MAY 2024 by HeartheldMagazine

MAGAZINE HEARTHELD

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

JasmineJenne Publisher/Editor-in-Chief HeartheldMoments

VickieBoechler HeartheldHealth ExecutiveEditor Grace-FilledBusiness

BritneyRobinson Heart-LivedAdventures

AnnetteWolshlager AffirmationsbyAnnette

FiddleLeafLearning +Kids'Corner

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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 Atmosphere Beauty Lounge.

Dear Heartheld Community,

This year has been a big year for Heartheld. We have experienced beautiful growth, curated amazing events, and gotten to collaborate on the most incredible projects

And we have also experienced hard days, long nights, occasional moments of imposter syndrome, tough conversations, and learning curves along the way

And the only reason I am able to navigate the roller coaster that is owning a small business is because of my dearest and closest friends. The women in my corner being my loudest cheerleaders and coming in strong with helpful tips and advice

Friends that care about the success of Heartheld and also my family, health, and latest hyper-fixation. Friends that drop-off eggs and seeds, fresh bread or second hand clothes for my kiddos

There is so much that goes on behind the scenes in my life. My hope for the rest of spring and summer is to pause and live in those moments with the people I love so very dearly

In love and kindness,

Jasmine Jenne Editor-in-Chief | Heartheld Magazine

WrittenBy:BritneyRobinson

Heart-Lived Adventures

Where did “Mother’s Day” come from?

We’ve made the cards, purchased the flowers, and pieced together that “surprise” breakfast-in-bed for Mom; but what started this long observed and well-deserved special day? Who really started Mother’s Day?

Looking back on the pages of history, it seems as though the “Founding Mother” of Mother’s Day intended the day to be commemorated as Mothers’ Day, plural. Not just to celebrate the individual hard work and all around loveliness of each of our own mothers (I say this easily because my own mother is as hard working as she is lovely!), but a day for mothers to come together in acts of service to their communities and help those in need

For the sake of space my focus is mainly going to be on Ann Reeves “Mother” Jarvis, but I highly recommend even the quickest internet searches of Reeves’ daughter Ann M. Jarvis and Julia Ward Howe as their contributions are just as impactful on the making of this day.

Mother Jarvis lived in the Appalachians during the mid-1800’s She was a homemaker and a life-long activist who saw high infant mortality rates, chronic poverty, and terrible living conditions not only in her community but across the United States. Jarvis wanted a day of gathering to educate and serve community members in need.

I think there is a middle ground between the history of Mother’s Day and the current holiday as it is celebrated that leaves our individual mothers feeling honoured and our communities being uplifted. After all, isn’t it ok to have it all sometimes? The Heartheld Community is just that - a community. A group of people who want to help others learn to love themselves while also bringing one another together with a sense of heart Perhaps this year instead of flowers we donate to a charity mom would love, or celebrate in acts of service by bringing a homemade meal to a new mother or mowing the lawn for an elderly neighbour across the street who can’t do it themselves anymore. Sometimes the simplest act of service is just smiling at a stranger.

Reference:

-Stonehill, Heidi (2023.Nov, 16). How Mother’s Day became a holiday. Almanac.com/content/historymothers-day

-Waxman, Olivia.B (2018. April 25). The Surprisingly sad origins of Mother’s Day. time.com/4771354/mothers-day-history-orgins/

Burnt toast is actually fairly symbolic of motherhood. If you are the one who burned the toast, you scrape if off and eat it yourself. If they burned it, you eat it because the burned it specially for you.”

Emily Watt

Meditation and Journaling Prompts

Do one act of self-care each day and add a heart to the grid to track your progress.

What are some past Mother’s Day moments or experiences as a parent that have had a major influence on you and why?

Favourite May Activities: Your ideal day....

Meals I want to make:

Blended Family? How a White Picket Fence Can Help You

Throughout my practice, I have had the opportunity to work with all sides of blended families (bio-parents, step-parents, and children). Understandably, a lot of blended family challenges boil down to communication skills, acceptance, and boundaries.

Blended Family Can Feel Like a Constant Struggle

Perhaps this is a new transition for you, or perhaps you’ve been in this for a number of years now Regardless of time, challenges in a blended family can seem pervasive due to a number of factors, even if the kiddos do not live with you full time

Maybe you and your spouse do not see eye-to-eye on disciplinary action which has created tension in your relationship; or the kids take advantage/mistreat you when they visit you which has impacted your own mental health You might hear about things happening in the other parent's household that make you want to pull your hair out; or perhaps there has been a court battle going on for years that has resulted in a clinical diagnoses (depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, etc.). These are just a few of the situations that can exacerbate feelings of resentment, helplessness, and isolation

Many times what I hear from the parents’ perspective is that they feel out of place, angry, unheard and taken advantage of: some bio-parents have been painted to be a horrible person by their ex, poisoning their own children against them; some step-parents are simply trying to find their voice within the unit I hear many mothers and fathers worry about how their children will turn out. What impact will this have on them? What am I doing wrong? How do I help them escape the narcissistic tendencies from the ex husband/wife? How do I reconnect with them?

