May 2025

HEARTHELD MAGAZINE

FEATURIN G THE WELC OME PROJECT

CELEBRATING CAREGIVER MONTH IN CANADA

LESSONS LEARNED FROM PRIORITIZING SELF-CARE AS A MOM

AN EASY AND DELICIOUS RED PEPPER JELLY RECIPE

hello from the

GUESTS OF HEARTHELD

Jasmine Jenne

Jessica Schultz

Creative Director

Executive Editor Grace-Filled Business

Sarah Warrener

Angela van Leeuwen

Local Love

Wellness

Rita Sjouwerman

Ryder Jenne

Vickie Boechler

Director of Operations

Heartheld Health

Balance Psychological Services

Finding Balance

Pw Design & Co

Brianne

Donnalea Ferguson

GUEST ARTICLE

The Balanced Mom

Heartfelt Healing

Around the Nook

Rayanne Forbes

Papers & Prose

PHOTOGRAPHY

Nicole Zee Photography Hi, I’m Nicole! I’m a Spruce Grove photographer who is drawn to beautiful natural light, calming tones, simple items, and loving connection. When I’m not taking pictures, I love painting and working in my garden. If you love light and airy, true-tocolour photos, I’d love to work with you! www.nicolezeephotography.com

Janice - Wildflower Photography Janice is a Stony Plain based photographer serving the greater Edmonton area. She loves capturing everything from weddings, newborns, families, and branding for small businesses. When she’s not behind the camera she enjoys spending time with her family.

Around the Nook My first passion is my family! I have a wonderful husband, plus 3 great kids who are all grown! My husband and I are definitely “home-bodies”. We love spending time entertaining friends and family or just staying home by ourselves snuggled up with a good movie and some homemade pizza! And of course a beer or glass of wine!

I am so happy to have the opportunity to share my recipes, baking and cooking tips on my site Around The Nook! I hope you can pop on and find inspiration from some of my ideas. www.aroundthenook.com

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CONTACT US || Mailing Address: c/o Jasmine Jenne, 5115 54 Avenue, Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1B8 Email: heartheldmagazine@gmail.com

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.

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 Twisted Charcuterie.

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CONTENTS FAMILY WELLNESS

LETTER FROM THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dear Heartheld Community,

12 | The Balanced Mom 38 | Heartheld Health 44 | Finding Balance

When I think about the incredible women in my life and the women we celebrate this month, whether you’re a mom, a daughter, a friend, or a sister I truly believe that there’s so much power in lifting each other up.

TANGIBLE SELF - CARE 05 | Simple Self-Care 10 | Papers & Prose

This month, I want to remind myself (and all of us) that we are stronger together.

Let’s continue to create spaces where we empower one another, where kindness flows freely, and where we celebrate the

HEARTFELT LIVING

strength we share.

24 | Around the Nook

I’m so grateful to be part of this community

17 | The Blissful Budget

other every day.

of women who inspire and support each

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

HEARTHELD COMMUNITY 20 | Peace of Mind Consulting

COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL EDITION

25 | Local Love 32 | Twisted Charcuterie 34 | Angela V Wellness 48 | AbSOULutely You Wellness 56 | Advertising Community

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05

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stress

management

What is stress management?

Stress management is defined as the tools, strategies, or techniques that reduce stress and reduce the negative impacts stress has on your mental or physical well-being. When stress management is used regularly and in response to stressful life events, we can optimise our well-being

What are your five stress buttons (triggers)?

Stress happens when you have: A lot of things happening all at once An important decision to make A major event coming up Something really dangerous happening

What helps?

Understand your stress buttons.

Take break & pause sometimes.

Listen to music. Keep a stress journal. Watch a movie!

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Where do you feel stress in your body?

Mark the areas with a black pen

self-care

intentions

do you want?

What

happening n s i t ow? a Wh at could you do? h W

will you d t a o?

Wh

Notes

Notes

Notes

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HANDMADE LASERED GOODS

? t a h w

D E R E LAS

G

oods. (which, in our humble opinion are way better than bads). We laser stuff with our

computerized C02 cutting and engraving machine (Mira). She uses a super-powerful laser beam (like Cyclops) to make quick work of things like wood, MDF, acrylic, and leather with ultimate precision.

W

hether you’re looking for a special gift, a unique piece of home decor that fits your

vibe, or custom display items for your market booth/brick & mortar shop, we’ve got you. We were born to make, and we want to help bring your vision to life, too. We’ll happily work with your premade design, or if you don’t have one our Gremlins can whip one up for you.

We hope you’re ready to hear a whole lot of “Ooh, where’d you get that?”.

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THE STORY BEHIND OAK&EMBER

We suspect there’s a moment in every adult humans working life when they think to themselves “Well... this sucks”. We know, ‘cause that’s exactly what we were thinking right before Oak & Ember was born in the summer of 2022. We were determined to strike a better work-life balance.

Are we passionate about lasers? Heck yeah! Do we love to create? Abso-flutely. Are we good at it? Solid 8/10. But beyond that we really just wanted to build something that we didn’t have to recover from, nourished our need to create, and made better the world around it. We wanted to work with likeminded individuals, nurture growth within our community, and stand behind something we were proud of.

We’re here for the art, the people, the adventure (and the coffee). No ragrets.

LET’S

connect!

SCAN ME

SCAN ME

SCAN ME

@oakandember creative

SCAN ME

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Papers & Prose

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

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

Use them as a backdrop for journaling, a place to add your own sketches or quotes, or simply as a reminder that creativity takes many 10 forms. However these pages speak to you, let them be a space where art and words meet in a way that feels personal.

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The Balanced Mom Lessons I’ve Learned from Prioritizing Self-Care as a Mom I still remember that morning when everything changed.

Standing in my bedroom, my husband had come in to let me know that he was headed out to Home Depot. I stared at him for a while and with hormones and emotions swirling inside me, I opened my mouth and screamed at him “I f#@king hate you“. A far cry from the calm & patient person I used to be.

That was my wake-up call.

Motherhood had consumed me like a tidal wave – beautiful and overwhelming all at once. Between the midnight feedings, endless diaper changes, and the constant juggling of everyone’s needs, I’d lost myself somewhere along the way. My daily uniform had become a shirt with spit up stains and greasy hair that hadn’t seen a shower in days. My once-beloved independence had been stripped away as I now had a whole person to care for around the clock.

Here are the transformative lessons I’ve learned from finally making myself a priority.

You Shouldn’t Pour from an Empty Cup The day I snapped at my husband for something he felt he needed to do was the day this lesson hit home. My voice, breaking with sadness and exhaustion, made his eyes water, and my heart shattered. After he left, I sat by myself in the bathroom and cried. It wasn’t just about his freedom; it was about running on empty for so long that even small bumps felt like mountains.

Now, my morning ritual includes 15 minutes of solitude while my coffee is still hot, watching the sunrise paint the sky. Those precious moments ground me for the chaos ahead.

Self-Care Looks Different for Everyone The truth is, what works for me may not work for you.

