HEARTHELD MAGAZINE
HEARTHELDTEAM
Treaty 6 Land Acknowledgment
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
Heartheld Photography
Hi,I’mJasmine,CreativeEditorialPhotographerforHeartheldMagazine Ilovebringingmagic tolifethroughboldcolour,creativeset-ups,andcollaborativeideas Alwayslookingtotravel andexplore-let’sdreambigandthenbringittolife
Blackheart Photography
Black Heart Photography
Hi!I’mFelicia IamtheassociatephotographerforHeartheldMagazine!I’manamateur photographerwholovescapturingthecandidmoments,anythingactionpacked&thesweetlittle smiles I’mabusymamato4kindsouls,Ilovebeinginthemountains&cowsmakemesohappy �� Youcanfindmeoninstagram@ blackheartphotography
Nicole Zee Photography
Hi,I’mNicole! I’maSpruceGrovephotographerwhoisdrawntobeautifulnaturallight,calming tones,simpleitems,andlovingconnection WhenI’mnottakingpictures,Ilovepaintingand workinginmygarden Ifyoulovelightandairy,true-to-colourphotos,I’dlovetoworkwithyou! wwwnicolezeephotographycom
Lisette LeBlanc Photography
Hi,I'mLisette!I’manaturallightphotographerwhoresidesinStAlbert,AB Ihaveapassionfor documentingdetailsinasessiontopiecetogetherastory Ialsothriveonminimalistnatural portraitswhenIamworkinginmystudiospace Connectwithmehere: lisetteleblancphotographymypixiesetcom
JessicaSchultz LynnGale
LindsayMacDonald FiddleLeafLearning +KidsCorner
BritneyRobinson Heart-LivedAdventures
ChrisNeumann BalancingBusiness Celebrations& nspirations
JessecavanderLoop
AnnetteWolshlager AffrmatonsbyAnnette
VickieBoechler HearthedHealth
JasmineJenne Publsher/Editor-n-Chef HeartheldMoments
PHOTOGRAPHY
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 Romantic Notions.
FEBRUARYCORRECTION
The February edition of Spaces with Heart featured beautiful photos of the home of Heartheld community members Barry and Melissa Unfortunately, the interview we shared was incorrect and belonged to March’s Spaces with Heart feature in reference to Nathalie’s home.
If you would like to read Barry and Melissa’s interview you can find it on our website at www.heartheldmagazine.com.
Dear Heartheld Community,
As I delve into the theme of planting seeds this month, I'm struck by how our journey with Heartheld began with a simple idea planted years ago Today, we're witnessing the fruits of those early seeds - a vibrant community dedicated to rest, rejuvenation, and self-care.
Here at Heartheld, we deeply believe that true change starts from within By nurturing our dreams, cultivating growth, and finding inspiration in the world around us, we've created a space where kindness, compassion, and purpose thrive.
I invite you to join me in reflecting on the seeds we’ve planted and the journey that has led us to this moment. Let's celebrate the growth, the challenges overcome, and the bonds that have been formed along the way
As we continue to evolve and grow, may this season of new beginnings inspire us to keep planting seeds of kindness, compassion, and positivity in our hearts and minds, knowing that they will bear fruit in their own time
Thank you for being a part of our Heartheld community. I hope this edition of the magazine bring you joy and inspiration.
In love and kindness, Jasmine Jenne
Editor-in-Chief || Heartheld Magazine
Grace-Filled Business
Ask A Digital Expert...
Q: What are KPIs and why are they important for marketing my business?
A: KPI is an acronym that stands for Key Performance Indicators A key performance indicator is anything you can measure in order to determine whether or not a specific marketing strategy you have chosen has been successful.
I’ll use a social media based example to explain - let’s say you are creating a social media marketing strategy intended to raise brand awareness A key performance you could use to gauge the success of this campaign would be the engagement on the posts in question Depending on your other goals, you might be most interested in how many people viewed the posts, how many shared it, or how many liked it
KPIs will be different for every business and for every specific campaign or business goal you are monitoring
TRUE OR FALSE?
I can use any image or video I want on my business social media pages, even if they aren’t mine.
Verdict? This is FALSE!
While Canadian copyright and intellectual property law does allow for “fair use” of media for personal or educational purposes, things get a bit more complicated when using media commercially If you want to ensure you don’t infringe on someone’s IP rights, only use images that you own or have specific license to reshare.
HOW TO STAY ORGANIZED
Writer: Jess Schultz
When you own a small business, you wear ALL the hats. You are often the manager, merchandiser, sales person, marketer, and more. It can be hard to stay on top of all the tasks required of you.
In my experience, there is no one organizational system that works for everyone. Some people love paper planners and lists, others swear by digital calendars and reminders.
I always advocate that the best system is one you will use. If you find that your day planner is collecting dust on your desk, it might be time to re-evaluate your system Take a moment and reflect on your habits
Digital, physical, or both? I’m a big fan of writing things down on paper, but I hate lugging around physical planners I do, however, always have my phone with me Because of this, I use my phone to plan anything I will need access to when I’m out and about When I’m at my desk making a task list for that day, I will write it out on paper
2
1 Is it a task/event that requires a reminder at a specific time? If I’m needing to remember to do a task or attend an event at a specific time, I will put those in my phone and set reminders for appropriate intervals If it’s a task/event that simply needs to be attended to at some point, I organize those items in list format in an appropriate location (my office, a calendar in the main living area, etc )
4.
