June 2025 by HeartheldMagazine

HEARTHELD

MAGAZINE

FEATURING TWISTED CHARCUTERIE

RECIPE: THE EASY CARROT CAKE THAT YOU NEED IN YOUR LIFE SCREEN FREE, HEALTHY, AND FUN: HOW TO CREATE SUMMER ROUTINES

ROMANTICIZE YOUR LIFE: TURN YOUR EVERYDAY INTO A CINEMATIC MASTERPIECE

GUESTSOFHEARTHELD

ExecutiveEditor Grace-FilledBusiness

PHOTOGRAPHY

Nicole Zee Photography

DonnaleaFerguson AroundtheNook

RitaSjouwerman Papers&Prose

JessicaSchultz

JasmineJenne CreativeDirector

SarahWarrener

AngelavanLeeuwen Wellness

We acknowledge that we are on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional meeting ground, gathering place and traveling route to the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Metis, Dene, and Nakota Sioux

It belongs to those who came before us We are learning to listen, to remember, to be grateful and to allow voices previously silenced to be heard

We are grateful for the traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders who are still with us today and those who have gone before us

As a media publication we recognize our responsibilities and roles in sharing these stories and our contributions within narratives. We hold ourselves and Heartheld accountable for these, and pledge to embrace the heart of the treaty with love.

FIND SELF-CARE STELLA

Hidden between pages 3 - 48 of Heartheld Magazine is our very own Self-Care Stella.

When you find her, send heartheldmagazine@gmail.com an email with a photo of your magazine and the page number you found her on to be entered to win

A $25 gift certificate to Bliss Medispa.

CREATIVEDIRECTOR

Dear Heartheld Community,

I’ve been reflecting on the little moments that bring me joy. It’s so easy to get caught up in the big picture, but I believe happiness can often be found in the everyday

Whether it’s sharing a quiet moment with a loved one or simply enjoying a cup of coffee, these small, beautiful moments remind me that life is full of simple magic.

I hope you can find a little happiness in your own everyday moments this week, and remember that the most beautiful stories are written in the little things

In love and kindness, Jasmine Jenne Creative Director || Heartheld Magazine

Community is built in the small moments, kind words, shared laughter, and showing up for each other.

Together, we create something bigger than ourselves.

Grace-Filled Business

Effective, Grace-Filled Business Advice For A Digital Age

Ask A Digital Expert

Q: If I delete my Instagram app and download it again, will I lose my reel drafts?

A: YES! You will.

This is a big pet peeve of mine, but at the moment if for any reason you have to delete/redownload the app, any drafts you had will NOT be saved

This situation might come up if the app is being glitchy and you need to delete and download again to correct the problem, or maybe you've upgraded your phone and you are migrating your info from the old one to the new one.

So what can you do to save all that hard work? I have two suggestions

1 Just post them! A lot of us (myself included) hoard reels because we aren't sure if they are good enough If you've been hesitating, just hit post I guarantee you it's better than you think it is

2 Download without audio If you've created a bunch of content for future posting and want to save it, go into the reel as if you are editing it. In the top left of the menu you'll see a download arrow A prompt will pop up asking if you wantto save without audio (this is your only option) Click "Save", then wait until you see the "Saved" text pop up on the screen

I like to add one additional step to this and save a screenshot of the audio so I remember what I used

Click the audio button

Click "Controls" from the top menu

Click edit under the audio you have on that reel and click "Edit track"

Now take a screenshot! Click done and exit your reel as you normally would

TRUE OR FALSE?

Instagram recommends content based on keywords

Verdict? This is TRUE!

Instagram uses keywords to help users find content related to what they are searching for/interested in If you are posting a chocolate chip cookie recipe, you'll want to make sure that you mention those words in your caption or reel text so users who search for that term can find you.

If you create your reels on a 3rd party app, make sure you add text inside Instagram's reel editor once you upload it so that it's still searchable If you already have text on the reel, you can still add text inside Instagram but make it really small so you can hide it/make it invisible

THAT WORK AT HOME / PARENTING BALANCE

Writer: Jessica Schultz

Q: How do you continue to work from home during seasons where your kids are off school (if you don’t want to/can’t arrange childcare)?