But that’s okay! That’s part of us being the unique individuals we are. I invite you to celebrate the self-care activities that make you happy. I love an uninterrupted nap and binge-watching anything that Shonda Rhimes creates. What matters is that it fills your tank, not what it looks like to others.

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Boundaries Are Key Before kids, I would say yes to any and everything at work. I had a goal to climb the corporate ladder and become “successful” in the world of finance.

It wasn’t until I had kids that I realized how difficult that would be to burn at both ends. Saying “no” became a regular occurrence after maternity leave, because it was impossible to do all the things and it was getting me closer and closer to burnout by trying to.

But I’ve learned that setting boundaries— like saying no to overcommitting or carving out non-negotiable alone time—is one of the greatest acts of self-care.

And guess what? The world keeps turning.

Your Kids Are Watching One of the most surprising lessons? My selfcare is teaching my kids valuable life lessons.

They see me asking my partner for help, they see me saying no when I have too much on my plate and they see my embracing the hobbies (and they have embraced them too) that bring me joy. By doing this, I’m modelling the importance of balance and self-respect.

You Deserve Joy, Not Just Survival I was 5 months postpartum with my firstborn when I came across a Cricut cutting machine online. I researched it for months before I bought it, and it’s still one of my favourite investments to this day! I would spend evenings tinkering away on crafts and creating all sorts of projects. The joy of creating something, of expressing myself beyond my role as “Mom”, had awakened a part of me that I thought I had lost forever.

It’s Okay to Ask for Help This was a tough one for me. Asking for help felt incredibly vulnerable — What if I asked and they said no? Well I will tell you what would happen, you still wouldn’t get the help you are looking for.

So as scary as it was to ask, I learned that if I didn’t the answer was always “no” instead of just sometimes. It’s 2024 and our villages are small, so if you have support to lean on, please do. It makes a whole world of difference if you can call a friend or family member for back up on tough days.

Self-Care Isn’t a One-Time Fix

Yesterday, my son caught me dancing in the kitchen while preparing dinner. Instead of feeling embarrassed, I grabbed his hands and spun him around. We laughed and laughed and in that moment, I realized something profound: self-care isn’t just about surviving motherhood , it’s about showing our children what it means to live fully, joyfully, and authentically.

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

For my first birthday post-maternity leave, I treated myself to a full day at the spa. I got a facial, a pedicure, and a massage. It was magical.

But it only took 2 hours of being at home to make all that pampering feel like a distant memory. And that’s because we can’t spend our days waiting for the “big” day that we will finally have time for self-care. I had to reframe self-care as a daily practice. Small, consistent actions— like working on a craft, staying hydrated and getting a coffee with a friend—add up to a healthier, happier me.

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Hi, I’m Michaela!

Thank you so much for visiting my store! I spend countless hours searching for products that I love in hopes that you love them as much as I do!

Let’s dive into our fun and fabulous quiz to find out what kind of fashionista you are.

Choose the option that best describes you and tally up your results to see where you land!

What’s your go-to outfit for a casual day out?

A) Jeans and a cute top B) A flowy dress C) Leggings and an oversized sweater How do you accessorize?

A) Statement necklace B) A stack of bracelets C) Cozy scarf Your favorite footwear?

A) Stylish flats B) Chic heels C) Comfy sneakers What’s your preferred color palette?

A) Bright and bold B) Soft pastels C) Earthy tones Your ideal weekend activity?

A) Exploring the city and trying new restaurants B) Attending a garden party or a brunch with friends C) Relaxing at home with a good book or movie What’s your favorite way to pamper yourself?

A) A shopping spree for the latest trends B) A luxurious spa day C) A cozy night in with skincare and a warm bath How do you like to express your style?

A) Through bold, eye-catching pieces B) Through elegant, timeless outfits C) Through comfortable, laid-back looks

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What type of patterns do you gravitate towards?

What is your go-to outerwear choice?

A) Geometric or abstract B) Floral or lace C) Plaid or stripes

A) A stylish leather jacket B) A chic trench coat C) A cozy parka

How do you style your hair for a typical day?

What is your favorite type of event to attend?

A) Sleek and straight B) Soft curls or waves C) Messy bun or ponytail

A) A music festival or concert B) A formal gala or dinner party C) A casual picnic or beach day:

Results: Mostly A’s: You’re a Trendsetter! You love to stay ahead of fashion and aren’t afraid to make a statement. Your bold choices inspire those around you. MNR Beauty Boutique has the unique pieces that reflect your vibrant personality.

Mostly B’s: You’re a Classic Beauty! Your style is timeless and elegant, with a touch of romance. You value quality and grace in every outfit. Our boutique offers beautiful, sophisticated options perfect for you.

Mostly C’s: You’re a Cozy Comfort! You prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.

Your laid-back looks are effortlessly chic and inviting. Explore our selection of cozy, stylish pieces that will make you feel right at home.

At MNR Beauty Boutique, we’re dedicated to helping you embrace your unique fashion personality. Our diverse collection caters to all styles, ensuring you’ll find something that resonates with you. Plus, with our monthly parties, we create a supportive, size-inclusive community where you can connect, celebrate, and shop together.

Contact Us Phone: (780) 914-0549 Email: info@mnrbeautyboutique.com Find us social media! mnrbeautyboutique mnrbeautyboutique 16

Budget blissful

GENTLE GUIDANCE FOR FINANCIAL WELLNESS Grocery Budgeting: A Joyful Approach to Nourishing Your Home

Sharing in Small Ways: Building Connection Through Generosity

Grocery shopping can be a way to infuse your life with intention and joy. When we take a thoughtful approach to our grocery budget, we’re not just managing money, we’re caring for ourselves, our families, and our communities in meaningful ways. By making smart, intentional choices, we can enjoy the process of feeding our loved ones while also finding room for generosity and creativity.

Generosity doesn’t have to be grand or expensive. Simple gestures, like picking up a few extra items to share, can have a big impact on the people around you. Whether it’s baking an extra batch of cookies for a neighbour or buying a few extra cans for a local food pantry, these acts of kindness add meaning to your shopping trips.

Meal planning doesn’t have to be rigid or time-consuming.

With a little forethought, it can actually give you more freedom in your week, helping you reduce stress and make mealtime something to look forward to.

Nourishing Your Family, Supporting Your Community, and Finding Delight in Everyday Choices

Keep It Simple, Stay Flexible Pick a few core meals for the week that can be made with overlapping ingredients. Roast some vegetables on Monday and use them in a salad or pasta later in the week.

Create a “Share Shelf” As part of your grocery routine, set aside a portion of your list or budget for sharing. It could be a few pantry staples you can easily give to someone in need, or ingredients to prepare a meal for a friend going through a tough time. Keeping a little extra on hand makes it easier to offer help when the opportunity arises.

Planning this way gives you structure but leaves room for creativity and spontaneity. Plus, it cuts down on food waste and makes the most of what you have.

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Celebrating What You Have: Bringing Joy to Every Meal There’s no need to sacrifice what you love just because you’re sticking to a budget. In fact, grocery budgeting can be a way to focus on the things that truly bring joy to your meals and make them memorable.

Shop Seasonally Take advantage of what’s in season—produce that’s not only fresher, but often more affordable.

