,000 that the adoptive parents pay back when they can. There are very few who haven’t,” says Fran. The vetting process is strict. “Are they from a faith-based family, and do they go to church? Do they have enough in their bank account to pay back the loan?” she says.
A hard-working volunteer since day one with Pathways for Little Feet, Fran says she has resigned as a volunteer there three times! Today, she is still volunteering and serves as their Director of Advancement Emeritus.
Fran’s talents have not been limited to spreading the word about Pathways for Little Feet. After her three children were in High School and college, six of her friends sat on the floor and planned a cookbook, Six Flew over the Cuckoo’s Kitchens. They made money, printing two more cookbooks and giving a percentage to non-profits.
A subsequent project involved the restaurant owners of Houston, who were not close among themselves – but Fran as well as Edd Hendee (Taste of Texas) were friends with all of them. (Food again.) They all came to an agreement – “We chefs should get together.” The result was a series of twenty cookbooks and menu guides. Fran would go to bookstores and sell 300 in a day! She became the publisher. “I had more fun!” The chefs, she says, enjoy a camaraderie today.
Her beloved husband, John, passed away in 2003, but Fran is now taking pleasure in her large family of three children, nine grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. They visit her at The Tradition-Woodway, and she cannot speak highly enough of this community, the family-like atmosphere, and its Executive Director, Dan Alvarez. “If we ever have a problem, we call Dan and the staff, and it’s immediately taken care of!” she said.
Fran is still in the midst of an extremely inspiring and productive life, so I ask her, who served as her inspiration? “My mother and father,” she says without hesitation. “They were very loving, giving, and loved people. Another inspiring lady in my life was Isla Reckling’s grandmother, Isla Carroll Sterling Turner. She said, ‘To whom much is given, much is required.’ It has stuck with me all this time.”
Fran ended with, “It’s all about giving and loving.”
Linda Faulkner Johnston – The Tradition
About the Little Plates Chef Competition & Cocktail Reception fundraiser:
Chairs: Kriste & John F. Sullivan, III
Thursday, November 9, 2023
6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
The Houstonian Hotel, Grand Ballroom
111 North Post Oak Lane
Houston, TX 77024
To register, go to “Events” at www.pathwaysforlittlefeet.org.
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Aging brings changes to both body and mind, making brain health an essential part of overall well-being. While some cognitive decline is a natural part of aging, research suggests that lifestyle choices can help support mental sharpness and long-term wellness. More seniors and their families are prioritizing holistic approaches to brain health, seeking ways to promote cognitive function and maintain an active, fulfilling life.
The Role of Lifestyle in Brain Health
Maintaining cognitive function isn’t about a single solution—it’s about adopting a lifestyle that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. From nutrition to movement, sleep, and social engagement, several key factors play a role in promoting brain health and overall longevity.
A Diet That Fuels the Mind
Nutrition plays a powerful role in supporting brain function. Diets rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients may contribute to cognitive resilience. The Mediterranean and MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diets emphasize:
- Leafy greens, berries, and colorful vegetables
- Whole grains, nuts, and legumes
- Healthy fats like olive oil and omega-3-rich fish
Incorporating these foods into daily meals can provide essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being.
Keeping the Mind Active
Lifelong learning and mental stimulation are key to cognitive health. Engaging in activities that challenge the brain—such as reading, solving puzzles, learning a new skill, or exploring creative hobbies—can help keep the mind sharp. Structured programs like educational workshops, guest lectures, and discussion groups encourage ongoing learning and cognitive engagement.
The Connection Between Movement and Memory
Physical activity is often linked to better cognitive function. Exercise may improve blood flow to the brain, encourage neuroplasticity, and support overall health. Simple yet effective activities include:
- Walking, yoga, and low-impact strength training to support mobility and coordination
- Group fitness classes that provide both physical and social benefits
Staying active doesn’t just strengthen the body—it can also promote brain health and overall vitality.
The Power of Restful Sleep
Sleep is essential for memory retention and cognitive repair. Good sleep hygiene can help support mental clarity and emotional well-being. Establishing healthy sleep habits may include:
- Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine
- Reducing screen time and blue light exposure before bed
- Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing
Prioritizing restful sleep can enhance overall cognitive resilience and daily functioning.
Social Engagement and Emotional Well-being
Strong social connections are vital for mental and emotional health. Engaging in meaningful conversations, participating in group activities, and maintaining close relationships can help seniors feel connected and purposeful. Whether through family gatherings, community events, or interest-based clubs, staying socially engaged can provide a sense of belonging and cognitive stimulation.
Managing Stress for Mental Clarity
Chronic stress can have an impact on brain health. Incorporating mindfulness practices—such as meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in relaxing activities like gardening or music—can help reduce stress and promote emotional balance.
Creating a Supportive Environment for Brain Health
As seniors and their families explore living options, many are looking for communities that prioritize a holistic approach to wellness. A setting that fosters healthy dining, engaging activities, and social connection can contribute to cognitive and emotional well-being.
At The Tradition, we recognize that overall wellness extends beyond just physical health. Our communities provide opportunities for residents to stay active, connected, and engaged—encouraging a lifestyle that supports both body and mind. If you or a loved one are beginning the search for senior living, we invite you to explore how The Tradition fosters a fulfilling and enriching way of life.
ABOUT THE TRADITION
A luxury senior living Community offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care services, all in a resort-style setting.
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© 2008 - 2019 Tradition Senior Living. All rights Reserved.
© 2008 - 2019 Tradition Senior Living. All rights Reserved.