A: Ooh boy, I know this struggle well I started my business with the ultimate goal of being able to be home with my children while still experiencing the fulfilment that a career/business brings to my life

But that meant getting creative with my schedule in order to do both of these things to the best of my ability This is really an “eat your cake and have it to“ kind of situation - it does not work perfectly, but it does work

I’ve been self-employed for four years now, and it’s been a beautiful journey These are the things that have worked for me and my family:

1. Determine how many hours you need in order to accomplish the work on your plate. Once you know this, look at your schedule and figure out where you have pockets of time available Are you an early bird? Consider getting up an hour or two before your household to have some quiet time to work Are you a night owl? Pick a day of the week and put an hour or two of work on your calendar after the kids go to bed

If your kids are young enough to still have a dedicated nap time, I found this to be a really wonderful time to get some tasks done that don’t require intense focus I say this because there is always the possibility of being interrupted during nap times and ending up working while snuggling a little one or two

2. Find ways to incorporate your kiddos. This might not be for everyone, but I enjoyed being able to set this example for my kids and include them in this part of my life My kids would colour beside me at my desk or build themselves pretend computers out of paper and “work“ at the same time that I did. In order to make this work, I would make sure I had a few activities and snacks ready for them before I started working And again, I made sure to save my intense, focus-required work for the quiet blocks of my day

3. Maximize the screen time. If you allow your kids a certain amount of screen time each day, make sure that you are prepared to make use of that time before you start I would get my kids set up for screen time and then dive right into a project that required my focus and I knew could be done in that allotted amount of time.

4. Swap childcare with a friend. While we chose not to have full-time childcare, it was helpful to swap child care with another work at home mom one day a week We would each take the kids for one day [allowing the other person an uninterrupted workday], and then switch the following week This wasn’t always a possibility, but in the seasons it was it was very helpful and my kids loved spending this time with their friends.

This has been my journey and I am incredibly grateful for the challenge and privilege of living it There are so many different ways to live a good life and I certainly am not advocating that mine is the only way or best way But, if you do find yourself in a situation similar to mine I hope that this article will be of some help to you

~ Jess

Papers & Prose

Some stories are told in ink, some in colour, some in the quiet spaces between.

Each month, Papers & Prose brings you a spread of inspiration words and imagery woven together to spark creativity, reflection, and a moment of pause. These pages are yours to interpret, to sit with, to take as a starting point for your own thoughts and artistic expressions.

Use them as a backdrop for journaling, a place to add your own sketches or quotes, or simply as a reminder that creativity takes many forms. However these pages speak to you, let them be a space where art and words meet in a way that feels personal.

M A K I N G T H E M O S T O F S U M M E R

Screen-Free

Ah, summer - the season of sunshine, longer days, and the perfect excuse to break away from the usual routine. School’s out, work schedules might be a little more flexible, and there’s a sense of adventure in the air. It’s the perfect time to slow down, soak up the warm weather, and make memories as a family

But let’s be real summer can also be a time when routines fly out the window, screens take over, and before you know it the season has slipped away without doing all those things you swore you’d do. If you’ve ever reached September wondering where summer went, you’re not alone!

So, how do we make the most of this beautiful season, ensuring our families stay connected, healthy, and present? Here are some simple (and fun!) ways to maximize family time while keeping screens to a minimum, enjoying nature, and building habits that will last long after summer ends

Get Outside (and Stay There!)

One of the best ways to keep everyone off their devices is to make the outdoors the place to be. When kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) are engaged in fun outdoor activities, they won’t even think about screens.

Here are some easy ways to make nature the centre of your summer:

Plan a weekly adventure. Whether it’s hiking, biking, kayaking, or just exploring a new park, make it a family tradition to get outside together every week.

Eat meals outside. Breakfast on the deck, picnic lunches, or BBQ dinners under the stars it doesn’t have to be fancy, just a change of scenery

Create backyard fun. Set up a sprinkler, build a tree fort, or start a small garden Simple things can turn your yard into the best summer hangout

Try a no-screen challenge. Pick a day (or weekend!) and challenge the whole family to go completely screen-free. You might b surprised at how much everyone enjoys

BuildHealthySummerHabits

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Create Meaningful Traditions

The best part of summer isn’t the big vacations it’s the little traditions that bring your family together Maybe it’s Friday night campfires, Saturday morning pancake breakfasts, or a family hike every Sunday These small traditions become the things your kids look forward to year after year If you don’t have a summer tradition yet, why not start one this year?

Here are a few ideas:

A summer photo journal (let the kids document the season in their own way)

A homemade ice cream night every week (add some fresh fruit from the farmers market!)

A backyard campout under the stars (trampoline sleepovers are super fun!!)

A summer bucket list with fun, simple goals - have everyone write some ideas on a list!

Soak It All In

Summer flies by. The long days turn into cool evenings, and before we know it, we’re buying school supplies again This year, let’s be intentional about slowing down, being present, and making the most of every sunny day

Ditch the screens (at least some of the time), get outside, build healthy habits, and create simple but meaningful traditions that your family will remember for years to come Because at the end of the day, summer isn’t about doing everything - it’s about being together

Now go grab your sunglasses and get outside!

“Big doors swing on little hinges.”

~ W. Clement Stone

Reflect on ways you can replace screen time with meaningful moments

hello I’m Angela van Leeuwen

Your Burnout Recovery Coach & Habit Change Specialist I’m a Certified Health and Life Coach dedicated to helping professional women break free from burnout.