Break It Down

The thing is this stuff is hard And I mean HARD It is extremely difficult to think about this logically when there are so many emotions being felt by several different people To make things worse, it can be very isolating when your family or friends have no concept of what you are going through. Here are a few questions that you may find helpful in breaking down the emotions you may be experiencing

What/who are your emotions directed at?

Sometimes we have so many overwhelming emotions that we struggle to pinpoint who they are directed at Being able to identify the root of your emotions is key to being able to disarm them Are you upset at your partner? Your ex-spouse? Your kids? Yourself?

Sometimes it's all four and more, and that is ok! I am here to tell you that there is no wrong answer Emotions provide us with important information that can reflect the things we are missing (ie, connection, control, etc)

B A L A N C E

Is it within your control?

Things that are within your scope of control may look like:

What is happening within your household

Your relationship with your partner

Your communication with your children

Your reaction and view of setbacks

Things that may not be within your control may look like:

Differences in parenting styles between households

Consequence/discipline in the other household

What is being said about you/ your partner

Time with your children and/or partner

Frustrations from lack of control is a huge thing I see in blended families Many times, the people struggling most are those trying to grapple with the things they have no control over, and when it proves unsuccessful, it can create anger, resentment, depression, and/or anxiety If you find yourself asking questions that start with ‘why’ you may be struggling with lack of control (“Why do they have to do/say those things?” “Why can’t they just be a better person?!”) Identifying this is an important part of being able to move onto the stage which allows us to make conscious choices about boundary setting.

How do I set a boundary?

The reality is, many people are still afraid of asserting boundaries. Unfortunately, there is still a very negative connotation to standing up for yourself and speaking your truth. It might make you feel like you are selfish, uncaring, or just a terrible person You might be asking yourself, "Can I even have boundaries in a blended family?" The long and short of it is, yes you can; however, this takes commitment and a lot of introspection. I’m going to encourage you at this moment to give yourself permission to identify your limits. We are all human and yes, we all have a ceiling. You should not be silenced by fear in order to keep others happy while you are suffering

Now, I want to make something clear - boundaries are different from walls and sometimes the two can be misconstrued. Sometimes when we are learning how to set boundaries we will put up walls and go into isolation It’s like an ‘all or nothing’ situation To combat this, I like to use the white picket fence analogy with my clients

Imagine you are outside, it's a beautiful day and you are standing in your front yard There is a beautiful white picket fence separating your yard from the street People are sauntering by with their children, dogs, etc You notice that, in other yards, their children may be stomping on the grass and their dog may be peeing in the flower beds. In your yard, however, people see you, smile and wave, and you wave back as they continue walking on

That is a boundary You can still see other people, and they can see you, but they don’t come onto your property due to the nicely established fence. It doesn’t mean that someone won't decide to hop over it one day, that happens When this happens, you can utilize your communication skills to escort them out the gate and back to the sidewalk It also serves as protection for you as you can still see other people but you don’t need to engage with them unless you choose to

Do you see how this would be different from walls? Walls are built so high up that we can no longer see anyone and they surely can't see us It can be very isolating and will only magnify the issues you are struggling with.

e to the complexities of boundary setting in blended families it is portant to take your time to determine what is important to you and w to communicate these to the people around you

may not work out the way you want; asserting boundaries does not an that people will respect them At times our boundaries can look walking away during an unhealthy conversation. Other times it can k like engaging in a mature conversation The important thing to member is that you cannot control the reactions of others, all you can is be true to yourself in what you need and let go of the rest.

ou are still struggling with letting go I encourage you to seek pport from someone you trust and feel comfortable talking to, ether that be family, friends, or a psychologist

sort + simpleprofessional organizing

WHERE TO BEGIN: DISCOVERING YOUR ORGANIZING VISION

As a professional organizer, the most common question I encounter is, "How do I get started?" You may be thinking the first step is to declutterand while that is typically a major part of the process, there’s something we need to do first! Prior to making decisions about what to let go of or keep, it is essential to identify your vision.

That’s right! Before emptying drawers or sorting through papers, begin by simply visualizing your ideal space Close your eyes and imagine it transformed – a functional, tidy environment where everything has its place Whether it's a serene bedroom or an inspiring workspace, envision how it looks and feels when organized Consider the activities you'll be doing in this space and the emotions it evokes – confidence, peace, happiness

Once you've painted a clear picture in your mind, it's time to put it into words. Write down your home organization goals, articulating the vision you've created. This both solidifies your intentions, and also allows you to communicate them with others that hold you accountable. If you share the space, collaborate with family members to define a collective vision that aligns with everyone's needs and preferences. Posting your vision on a wall serves as a reminder and keeps you focused on your goals.