A simple meal made with fresh, seasonal ingredients can be just as satisfying as more expensive choices, and it’s a great way to explore new flavours while staying within budget.

Turn Dinner into a Celebration Gather your family or friends and make cooking and dining together an event. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a weekend dinner, finding joy in the process of preparing and sharing food creates lasting memories.

Grocery budgeting is about more than saving money—it’s an opportunity to align your spending with the things that matter most to you, like health, family, and generosity. By being mindful of your choices, you can make grocery shopping a practice that supports your well-being and the people around you.

Try the “Three Bucket” Budget Organize your grocery spending into three categories: 1. Essentials: The everyday staples that keep your household running smoothly.

2. Extras: Small treats or special ingredients that make meals more enjoyable.

3. Giving: A portion reserved for sharing, whether it’s a donation to a food bank or an extra meal for a friend.

This simple framework helps you stay organized while making room for generosity and a few little luxuries.

Build a Well-Stocked Pantry Keep your pantry stocked with versatile, affordable staples like grains, beans, and pasta. These basics can form the foundation of countless meals, allowing you to stretch your budget while still enjoying delicious and nourishing dishes.

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Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others In the process of budgeting and caring for others, it’s important not to forget about yourself. You’re part of the equation, too! Taking care of yourself ensures that you can keep showing up for your family and community in meaningful ways.

Include something in your grocery budget that’s just for you—whether it’s a favourite snack, a fresh ingredient that excites you, or a treat you’ve been wanting to try. This is a reminder that budgeting is not about depriving yourself but about making thoughtful, intentional choices that support your wellbeing.

Ask for Help When You Need It Remember, generosity isn’t a one-way street. Don’t hesitate to ask for support or share responsibilities when needed—whether that’s splitting meal prep with a friend or accepting a homemade dish from a neighbour. It’s all part of living in a connected, supportive community.

When approached with care and creativity, grocery budgeting becomes more than just a financial task. It’s a way to nourish yourself, your loved ones, and your community in ways that feel joyful and generous. By making thoughtful, intentional choices, you can transform your grocery shopping into an act of care that supports both your budget and your values.

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MAY IS CAREGIVER MONTH IN CANADA

This month is a time to recognize and honour the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices made by the millions of caregivers who support aging adults and those with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

Caregiving is often an invisible role, with many caregivers balancing their own personal lives, careers, and responsibilities while quietly providing essential care to others.

THE REALITY OF CAREGIVING IN CANADA In Canada, over 8 million people—almost onequarter of the population—provide unpaid care to family members and friends. According to the Canadian Caregiver Network, more than 35% of caregivers provide 20 or more hours of care each week (Canadian Caregiver Network, n.d).

Many are not just caring for an aging parent but juggling the demands of work, their own families, and other personal responsibilities.

The toll this takes on caregivers can be significant.

Physical and Emotional Impact: Caregivers often experience exhaustion, anxiety, and even depression due to the constant demands placed on them. The physical toll can include sleep deprivation, stress, and burnout. Many caregivers forgo their own health needs to focus on the person they care for, sometimes neglecting their own doctor’s appointments or exercise routines.

Financial Strain: Caregiving can also result in financial challenges, with many caregivers reducing their hours at work, taking unpaid leave, or even leaving their jobs entirely to provide care.

This can affect their long-term financial security and retirement savings.

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Isolation: Due to the demands of caregiving, many caregivers experience isolation and a loss of social connection. Balancing caregiving with other life obligations leaves little room for socializing, contributing to feelings of loneliness.

Despite these challenges, caregivers continue to make a profound difference in the lives of those they care for. Their dedication and commitment should be celebrated, not only in May but every day of the year.

While caregiving can be a challenging journey, there are many positive steps caregivers can take to make their daily lives a little easier. Here are a few simple, yet effective strategies: Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to lean on family, friends, or community support. You don’t have to do it all on your own. Whether it’s arranging respite care, asking a friend to help with errands, or finding a support group, there are many resources that can lighten the load.

Prioritize Self-Compassion: Caregiving is physically and emotionally demanding, so it's essential to carve out time for yourself. Take 10-15 minutes a day for relaxation, whether it's meditating, enjoying a cup of tea, or reading a book.

Create a Routine: A predictable routine can help reduce stress for both the caregiver and the person being cared for. Establishing a daily schedule for meals, medications, and activities helps both parties feel more organized and in control.

Seek Professional Advice: Consult with healthcare professionals or caregiving specialists for advice on managing tasks or understanding the healthcare system. Getting support from experts can help reduce uncertainty and provide clarity when navigating care decisions.

Use Technology: Leverage technology to streamline caregiving. Many apps and tools are available to track medications, appointments, and daily tasks. A few minutes spent setting up these systems can save hours in the long run.

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HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT A CAREGIVER If you are not a caregiver yourself, there are still many ways you can make a positive difference in the life of someone who is. Here’s how you can show support and appreciation: Take the Initiative to Help: Offer specific ways to help or simply step in with something useful, like providing freezable meals. Exhausted caregivers may struggle to ask for help, so proactive support goes a long way.

Provide Emotional Support: Let the caregiver know you’re there to listen. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can make a big difference. Offer encouragement and validate their experiences without judgment.

Celebrate Them: Take the time to express your appreciation. A simple thank-you note, a small gift, or a thoughtful gesture like bringing them a coffee can go a long way in making a caregiver feel seen and valued.

Offer Time for Self-Compassion: Offer to sit with the person they are caring for so the caregiver can take a break.

Even an hour can give the caregiver time to rest, exercise, or do something they enjoy, which can help recharge their energy.

HONOURING THE DEDICATION OF CAREGIVERS This Caregiver Month, let’s take a moment to recognize those who give so much of themselves every day. Whether you are a caregiver or you know someone who is, let’s celebrate their strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Caregivers are not only helping their family members; they are strengthening communities, supporting healthcare systems, and making a lasting impact on society.

Let’s make sure they know how much they are appreciated and supported.

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SELF-CARE GIFT BOX GIVEAWAY

NOMINATE A CAREGIVER IN YOUR LIFE Nominate a caregiver in your life for a self-care prize this month!

Simply use the QR code below to submit their information. We will contact the winner and arrange delivery of their prize.

Prize includes: An annual subscription to Heartheld Magazine A bouquet of flowers from Ladybugs Flowers A Skip the DIshes gift card KickAss Caramels A 5-Minutes to Focus journal

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

Through Peace of Mind Consulting, Tammy empowers caregivers with resources, advocacy, and emotional support to reduce stress and make informed decisions. As a caregiver to her own parents, she brings personal insight to her work, balancing support with their independence.

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Red Pepper Jelly A Sweet and zesty jelly you’ll relish, this versatile spread can be used on crackers with cream cheese, as a glaze over roasted veggies, or drizzled on grilled meats – the possibilities are endless.

Package it in cute jars for a thoughtful homemade gift that’s always a hit.

Ingredients: 4 red peppers, seeded and chopped 1 jalapeño ,chopped and seeded (optional) 6 cups sugar 1 cup vinegar ¼ cup lemon juice 1 Tablespoon lemon zest ½ teaspoon salt 2 envelopes liquid pectin

Instructions: 1. In a large saucepan, add chopped peppers and jalapeño, sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, zest, and salt.

2. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium low, simmer and cook for 20 minutes.

3. Remove from heat. Using a hand blender, puree mixture until smooth.

4. Stir in pectin, then bring to a boil again. Boil for 1 minute.

Remove from heat and skim off any foam from the top.

5. Pour hot jelly into clean mason jars, leaving about ¼ inch from the top. Clean the rims using a moistened paper towel.

Press down on each lid while screwing on the bands.

6. Allow jars to cool on the counter, then refrigerate.

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To process jelly for extended or shelf storage: Using a large pot with a trivet on the bottom (if possible), place jars of jelly inside.

Pour boiling water over the jars until the water covers them by at least 1 inch. Bring pot to a boil, and boil for 10 minutes.

Turn heat off, and carefully remove jars from the water.

(Canning tongs work best for this.)

Set jars on the counter overnight, or until cool. Check each jar for a proper seal by pushing on the lid – it should not bounce back. If not sealed properly, store in the refrigerator.

Local Love THE HEART & HUSTLE BEHIND THE HOME

Sarah Warrener A LOCAL REALTOR WITH A HEART FOR COMMUNITY

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She raised us to be kind, to be considerate of others, and to “love your neighbour as yourself”.

I remember when our family bought a home in Parkland County after relocating from BC (and after house hunting for months until we found the *right one*). My mom made cookies for all the neighbours and we delivered them to their doorsteps.

We all want to have good neighbours. She taught us to BE the good neighbour.

This is how you create community.

Our family is now well established here, but my mom still believes in creating community. She believes in THIS community so much that she started The Welcome Project, a beautiful initiative that brings people together, supports local businesses, and welcomes new people into the tri-region.

You may have heard of The Welcome Project. Today I have the privilege of inviting you into my parents’ house to meet Margaret Carlton, my mom, the founder of The Welcome Project.

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THE WELCOME PROJECT

My heart for community was instilled in me by my mom.

Sarah: Mom, what can you tell me about where your vision for this came from?

Margaret: Well, there’s two pieces to that. It started in the ‘covid-era’ when we were meeting with Devin of Parlour 1919 for the Parkland Entrepreneur Social Group and brainstorming about pain points and what the local businesses were needing. That started my thought process of how important it is to support local.

I was so inspired by the Facebook groups during Covid; you would see our community rallying around local businesses. “This business is struggling - let’s support them!” or “This restaurant needs help - order your takeout here!” I was inspired by our community; there was such a strong culture of “lets take care of our people”.

The other piece that helped The Welcome Project take shape was when our good friends moved into town from another province. It reminded me of how incredibly overwhelming it is to move from another province! Absolutely nothing is the same. I remember I cried a lot when we moved.

You have to start over to find a dentist, a doctor, even the grocery store is different. And when our friends moved here, it reminded me of that time. I wanted to introduce them to our community, to these small locally owned businesses & bridge them in.

With The Welcome Project, I’m introducing the people to these businesses but I’m also introducing them to this culture of taking care of each other here.

LET’S TAKE CARE OF EACHOTHER

When I go to people's doors, I want them to know they’re seen, that they’re a part of something here. When I bring them these gifts, people are often in tears. They’re so impacted and so grateful.

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Sarah: What are the gifts you’re bringing to people?

Margaret: They’re small housewarming gifts from local businesses (our gift basket sponsors). The businesses sponsor the baskets financially & put gifts in.

Sometimes the sponsorship and the gifts put in are from two different businesses, too. Partnerships are common for gifts between services & product-based businesses. For example, Evergreen Family Dentistry puts in local honey with a note saying “Congratulations on your move! You’re going to love living here with all of our great amenities and wonderful neighbours. We look forward to meeting you!”

These gifts are open-handed. They’re “we hope you’ll come and see us & we will have the opportunity to earn your trust”, but there’s no strings attached.

The sponsors participate for the dual purpose of growing their business & giving back to the community. Some of them have said to me they don’t care if it brings them more business, they just want to give to our community.

Sarah: You really work with all different types of businesses to create a basket that’s not just junk, don’t you. I love that.

Margaret: Yes. That’s another thing; this isn’t swag. This isn’t junk.

These aren't branded advertisements. These are gifts.

For example, Amy at Modern Farmhouse puts in a beautiful candle with a label that says ‘Welcome Home’. Paul at EconoLube had specially made gift cards that also say ‘Welcome Home’ on the label.

We started a new piece recently. It’s a different kind of partnership program. Northern Mobile Heavy Equipment Repair pays the sponsorship fee on behalf of YoungLife, for example. It creates an opportunity for a non-profit and a community-minded businesses to participate even if their customer base might not be a typical clientele.

Sarah: How many baskets are going out once a month, on average?

Margaret: It ranges, but I’ve had to cap it at 40 in a month because I really try to ensure that I can make each drop off personally and that they aren’t rushed. Sometimes people are so thankful and they simply take the basket. But often, people don’t know anyone, or they have moved here under difficult circumstances, and they are so touched by the gesture and the connection that they invite me in. I don’t want to rush, I want to have time to visit if that’s what they’d like.

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I remember what it’s like to feel a little suffocated in all the uncertainty of that big move. Not knowing anyone. It’s meaningful to me, too, how often those little visits end with hugs and tears. I didn’t anticipate that when I started, how meaningful these connections would be.

Sarah: For deliveries, do you do them all?

Margaret: Right now I do. Any realtor whose client is receiving a basket is given the option of doing it themselves. I have some realtors who refer people to The Welcome Project but they don’t live here anymore. About half of the realtors like to do it themselves as it’s a really nice touchpoint opportunity.

Realtors often ask when they first hear about it, “What’s the catch?” They think I’m charging them. But that’s the thing - we are introducing everyone to something different. There is no catch for realtors to take a basket to their clients. It’s a gift for new people moving to our area.

Sarah: How do you get the names of people? How do you find them?

Margaret: Initially, it was realtors. It’s now expanded to realtors & builders. I’m getting more people now from Facebook groups & people who have received them in the past letting me know they have a new neighbour. Or their friend or family member is moving here, too. So more word-of-mouth referrals.

Sarah: People that live here, longtime locals, can reach out to you and let you know?

Margaret: Yes! If you have a new neighbour, or if a friend or family member moves to the tri-region from out of town. This is intended to be a “welcome to the area thing” for people who have moved here from another city or province.

Sarah: Is it open for new businesses to participate?

Margaret: There’s lots of opportunities for new businesses. I do offer exclusivity: for example, I won’t have two dentists at the same time. The businesses commit to 3 months at a time, and can renew after that.

Sarah: There’s something special about our community, evidenced in the fact that this initiative is flourishing.

Margaret: Yes! If the heart of that weren’t true about our community, the business owners wouldn’t participate. It’s a testament to who this community really is.

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The personal introduction to the generosity of local business owners says, “In Spruce Grove and Stony Plain, we value connection.

We take care of each other.”