With a focus on habit change and self-care, I empower my clients to reclaim their energy, balance their busy lives, and prioritize their well-being all while creating sustainable, life-changing routines. And the best part is that you can do this even with the most demanding schedule

When it comes to a demanding schedule, I know all about it! I’m a wife, mom, employee, business owner, and volunteer in my community. We also live on an acreage which means extra work and longer drives (our teenage daughters are in sports so we are always on the go)

I used to suffer from burnout and when I crashed, I needed help That’s when I discovered the power of coaching Now, I get to help others navigate their over-scheduled lives and THRIVE while doing it

The Identity Shift: Navigating Who You Are Beyond ‘Mom’

There I was, standing in HomeSense’s home décor section, completely frozen. I had a rare hour to myself and a gift card burning a hole in my pocket. Yet instead of feeling excited about this small slice of freedom, I felt overwhelmed.

What did I even like anymore?

When was the last time I made a decision that wasn’t influenced by tiny humans?

If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation –whether it’s forgetting your favorite hobby or realizing you haven’t listened to your own music in months –you’re not alone The identity shift that comes with motherhood is real, and while it’s beautiful, it can also be disorienting

The Great Disappearing Act

Motherhood has a way of consuming us entirely One day you’re confidently pursuing your passions, and the next, you’re deep in the trenches of motherhood, barely remembering the last time you had bodily autonomy Your identity becomes wrapped up in feeding schedules, diaper changes, nap schedules and bedtime routines

Don’t get me wrong – being a mother is an incredible gift. But somewhere between the midnight feedings and the endless loads of laundry, many of us lose touch with the woman we were before we earned the title of “Mom.”

Why Maintaining Your Identity Matters

Here’s the truth: being “just a mom” isn’t enough – not because motherhood isn’t valuable, but because you are a multifaceted human being with dreams, desires, and interests that deserve attention.

There are many benefits when we maintain our sense of self:

Our children learn that women are whole people with interests and passions

We model healthy boundaries and self-respect

We bring more energy and joy to our parenting

We create a sustainable approach to motherhood that prevents burnout

Here’s What Rest Can Look Like (Even in the Chaos)

A quiet 10-minute coffee alone before the house wakes up

A walk around the block while listening to your favorite playlist or podcast

Saying no to one more commitment, even if it’s “just a quick thing”

Letting the kids have screen time so you can sit down and breathe

Reaching out to a friend or community (like The Balanced Mom Community) who get it

One of my own simple rituals that helps in those really tough moments is counting to 5 It’s honestly a quick and easy practice to make sure that my own emotions don’t add fuel to an already tense situation Those few seconds of pause can be the difference between escalation and calming

Starting the Journey Back to You

Remember Who You Were

Take a moment to reflect on your premom interests

What made you light up?

What conversations got you excited?

These parts of you haven’t disappeared; they’re just waiting to be rediscovered.

Start Small

You don’t need to sign up for a weekend retreat (though if you can, go for it!).

Start with tiny steps:

Choose one song you love to listen to during drop-offs

Read a non-parenting book for 10 minutes before bed

Wear an outfit that makes you feel like YOU

Moving Forward

Remember the HomeSense story? I eventually bought a laundry bin and a journal. They weren’t life-changing purchases, but they were choices I made just for me

That tiny step led to more –rediscovering my love for writing, starting a blog, and eventually creating space in my life for both motherhood and personal growth

Your journey back to yourself might look different, but it matters

You matter

Not just as a mother, but as the complex, interesting, whole person you are.

Join me on Instagram where I help moms find balance, selfcare, and joy in the chaos

Local Love

THE HEART & HUSTLE BEHIND THE HOME

Sarah Warrener

POV: YOU INVITE YOUR FRIENDS & THEIR KIDS TO JOIN YOUR FAMILY AND MEET AT SASSY G’S FOR SOME FAMILY FUN THIS SUMMER!

It all started when we were given a dark green emu egg If I didn’t know better, I could have been convinced dragons were at large Our friends Graham and Jocelyn Morsky dropped off a little surprise for the family, courtesy of Sam (Graham’s mom), one of the owners of Sassy G’s Adventure Farm

I had heard about Sassy G’s. I’d heard there were emu’s. And outdoor games. I heard it was a cool adventure farm, and I’d been MEANING to get the kids out there…and, well, we’ve been counting down ever since our emu egg experience. I called up some friends to join us for a private tour before the park opens.

You guys.