Next, reflect on WHY you want to achieve this vision – whether it's for aesthetics, creating space for hobbies, spending quality time with loved ones, or boosting your confidence. List at least three motivators that will keep you committed to your vision when you encounter challenges.

Armed with a clear vision and strong motivations, you’ll be ready to tackle the decluttering and organizing process When faced with difficult decisions about what to keep or let go of, refer back to your vision and motivations This will empower you to make intentional choices that align with your goals in confidence

In June, we'll explore strategies for decluttering, but for now, define your vision and motivations You can get started right away using the worksheet provided or by scanning this QR code for full instructions

What are you waiting for? Take the first step to creating a space you love!

Kaytlyn Beakhouse is the Owner and Lead Organizer at Sort & Simple Professional Organizing. With a passion for simplicity, efficiency and sustainability, her team brings flow and function to any space Have questions about kickstarting your organizing journey? Contact us!

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FROM POOLSIDE TO PARTY DÉCOR: CRAFTING STUNNING FLORAL GARLANDS

Written By: Jesseca van der Loop

a guide to creating a beautiful floral garland arch using pool noodles

Floral garlands are beautiful decorations that can add a touch of elegance to any event or space While traditional garlands are often made using flowers and greenery, a fun and creative twist can be achieved by using unexpected materials like pool noodles In this tutorial, I'll guide you through the steps of creating a floral garland using pool noodles as the base

Materials Needed:

Pool noodle

Artificial flowers and greenery

Artificial floral garlands

Floral wire

Wire cutters

Ribbon or string for hanging

Command hooks

Scissors

Decorative elements (optional)

2 bins with heavy items in them - such as rocks

Zap straps/zip ties

Step 1: Prepare your materials.

Gather all the materials listed above. Choose artificial flowers and greenery that complement each other and fit the aesthetic you're aiming for

Look for different shapes and sizes You can find a variety of artificial flowers and greenery at craft stores or online

Step 2: Assemble pool noodle(s).

Decide on your desired length (this will depend on where you plan to hang the garland and how long you want it to be) A standard pool noodle is typically around 5 feet long but you can cut it shorter if needed. When creating our floral garland we were wanting it to be an arch for a princess style background. We opted to tie 2 pool noodles together to get the right height. To attach them we found it easiest to use zip ties rather than tape, that way you can still poke flowers into it. We tied a zip ties about 3 inches down from one end on both noodles, and then attached 5-6 ties through those to cinch the noodles together.

Step 3: Form the pool noodle into desired shape.

As I previously stated, we wanted an arch so we put the ends of the noodle into plastic baskets that were filled with rocks We zip tied them through the holes of the baskets to stay in place We then moved the baskets closer and farther apart to see what shape looked the best for our arch

Step 4: Arrange the flowers and greenery - the fun part!

Now it's time to decorate your pool noodle garland with artificial flowers and greenery We started with floral garlands and wrapped them around the pool noodles We then filled in the gaps with flowers and greenery It is so easy to attach them - just poke the stems into the noodle, voila! You may need to use wire cutters to cut them to the right length It worked best starting with the largest flowers and spacing them out throughout the arch, and then working our way down to the smallest flowers, mixing and matching different types of flowers and greenery to create a visually appealing design

Step 5: Add decorative elements.

If you'd like to add extra flair to your garland, consider incorporating decorative elements such as ribbons, feathers, beaded sprigs, whimsical butterflies, etc. Use a hot glue gun to attach these elements securely to the garland. We attached little butterflies to add a whimsical touch.

Step 6: Hang your garland.

Once the garland is fully decorated it's ready to be secured. We found the arch to be top heavy, so we attached it to our background with string and command hooks. If you made a garland it can be hung on the wall, doorway, or mantel using nails, hooks, or adhesive strips It can also be laid down the centre of a table as a stunning centrepiece

Step back and admire your handiwork! Your DIY floral garland made from a pool noodle is a fun and creative DIY project and is now ready to enhance your event Whether used as a backdrop for a party, wedding decoration, or simply as everyday decor, this unique garland is sure to impress Be ready to shock guests when you tell them you made it from a pool noodle!

When you make your own floral garland arch, tag me on Instagram, I’d love to see it!

Intergenerational Trauma

Written By Shantelle Jammaz - Alberta Press & Paper

So, what exactly is generational trauma, and why is it so important to understand when raising children and comprehending behaviour in others, specifically those affected by war?

Generational trauma, also known as intergenerational o trans-generational trauma, is the psychological, emotional, and social impact of traumatic events passed down from one generation to the next. When discussing a group of people, specifically one affected by war, the psychological effects often leave lasting imprints on individuals and groups of peoples, extending far beyond the actual conflict's devastation Now, read that againcan you imagine how detrimental this can be not only to hild b i l i ?

