Casa Alterna, ever vibrant and alive, has recently welcomed two newborns to our family. Amid the joyful laughter and lively conversations that normally fill the air, the addition of children has only heightened the energy within our walls. During the final week of November, as families gathered around tables to express gratitude, our Casa Alterna family expanded in numbers and boundless love.
Let us joyfully welcome baby E. and baby M. into the warm embrace of Casa Alterna. Out of respect for the privacy of these families, we won’t unveil the infants’ photos or names here. Yet, we express our profound gratitude for the trust the families have placed in Casa Alterna. The combined meaning of the babies’ names, “beloved strength,” embodies the beauty and resilience within Casa Alterna’s walls, visible now more than ever.
Our home now accommodates eleven residents, including six members under 18. This is uncharted territory for us. Yet, amidst this new journey, the Advent values of hope, peace, joy, and love remain our steadfast North Star guiding us on this remarkable journey. As the candles flicker on your Advent wreath or menorah, or in whichever traditions you find solace, we ask you to hold the strong and beloved residents of Casa Alterna in the Light.
Now is the season to reflect on the essence of love. Love, beyond sentiment, is a powerful force that compels us to welcome strangers, stand in solidarity with the marginalized, and offer refuge to those in need.
In this season of gratitude and generosity, we invite our friends and cherished supporters to join us in witnessing the emergence of a more beautiful world. Your contributions—whether financial, through volunteering, or spreading awareness—are instrumental in shaping the lives embraced at Casa Alterna. We extend heartfelt gratitude for your continued support in making our shared vision a reality.
Happy birthday, E & M! Today, as we celebrate your arrival, we eagerly anticipate the fullness of love and light yet to come to Earth.
(Photo Credit: Ralph at Gratis Graphics – Free to use under Creative Commons License.)
Casa Alterna 
“Uncharted territory” were the words that stayed with me after reading your email about the Grant Park home. It is where we make our mistakes and where we find our surprising blessings. I am holding you all when I light our advent candles. – Sally
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