It was SO much better than I imagined! By far the coolest hobby farm experience we’ve ever had The variety of animals was unbelievable: emus, peacocks, yaks, sheep, goats, a donkey, a draft horse, geese, rabbits, alpacas I’m sure I’m missing a few The animals weren’t even, can I say, “normal” Just a couple examples:

The sheep weren’t *just* sheep, they were the ACTUAL google definition of ‘the cutest sheep in the world’ (you can google it to see)

The rabbits weren’t *just* rabbits - they were German Giant Continental Rabbits

There were Yaks YAKS They look like tiny bison

Sam was pulled in many directions the morning we arrived, with a variety of mama animals bursting at the seams A sheep had just given birth and more were on the way Still, she graciously toured us around and introduced us to every animal, each with its own name I say the kids were on cloud nine, but let’s face it, the adults were having JUST as much fun

Our tour began as we met at ‘The Big Purple Barn’ - when you go, you’ll know

We went inside to meet Sam - “Granny” of Granny & Grandpa, founders of Sassy G’s She was bottle feeding a brand new baby lamb while mama was recovering nearby with the 2 other brand new babies Just as our group finished arriving and congregated in the barn, our already exciting adventure exploded to a whole new level when a herd of tiny goats and Valais Black Nose Sheep (read: the cutest sheep in the world) burst into the barn to join us.

We made our way around the pens to meet all the animals. The little goats bounded by, jumping and nibbling in adorable chaos. The little sheep toddled after the kids the whole way. Our farm tour was accompanied by the most adorable entourage.

Sam toured us by the toddler tent - filled with every play structure imaginable, the toddler playground, the full-size playground, the water gun course, the obstacle course, tractor pull, duck races, and the endless variety of giant games for all ages We also learned about the up and coming sensory park and a wheel-chair friendly playground later in the year They have thought of everything, and everyone Truly, fun for the WHOLE family

It was early in the year, so the orchards weren’t ready of course But coming later in the season is a Haskap U-Pick with over 13,000 Haskap bushes That’s where it all started, I learned: a U-Pick with a few animals and by demand, opened its doors for onlookers to ‘meet the animals’ And Sassy G’s grew from there

The farm is a self-guided experience, allowing for groups to go at their own pace. Which is fantastic incase like me, your daughter creates a special bond with a random animal… like an emu, in our case. You can linger awhile if needed.

The self-directed aspect is facilitated by many educational storyboards throughout the farm. There is even a specific ‘farm education’ space with many colourful storyboards to learn all about farming!

I’m not sure about you, but I find it so fulfilling to do activities with the WHOLE family I love activities where we can invite our friends, our kids' friends, the grandparents, our 2 year old niece, etc, and all have fun making memories together What Sassy G’s offers is the coolest opportunity for just that I highly recommend you add it to your summer 2025 ‘bucket list’!

BLISS MEDISPA BOOK NOW

WWW.BLISSMEDISPA.CA

At Bliss MediSpa, we’re dedicated to delivering an exceptional medi-spa and wellness experience Our team is passionate about supporting your well-being with high-quality products, personalized care, and a calming atmosphere that prioritizes health, responsiveness, and respect

Proudly serving Edmonton for over a decade, we’ve expanded our offerings to include life coaching, nutrition planning, acupuncture, and IV vitamin infusions ensuring a holistic approach to wellness. We also specialize in advanced medical aesthetics, including laser treatments, microneedling, chemical peels, Hydrafacials, dermaplaning, and more. Whether you’re looking to enhance your glow or target specific skin concerns, our expert team delivers visible, tailored results.

Our 8,000-square-foot facility features state-of-the-art treatment rooms, a tranquil yoga studio, IV therapy pods, and serene couples’ massage suites each space designed to help you relax, recharge, and feel your best.

HydraFacial 101:

Why Everyone’s Obsessed (And Why You’ll Love It Too)

If you’ve spent any time scrolling Instagram or chatting with friends about skincare, you’ve probably heard the buzz about the HydraFacial and trust us, the hype is real.

At Bliss MediSpa & Integrated Wellness, HydraFacial has quickly become one of our most requested treatments, and for good reason It’s gentle yet powerful, customizable, and delivers instant glow-worthy results with absolutely no downtime

Whether you’re prepping for an event, giving your skin some overdue TLC, or building a longterm skincare plan, here’s everything you need to know about this client-favorite facial and why we think you’ll be just as obsessed as we are

What Exactly Is a HydraFacial?

HydraFacial is a non-invasive, multi-step treatment that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin using a patented vortex-fusion technology It combines clinical-level results with a luxurious facial experience

Think of it as a high-tech facial that not only feels amazing but also visibly improves your skin from the very first session

The Signature 3-Step Process

Cleanse + Peel

Extract + Hydrate Fuse + Protect

A gentle exfoliation and resurfacing step removes dead skin cells and clears away impurities, revealing a fresh new layer underneath.

Using painless suction, the device removes debris from pores while simultaneously delivering intense moisturizers to quench your skin.

Antioxidants, peptides, and other nourishing ingredients are infused into the skin to promote long-lasting radiance and protection.