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COMMUNITY Margaret: There are SO many people moving here from big cities. I think there’s an element of “if we want to preserve the friendliness and local culture, we have to take the first step and invite people into what that looks like” here, instead of our small-city culture getting lost as it grows.

This is just an expression of who the people that make up our community are, an indication of the values of the people that live here, and an invitation for new ones to participate.

I don’t view it as a business at all. When I went to ask for sponsorship from the city, the Mayor called me an ambassador for Spruce Grove. But I feel that it’s more basic than that. I wouldn’t do this just to promote Spruce Grove. It’s just about people feeling seen and valued.

Contact Information Email: thewelcomeprojectca@gmail.com www.facebook.com/thewelcomeprojectcanada www.instagram.com/thewelcomeprojectcanada 31

Twisted Charcuterie

Bringing people together over great food.

Email: Twisted_charcuterie@gmail.com Facebook: Twisted Charcuterie Instagram: Twisted _Charcuterie 32

Why choose Twisted Charcuterie?

FRESHLY MADE & FULL OF FLAVOUR When you order from Twisted Charcuterie, I want you to feel the difference in every bite. I take pride in creating each board from scratch, using only the freshest ingredients available. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, I make sure that every element on the board is as fresh as possible. From savory meats and cheeses to seasonal fruits and zesty jams, I focus on bringing out the full flavors of each item, so every bite is a burst of goodness. It’s not just food—it’s an experience I want you to enjoy with every mouthful.

CUSTOMIZABLE OPTIONS One of the things I love most about what I do is the ability to customize each board to fit exactly what you need.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Fun & Delicious Treat for the Whole Family!

“Twisted Charcuterie made our family night extra special! Tiffany makes boards that aren’t just beautifully arranged, they are packed with delicious, fresh flavours with something for everyone.

My kids loved discovering all the little surprises (the chocolate and fruit were big hits!).

It’s not always easy to find something that pleases both adults and little ones, but this was a win for all of us.

Plus, the presentation was so gorgeous we almost didn’t want to eat it…almost!

Highly recommend for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a fun way to switch up snack time!” ~ Jasmine Jenne

Whether it's a small gathering, a corporate event, or just a special treat for yourself, there are so many options to choose from. You get to pick what you love, whether it’s your favorite cheeses, a variety of meats, seasonal fruits, or sweet treats. I’ll work with you to create a spread that’s unique to your tastes and dietary preferences, making sure it’s something you’ll love to share with others—or enjoy all to yourself!

QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST Quality is everything to me, and I pour my heart into every board I create. I only use the highest-quality ingredients, ensuring that everything from the meats to the fruits to the sweets are fresh and top-notch. I care about the little details, making sure everything is prepared and presented just right, so you can always trust that when you order from Twisted Charcuterie, you’re getting the very best. It’s important to me that you feel confident and excited about your choice, whether it's for a big event or a quiet night in with loved ones.

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T H E

J O Y

O F

H Y D R A T I O N

Discovering the Joy and Benefits of H2O I’ve always loved water. So lucky for me, it’s never been a struggle to remember to drink it. No need to set reminders or have an app to let me know when it’s time to drink.

Water is the elixir of life, and it’s an essential component for our bodies to function optimally.

Yet, despite its fundamental importance, so many people just can’t seem to get enough.

In this post I’m going to get into the significance of drinking enough water as well as some other ways to help you hydrate apart from the standard “drink 8 glasses a day” message.

Water is Critical For...

Maintaining bodily functions: Water is the primary component of our cells, tissues, and organs. It plays a pivotal role in carrying out essential bodily functions such as digestion, absorption of nutrients, circulation, temperature regulation, and waste removal. Without sufficient hydration, these processes can become compromised, which will lead to a range of health issues.

Optimal physical performance: Staying adequately hydrated is essential for peak physical performance. Whether you’re training for a marathon or taking a walk around the block, our bodies lose water through sweat. Dehydration can negatively impact energy levels, muscle function, and endurance, which impairs overall athletic performance.

By drinking enough water before, during, and after physical exertion, we can maintain hydration levels and optimize our performance.

Cognitive function and mental clarity: Did you know that water also plays a crucial role in maintaining cognitive function? Our brain requires adequate hydration to function optimally. Dehydration can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and reduced mental clarity.

By keeping ourselves properly hydrated, we can enhance our cognitive abilities, improve focus, and boost overall productivity.

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Digestive health and weight management: Water is a vital component for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. It helps break down food, aids in the smooth movement of waste through the digestive tract, and prevents constipation.

And did you know that drinking water before meals can help create a feeling of fullness, leading to reduced calorie intake and assisting in weight management efforts? Try a nice tall glass of water before your next meal and test this out for yourself.

Skin health and vitality: Proper hydration is the foundation of healthy, glowing skin. Water helps to nourish the skin, flush out toxins, and maintain its elasticity. Dehydration can lead to dryness, flakiness, and an increased risk of skin disorders. By drinking enough water, we can promote skin health, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and achieve a radiant complexion.

Detoxification and kidney function: Water plays a very important role in detoxifying our bodies and maintaining kidney function. It helps flush out waste products and toxins through urine, preventing the buildup of harmful substances.

Insufficient water intake can strain the kidneys and contribute to the formation of kidney stones. By ensuring proper hydration, we support the efficient functioning of these vital organs.

Pro tip: to make sure you’re getting enough water, take a look at your pee. I know that sounds gross, but if it’s darker than pale lemonade – you’re not getting enough water!

As you can see, water plays so many important roles in our body.

And if you need a better reason than that, just remember what it does for your skin and how it can reduce the appearance of wrinkles!

If you aren’t crazy about drinking straight-up water, try infusing it with some herbs or fruits. I do this a lot, especially in the summer when I have my herb garden. My favorite way to drink water in the summer is with the following: a sprig of mint, a sprig of rosemary (just a short one), and a slice of lemon or lime. I put it in the bottom of my Yeti water bottle with some ice, fill it about ½ full of water, SHAKE IT and then fill the rest with water. It is SO TASTY! Another idea is to use mint, lemon or lime, and a couple chunks of pineapple.

Get Creative Now that you understand how important water is for our hydration, to help suppress our appetite, as well as all the other amazing benefits to our body and skin, it should be easier to motivate yourself to stay hydrated. If you’re still struggling to drink enough, my clients have found that those “Motivational Water Bottles” have helped them (the ones with a time marker and a removable strainer pictured below). Before you know it, it’ll become a healthy habit and a refreshing part of your day.

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Schedule a consultation with me to see how I can help you achieve your goals and live a balanced and meaningful life. I’d love to support you on your journey to get your energy back and feel healthier emotionally, mentally, and physically.

Take the first step towards a beautifully empowered and fulfilling life!

