Welcome to Do Good December: Spreading Kindness, One Act at a Time!

This month, we're encouraging you to perform small acts of kindness, spread positivity, and show others the power of thoughtful gestures.

Click here to download and print the calendar.

Secrets to Staying Fit During the Holidays

A full holiday schedule of gatherings and celebrations can make staying fit seem much more difficult. These expert-recommended tips can help you stay on track like these SLUSD fitness warriors at Orange Theory over Thanksgiving Break!

A Joyful December: National Stress-Free Holidays Month

The holidays are a time for joy and connection, but they can also bring stress from planning, budgeting, and managing expectations. This National Stress-Free Family Holidays Month, remember to prioritize your mental health.

Here are a few tips to make your season more manageable:

• Adjust traditions if they feel overwhelming.
• Say “no” to commitments that add stress.
• Plan ahead to stay organized.
• Share your feelings with someone you trust.
• Take time for self-care.

If you need extra support, Care Solace offers confidential, complimentary help connecting to mental health services:

• Call 888-515-0595 (24/7 multilingual support)
• Visit www.caresolace.com/slusdfamilies

For immediate help:

• Call 911 (request a Crisis Intervention Team response)
• Text “Hello” to 741741
• Call 988 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Wishing you peace, joy, and well-being this holiday season.

Empathy on Empty: Compassion Fatigue and Chronic Stress with Caregiving

Caregiving for elderly people, people with chronic conditions, or mental health disorders can be challenging and can take a substantial toll on the caregiver. Learn more about caregiving, how it causes burnout and compassion fatigue, and how to care for yourself when caregiving.

Can We Ease Loneliness With a Little Gratitude?

A new study suggests that people who give thanks tend to feel less disconnected from others. Expressing gratitude may also improve overall mental well-being and strengthen relationships. Read more here.

Where Do We Go From Here?

In the wake of the 2024 election in the United States, what is one step we can take toward a more inclusive, cohesive, and compassionate society? See strategies here.

SLUSD Pet of the Month: Georgie, Meatball, and Yella McYella Lundholm

Say hello to the furry family of Benjamin Lundholm, one of the new Assistant Principals at San Leandro High School!

Georgie and Meatball Lundholm, a pair of fluffy-tailed sisters who’ve been part of the Lundholm family since being adopted from the Alameda shelter during the pandemic. These part-Maine Coon cats helped their humans get through tough times and have become known for their unique "gifts," which range from leaves and sticks to less-appreciated surprises like mice and colorful wrappers.

Joining them is Yella McYella, an orange tabby with many nicknames, including Bacon McTivis and The Midnight Nibbler. Once a timid visitor, Yella wandered through the family’s cat door years ago and never looked back. Though his gifts to the are fewer, his drooly affection has cemented his place in the family.

Do you know an adorable SLUSD pet that deserves some virtual tummy kisses? Send to communications@slusd.us and share the joy!

Garlicky Mushroom & Kale with Linguine

For all mushroom lovers, this savory creamy one-pot pasta dish with mushrooms and kale is quick, easy, and simply delicious!

Ingredients

• 12 oz. linguine (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or 1/4 cup water/broth (for oil-free)
• 1 large shallot or 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 6–7 large garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 lbs. (32 oz.) sliced mushrooms (button, crimini, shiitake, porcini, etc.)
• 1 bunch kale (stems removed, julienned) or 5 oz. baby kale
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme, herbes de Provence, rosemary, or Italian seasoning
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Mineral salt & fresh cracked pepper, to taste
• 2 cups vegetable or miso broth
• 1/2 cup vegan cream, aioli, canned coconut milk/cream, or Miyoko’s liquid mozzarella
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions in a large pot. Drain and set aside.
2. Using the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat (or water/broth for oil-free). Sauté shallot/onion for 4 minutes. Add garlic, mushrooms, herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until mushrooms release moisture, about 5–6 minutes. Add kale and cook until wilted.
3. Stir in broth and cream. Mix well, then add the cooked pasta. Continue cooking until the broth is warmed through.
4. Divide into individual bowls, spoon juices over the top, and garnish with cracked pepper and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Notes

• Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor or a can of drained and rinsed cannellini or Great Northern beans for protein.
• Use spinach instead of kale if preferred.
• Swap linguine for bowtie, penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free options like rice or quinoa pasta.

(Credit: Simple Veganista)

Cranberry Almond Energy Bites (No Bake)

Naturally sweetened and easy to make, these Cranberry Almond Energy Bites are a wholesome, no-bake treat perfect for snacking or dessert! Made with almonds, cranberries, and oats, they’re vegan, nutritious, and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw almonds
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (11–12), chopped
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until the mixture is crumbly and well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for 20 minutes to stiffen slightly.
3. Using a tablespoon, scoop the mixture into rounded mounds and roll into 1-inch balls.
4. For a polished look, roll the bites in shredded coconut or almond flour to prevent sticking.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 2–3 months. Thaw before eating.