3 Be flexible! Most importantly, understand and accept that it’s unlikely for any one system of organizing your personal and/or professional life to last forever. In each season of life we need to be reflexive, assessing what’s working and what’s not and adjusting accordingly.
How frequently does it need to be used? Chances are you will need to have multiple check-ins at various points. For my business, I like to set annual, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily goals and tasks. In my personal life, I like to plan most things out weekly (meal plan, chores) but also keep a calendar of each month’s events.
As in all parts of life, I would encourage you to approach creating organizational systems with plenty of grace. It might take time to figure out what works for you, and that’s alright. The only time we really fail at something in this life is when we choose to give up Keep going ��
Heart-Lived Adventures Reconnecting With
Your Creativity
Creativity is a beautiful journey, full of highs and lows Whether you're juggling work, family, or other responsibilities, finding moments of inspiration can be both exhilarating and challenging Here are some tips to help you make the most of those high creative moments and navigate the lows with grace
When Creativity Is High
Capture The Spark: Keep a journal or a notebook handy (bonus points if they are pretty and bring you joy) to jot down those bursts of inspiration Whether it's a new recipe idea or a creative project, having a place to store your ideas ensures they won't be lost in the hustle and bustle of life
Let Your Imagination Soar: When creativity strikes, don't hold back! Whether you're planning a special event or redesigning a room, let your imagination run wild. Embrace the joy of creating something truly unique and special.
Connect With Other Creatives: Join a crafting group, attend a local art class, or simply chat with other creative individuals online. Sharing ideas and experiences can be incredibly inspiring and can help fuel your own creativity
When Creativity Is Low
Create A Cozy Haven: Sometimes, all you need is a cozy nook and a warm drink to get those creative juices flowing Create a peaceful corner in your home where you can retreat and let your mind wander Surround yourself with things that bring you joy, whether it's a favorite book, a scented candle, or a plush blanket
Take A Nature Break: Step outside and soak up the beauty of nature A walk in the park or a visit to a botanical garden can be incredibly rejuvenating and can help clear your mind Listen to the sounds of birds chirping, feel the breeze on your skin, and let nature inspire you.
Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining a healthy creative flow. Whether it's a relaxing bath, a yoga session, or simply taking a few moments to breathe deeply, make self-care a priority. When you take care of yourself, you'll find that your creativity naturally begins to flourish once again.
Creativity is the spark that ignites imagination, the fuel that drives innovation, and the magic that transforms dreams into reality.
Meditation and Journaling Prompts
Do one action of self-care each day and add a heart to the grid to track your progress.
To My Future Self...
FAVOURITE SONGS
Things that bring me joy...
People I want to connect with soon...
Celebrating 20+ Years in Business
Romantic Notions
A Local Boutique For Every Body
Step into the world of Romantic Notions, where bras are just the beginning!
This speciality store is all about celebrating every body, offering inclusive sizes from AA to O. But it's not just bras – they've got your swimwear, ladies' fashion, and even men's lounge wear covered!
In our chat with the Romantic Notions team, we explore their passion for making everyone feel fabulous and find out what sets them apart in the world of intimate apparel
Where did this journey start?
Robin's journey started with first being a client of Debi's Intimates and eventually blossomed into a friendship, and then a partnership (but not that kind ��). Debi’s Intimates would eventually become Romantic Notions with Robin as the sole owner, however Debi and Robin remain great friends to this day!
Romantic Notions has changed through the years, and what started as a small bra store now carries a huge selection of everything from bras to men's loungewear The warm feeling people get from this store is a byproduct of a team that are more friends than co-workers and who share a love of empowering women
The why behind it all...what was the heart and motivation behind this adventure?
Both Debi and Robin had above average cup sizes, and struggled to find comfortable bras that also were pretty and feminine. Wanting to make sure other women did not struggle the same, they started vetting bra brands and companies to find ones that had the quality and variety they wanted Once they found them, they were excited to share them with other women who wanted more from their undergarments
Ourteamismorethanjustcoworkers,theyarefriendsandfamily!
In our store, it's like hanging out with friends We laugh together, face the struggles together, and genuinely care about our clients
It's not just about selling; it's about shopping alongside you Whether it's getting you ready for a party or supporting you in your day-to-day, we've got your back. We don't treat you like a customer; we treat you like a friend we’re helping shop!
So, kick back, have a laugh, and let's make your time in our store feel like a shopping trip with your squad!
Romantic Notions Bingo
How to Play:
Grab your bingo card from the magazine. Have fun shopping, complete the tasks below at Romantic Notions, and share your progress on social media to be entered to win a prize!
Shop and Share to Win:
Mark off bingo squares for each task or item you buy. Try to complete one line in any direction. Be sure to snap a pic and share on social media when you visit Romantic Notions (and don’t forget to tag @heartheldmagazine).