This passed-down trauma can appear in a number of different ways behaviourally

What might that look like in a child? It could include heightened anxiety, depression, challenges in forming healthy relationships, difficulty regulating their own emotions, engaging in self-destructive behaviours as coping mechanisms, experiencing nightmares, emotional outbursts, anxiety disorders, and, in many cases, PostTraumatic Stress Disorder.

For children who come from war-torn backgrounds, the trauma endured by their parents or ancestors can affect their own mental health and well-being Children may exhibit all the behaviours I mentioned above, but also, it’s important to understand that this cycle of trauma can persist unless interventions and proper support systems are in place to address the emotional needs of the ones affected and of their communities

What would these support systems look like? Mental health support, community healing initiatives, and various educational programs make up only the top layer of supports needed. As a society, acknowledging and addressing the long-lasting impact of war on individuals and groups of people is crucial. Above that, recognizing the layers of racial discrimination, injustice, and inequality, and understanding the consequences that our Western ideologies have on minority groups is critical.

Discovering how truly complex intergenerational trauma is and understanding its impact on so many children within our communities is essential for holding space and empathy for those affected by the aftermaths of war.

Beyond mental health support, a shift in our society's thought processes and a desire to help heal and educate those around us are truly what’s important when addressing trauma and working to break the cycles of trauma

Acknowledging the impact of war and understanding the interconnected layers of discrimination and injustice are essential for creating a society that prioritizes collective well-being and acknowledges the consequences of historical trauma, oppression, and violence that is faced by so many.

As caregivers, educating ourselves on these issues is a big step forward in raising empathetic and kind kiddos. And in doing so, we will hopefully be raising a new empathetic and kind generation for all of our children to live i

Feisty Florals

Instagram: @feisty.florals

Phone: 587.990. 8284

Spruce Grove, AB

by Melissa Feist

Wedding Bouquet Preservation, Floral Jewelry & Home Decor

Self-Care BINGO

Throughout the day, whenever you have a moment, try to engage in one of the self-care activities listed on your bingo card. Try to finish 1 line this week.

Take a hot bath or shower.

Take a social media break.

Take time to tidy your bedroom

Try a new recipe that nourishes your body

Call or video chat with a friend or family member.

Engage in a physical activity you enjoy.

Drink at least 3 glasses of water today

Listen to calming music or sounds of nature.

Declutter an area in your home (something small or large).

Spend some time doing something you love

Complete a random act of kindness for yourself or others. Go for a walk.

Spend quality time with a loved one

Mindfully enjoy one of your favourite drinks

Spend some time outside in nature

Express gratitude by writing down 5 things you ' re grateful for

Do some gentle stretching.

Make yourself a nice meal (or a comfort meal)

Listen to music you love.

Write down 5 things you ' re grateful for today.

Learn something new. Attend a workshop or watch something educational.

Take a technology break

Try a new bedtime ritual.

Do some stretching

Complete a self-reflection activity.

Balancing Business

Starting Strong: Why Age Is No Barrier to Entrepreneurial Success

“Colonel Sanders was in his 60s when he founded KFC, and Vera Wang didn't start her fashion line until she was 40.”

Inspirations for work - life balance | Writer: Chris Neumann

Why does age stop us from acting on a business idea?

Question: if you were to start a business or launch a new product line, what would it be? Do you feel like time is slipping away because you should have acted on the idea much earlier?

Don't worry, the door of opportunity is always wide open! Whether you're in your 20s, 40s, or 60s, the canvas of creativity, passion, and the drive to succeed is blank, waiting for your unique vision.

Starting a business or venturing into a new product line can be daunting, but age should never be a barrier In fact, many successful entrepreneurs started later in life Colonel Sanders was in his 60s when he founded KFC, and Vera Wang didn't start her fashion line until she was 40 These individuals prove that age is just a number when it comes to entrepreneurial success

One of the key ingredients to success is passion. As Mark Cuban once said, "Don't follow your passions, follow your effort. It will lead you to your passions and to success, however you define it." If you have a burning desire to start something new, don't let fear or doubt hold you back Take that first step, and the rest will follow

Often overlooked is the fact that with age comes a wealth of experience and wisdom Your years spent in the workforce have provided you with a unique perspective that can be invaluable when starting a business Throughout your career, you have likely encountered a variety of challenges and setbacks, all of which have contributed to your growth and development.