WATER BOTTLE GIVEAWAY HOW TO ENTER: SNAP A PHOTO OF YOURSELF DRINKING WATER AND POST IT ON INSTAGRAM. TAG US: MAKE SURE TO TAG @HEARTHELDMAGAZINE AND @ANGELAVWELLNESS IN YOUR POST. DEADLINE: ENTRIES MUST BE SUBMITTED BY JUNE 14TH @ 8:00PM MST. PRIZE: ONE LUCKY WINNER WILL RECEIVE A MOTIVATIONAL WATER BOTTLE TO KEEP YOU INSPIRED AND HYDRATED! WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT: THE WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON JUNE 15TH ON OUR INSTAGRAM PAGES. 36

“Big doors swing on little hinges.” ~ W. Clement Stone

Reflect on ways you can make drinking water a consistent part of your self-care routine.

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

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

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

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

WWW.ANGELAVWELLNESS.COM

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heartheld health Written By: Vickie Boechler

FOOD SECURITY IN CANADA: HOW AVAILABLE AND ACCESSIBLE IS OUR FOOD? “SHOPPERS ARE SPENDING MORE BUT BUYING POWER IS LESS.” CLARKE, LEHTO & SHELDRICK, 2023 When we say the word “food” it brings to mind so many different scenarios. It can be a large dinner with family, a wedding celebration with many guests and special food that was chosen for the occasion or it can be two people eating lunch over home-made soup and a biscuit (my favourite)! Food is also one of the best culturally identifiable traditions. In a multicultural country like Canada, we can taste food from around the world in our own communities.

Basic concepts of food security are physical availability, economic and physical accessibility to food, utilization and stability of the other three concepts (FAO, 2008). All four dimensions must be fulfilled simultaneously for food security to be realized. I will be discussing food security and insecurity in terms of availability and accessibility in this article.

Food security is when, “all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life” (World Food Summit, 1996).

Food is also one of our basic physiological human needs as seen in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (McLeod, 2024). Maslow argued that survival needs must be satisfied before the higher needs can be accomplished!

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What is food insecurity? It is the inability to acquire or consume an adequate diet quality or sufficient quantity of food in socially acceptable ways, or the uncertainty that one will be able to (Health Canada, 2020) and there are two types, chronic and transitory.

In 2022, Uppal (2023) found that food insecurity was highest in Alberta (22%), Newfoundland & Labrador (23%), and New Brunswick (22%). More people are living in food insecure households in those provinces. Statcan (2024a) showed poverty status across the provinces in 2022 with Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Alberta (in that order) having the highest individuals living in poverty and who are food insecure. I found it surprising that Alberta was in the top three for food insecurity by poverty status since Alberta is often known as an oil rich province and we have to make transfer payments to the Federal government.

Who is at risk for food insecurity? Uppal (2023) found that the risk of being food insecure was higher among groups like families living in subsidized housing, renters, female lone-parent families, families where the major income earner was unemployed for long periods, and indigenous families living off the reserve.

Immigrant families were more likely to be food insecure compared to families born in Canada.

The number of families experiencing food insecurity in Canada at some level has increased since 2021.

The higher prevalence of food insecurity is related to a number of factors, one of which could be a result of higher inflation levels which reduces purchasing power. Among large cities, food insecurity was the highest in Edmonton (21%) and lowest in OttawaGatineau (14%).

Rural families had a lower level of food insecurity than people living in urban centres (Uppal, 2023). Is this because rural people have the ability to grow their own food in a garden and then freeze or can it in the fall?

Interestingly, senior-led households have higher rates of food security. This is not surprising given their pensions and accumulated assets over their life time. Seniors today also likely learned how to freeze and can their food from their parents. Is that art lost on subsequent generations or will Gen Z, who typically eat healthy, pick up that trend?

The Relationship Between Food Security + Income Remember that income is one of the things that determines how healthy we are. It has been shown that there is a strong association between income and food insecurity . Rates of lowest food insecurity were seniors (as previously mentioned), selfemployed, those employed year-round, and homeowners, whereas food insecurity was higher in female primary income earners, chronically unemployed, indigenous, racialized and immigrant families (Uppal, 2023).

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Food Availability Food availability is a measure of the amount of food that is physically present in a country for consumption (Statcan, 2024b).

The availability of fresh fruit, including citrus, declined 71.5 kilograms per person from 2022 -2023. The availability of fresh vegetables also declined, while processed vegetables decreased to 34 kg per person in 2023.

Poultry production (chicken, stewing hens & turkey) led meat availability in Canada while pork surpassed beef even as pork exports declined. Beef availability declined in 2023 as cattle slaughter decreased.

Egg production increased but availability declined because the population growth outpaced egg production. So, now is the time to start your own chicken coop!

Wheat flower availability decreased despite high imports (Statcan, 2024b).

Food Accessibility In Clarke, Lehto & Sheldrick’s economic report (2023) it is notable that increases in grocery prices, measured year after year, have outpaced consumer inflation since 2021 in Canada. Shoppers are spending more but their buying power is less.

There are many factors affecting our buying power but they are too numerous to discuss in this article. Store and brand switching has become prevalent as evidenced by consumers searching out lower-cost groceries, buying from discount stores, buying in bulk when the price is right, in order to stretch limited food budgets and lessen food waste.

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TAKEAWAYS

Food is a basic need for all humans.

The cost of groceries affects our lifestyle; less eating out.

We spend more but get less groceries.

“Shrinkflation” is when packages of food get smaller and cost more, aka as a price increase!

Cook from scratch can help stretch grocery budgets - don’t buy prepared foods!

Where do Canada’s vegetables and fruits come from since our growing season is so short given our colder climate and how much do we rely on imports (Wickramasinghe, 2025)?

Dr. Kushank Bajaj at UBC has recently developed an interactive website showing the produce flow of 34 popular veggies and fruits from the USA into the 10 provinces over the last 13 years. According to Bajaj & Ramankutty (2025), 50% of veggies (not counting potatoes) and 75% of fruits are imported from some other country! Of those percentages, the USA supplies 36% and 67% respectively of Canada’s total fruit and vegetable imports. Canadians also rely on our interprovincial food system for fruits and vegetables as well as imports from other countries like Mexico.

How is Our Food Security in Relation to Agricultural Land Loss in Alberta?

We grow our food on agricultural land. Since the 1950s more land has been bought under municipal and industrial development. Alberta had the second largest number of farms in Canada (approximately 21%) the second largest farm area after Saskatchewan and the largest cattle herd (Begam & Adilu 2017) but no more; concerns about long term food security are connected to the loss of agricultural land to other developments.

I watched it happen along 16a East where the raspberry farm used to be on the south side of the highway – now the agricultural land has become industrial development. But in this report, Begam & Adilu determined that losing agricultural land at the current rate will not lead to food insecurity for Alberta (2017) so I thought that was great news.

However, in doing more research I found that is open to debate. Morris (2024) argues because “more people require more land, more food, and more resources. It is simply impossible to simultaneously increase human populations, ‘grow’ their economy, and conserve nature”. What is happening in Ontario is now mirrored in other provinces, and should be viewed as a case study on our inability to control growth, secure our future, and preserve the biodiversity that nurtured our ancestors. We have a vital need for policy and leadership in this area!

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Overall Trends in Food Security In 2025, it is predicted that Canadian families could spend up to $801.00 more per year on groceries (Canada’s Food Price Report 2025; Wickramasinghe, 2024) which is approximately a three to five percent increase (see Table 1).