Be Entered to Win a Prize:
Share your completed bingo card (one line, any direction) on social media and tag @heartheldmagazine. That’s it! You're automatically entered to win a prize once you share your completed bingo card. Stay tuned for winner announcements on our website and social media.
Mystic Healing and Cleansing
a natural way to heal ~
where energy meets harmony ~
rei·ki (/ˈrākē/):
A healing technique based on the principle that the therapist can channel energy into the patient by means of touch, to activate the natural healing processes of the patient's body and restore physical and emotional well-being
Reiki is a gentle yet powerful healing practice that taps into the universal life energy to promote overall well-being By facilitating the flow of this vital energy through a practitioner's hands, Reiki helps individuals find relief from stress, emotional imbalances, and physical ailments
This holistic approach not only aids in relaxation but also accelerates the body's natural healing processes
The benefits of Reiki extend to improved mental clarity, emotional harmony, and a deeper connection to one's inner self, offering a path to profound selfawareness and spiritual growth. Whether you seek stress relief, physical healing, or a renewed sense of purpose, Reiki can be a transformative journey towards balance, vitality, and inner peace.
Phone: 587-337-2393
mystichealingandcleansing
mystichealingandcleansing
Reflexology is a nurturing practice that fosters deep relaxation and self-care By gently applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears, this holistic therapy promotes a sense of well-being and balance within the body Each reflex point corresponds to different organs and systems, offering a gentle way to support overall health.
Incorporating reflexology into your self-care routine can help reduce stress, alleviate tension, and enhance your body's natural healing abilities. It's a soothing and comforting practice that encourages you to prioritize your well-being and connect with your body's needs.
FROM DRESSY CASUAL TO BLACK TIE: NAVIGATING DRESS CODES FOR EVERY INVITATION
Have you ever found yourself staring at an invitation, wondering, "What do they mean by that?" Whether attending a formal event or joining a casual gathering, mastering dress codes is crucial for leaving a positive impression and seamlessly blending into diverse social settings
Navigating these style guidelines not only ensures you fit in with the norms and expectations of each event but also allows you to feel at ease, exude confidence, and maintain a professional appearance Join me in demystifying dress codes and discovering how to effortlessly navigate them with style and confidence!
Black Tie
When your invite has the words “black tie” on it you know this is going to be a classy and sophisticated event! A black tie event is a very formal event where you will want to portray an image of elegance and sophistication. It’s usually reserved for events like weddings, charity galas, or elegant balls. For women, a full-length, formal evening gown is the go-to, accompanied by tasteful accessories like statement earrings and a clutch Elegant high heels finish off the polished look If the event is in a cooler climate, a classy shawl or evening wrap can be a stylish addition
Men should opt for a well-fitted black tuxedo, complemented by a crisp white dress shirt, polished leather dress shoes and, true to its name, “black tie attire” includes a black silk bow tie
Accessories such as a pocket square and an elegant watch add the finishing touch to the ensemble
“In a tuxedo I’m a star. In regular clothes, I’m a nobody.”
- Dean Martin
Formal Attire
If you see “formal attire” on an invite, think of a flexible interpretation of black tie Women can explore shorter dresses with fun prints and pops of colour, while men can opt for fitted, darkerhued suits. Black ties are optional and can be replaced with fun prints or colours. The key here is to let your personality shine through your fashion choices while maintaining an air of sophistication.
Cocktail Attire
Cocktail attire strikes a balance between formal and casual Women can choose dresses of "cocktail length" or slightly above the knee Jumpsuits, chic pants suits, and skirts are all perfectly appropriate as well Men can dress up with a shirt and tie or go for a more relaxed look with chinos and an unstructured suit jacket Accessories play a crucial role in completing the ensemble, adding a touch of style and personality If your dress is colourful consider neutral accessories, but if your outfit is neutral, consider a pop of colour for your shoes and bag
“There's a real power in heels and a good dress.” -Talulah Riley
Semi Formal
Semi Formal is a smidge less formal than cocktail attire It's a way of asking guests to wear something nice without requiring them to purchase an expensive gown or rent a tux Examples of semi-formal attire for women include jumpsuits, pant suits and cocktail dresses Complete the look with simple and minimalist jewelry Men should choose a dark suit paired with a tie Bow ties are reserved for black tie and formal events Keep accessories simple: use a belt that matches your shoes, a pocket square that compliments the shirt, and a nice wristwatch.
Dressy Casual
What does that even mean?! Dressy and casual seem like opposites but think about blending relaxed everyday pieces with more formal items Think blouses or dress shirts combined with a blazer, dark jeans and heels or sneakers One or two pieces of simple jewelry complete the look Men can opt for nice trousers and a button-down shirt and for a more polished look, a lightercoloured suit without a tie works well It's all about pairing pieces of different formality levels
“You can never go wrong with a pair of jeans, a cool tailored shirt, and a nice jacket. You can dress it up with a more stylish jacket or a bracelet, watch, or necklace. It's simple, but it's cool. That's my opinion.” - Julian Edelman
ABCs of Feelings
Children are like little emotional sponges, soaking up feelings and learning how to deal with them as they go As parents and caregivers, we've got a front-row seat to helping them figure it all out. One huge piece of it all? Emotional regulation - a skill that, when learned at an early age, really helps set the stage for a happy, healthy life.