These experiences have equipped you with a toolkit of skills and strategies that can help you navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship The ability to anticipate potential pitfalls, make informed decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances are all skills that you have honed over the years Your past life experiences have taught you the importance of resilience and perseverance, qualities that are essential for any entrepreneur

Furthermore, one of the most valuable things in business is your network, which is likely much larger than it was conn port as yo

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"Motherhood:Alllovebeginsandendsthere."-RobertBrowning

An Open Letter to My Beloved Community of Mothers,

Every soul that we bring into this world is a unique and beautiful creation Motherhood is an incredible journey filled with selfdiscovery, unconditional love, and the nurturing of a completely separate soul It's a path we must walk with gentleness and patience, for it's a journey like no other

As a local practitioner, I am here to help you on this remarkable journey. My mission is to facilitate deep relaxation practices that allow your body, mind, and spirit to heal themselves naturally I am also here to hold space for you as you navigate your personal healing process, recognizing that healing is a unique journey and not a one-size-fits-all solution

I offer a range of holistic healing practices, each tailored to your specific needs You can experience the soothing benefits of reflexology on your hands, feet, face, and ears The power of reiki, an ancient Japanese healing technique, is at your disposal to bring balance and harmony to your life

Additionally, I've developed a practice I call "intuitive listening," which is not therapy but rather a safe, neutral space for you to release and heal through conversation

One thing I'd like to emphasize is that healing is a deeply personal journey, and just as every mother and child are unique, so are the practitioners who can guide you on this path It's essential to find someone who resonates with you individually

Remember, dear mothers, your journey is one of a kind, just like the souls you bring into this world. Embrace the healing practices that resonate with you and the practitioners who understand your unique needs Motherhood is a beautiful adventure and together, we can find natural healing along the way

With love and solidarity, Natalie

T a k e s o m e t i m e t o c e n t r e y o u r h e a r t .

RUNWAY OF DREAMS

The Backstory

Rachelle Dubeau is the driving force behind the successful Spruce Grove boutique, Dani and Madi Born and raised in St Paul, AB, Rachelle was brought up in an entrepreneurial family, setting the stage for her future endeavors

Rachelle's journey to create Dani + Madi was anything but straightforward. It began with her playing women's hockey and studying Hospitality and Tourism Seeking a greater challenge, she transitioned into Business and Accounting. Her natural tenacity drove her to pursue the most challenging designation at the time, the Chartered Accountant

An encounter with a former colleague at a Women of Distinction event introduced her to the YWCA board, and she found herself on a journey of championing women in her community Despite the obstacles she faced, including the cancellation of the Women of Distinction awards, Rachelle's passion for recognizing and celebrating women remained undeterred

Even as her tenure with YWCA came to an end, Rachelle knew her journey to uplift women was far from over. She still had the desire to showcase the amazing achievements of women and the aspiration to own her own business This, coupled with her lifelong love for fashion, paved the way for Dani and Madi (and later the Runway of Dreams).

Rachelle's dream was fueled by her belief in manifestation She knew she would open a boutique and even included it in her vision boards When renowned motivational speaker Tony Robbins visited in January 2019, Rachelle was so inspired that she decided to act on her dream immediately By February she had opened a corporation, attended a buying show in March, secured some brands, and started ordering She began selling from her basement in June, and by February 2020, she had completed her website.

DANI + MADI PRESENT THE

The Journey

Rachelle faced setbacks on her journey, including being turned down when she put in an offer for a commercial space However, she didn't let this deter her When COVID-19 shut the world down, she adapted by hosting a pop-up shop. The success of this event rekindled her optimism about her dream By August 2020, she had secured her current location, and Dani and Madi opened its doors on November 9, 2020.

2021 saw Rachelle fulfilling another aspiration - recognizing women through storytelling. She launched a podcast to share the stories of incredible women, local whenever possible This venture, like Rachelle's journey, has had its challenges, but it remains an avenue through which Rachelle continues to recognize and celebrate women

Rachelle's commitment to uplifting women extends beyond her podcast and boutique. She has a deep-seated belief that both women and men need to be recognized where recognition is due Her experiences have taught her the importance of shedding the ingrained need for women to compete against each other Instead, she advocates for a culture of mutual support and recognition

This belief was further reinforced by her parents' philanthropic efforts. Their long history of fundraising, particularly their celebrity golf tournament and charity fashion show, left a lasting impression on Rachelle. These memories laid the groundwork for the Runway of Dreams

Dreams Realized

The Runway of Dreams, a charity event that combines fashion and fundraising, was born from Rachelle's vision of a night dedicated to women Rachelle collaborated with TJ Annika, who runs BAD moms networking moms, to plan this event It immediately became clear that the event had to be a fundraiser, and they decided to raise money for two families facing significant challenges

The inaugural Runway of Dreams was a resounding success. Their goal of raising $5,000 for each family was surpassed as they raised over $13,000 for each family This allowed both families to make their child’s dream come true, with one family booking a trip to Florida for Christmas 2023 and the other planning an Alaskan cruise for 2024.

Rachelle is now preparing for the second annual Runway of Dreams event on June 6, 2024. The aim is to help even more families, and the event promises to be bigger and better

We hope you’ll join Rachelle and the Dani + Madi team in supporting this year's Runway of Dreams. Your involvement can make a world of difference to the local families the event supports.