Exceptions are meat prices rising at a higher rate than that (4-6%) because of reduced cattle herds and rising feed costs.

According to Statcan around 51% of Canadians have changed the way they spend their disposable income in order to save money and make ends meet (2024c). To combat the strain of inflation, Canadians have become creative and have turned to practices like buying in bulk, carpooling to go to discount stores, sharing food and coupons/subscriptions and then cooking from scratch to freeze several meals for later.

Unfortunately, it also has been found that 28% of Canadians have resorted to eating less, to save money (Paglinawan, 2024).

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In summary, food is one of the most important basic necessities of life but is taken for granted in a lot of gatherings. With today’s complex buy and sell climate, food security is not a given.

Next time you pick up an apple in the store ask yourself – where was this grown, how much did it cost to grow, how many people were employed to pick, sort, and ship it to Alberta? Appreciate the enormous task of feeding our population in Alberta, then Canada, then the world.

Can we sustain our present standard of living given all the variables affecting our food supply chain? We can only hope our leaders and policy makers have this under control. Now grab that apple you have at home, wash it, cut it into pieces and savour every bite.

Disclaimer: The information in this article was prepared by Vickie Boechler BScN, MN and is intended for information purposes only, not to give heath advice. This information does not replace the health advice of a physician or any other health care professional.

References: Bajaj, K., & Ramankutty, N. (2025). Food Flows Canada website; accessed online Feb 23, 2025. (I highly recommend!!!)

Begum, R. & Adilu, S. (2017). Food security in the context of agricultural land loss in Alberta : a policy research document 2017; food-security-ab-ag-land-loss.pdf; accessed online Feb 18, 2025.

Clarke, S., Lehto, R., & Sheldrick, S. (2023). Switching stores to cope with high inflation: Food sales at food and beverage stores and general merchandise stores; accessed online February 22, 2025.

Dalhousie University | University of Guelph | University of Saskatchewan | University of British Colombia. (2024). Food Price Report 2025; 15th Edition. cdn.dal.ca; accessed online Feb 23, 2025.

FAO (2008). An introduction to the basic concepts of food security. Food security programme.al936e.pdf; accessed online February 24, 2025.

Health Canada (2020) Household food insecurity in Canada: Overview - Canada.ca; accessed online Feb 18, 2025.

McLeod, S. (2024). Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs; Simply Psychology; Accessed online Feb 23, 2025.

Morris, D. W. (2024). Does farmland loss increase habitat for conservation? A counterexample from a highly industrialized economy. The Journal of Rural and Community Development, 19(4), 1–27. Accessed online Feb 23, 2025.

Paglinawan, D. ( 2024). ‘Harsh reality’: Many Canadians are eating less, sharing expenses due to rising cost of living. Accessed online at https:// f inancialpost.com/news/economy/canadians-eating-less-sharing-expenses-rising-cost-living, February 23, 2025.

Statcan. (2024a). Canadians are facing higher levels of food insecurity - Statistics Canada; Accessed online Feb 18, 2025.

Statcan. (2024b). Food availability 2023. The Daily. Accessed online Feb 18, 2025.

Statcan.( 2024c). Nearly half of Canadians report that rising prices are greatly impacting their ability to meet day-to-day expenses. Retrieved from https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/240815/dq240815b-eng.htm.

Uppal, S. (2023). Food insecurity among Canadian families. The Daily — Study: Food insecurity among Canadian families, 2022; Accessed online February 18, 2025.

Wickramasinghe, S. (2024) Canadian families could spend up to $801 more on food in 2025: Report. The University of British Columbia Alumni .ubc.ca; accessed online Feb 23, 2025.

Wickramasinghe, S. (2025) Where do Canada’s fruits and vegetables come from? New website maps the flow into provinces; The University of British Columbia Alumni; ubc.ca; accessed online Feb 23, 2025.

World Food Summit (1996). Rome Declaration and Plan of Action; accessed online Feb 23, 2025.

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F I N D I N G A Guide to Understanding the Credentials of Mental Health Practitioners in Alberta Trying to find and select a mental health professional who is “right” for you can feel overwhelming, anxiety-inducing, and confusing. It’s ironic how stressful just searching for a therapist can be. Psychologist, Counsellor, Therapist, Psychiatrist – who knew there were so many options to choose from when seeking support.

As someone who has experience both as a therapist and a client in therapy, I understand the difficulties in trying to find someone who is not only legitimate and law-abiding, but also understanding, supportive, and maybe even a decent and interesting person, let alone someone you plan to spill your heart out to, AND hope your benefits cover enough sessions throughout the year!

This is the first of two blog posts designed to help you make sense of the mental health industry and gain some tips for your journey toward selfimprovement. However, please keep in mind that most of these definitions and roles are specific to Alberta.

Understanding the Labels There are many terms and nicknames used to identify someone who works in mental health (e.g., “counsellor”, “therapist”, “shrink”, “psych”, “clinician”, “psychologist”). All these terms are essentially used to describe the same line of work – professionals who support individuals, couples, families, and/or children in managing problems related to their mental, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing. Where these terms become important is knowing when you may need a specialist or certain type of professional that has more expertise, knowledge, or training to support you best.

Credentials vs. Certifications vs. Designations The terms “credentials”, “certifications”, and “designations” can be used interchangeably (just to make things more complicated!).

Credentials and certifications refer to the training or skills acquired by the therapist (e.g., undergraduate degree, first aid training); Designation refers to a role or title someone has earned due to their credentials accomplished (e.g., Psychologist, Doctor).

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B A L A N C E All three terms can refer to a mental health professional’s ability to legally perform a skill or set of skills that have been approved by a professional association or regulatory body (e.g., all Psychologists in Alberta answer to the College of Alberta Psychologists). You can find a professional’s credentials in the form of acronyms behind or near their name, often on their website, business page, email address, or business card.

For example, on my LinkedIn profile, I include my current designation/role, as well as my credentials...

Designation: Registered Provisional Psychologist (indicates I am registered with and adhere to the College of Alberta Psychologists, insured to work, and approved by a regulatory college in Alberta).

Credential #1: B.A. (Bachelor of Arts was completed as my undergraduate degree) Credential #2: M.A.C.P. (Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology was completed as my Master’s Program, a requirement in Alberta to register and work as a counsellor and/or psychologist).

Mental Health Professionals’ Roles & Designations in Alberta I've put together a chart that outlines the various titles you may encounter when searching for mental health practitioners in Alberta. individuals, couples, families, and/or children in managing problems related to their mental, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing. Where these terms become important is knowing when you may need a specialist or certain type of professional that has more expertise, knowledge, or training to support you best.

Title

Description, Role

Credential/ Designation

Important Note

Counselling Student/Intern

Completing their practicum in the field of counselling, social work, or psychology.

Can see a range of clients based on their skills and supervision.

Can provide individual, couples, family, and/or group therapy.

Undergraduate or social work degree. In the process of completing a graduate level counselling program.

Counselling interns are insured to work but are not yet licensed to practice independently. Counselling interns typically work for free or at sliding scale.

Social Worker

Work in a variety of settings from hospitals to schools and welfare agencies.

