Tag: #throwbackthursday

Throwback Thursday

amymcforduvall

Throwback Thursday to four years ago, in 2021, our family took a leap into something new — becoming fosters for Homeward Pet Adoption Center.

Since then, we’ve had the joy (and occasional chaos!) of fostering 25 animals — one sweet puppy and 24 adorable, mischievous kittens. Along the way, we’ve learned how to gently help extremely unsocialized animals learn to trust, and how to nurse sick ones back to health so they could thrive.

Every single foster brought their own personality, challenges, and moments of pure joy into our home. Fostering has been one of the most rewarding ways we’ve been able to give back to our community — helping animals in need get the love, care, and stability they deserve before finding their forever homes.

Here’s to all the fosters, adopters, and volunteers out there making a difference — one paw at a time. And to our sweet past foster babies who found their new beginnings: Wanda, Natasha, Clint, Lollipop, GummiBear, Candy Cane, Bruno, Mirabel, Louisa, Ralph, Felix, Taffyta, Vanellope, Sequoia, Sycamore, Spruce, Banyan, Gingko, Charlie, Betty, Marjorie, Heartbreak Prince, York, Kit Kat and Skittles ❤️ Just some of these cuties pictured here. If you want to see more check out @McHenryFosterFam on Instagram.

Throwback Thursday

amymcforduvall

Throwback Thursday to one of my favorite chapters—my time as an education docent at Woodland Park Zoo 🐾

Before starting our family, I spent much of my free time volunteering at the zoo, helping visitors connect with wildlife and the wonder of the natural world. Whether answering curious questions about ocelots or sharing fun giraffe facts, I loved being part of those “aha!” moments—for kids and adults.

In 2007, I had the special assignment of Tiger Cub Watch with Hadiah, a young Sumatran tiger. It was unforgettable—crowd control, visitor education, and nonstop vigilance to keep both Hadiah and the public safe. She drew huge crowds, and our job was to protect her space and help others respectfully experience wildlife. It was one of the most memorable (and adorable) roles I’ve ever had.

That time at the zoo shaped values I still carry: curiosity, lifelong learning, and the power of community connection. A single conversation can shift someone’s view of the world—and I’ve never forgotten that.

Throwback Thursday

amymcforduvall

Throwback Thursday to the Veterans Day Assembly at Cherry Valley Elementary last year.

I was honored to speak with students about the importance of Veterans Day—and the deep gratitude we owe to those who have served. It was a beautiful reminder that even the youngest members of our community can understand and appreciate the values of sacrifice, service, and citizenship.

I also shared a bit about my own Dad, a proud veteran whose example inspired my own commitment to public service. His integrity, humility, and dedication to country shaped how I show up—not just in leadership, but in life.

It’s also important to recognize the families of those who have served. They sacrifice so much—living with uncertainty, frequent moves, and long absences from loved ones. Their support and resilience are a quiet but powerful part of every veteran’s service.

Thank you to the staff at CVE for creating space each year to honor veterans and teach our kids what service really means.