Think of emotional regulation as the ABCs of feelings. It's about helping our littles recognize, understand, and deal with all their big (okay, HUGE) feelings It involves developing skills to label and identify different emotions, understand personal triggers for emotional responses, normalize and validate all feelings, and use helpful strategies to cope and regulate emotions in a healthy way
When we think of emotional regulation, a lot of the time we think about a few specific things: deep breathing, counting backwards, calm down corners
No matter what the tools are that you use with your big feelers, the idea is that we load up that tool box with different and helpful tools to make managing those feelings a whole lot easier.
When working in Emotional Behavioural Therapy and while working closely with Occupational Therapists, I loaded my own toolbox with some useful tips that have changed my parenting experience completely
The topic of emotional regulation is so huge and probably one of the most important we will discuss For this article I am going to focus on three strategies you may not be familiar with
So, let’s get into it!
Tip #1: Deep Pressure
Deep pressure is my secret weapon for calming my little ones – it can be used anytime, anywhere, and with almost nothing needed. Deep pressure techniques help influence the autonomic nervous system (ANS), the part of the nervous system responsible for regulating our breathing and heart rate, among other things With simple deep pressure tricks, our kids' anxious and overwhelmed bodies begin to find their calm again
With my youngest, she hit a milestone where her outbursts were nearly impossible to manage The one thing that would help was when I would give her body little squeezes I'd apply gentle squeezes up and down her legs and arms, which would eventually turn into me giving her a big bear hug (if she'd allow me to) She loved being swaddled as a baby, which is us as parents using deep pressure without even knowing it
What's amazing about the internet is that you can now find so many fun products like weighted stuffed animals, weighted lap pads or blankets, and other incredible products I’ve never even heard of before
And what’s amazing about us caregivers? We give the best hugs So the next time your kiddo is having trouble, wrap your arms around them tightly, and just know that by doing that alone you’re helping regulate their nervous systems without over complicating a thing.
Tip #2: Environmental Changes
Something that really heightens my anxiety? Mess. Clutter. Things out of place.
Our environments have a huge effect on how we feel, especially as children. Reducing clutter, maintaining an organized space, and creating an environment in and around your home where your little one can go to to relax and feel safe and comfortable are crucial for their development Whether it be a calm down corner filled with the best sensory tools out there or just a quiet clean space with a book, dedicate that spot specifically to help your child find their calm
When we talk about the environment, my favorite part is the luxury of picking up our overwhelmed kiddo and heading out the door Being in nature is one of the best cognitive and emotional boosters out there As important as the space inside our homes is, it’s just as crucial to immerse our little ones in nature too Going outside and practicing tuning into their senses is so helpful and fun What can you hear? What can you see? What can you smell? Touch the tree bark, what can you feel?
Tip #3: Visual Supports
While working in the field, I used visual supports to help students enhance their emotional awareness and assist my big feelers in communicating their needs for a break and for help in regulating Visuals help children learn to regulate their emotions in a safe way, providing appropriate choices, identification of feelings, and age-appropriate tools to help process their big feelings
I’ve attached a link to one of my favourite ready to print and use visual support boards! (Visuals not made by me, but definitely used by me)
Understanding and supporting our kiddos emotions is a crucial part of raising them Whether it's a tight hug, a tidy space, or visual aids, these approaches offer practical ways to help your child manage their big emotions in a safe and healthy way By incorporating these strategies, you're building a toolkit that fosters emotional well-being and guides your child through the ups and downs of all their feelings
Thank you for reading.
Visual Support Link
Open your phone’s camera and point it at these codes When the yellow link button appears, click it to be directed to the website.
F I N D I N G
What is Equine-Assisted Therapy?
If you're searching for a unique and transformative approach to mental health and emotional well-being, equine-assisted therapy might be right for you
Equine-assisted therapy, also known as horse therapy, is a powerful form of therapy that combines the healing power of horses with evidence-based therapeutic techniques
How Does Equine-Assisted Therapy Work?
Equine-assisted therapy sessions involve a client working toward their therapeutic goals through interactions with both a horse and a therapist. It involves activities such as: grooming
B A L A N C E
What Are The Benefits Of EquineAssisted Therapy?
Some clients find that they are able to face their issues faster and with more motivation through equine-assisted therapy than in a traditional officebased therapy setting.
The majority of this therapeutic work involves being with the horse on the ground However, if the client is interested and it seems like it may be beneficial to therapeutic progress, he or she may sit on or ride the horse once a relationship has been formed.
Is Equine-Assisted Therapy Covered By Insurance?
Equine-assisted therapy may be covered by some insurance companies, but coverage can vary depending on the specific insurance policy and provider We recommend that you contact your insurance company directly to inquire about coverage for equine-assisted therapy.