Meet Christa + Jordan

Hi there, I’m Christa. My life took an unexpected turn when my daughter was diagnosed with a terminal illness, becoming the driving force behind my passion and purpose

As a devoted mother I wear many hats, seamlessly balancing my roles as caregiver, advocate, and entrepreneur For over two decades, I’ve been in the business world, owning and operating successful ventures However, it was my daughter’s diagnosis that ignited a newfound determination within me.

Drawing upon my entrepreneurial skills, I embarked on a mission to support my daughter in reaching her goals and dreams, utilizing my expertise to navigate the complexities of our journey. As a mother, I understand the importance of community and support I share my personal experiences of pain and grief, offering solace to others facing similar challenges

Through my advocacy and unwavering commitment, I shine a light on the journey of caregivers, reminding them they are not alone I feel so blessed to be at a place in my life where I can now take my experiences and knowledge and make a difference in the lives of others, especially my daughter

Hi I’m Jordan, Christa’s daughter. I just turned 13 years old and my journey has been quite unlike that of other kids my age

When I was just 4, I was diagnosed with a lifelimiting neurological disease that’s gradually taking away many of the functions we often take for granted. It’s affected my ability to walk, and it’s impacted my lungs, eyes, brain, and fine motor skills – just to name a few things you can see

But despite these challenges, I refuse to let it dim my light. I’m known for bringing sunshine into any room I enter

I have a few passions that keep me going One is sharing my story and being an advocate for others facing similar struggles. I also love to travel, explore new places and find adventures And most recently, I’ve discovered a love for modeling and acting

You can follow our journey and watch Jordan cross items off her Dream It Do It list on both TikTok and Instagram @goingwiththegagnons.

HEART Spaceswith

We adore spaces filled with intentional design and heart This month we were honoured to be invited into the home of Marie, owner of ThatDecor and expert at heart-filled, thrifted, and personalized interior design.

Tell us about your inspiration for this space and how it came to be.

My inspiration in designing the space was a) the era of the house and keeping the vibe cohesive from the exterior to the interior and b) the whole house had recently been painted a buttercup yellow (not what I would have chosen) before I moved in So, instead of fighting with what I had I decided to make it look like I had intentionally chosen the colour I created a mood (vision) board with a colour matched paint and had fun playing with magazine cut-outs and textiles to create a mood I loved

What unique elements did you include in this space to showcase your personality and style?

My art pieces are my most loved element They all tell a story and I am always so happy to tell people where they came from (some I even painted myself) For example, my grand-daughter Olivia's painting is in the entry way and that was from time we spent having a paint night together

What made you choose the window coverings that you chose for this space?

The curtains were the key element that persuaded me to make the paint colour feel like it had been my choice The Ikea panels are a perfect yellow/mustardy colour that layered the yellow and added vibrancy I moved in just before the pandemic hit and already had the panels so during lockdown I started sewing them together Now, I have some inside knowledge on custom drapes so I knew what I was doing but boy was it ever an exercise in understanding why custom costs what it does I spent a lot of time stitch-ripping!

How do the window coverings you chose complement the overall style goals and vision you had for this space?

The curtains were put up first and it was just this year I added the sheer roller shades. I looooove layering blinds and curtains because it adds so much dimension and functionality. My curtains are room-darkening which provide a cave in the middle of the afternoon if I like and privacy. The sheer blinds add a degree of privacy and filter the harsh south sun and most important - hide my dirty windows.

Tell us about the materials and style elements present in your space.

Moving from room-to-room I have white cupboards and grey floor tile, so it was important to balance white and cool into other areas of the home

Black is also a uniting staple that helped me achieve that

What advice would you offer to someone who is designing their own space?

My best advice is always to be patient We d not live on HGTV where “voila!” everything is just right and perfect immediately

Life is happening as we are creating our home-sweet-homes

What is the purpose of this space and how will it be enjoyed moving forward?

I love hosting family gatherings, so it is important that I can have lots of seating for those times The couch can sleep 2 adults and even the ottoman pulled tight to the couch is perfect for Netflix binging after a big turkey dinner The table is a perfect width and fits seamlessly with the utility table that I bring in for big dinners I throw table clothes over them to make it look like one long table.

MEET 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 AHA moment for Marie She realized how much window treatments could affect rooms and could really make or break them. You could spend a ton of money 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 her projects

b e a u t y p e r m a n e n t m a k e u p t a t t o o i n g

Meet Suzan Locke, the face behind Locke

Locked Ink & Beauty Studio is based in Parkland County near Spruce Grove AB. Nestled on an acreage in Prestige Heights, a fully AHS inspected and licensed private home studio welcomes you.