Why Clients Love HydraFacial

Still wondering what makes it so special? Here’s why HydraFacial is the go-to treatment for skincare lovers and beauty pros alike:

Immediate Results: You’ll leave your appointment with noticeably softer, smoother, and more radiant skin no redness, peeling, or downtime

Safe for All Skin Types: HydraFacial is gentle enough for sensitive skin, yet powerful enough to tackle oily, acne-prone, or aging skin

Customizable Add-Ons: From brightening boosters to lymphatic drainage and LED therapy, your treatment can be tailored to your exact skin goals

Deeply Hydrating: Ideal for Edmonton’s dry climate, HydraFacial replenishes moisture where your skin needs it most.

Perfect for Events: Glowing skin is just 30 minutes away, making it the perfect preevent or self-care pick-me-up.

Who Is HydraFacial Best For?

Literally everyone But especially if you’re:

Dealing with dullness, uneven texture, or dryness

Looking to reduce fine lines or boost firmness

Struggling with congested pores or oily skin

Wanting a non-invasive treatment with no downtime

Whether you’re just beginning your skincare journey or looking to enhance your routine, HydraFacial is a safe, effective, and feel-good option to add to your wellness plan

Experience the Bliss Difference

At Bliss MediSpa, we go beyond the basics. Each HydraFacial is delivered by experienced professionals who take the time to understand your skin, answer your questions, and create a personalized plan designed just for you.

Ready to fall in love with your skin?

Book your HydraFacial today at Bliss MediSpa & Integrated Wellness and treat yourself to the glow-up you deserve. Your skin will thank you–immediately.

F I N D I N G

What is Mindfulness and How Do We Practice It?

“MINDFULNESS IS AWARENESS THAT ARISES THROUGH PAYING ATTENTION, ON PURPOSE, IN THE PRESENT MOMENT, NONJUDGEMENTALLY”

- JON KABAT-ZINN (MINDFUL,

2015)

Mindfulness is an Intentional Practice

Mindfulness is the practice of observing, accepting and creating awareness of the here and now (Aghaie & Ghomian, 2021) The benefits of a mindfulness practice can include self-acceptance, positive relationships with others and self, autonomy, purposefulness in life, and personal growth.

Mindfulness has been described as a set of skills that builds the “top-down” reflective parts of selfregulation, including greater attention and cognitive flexibility, while also reducing “bottom-up” distractions, such as impulsiveness and rumination (MacDonald, 2021, p 156)

This type of mindful self-regulation helps with emotion regulation and the delay of gratification.

Mindfulness Involves More of a Being Rather Than a Doing

The more you do it the more you are being it

Meditation is a form of a mindful practice

Various meditation techniques allow one to act with awareness and non-judgmental mindfulness. Meditations that are grounded in openness, curiosity, and acceptance of one’s thoughts, feelings, and sensations, and have been shown to impact well-being and other facets of mental health

Focused Attention meditations (the observing side of mindfulness) involves paying attention to a specific object or focus, such as the breath, mantra, word or phrase and repeatedly returning one’s attention to this object when the attention wanders (MacDonald, 2021)

B A L A N C E

Mindfulness Paired with Self-Compassion

Mindfulness is an awareness of one’s experience and suffering, and self-compassion is the portion that addresses that suffering

Self-compassion has been described as "being touched by and open to one's own suffering, not avoiding or disconnecting from it, generating the desire to alleviate one's suffering and to heal oneself with kindness” (Neff, 2003). Enhancing self‐compassion can be an effective way to help improve positive mental health.

Mindfulness strategies may reduce factors like emotion dysregulation and cultivate factors such as kindness and the experience of positive emotions Self‐compassion has been linked to emotional awareness and acceptance (Carona et al, 2022)

Now Practice Mindfulness

Begin your mindfulness practice today with simple deep breathing

Three deep breaths all the way to the belly Feel the breath as your presence, ground yourself in the here and now.

Notice Notice how you felt before and how you feel after

There are many guided meditations, and deep breathing exercises on YouTube to try out as you begin your mindfulness practice Experiment with what feels good for you at that time

Notice. Invite compassion in, invite curiosity in. Just Notice.

For more information you can also visit the trusted site of https://jonkabat-zinncom/

Disclaimer: Information provided through Balance Psychological Services' posts is meant for educational purposes only This is NOT medical or mental health advice If you are seeking mental health advice, please contact us directly at (587) 985-3132

Easy Carrot C

This recipe for moist Carrot Cake uses pantry ingredients, along with grated carrots, crushed pineapple, coconut and walnuts for a delicious dessert that is so tender and moist!

Ingredients:

3 eggs

¾ cup vegetable oil

¾ cup buttermilk or ¾ T vinegar, with enough cream added to make ¾ cup

Allow to sit for 10 minutes before adding

2 cup sugar

2 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups flour

2 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspoons cinnamon

½ teaspoon salt

8 ounce can of crushed pineapple

2 cups carrots grated

1 cup walnuts coarsely chopped

¾ cup shredded coconut

Instructions:

1.Preheat oven to 350˚F and grease 2 9" round pans.