Equine-assisted therapy is one of the many modalities offered at Balance Psychological Services If you are interested in starting your own therapy journey or are looking for equine-assisted therapy in Edmonton & area, you can reach out to the Balance team by calling (587) 985-3132 or emailing info@balancepsychservicesca
INSTEAD OF REACHING OUT. I’M REACHING IN. I’M COMING HOME TO MYSELF.
Balancing Business
Inspirations for work - life balance |
From Idea to Pride: Igniting Passion in Your Business
Writer: Chris Neumann
The beginning of my journey to establish a small business was filled with excitement Fuelled by big dreams, I dedicated myself to hard work Wild ideas were tossed around, and failure was never an option.
However, over time, it seemed like the sparkle in my business was slowly dimming. Like all new things, the "new car smell" had worn off How could I recapture that initial excitement and passion I once held?
Recently, a package of merchandise I ordered for my business arrived at my doorstep Since my business is service-based, I don't often need to order anything As I opened the box, I saw the logo I had designed with my own two hands It was like seeing my dream come to life! That moment re-ignited a sense of pride in my business.
Years ago, I identified a need, had an idea to fill that need, and, with the help of those around me, I created something very real I hav assisted real people in achieving their goals As we worked, I reali something important My business wasn't just about making mo was about helping real people achieve their goals. We were cre something meaningful, and that realization fuelled my passion e more
Now, I want to share this excitement with you If you feel like the in your business is dimming, remember the reasons why you star in the first place. Reflect on your dreams and goals. And just like I find something tangible, something real, that you can be proud o
Whether it's a product, a service, or the positive impact you're making in people's lives, celebrate it! Share your achievements with those around you You are doing something amazing, and it's worth getting excited about.
So, let's cheer each other on You can do it! You are doing it! This is going to be a good year for your business
Reignite that passion and let the sparks fly!
The "New Car Smell" Effect:
The phenomenon of the "new car smell" is not just for cars! Businesses, like any new venture, experience a surge of excitement at the beginning. It's completely normal for that initial thrill to wear off, but finding ways to reignite it is what makes the journey exciting and sustainable.
How to Play:
When you've completed all 9 activities on your bingo card, tag Heartheld Magazine (@heartheldmagazine) in a post or story on Instagram to let us know
Everyone who completes their bingo card will be entered to win a prize!
THAT DECOR STUDIO BRINGS YOU...
HEART Spaceswith
We adore spaces filled with intentional design and heart, and we were honoured to be invited into the home of Nathalie, a Heartheld community member, to see the redesign she did!
What was your inspiration for this space and how did it come to be?
We decided to move out of the city to find some peace and tranquility and we were looking for a space surrounded by nature Once we found our lot we knew we wanted to take advantage of the southern exposure for our long winters and we wanted to use as much material as possible that would reflects elements in nature, so we designed with a minimalist approach, keeping things open and being mindful of wasted space
What unique elements did you include in this space to showcase your personality and style?
We tried to include something in each room that could be a conversation started We kept our main materials to concrete, walnut wood and steel with a backdrop of white throughout We pulled the walnut through various aspects of almost each room, did the whole house in concrete floors with radiant heat as our primary heat source and did an oversized fireplace in hot rolled steel which can also be see on the backside of the kitchen island Our front door was a custom liquid metal finish so when people arrive they are immediately struck with something unique and entirely different
What made you choose the blinds that you chose for this space?
We wanted to have something that would blend in and be invisible to the eye when they are up, with the ability to have light come through if they are closed or partially closed. We also wanted a solid option for privacy in certain rooms when the blinds are in a fully closed position Based on the colors and styles in the house the blinds we picked maintain a slight industrial yet classic look so they are a perfect fit
They allow for versatility in our house and blend into the space beautifully Whether you see them from the interior or the exterior you get the exact same effect and that was an important factor for me Since the exterior of our house is black I wanted to ensure the exterior side of the blinds matched and blended in naturally - these do exactly that
What advice would you offer to someone who is designing their own space?
I would say try to have a point of view, look at a ton of reference materials, go with your gut and design something you are proud of and that you love every single day There is no right or wrong, it is simply a matter of taste and what brings you joy, happiness and peace
What did you love about working with That DeCor and Marie?
Marie was nothing but professional, kind, and knowledgeable - she graciously spent 2 different rounds of reviews with us to ensure we got exactly what we wanted and what would work best for us She knew her blinds, materials and pros/cons of all If she was unsure of something she went back to find out and always had an answer She communicated throughout and measured twice to ensure our blinds we fit. The installation team was fast, super friendly and did an amazing job installing and showing us how everything works. I really enjoyed working with Marie and the team and would recommend their services to anyone in the areas.
I am simply grateful to have had an opportunity to build something that is uniquely us and to live in a space that offers a daily retreat and a sense of peace. Thank you for allowing us to share a little bit about our home with you.
Marie Lizotte aka “Dodi”
Who loves window treatments?!? This girl right here is obsessed with them Marie is a self proclaimed “thrifty” decorator and the window fashionista with the mostest
Finding a practical niche in this industry was an aaaaaha moment for Marie She realized how much window treatments could affect rooms and could really make or break them You could spend a tonne on your new couch, but if the curtains look like sheets that couch is not going to shine like it could
Window coverings are an investment and Marie will guide you through your options so you can make decisions based on what is important to you, your home, and your budget.