Locked ink and Beauty Studio specializes in cosmetic tattooing, We offer Novalash Brand Medical Grade eyelash extensions and are here to fulfill all your brow and face waxing/tinting needs

Suzan has a combined 24 years of experience spanning multiple beauty related industries. She is a makeup/hair artist and an Internationally trained and 10X Certified Permanent Makeup and Lash Artist.

ifitrecde heathboardapproved derusni

Permanent Makeup (also referred to as “Cosmetic Tattooing”) services offered include:

Brows (nano and powder)

Lips

Eyeliner

Areola Reconstruction Tattooing

Scar Camouflage

Saline Tattoo Removal

Small & Medium Tattoos (including fine line work)

Event and Photoshoot Makeup/Hair Styling

Since 2013 we have proudly represented the NovaLash brand, the most awarded lash extension system on the market.

NovaLash is:

Physician-Formulated

Instantly Waterproof

OilProof Adhesive

FDA and Health Canada Approved Adh i

Suzan Locke is a fully licensed and qualified body tattoo artist along with permanent cosmetic and lash artist certifications from Canada, USA, and England

Her style of makeup styling and cosmetic tattooing focuses on enhancing her client’s natural features and attributes to produce the best and most natural-looking results that will last through the everchanging cycles of fashion.

We look forward to enhancing your beauty!

heartheld health

Written By: Vickie Boechler

LIKE ME AND FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: THE NEED TO STAY CONNECTED

“Social networking does not necessarily refer to what we do but who we are.”

- Griffiths & Kuss

When we first started to use the world wide web (www) with computers and mobile phones, did you ever stop to think what affect it would have on people, especially our children, who are still growing? I know I didn’t

Not surprisingly, the Covid pandemic was the greatest disruption worldwide to everyone’s daily life Internet access and media device usage rapidly increased (Bozzola et al, 2022) There is a great deal of research being done on social media and social networking and its effects on children, but the jury is still out on the risks and benefits because this research is new and not comparable like it should be

“Social media” is a term for internet sites on the www and apps that you can use to share or respond to content, while social networking is focused on connecting people using social media (Kuss & Griffiths, 2017)

The Benefits of Social Media and Networking for Adolescents

The World Health Organization (2020) defines adolescence as the phase of life between childhood and adulthood, from ages 10-19, and it is at this stage that children adopt lifelong behaviours

Networking helps people stay in touch and that is more important for the adolescent than any other age group. Social media doesn’t affect everyone the same way because we are all different from each other. Lots of factors come into play: the amount of time spent online, maturity level of the adolescent, their personal family life, as well as economic and cultural factors may affect them

Social networking helps adolescents going through a stressful time at school or home; it helps loneliness and lack of social support They may have a fear of being left out of their peer group and need to stay connected

Networking opportunities are there as soon as the person turns on their phone Boom, instant connection, instant gratification! Who wouldn’t want that? This instant gratification is the reason the kids are on their phone or other screens quite frequently.

Around grade five the peer group takes over and so the social platforms help the adolescent to connect with others with similar problems; they feel safe and seek out answers from their friends and peer group. They are anonymous while networking so it's safe to discuss personal things like a breakup with a close friend and other touchy subjects

The Drawbacks of Social Media & Networking for Adolescents

Like anything else in life, social media and networking can have their drawbacks but their use is very dependent on the unique characteristics of the child How social media and networking is used may determine the risks, so content chosen by the user is important because of its potential for harm or influence Sites with questionable content are easy to access Posting online about themselves is a risky behaviour because kids at this age make choices without thinking about how it’s going to impact them. They can make professional looking reels in a flash and post on Instagram, encouraging participation with their peers. They might post something in the heat of the moment, when they are super happy, upset or even angry, called “stress posting”. Sometimes they will post photos of a sexual nature to friends or share very personal information to an unlimited audience This can lead to bullying because there is a lot of personal information provided and so it is easier to bully that person

Parents Can Help Their Children with Social Media by Creating Social Media Guidelines

Adolescents: The screen time list post-Covid has grown with Facebook, Instagram, Tik-Tok and Snapchat being the top four networking sites. And that doesn’t include TV screen time.

The Canadian Pediatric Society (2024) suggests that parents sit down with their adolescent and make a Family Media Plan together including individual time with limits set on content. Be present when social media is used; talk about the content with your adolescent Activities of daily living should take priority over social networking such as family time, grocery shopping, making meals, physical activity, interacting face to face with friends, and getting sufficient sleep

Parents Can Model Good Media Behaviour

The kids are still watching you and learning When parents lead by example and limit their own media time, make eye contact instead of looking at their screen while talking, and put their phone away at mealtime and bedtime, it’s a powerful tool

Discuss Privacy and Turn On Their Privacy Settings

Teach them - don’t share anything on networking sites you wouldn’t want the whole world to know As a parent you can “friend” your child and monitor their activity, but spying might destroy the trust Again, it depends on the child and the situation Discuss the negatives about posting sensitive photos. The pictures sent in innocence can get into the wrong hands and mess up the future, doing a lot of damage

In summary, there are benefits and drawbacks to social networking. Parents can be involved in their children’s use of social media and model good screen habits. More research is still needed for social media and mental health to be able to form legitimate recommendations that direct intervention programs for adolescents

