They Fostered More Than 130 Children

Also: Hawaiian lei maker honors her late grandmother, a 101-year-old veteran graduates from college, and more.

Hello Friends! 👋

Today, we're celebrating the 28th anniversary of the film Braveheart, which debuted at the Seattle Film Festival on this day. Starring Mel Gibson as the 13th-century Scottish war hero Sir William Wallace, the film reintroduced one of Scotland's most important figures to the Western world, captivating audiences and critics alike.

The film’s remarkable achievements include 10 Academy Award nominations, of which it won five including Best Picture, Director, Score, Cinematography, and Makeup. While there may be debates about the historical accuracy of Braveheart, there's no denying its influence. Now, 28 years later, its legacy is still felt, inspiring filmmakers and audiences worldwide.

Alright, now it’s time to dive into some good news stories from around the globe! 👇

Quote of the Day 🗣

“The only thing we never get enough of is love; and the only thing we never give enough of is love.”

— Henry Miller

Hawaiian Lei Maker Honors Her Grandmother 🌸

via Meleana Estes

From a young age, Meleana Estes was deeply entwined with the traditional Hawaiian craft of lei making, taught by her renowned lei maker grandmother, Amelia Ana Ka‘opua Bailey. Growing up in Honolulu, Hawaii, the sights, smells, and feel of the lei-making process were constant companions. Estes doesn't remember an exact moment when she was introduced to this culturally significant art form, as she says, "it's just in you and around you your whole life." Bailey, who was also an esteemed seamstress in the 1960s, defined herself as a "renaissance lei maker," picking up more challenging lei-making techniques during the '60s Hawaiian Renaissance - a cultural revival that she proudly passed on to her granddaughter.

In the wake of her grandmother's passing in 2012, Estes created leis more frequently and even conducted workshops across the Hawaiian Islands. Her connection to her grandmother's craft didn't come from a "revelation," but rather an organic process that evolved naturally. Today, Estes is known for more than just her lei-making skills; she is a celebrated author of the book "Lei Aloha," which explores Hawaiian culture through the art of lei-making. Apart from her writing accomplishments, Estes has collaborated with famous designers and created accessories for fashion week runway brands. However, her work at home, such as crafting a flower chandelier or a table runner for a local event, gives her the most satisfaction. "I'm honoring her by sharing aloha through lei," Estes shares, continuing the legacy of her tūtū and nurturing the age-old tradition among younger generations.

They Fostered More Than 130 Children 👨‍👩‍👦

via Colorado Department of Human Service

In 1989, Pueblo couple Cora and Stan Krol pivoted from their newly empty nest to foster care, transforming their lives and those of over 130 children. The Krols' approach to fostering has been marked by immense love and an emphasis on life experiences, which includes an annual family vacation to diverse locations. Their journey has not only influenced their biological daughter, Tammy Walton, now a foster parent herself, but also touched the lives of countless children who, despite their varied paths, are united by the shared bond of being part of the Krol family.

Cora emphasizes the urgent need for more foster homes in Pueblo County and beyond, given the escalating number of children in need of care. Cora remains hopeful that more people will respond to this calling, inspired by the children's desire for love and attention. As she notes, "I think once they try and see how these kids are so hungry for attention and love, you can't help but want to help them."

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Fantastic Finds 🔍

Graduating at 101. A 101-year-old veteran finally gets to walk the stage during his college graduation ceremony.

His sister’s protector. A 13-year-old boy saved his sister from a suspected kidnapper using the only thing he could find - a slingshot.

Graduating decades after expulsion. A 74-year-old musician gets his high school diploma decades after being expelled from the same school for his hairstyle.

🎥 His sister’s protector. A social media influencer surprised a traffic controller who recently lost her husband with Detroit Tigers tickets and $500.

🎥 A surprise from overseas. A Navy father flew in from overseas to surprise his daughter at her college graduation.

🎥 Bison stampede. A videographer captured an incredible video of a Bison stampede in Yellowstone National Park.

Post of the Day 👀

Those days you feel like there’s no point in giving an effort… 🤣

@kwash7

My sons the catcher 😂😂😂 #baseball #perulittleague #catcher #fyp #foryou #foryourpage #fypシ

HapiReview of the Day 🎉

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