That DeCor also has an array of suppliers that offer unique options to suit every space Marie believes in decorating your space from a place of heart and love and connecting with other local businesses throughout our projects
PARENTS’ CORNER
By: Lindsay MacDonald
THE BEST WAY TO MULTIPLY YOUR HAPPINESS IS TO SHARE IT WITH OTHERS
THE STRUGGLE IS REAL: TO SHARE OR NOT TO SHARE
Balancing the needs of your child and the desire of wanting them to become a good person can be a struggle at times. We often experience this struggle ourselves when the lines between giving your time and energy to others and taking care of yourself become blurred
But do we recognize that this blurred line can exist for our children, too?
As adults we can balance being kind and giving of our time and resources with knowing our limits and reserving time for ourselves as needed But our children don’t have that capacity, especially not when they are young So how do we teach them to strike a balance?
Well, before we get into that we need to understand the correlation between the two. When we think of adults giving their time and resources we think of volunteering, donating, etc. but when it comes to children it looks more like sharing toys, sharing snacks, and giving their stuff away
This is where it gets tricky Let’s say for example that you want your child to share their snacks or toys with a friend and you are instructing them to do so out of kindness. This is a great quality to develop, but one that must be carefully constructed over time
But what if your child doesn’t see the scenario the way you see it? What if they feel like they are giving something of theirs away and they won’t ever receive it back?
So where do we go from here?
Well, I still think it is important to teach children to share But it is equally important to teach children about boundaries
This could look like helping your child to establish what items they are okay with sharing and what items they are not okay with sharing
What if they don’t understand why you are asking them to do this?
All of these feelings are not uncommon for young children to feel, and are totally valid.
For perspective: Imagine you just picked up a new phone, the latest model, and you run into a friend Would you ‘share’ your new phone with them and let them use it for a few days? Probably not.
So why would we ask our children to hand over their prized possessions?
And this is the struggle we want our children to learn to be kind, to share, and to be good humans but we don’t want to hurt them in the process
Here are a few tips:
Any extra special items should be for your child only and you can guide them in creating boundaries for these treasured items
Timers are a great way to support sharing and can be used to facilitate the process For example, if child A is the owner of a toy truck and child B would like to play with that truck, the grown-up can facilitate sharing by letting both children know the expectations: child B can use the truck for X minutes and when the timer goes it’s time for child A to have it back. Remember to keep the length of time reasonable so that both children feel that it is fair.
After your child has shared something with another and has had their item returned to them, you should praise their kindness and let them know that you appreciated them allowing their friend a short time to enjoy! Don’t forget, communication plays a key role here, too
Kids' Corner
Hi friends, Ms. MacDonald here! This section is just for you to have some fun and learn a new joke or two!
This month we are talking about being a good friend! Here are a few ways you can be a good friend:
Use kind words when talking to your friend.
Play games that you like to play and games your friend likes to play too.
Share your snacks with your friend (as long as your grown-ups say it’s okay). Spend time with your friend. Remember it’s okay to make new friends too!
Knock, knock
Who’s there? Waa. Waa who?
Just Jokes
Knock, Knock
Who's there? Says. Says who?
What are you so excited about?
Says me, that’s who!
How do we know the ocean is friendly? It waves!
What do you call a tree with lots of friends?
Poplar!
S I M P L E S E L FC A R E
Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone
Sometimes self-care means stepping out of our comfort zones. It’s called a comfort zone for a reason and it’s a great place to hang out! Occasionally though it’s fun to look at, and try, something new or different – to explore a different dimension of ourselves It’s not about making it part of your life permanently (although it can be!); instead, it’s more about the doing
During these times, success is based on the ‘trying’ There is no failure
I had one of these experiences last August when I participated in Mud Girl – a series of seventeen obstacles over a five km course. It’s not a race, it’s an event. It’s also all women participating – of all shapes and sizes and ages. This day wasn’t about competition. The event is not timed. It’s you against – or with – yourself and your teammates , facing challenges and personal fears such as deep murky water, heights, and crazy slippery mud.
I was anxious and unsure but deep inside, something wanted me to do this About halfway through the course, I relaxed and became not only a participant, but an observer It was mind blowing and amazing
All the women were helping each other It didn’t matter if it was a teammate or a stranger Verbally, physically, and mentally, women were joining hands, pushing butts (literally!) and dragging each other up and over mud mountains, through pools of mud, over and under obstacles, and up and down slides and netting. It was one of the most perfect, exhilarating, and life-affirming moments of my life. And there wasn’t only one - the whole event was full of them, from start to finish.
WrittenBy:LynnGale
It made me curious about why this experience was so earth-shattering to me. I pondered the fact that men grow up in a culture that typically exemplifies teamwork but usually women’s pursuits are more individualized. For example, hockey versus figure skating. Some exceptions are soccer and women’s hockey but those are relative newcomers.
As I mentioned in an earlier column, it’s usually woman versus woman in our culture – in workplaces, in relationships, in personal lives Seeing women supporting each other is uplifting and the sense of camaraderie takes your breath away How powerful and successful women become when we boost each other up instead of tearing each other down!
