Maria Huisha moved to Connecticut from Ecuador in 2008. She knew two words in English: yes and no. This past February, she received her high school equivalency diploma, and now, college is on the horizon. Maria’s journey was not an easy one, but thanks to Mercy Learning Center, a Bridgeport-based organization that provides literacy and ​​life skills training to low-income women, she had all of the support she needed to not only learn English but also experience the empowerment and confidence that comes with continuing her education.

Grat·i·tude: The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness.

It's that time of year again, the time when we rush toward the holidays in a frenzied state of acquiring joy. Families come together. Generational food rituals are elevated. Gifts are acquired at a dizzying pace. Social gatherings are taken to another level. The lists are long, and the line between celebration and exhaustion is as precarious as walking on a tightrope.

Every year, I tell myself that this year will be different. This year, I'll approach the holiday season in a more measured way—holiday chill, balanced. I've got this all figured out. And then mid-November arrives, I find myself in the Starbucks drive-through, determined to get my hands on a hot mocha-something-or-other in the newly released holiday cup just so I can "feel festive" while embarking on the seasonal hustle and bustle. It dawns on me—I'm doing it again.

This year, let's consider a new idea: a gratitude challenge.

Open Doors is a housing and homeless services organization based in Norwalk that provides resources for individuals and families on the path to housing stability.

Core to their model, Open Doors recognizes that the best way to end homelessness is to stop it before it happens. The prevention programs assist area residents as they gain sustainable housing and find financial stability and success.

At the most fundamental level, tackling food insecurity is the base on which all other services sit.

In order for clients to find their path in life, Open Doors knows basic human needs must be taken care of first. The first step in building this foundation? Ensuring everyone has a healthy meal on their table.

I’m a terrible shopper. I’ve no idea what I’m doing. I rely on friends and my daughters (and their friends) to get through. Why? Every time I try to go it alone, I end up returning what I bought after my teenagers scoff at me (and yes – I do mean scoff).

Full confession, because why not? We’re all neighbors here. Not too long ago a friend came over and made me take maternity pants out of my closet (my youngest is 16). I also had an abnormal number of sweater twin sets from the 90s. I think I’ve said enough….

I recently dropped my oldest child at college and the months leading up to it were filled with advice and well wishes. All of which I devoured. So, I thought it was only fair if I paid it forward with some of the things I learned from our experience. Here goes…

Check out our conversation about the balancing act of letting go, mother-daughter relationships, the college admissions process, the joys and “sads” of this time of transition, and so much more!