T A K E A W A Y S

·Make a Family Media Plan together

Parents can lead by example and limit their media time

Social media can be a wonderful space of connection when used with intention

Disclaimer:theinformationinthisarticlewaspreparedbyVickieBoechlerBScN,MNandisintendedforinformationpurposesonly,nottogivehealthadvice Thisinformationdoesnotreplacethehealthadviceofaphysicianoranyotherhealthcareprofessiona

References Azem,L,Alwani,R,Lucas,A,Alsaadi,B,Njihia,G,Bibi,B,Alzubaidi,M,&Househ,M (2023) Socialmediauseanddepressioninadolescents:Ascopingreview Be Sci,13,475 Accessed onlineFeb3,2024 Bozzola,E,Spina,G,Agostiniani,R Barni,S,Russo,R,Scarpato,E,DiMauro,A,VitaDiStefano,A,Caruso,C,&Corsello,G (2022) Theuseofsocialmediainchildrenandadolescents: Scopingreviewonthepotentialrisks 82989a92e2bf4a82f9ab04adf612bf0a4d97pdf(semanticscholarorg) AccessedonlineonFeb3,2024

CanadianPediatricSociety (2024)Digitalmedia:Promotinghealthyscreenuseinschool-agedchildrenandadolescents DigitalHealthTaskForce CPS AccessedonlineFeb18 2024 Ehmke R &Hamlet A (2023) Whatselfiesaredoingtoselfesteem Childmindorg;AccessedonlineFeb3 2024 Khalaf,A,Alubied,A,Khalaf,A,&Rifaey,A (2023) Theimpactofsocialmediaonthementalhealthofadolescentsandyoungadults:Asystematicreview Cureus15(8)p 1-10 Accessed onlineFeb3,2024

Kuss,D,&Griffiths,M (2017) Socialnetworkingsitesandaddiction:Tenlessonslearned InternationalJournalofEnvironmentalResearchandPublicHealth,14,311 p 1-17 Accessedonline Feb3,2024

Marshall,J (2023) Whenshouldyoucomebetweenateenagerandtheirphone?childmindorg;AccessedonlineFeb18,2024

Miller,C,Bubrick,J,&Hamlet,A (2023) Doessocialmediausecausedepression:HowheavyInstagramandFacebookusemaybeaffectingkidsnegatively Childmindorg;Accessed onlineFeb3,2024 WorldHealthOrganization (2024) Adolescenthealthoverview Geneva WorldHealthOrganization Adolescenthealth(whoint);AccessedonFeb3,2024

PARENTS’ CORNER

By: Lindsay MacDonald

“WHEN SOMEONE ASKS YOU WHERE YOU COME FROM, THE ANSWER IS YOUR MOTHER.”

Anna Quindlen

WHAT IS A MOTHER?

Motherhood

Defined as: the state of being a mother.

But what is a mother? A mama? A mommy? A mom?

A juggler of all things A magician A super woman who is capable of more than she knows. A soft place to land. A lover. A giver.

The state of being a mother

It’s hard to put into words what exactly that means. From late nights to early mornings, no sleep with newborns to staying up late to ponder the day, from car seats and carpooling, to first days of school and milestones, from learning to drive and then heading off into the world by themselves

It all goes by at the speed of light and at a snail’s pace simultaneously. But one thing remains the same through all ages and stages, a mom is the most important woman in their child’s life However, it truly takes a village and the best moms are those who realize they can’t do everything themselves

Quite often we think “super-mom” is the momma who does it all herself, who seems to have it all together and be able to do all-the-things. Her kids are always well dressed,

well-mannered, and on time for their multiple commitments each week And she is always looking absolutely perfect and put together, too

The thing is, that’s not realistic

The real super-mom is the momma who is doing her best, who’s wondering if she’s doing it right, and is asking for help when she needs it She realizes that she can’t do it all alone and she shouldn’t have to

She’s you, she’s me, and she’s the mom down the street

So today and every day, try to remember just how amazing you are

You are the true super-hero who knows that you need to take care of yourself, too!

And remembers that it’s important to ask for help when you need it, give yourself grace, and realize that you can’t do it all...and that is okay!

She knows her kids aren’t perfect (because no one is) but they are the kind and thoughtful people she hopes they will be.

She makes mistakes, she asks for forgiveness, and she forgives herself.

And she knows that what was right for yesterday might not be what is right for today. She’s learning a little bit each day, as her children grow she is growing too

She might not feel super or she might feel like she is the best mom there is

But the thing is that that super-mom

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 celebrating Mom!

My challenge for this month is this, do one of your chores without being asked. If you’ve already done your regular jobs/chores ask your grown-ups what else you can do. Maybe folding laundry or putting the clean dishes away?

And don’t forget to let your Mom, Grandma, Aunt, and any other special ladies in your life know how much you love them!