I missed three of the obstacles – the tall climb and slide, the teeter totter (too many memories of getting whacked on the butt or head by those babies), and the final climb over My fear of heights and falling got the best of me, although I did get part way up each one, only to turn around when my vision blurred because my limbs were turning to spaghetti in fear I had hit the wall
BUT I was still successful! I tried, I went, I played, I conquered fourteen, and I failed three That’s 82% MORE of a win than I would have had if I hadn’t even gone to the event And yes, I will do it again next year and see if I can get past one of my three walls
Consider what you can do to step outside your own comfort zone. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. One of my favourite artists, Jann Arden, says this: “You can do hard things”.
Yes, you can do hard things … just look inside and you will see. Namaste.
PS The Heartheld community is a wonderful example of women supporting women While we do not actually play in the mud, sometimes it feels like we are over our heads Each issue is a sparkling testament to Jasmine and her team, of which I am proud to be part
POETRY CORNER
Seeing Clearly Voir Clairement
I saw some cool steampunk gla endless arms, lenses of all colou and abilities. Each one designed to see where usually eyes could not into souls into dreams into fears
Into someone’s very essence
Seeing clearly what not one else did through eyes unaided by magic and illusion
From L’Opacite: A Collection of Poetry/Une collection de poé, 20
heartheld health
Written By: Vickie Boechler
HEADS UP!
PROTECT YOUR BRAIN FROM INJURY
“Brain
injuries are like snowflakes and fingerprints. No two are the same ” Wendy Renzuller
A really warm welcome to our March issue of Heartheld We are all so excited because spring is on the way! This month, I want to talk about brain injury because March is brain injury awareness month
In March, Albertans are still curling, skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling waiting for the first signs of spring. When the snow is gone, and the pavement is clean, bicycles, motorcycles and e-bikes start appearing Later, as the weather becomes warmer, jet-skiing, water-skiing and boating become popular There are so many recreational activities that put our brains at risk, and these are just a handful of them
What is a Concussion? A brain injury is called a concussion. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow, bump or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move back and forth rapidly (such as in motor vehicle accidents) This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce back-and-forth, around, or twist inside the bony skull, creating changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells and causing swelling and bleeding in the brain. Depending on the type of head injury you might have a mild concussion or a serious concussion. (CDC, ND).
Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion
Soon after the head injury, signs and symptoms begin to show up You may not know at first how serious the injury is, and some symptoms may not show up for hours or days. For example, in the first few minutes after the head injury the person might be a little confused or a bit dazed, but an hour later might not remember how he/she got hurt Some head injury symptoms can even last a few months
The More Dangerous Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion (CDC, 2019)
• When checking the persons pupils with a light, one pupil may be larger than the other.
• Some people become drowsy or cannot wake up at all after they fall asleep.
• The person develops a headache that gets worse and worse and does not go away.
• The person has slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
• The person has episodes of vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching)
• There may be unusual behaviour for that person such as increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation
• There may be a loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out) Even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously.
• The person does not know anyone, the time, place or what day/month it is.
• The person has balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision The person may be bothered by light or noise
Head Injuries in Babies and Toddlers may be harder to spot Changes to watch for include inconsolable crying or fussing, refusing to nurse or eat, vomiting more than once, swelling of the head or the baby’s soft spot, balancing difficulties when sitting or walking, and being unresponsive.
An adult or child experiencing some or all of these symptoms after a brain injury should be assessed by a physician If any of the more dangerous signs and symptoms are present, the injured person should be assessed in emergency as soon as possible Another option is to call 811-Health Link to be assessed virtually by a registered nurse who will tell you what to do next When in doubt, always call 911 first.
Child Safety
Make living and play areas safer for c your child’s playground meets the pl standards The Canadian Standards A developed standards about safe mat equipment, surfacing, layout, mainte information to help keep children sa make sure your playground is safe an ask an inspector certified by the Can Safety Institute (CPSI) to visit your pla Canadian Certified Playground Inspe online at cpsionlineca to find an insp community can reduce playground i injuries by following CSA guidelines.
Install window guards to keep young falling out of open windows In highlow windows the child is most at risk the top and bottom of stairs for youn the home. All it takes is for an infant walk to the stairs and tumble down t a head injury that was preventable T children are no different – some child even though they have good depth p 3D) (Turbet, 2020)
Child Seat Safety
From birth to 2 years of age: a rear-facing car seat is recommended
From 2 to 6 years of age (or weighing <40 lbs): must be properly restrained in a forward-facing car seat
Children over 6 years of age or weighing >40 lbs: should use a booster seat until they reach the maximum height and weight (as stated by the manufacturer) and a seat belt fits properly (RCMP, 2023)
Treatment
Before a physician can treat a person’s head injury, a CAT Scan may be done to help them pinpoint the location of the brain injury and how serious it may be The CAT Scan is the test of choice for detecting an acute clinically important brain injury (NICE, 2023) The doctor will do an assessment and history and ask if there have been other concussions, any mental health disorders, any learning disabilities, and if there are any stressors in the person’s life Treatment is sometimes decided by a team on a case-by-case basis Each brain injury in a person is unique and treatment is customized by the physician or specialist for that person. Follow up is essential so the physician can track progress or worsening symptoms; brain injury recovery can take a very long time!