2.Beat eggs, oil, buttermilk, sugar and vanilla until blended.

3 Add flour, soda, cinnamon and salt Mix until incorporated

4 Stir in pineapple, grated carrots, nuts and coconut

5 Pour into pans and bake 3540 min or until toothpick inserted comes out clean

THE IMPORTANCE OF ADVANCE PLANNING

WHY DO CAREGIVERS NEED TO PLAN AHEAD?

Advance planning is about being proactive rather than reactive. It allows individuals and families to clearly outline wishes, financial decisions, and care preferences before health declines or emergencies occur.

This not only ensures that their desires are respected, but also alleviates a lot of the stress from family members who might otherwise have to make difficult decisions under pressure Without a plan in place, family members are often left scrambling to figure out healthcare preferences, financial arrangements, or continuing care options

These decisions can cause strain and confusion, sometimes leading to family conflict or undesired outcomes for your family member By planning ahead, you’re giving your family the gift of clarity, control, and comfort in knowing that all the bases are covered

BENEFITS OF ADVANCE PLANNING

comes to aging or supporting aging family members. One of the most powerful tools to avoid stress during these times is advance planning

Respect for Wishes: Advance planning ensures that individuals’ preferences are known and respected, whether it pertains to medical treatments, living arrangements, or end -of- life care

Financial Security: A clear financial plan helps families prepare for the costs of longterm care, medical treatments, and other expenses It also identifies resources such as savings or government benefits that can ease financial strain

Reduced Family Conflict: When preferences are documented, family members are less likely to disagree or argue over what they think is best. Everyone can work from a unified understanding.

Emotional Peace of Mind: Knowing that there is a plan in place reduces stress for both caregivers and aging individuals, allowing everyone to focus on quality time together rather than last-minute decisions.

Improved Crisis Management: Having a plan provides guidance during emergencies Family members will know who to contact, what documents are needed, and what decisions align with the individual’s wishes

Better Healthcare Outcomes: Advance planning, such as completing personal directives, ensures medical care aligns with the individual’s preferences, even if they cannot speak for themselves

HOW TO GET STARTED WITH ADVANCE PLANNING

Starting the planning process can feel overwhelming, but taking small steps can make it manageable. Here are some suggestions:

Have Honest Conversations Early: Start by discussing preferences with the aging individual and other family members Talk about topics such as living arrangements, healthcare treatments, financial goals, and end-of-life wishes

Organize Essential Documents: Gather important paperwork, such as:

Wills and power of attorney documents

Personal directives

Financial records (bank accounts, investments, debts)

Insurance policies

Lists of medications, doctors, and emergency contacts

Consult Professionals: Work with professionals like caregiver consultants, financial planners, or estate attorneys to ensure legal and financial plans are comprehensive and legally binding.

Create a Budget for Future Care: Evaluate the potential costs of long-term care, home modifications, or assisted living Identify ways to cover these expenses, whether through savings, or government programs

Develop a Care Plan: Write a plan that includes:

Daily care needs and preferences

A list of caregiving roles for family members or professionals Contingency plans for emergencies or unexpected changes

Use a Planning Guide: A comprehensive guide can simplify the process These tools walk families through important considerations and ensure no detail is overlooked They’re especially helpful for encouraging thoughtful discussions among family members

Revisit and Update Plans Regularly: Life circumstances change Review the plan annually or after major life events to ensure it remains relevant and effective

ADVANCE PLANNING STRENGTHENS FAMILIES

Advance planning is not just about decisions, it’s about fostering cooperation and compassion among family members. When everyone understands the plan, it reduces misunderstandings and ensures caregiving responsibilities are shared fairly.

Siblings, for example, may have differing opinions on what’s best for their parent, but a well-documented plan helps minimize conflict and keeps the focus on providing the best care possible.

By planning ahead, families can focus less on logistics and more on creating meaningful moments together The process empowers everyone involved, providing peace of mind and protecting family relationships

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TODAY

Advance planning offers clarity, control, and reassurance for you and your family member. Whether you start with a simple conversation or seek professional guidance, every step you take brings you closer to a future that feels less uncertain.

Let’s ensure that aging family members can navigate the future with dignity and confidence. Start planning today to provide the comfort and security that your family deserves.

TAMMY LAUTNER

is a Registered Social Worker with over 20 years of experience who has dedicated her career to supporting seniors and their family caregivers With expertise in long-term care, community outreach, and navigating complex systems, Tammy understands the unique challenges aging adults and their families face

Through Peace of Mind Consulting, Tammy empowers caregivers with resources, advocacy, and emotional support to reduce stress and make informed decisions

As a caregiver to her own parents, she brings personal insight to her work, balancing support with their independence Having grown up without her grandparents nearby, Tammy developed a deep compassion for seniors and a lifelong desire to help others navigate aging with dignity Outside of work, she enjoys time with her partner, daughters, and grandchildren, and cherishes the tranquility of summers at their lake lot

heartheld health

Written by Vickie Boechler

Choose Healthy Living Where We Live, Work and Play

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style. Surviving is important. Thriving is elegant.”

~ Maya Angelou

What do we mean by healthy living? When I look at sources for healthy living, a lot of them point to weight loss (which is only a small part of healthy living).

How do we choose healthy habits throughout our life and not just for a limited time period? I want to talk about healthy living across the lifespan, so how do we do that?

I would like to think it means going back to a more basic type of living We are exposed to a highly technological world where we can order a tube of toothpaste from Amazon and have it delivered to our front door the next day. Why can’t we walk to the store to buy the tube of toothpaste? That is a good example of basic living!

When we get down to the basics, we return to a time when life wasn’t so fast paced There were no devices to entertain us, leaving us alone in a room for hours without interacting with anyone So what are some choices for healthy living in 2024?

Choose Social Support

Close and caring relationships are undeniably linked to health and well-being across the lifespan (Feeney & Collins, 2014) A visit to friends can mean a car ride for the whole family on a Sunday afternoon to the farm where friends live Or maybe take a short walk down the street to have tea with an old friend who is housebound Social support is crucial in order to focus on thriving

In the past, people looked forward to the Friday night dances at the local hall where a live band made up of friends and neighbours played music. In Parkland County there are still groups that get together at local halls for dances, but they are few and far between. Social support meant there were groups of women with like-minded hobbies who got together for camaraderie and mental support You can still find some quilting groups in our community who do that People don’t realize it is called social support but that’s what it is

Why can’t we have more support groups, more get togethers while we do our favourite hobbies? How often do we go for coffee with our neighbours? How often do we stop in to visit unannounced without making an appointment?

Choose Family Time

Spend time with your family doing activities like playing chess, cards, and other board games instead of watching a movie. Take the family to Fort Edmonton, Edmonton Valley Zoo, or the Telus World of Science. Make it a family field trip.

Picnics used to be a huge part of socializing before we had recreational vehicles- everyone going would cook all day Sunday, bring potluck, and meet at the lake for the day. We can still do that, but do we? Why not start and make it a tradition?

For example, every second Sunday during the summer we could meet our friends at the nearest lake for a picnic and visit I have a friend who started a breakfast tradition, and they meet at a local lake and have breakfast The group is growing!

Choose Not to Smoke or Quit Smoking

We know that smoking is linked to more than two dozen diseases and conditions, including cancer, heart and lung disease The good news is that most of these risks start to reverse after you quit smoking and sometimes the benefits of quitting begin in a matter of hours (Health Canada, 2016) There are many resources we can access to quit smoking and it has to be a personal choice in order to be successful. Talk to your family doctor or pharmacist if you want to quit smoking. Call 811 (Health Link) or go to myhealth.alberta.ca online to access other resources.

Choose Sun Safety

According to the Canadian Cancer Society (2024), exposure to UV rays from the sun raises your risk of developing both non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers, including eye and lip cancer. We can prevent this from happening. Teach your children to wear sunglasses (with UVA and UVB protection); a hat with a wide brim that protects the entire face, ears and neck and use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on skin exposed to the sun.

UVA rays consists of most of the suns natural light and cause wrinkles and premature aging of the skin UVB rays cause sunburns and are 1000 times stronger than UVA rays They get through clouds, fog, and haze while water, snow, sand, and concrete reflect the suns rays making them stronger Check the UV Index when spending time outside It is highest from 10 am to 3 pm and between April to September in Canada You can find the UV index at https://weathergcca/canada ehtml

Choose to Be Physically Active

Physical activity on a regular basis is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Being physically active can help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, improve your brain health, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities and prevent falls, regardless of age or gender (CDC, 2023)

Being physically active doesn’t mean you have to join a gym I try to choose things that don’t cost anything Biking is free except for the bike, and we can get out most every day and do some kilometres Ride alone or with a friend Bike some majestic trails - one of my favourites is Canmore to Banff and back again

Walking is definitely free in the spring, summer, and fall

Some people like to walk in the rain or shine One October I did 43 walks that I tracked on my smartwatch. Depending on the type of smartwatch you can also track your steps, exercise, and how many times you stand up. I find that keeping track of my activity everyday makes me more accountable, but that is not for everybody. Do whatever makes you comfortable.

Weight

epends on so many things some r, age, muscle and bone mass, unately, there is no magic r ideal weight The closest you healthy body weight range ols to help you, but none are e tools are body mass index to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-toat percentage, waist shape, and line, 2023)

you can work closely with your r a registered dietician (RD) if ese tools for weight ow Canada’s Food Guide (2024) ntrol. Make your drink of choice ein from plants as well, eat s, fruit and whole grain food, cessed foods and saturated fats.

he choices are yours to make e. Be good to yourself and y ng.