Long Term Effects of Brain Injury
Individuals who survive a severe traumatic brain injury may be left with impairments or disabilities in one or many areas (Gueli, 2023) such as:
• Senses: hearing, sight, smell, touch
• Cognition: ability to process information or follow directions, memory, judgment, and attention span
• Motor skills: paralysis, spasticity, balance, coordination
• Communication: speaking, understanding speech, choosing correct words, reading, writing
• Activities of Daily Living: dressing, bathing, cooking, eating, paying bills, driving a car
• Social Skills: relationships, making friends, responding to other people
• Regulation: sleeping, bowel, or bladder control
• Psychology: mood changes, anxiety, depression, aggression
D any otherhealthcareprofessional RESOURCES CentersforDiseaseControlandPrevention (2017) Checkforsafety:AhomefallpreventionchecklistforolderadultsAccessedNov4/23onlineatCheckForSafetyAHomeFallPreventionChecklistForOlderAdults(cdcgov) CommunicableDiseaseControl (ND) Traumaticbraininjuryandconcussion AccessedonlineNov5/23atPrevention|Concussion|TraumaticBrainInjury|CDCInjuryCenter CommunicableDiseaseControl (2019) Concussionsignsandsymptomschecklist AccessedonlineNov4 2023atConcussionSigandSymptomsChecklist(cdcgov) Gueli C (ND) (5CriticalHeadInjuriesfromCarAccidents:SignsandSymptoms(injuryclaimcoachcom)AccessedonlineNov10/23 Krutchfield K (2022) 5ReasonsYouShouldWearaHelmet(hackensackmeridianhealthorg)AccessedonlineNov4 2023 Preventinginjury TraumaticBrianInjury&Concussion (2023) AccessedNov5/23onlineatInjuryCenter|CDC MedicalGuardian(2023) TheMostCommonPlacesYoureMostLikelytoFallAroundtheHome-SeniorSafety|MedicalAlertBlog(medicalguardiancom)accessedNov5/23online NICE(2023) Headinjury:assessmentandearlymanagement(2023) AccessedonlineonNov5/23atHeadinjury:assessmentandearlymanagement(niceorguk) PlaygroundSafetyDesignGuide|PlaygroundSafetyChecklist(playpowercanadaca)accessedonlineNov10,2023 RoyalCanadianMontedPolice (2023) AlbertaRCMPeducatesmotoristsonchildseatsafety|RoyalCanadianMountedPolice(rcmp-grcgcca)AccessedonlineNov11/23 Statistics-BrainInjuryCanada accessedonlineNov10 2023
How do I take care of my brain?
You can take care of your brain through prevention-it is the best option (Preventing injury: Traumatic Brian Injury & Concussion, 2023). Remember, the only natural protection between your brain and injury is the bony skull. That is not enough protection during high-risk activities
Always wear a seatbelt while driving and ensure the passengers are wearing theirs before driving the vehicle.
Wear a helmet while riding horses, bicycles, e-bikes, motorcycles, allterrain vehicles, and while enjoying winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
In your home, eliminate all scatter rugs and secure cords that cross pathways or find another route for the cords.
Make your home well lit.
Install grab bars in the bathroom and use a rubber mat in the tub
Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Be aware of playground safety to help your children avoid injuries when accessing a public playground.
Fall Prevention is important in older adults because of the high risk for brain injury when falling. Falls are not a natural part of aging-that is a myth! Falls are the leading cause of death from injury for older adults (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017).
Ask your family physician to evaluate your risk for falling and discuss specific things you can do to reduce your risk for a fall.
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You can! We offer in-store pickup and local delivery (for an additional charge)
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Big J loves playing hockey BUT he doesn’t like using a hockey stick Will he be able to play on the Mini Mites team?
Follow along as Big J and his cousin, Norah, learn that sometimes you have to work a little harder to make your dreams come true.
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CARINGFOR COMMUNITY TEENSINOUR
Life is complex. Teenagers today face more pressure than ever before Young Life's volunteers are role models striving to create meaningful mentoring relationships between leaders and teens and to create spaces where teens are listened to and where questions of life and faith can be discussed.
Our staff and volunteers have been actively serving students across the Parkland community for close to 30 years, immersing themselves in the world of teenagers, focusing on what matters to them: fun, adventure, friendship, and a sense of significance and belonging Everyone is welcome regardless of faith, race, ability or socio-economic background
Everyone is welcome regardless of faith, race, ability or socioeconomic background.
Heartheld Magazine is a space of rest and rejuvenation for creative hearts
We aim to work from a place of rest, and we fully stand behind the belief that you deserve abundance, connection, and balance (without burnout)
We also believe self-care should be tangible, genuine, and accessible.
That is why we've created a magazine that brings a bit of self-care into your life each month! This beautifully curated keepsake is filled with entertaining, informative articles, beautiful photos, and lots of love
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