Takeaways:

It's not just smokers who are at risk Breathing in secondhand smoke causes over 800 deaths in Canadian nonsmokers from lung cancer and heart disease every year

Being physically active doesn’t mean you have to join a gym

Protect your family’s skin and eyes from the sun - wear sunglasses outside, a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen on exposed skin.

Follow Canada’s Food Guide - make your drink of choice water, choose protein from plants as well, eat plenty of vegetables, fruit and whole grain foods, and limit highly processed foods and saturated fats.

Thisinformationdoesnotreplacethehealthadviceofaphysicianoranyotherhealthcareprofessional

References:

CanadianCancerSociety (2018) Enjoythesunsafely|CanadianCancerSociety AccessedonlineMarch16,2024

CDC(2023) BenefitsofPhysicalActivity|PhysicalActivity|CDC AccessedonlineMarch16,2024

Feeney,B andCollins,N (2014) Newlookatsocialsupport:Atheoreticalperspectiveonthrivingthroughrelationships;PersSocPsycholRev 2015May;19(2): 113–147 NewLookatSocialSupport:ATheoreticalPerspectiveonThrivingthroughRelationships-PMC(nihgov);AccessedonlineMarch16,2024

HealthCanada (2018) HowtofindyourUVindex-CanadacaAccessedonlineMarch16,2024

HealthCanada (2016) Risksofsmoking-Canadaca AccessedonlineMarch16,2024

HealthCanada(2024) Canada'sFoodGuide AccessedonlineMarch16,2024

Healthline (2023) HowMuchShouldIWeighforMyHeightandAge?(healthlinecom);accessedonlineMarch15,2024

TWISTED CHARCUTERIE

Bringing People Together Over Great Food

At Twisted Charcuterie, we believe that good food brings people together and creates lasting memories That’s why we offer a variety of options to fit every need from individually curated charcuterie boxes to our exciting mobile charcuterie cart, perfect for any gathering, big or small

Our charcuterie boxes are a great way to enjoy a personal touch with thoughtfully selected meats, cheeses, and fresh accompaniments Whether you ’ re hosting a small party, a family get-together, or just looking to treat yourself, our boxes are designed to cater to all tastes

We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of choices to suit your specific needs, ensuring that every bite is full of flavour and delight

For those looking to bring an extra element of fun and creativity to their event, our mobile charcuterie cart is the way to go

Ideal for larger gatherings, the cart adds an interactive and joyful experience, allowing guests to enjoy a selection of high-quality charcuterie in a unique, hands-on setting It’s the perfect way to make any event feel special, with the option to customize the spread to fit your guests’ preferences

No matter the occasion, Twisted Charcuterie is dedicated to providing freshly-made, high-quality products that will leave your guests feeling satisfied and, most importantly, happy

Twisted Charcuterie

Email:Twisted _charcuterie@gmail.com

Facebook:TwistedCharcuterie

Instagram:Twisted_Charcuterie

Charcuterie Workshops: Learn, Create, and Enjoy

We’re not just about serving delicious spreads we also love sharing the art of charcuterie! Our workshops are a fun and interactive way to learn the ins and outs of crafting the perfect charcuterie board

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, our hands-on workshops guide you through selecting the best meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, all while teaching you the skills to create a beautiful, balanced board It’s a great way to tap into your creativity, share a memorable experience with friends, or simply indulge in the joy of delicious food

Each workshop is designed to be relaxed, engaging, and, of course, filled with plenty of tasting and fun!

PW Design and Co.

Are you a working mom who often feels overwhelmed and exhausted? Do you find it challenging to balance your professional responsibilities with your personal life? If so, this FREE workbook is designed specifically for you!

Using this workbook, you will gain insights into the detrimental effects of burnout on your physical and mental well-being It will guide you through various self-care techniques that can help you recharge, reduce stress, and improve your overall happiness

Key topics covered in this workshop include:

1.Understanding the concept of self-care and its significance for working moms.

2.Identifying signs of burnout and the impact it can have on your life.

3.Exploring different self-care practices and finding what works best for you.

4 Strategies for setting boundaries and managing your time effectively

5 Nurturing your relationships and building a support network

6 Overcoming guilt and prioritizing self-care without neglecting your responsibilities

7 Creating a self-care plan tailored to your unique needs and circumstances

By the end of this workbook, you will have a deeper understanding of the importance of self-care and how it can positively impact your life as a working mom You will leave with practical tools and strategies that you can implement immediately to avoid burnout, enhance your well-being, and thrive in both your personal and professional spheres.

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and discover the power of self-care. Sign up now for the “Importance of Self-Care for Working Moms: How to Avoid Burnout and Thrive” workbook and take the first step towards a healthier, happier, and more balanced life

Men and Women’s Designer Fashions

Knighton & Co. is a family-owned lifestyle store located in downtown Spruce Grove, Alberta. Our main focus is to provide quality service and products to our customers. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to serve you.