Help improve wellbeing and lifestyle, and address broader social issues, such as discrimination, domestic violence, or unemployment, through services like counselling, health promotion, and collaboration with other professionals.

(RSW)Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, or Master’s in Social Work. Registered with a college or body within their province of work (e.g., Alberta College of Social Workers).

Social workers place more emphasis and focus on a client’s overall social and socioeconomic wellbeing.

Therapists and Psychologists tend to focus more on cognitive or psychological factors, or a blend of both internal and external factors.

Canadian Certified Counsellor

Focus on counselling services that aim to understand individual and familylevel problems that contribute to problems.

Provide treatment for issues ranging from relationships, stress, low confidence, depression and anxiety, trauma, mental illnesses or disorders, and more.

(CCC) Undergraduate or social work degree. Registered with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Can work Canadawide.

Will primarily not diagnose clients, provide medicine, or intervene in a client’s social communities.Typically covered under most private and public insurance companies.

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Title

Description, Role

Credential/ Designation

Important Note

Career Counsellor

Emphasis on professional and career development.

Help prepare clients for interviews and job searching. Review resumes, provide advice and information regarding employment issues and human resources.

Bachelor’s degree or college diploma in employment counselling, human resources development, psychology, education, or social services.

Offer tools and support to help clients take action to reach their employment goals. Strength-building and communication skills. Will suggest when it is time to speak to a therapist to support with mental or emotional issues (e.g., burnout).

Life Coach

Support clients in achieving their goals, and identifies barriers, limiting beliefs, or patterns that need to change for clients to achieve a desired outcome.

Life coaching is not a regulated profession in Canada. Anyone can call themselves a Life Coach, regardless of training or education.

Emphasis on future-focused goals. Typically work in finite timelines, offering guidance as a partner and support person.

Registered Provisional Psychologist

Offer individual, group, couples, and family therapy. Provide evidencebased and trauma-informed therapy to clients through ongoing counselling, assessments, diagnoses, and treatments for issues related to the mental, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing of the client. Will typically begin to specialize and focus on a primary area of focus (e.g., trauma, personality disorders).

Master’s in psychology or Counselling. In the process of completing their internship and passing regulatory exams. Once graduated, they can apply to become a Registered Psychologist.

Provisional Psychologists are not covered by all insurance providers, unlike fully Registered Psychologist’s. Can NOT prescribe medication.

Registered Psychologist

Assess, diagnose, and treat psychological, emotional, and behavioural issues. Offer individual, group, couples, and family therapy.

Will specialize in a certain area.

Role can vary from Clinical Psychologist, Forensic Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, or Rehabilitation Psychologist.

(R.Psych)Master’s or Doctor’s level degree, 1,600 hours of supervised practice, and completion of ethics exams. Considered ‘senior’ after practicing for five years.

Registered Psychologists (also called R.Psychs) can become supervisors to Provisionals after five years of practice.

R.Psych’s can NOT prescribe medication.

Focuses on the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. Provides different therapeutic approaches that combine biological, psychological, and social factors to treat mental illnesses and issues.

Psychiatrist

Evaluate, diagnose, and treat psychiatric disorders. Provide treatment for medication, therapy, and behavioural interventions. Help manage issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, drug and substance abuse, addiction and recovery.

(M.D.) Medical degree as a doctor. Additional training in psychiatry (branch of medicine focused on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders).

Can provide psychotherapy based on additional training but will primarily focus on medication management.

When In Doubt, Ask Questions If you ever find yourself in a confusing or overwhelming situation trying to search for a therapist, you are not alone! Consider finding therapists who offer free phone consultations to ask them the necessary questions in understanding their role and services offered.

Finding the right therapist can take a little research and investigation, but once you find them, I promise it’s worth it!

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

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Connect With Us : (780) 882 7166 Instagram: pinkelephantprinting

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AbSOULutely You Wellness: A Safe Space to Come Home to Yourself I created AbSOULutely You Wellness as more than just a business—it’s a space where healing, fullbody nourishment, and deep self-love are not only welcomed, but celebrated. My heart has always been drawn to connection, and it’s from this place that I hold space for others to return to themselves.

This journey began in 2020, during a time when the world was being called to slow down. What started as a retreat at The Barn RR104 quickly grew into something sacred. I realized how deeply women needed spaces like this—to breathe, to gather, to feel seen. Since then, I’ve led ten retreats and witnessed countless moments of transformation. It’s a kind of magic I’ll never stop believing in.

This year’s retreat—happening May 31st to June 1st—is for women who are ready to reclaim their power, put themselves first, and reconnect with their true selves. Whether through movement, rest, or meaningful conversations, I want each person who enters the space to leave feeling inspired, awakened, and aligned. Taking care of ourselves isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

If there’s one thing I want you to know, it’s this: you matter. Your story, your softness, your strength— it's all worthy of being seen. I believe this weekend will be one of the most magical you’ve experienced.

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You can find absoulutelyyouwellness on Instagram and Facebook And when you stumble upon a space that feels calm, kind, and quietly powerful, you might just be feeling the ripple of this work, where we come home to ourselves, together.

AbSOULutely You Wellness Healing. Nourishment. Self-love.

May 31st – June 1st | Price: $444

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xosial

with Shantel Wawryk

Get Social. Be Exceptional.

True wellness begins with small moments of self-care, nourishing your body, mind, and spirit.

As women, we are constantly juggling various responsibilities and prioritizing our health can sometimes take a back seat.

But what if self-care could feel simple, empowering, and even enjoyable?

Enter XanthoMyst: a wellness solution designed to support your weight loss and overall health journey. Based on the powerful mangosteen fruit, it offers a range of benefits from boosting energy and cognitive function to supporting a healthy immune system and restful sleep.

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Here are the key ways XanthoMyst can support your wellness: Anti-Inflammatory Defense The active compounds in mangosteen naturally combat inflammation, helping to create the foundation for healthy weight management.

Antioxidant Power Packed with antioxidants, mangosteen helps balance oxidative stress, supporting metabolism and overall well-being.

Metabolic Support Certain compounds in mangosteen help enhance fat metabolism, promoting healthier weight management.

Energy Boost XanthoMyst gives you the energy to stay active, which is key to maintaining a healthy weight.

Breakthrough Delivery with 10xPURE™ Technology What makes XanthoMyst unique is its advanced delivery system. Thanks to 10xPURE™ technology, the potent Xanthones in mangosteen are more bioavailable, so your body can absorb them more effectively. This ensures you get the full benefits, fast.

Why Choose XanthoMyst?

Potency & Bioavailability: Highly effective delivery of Xanthones Convenience: A quick mist for easy absorption Taste: A refreshing, enjoyable wellness boost

How Do You Use It? Take 4 Mysts per day, or 2 Mysts twice a day for a 30day supply. No refrigeration needed—just twist, mist, and enjoy!

In the midst of life's demands, it’s easy to overlook the importance of nurturing ourselves. But when we embrace self-care and make it a priority, we not only feel our best—we show up better for our families, communities, and the world.

THEPATH.XOSIALX.COM/XILERATE

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ABOUT US LADYBUGS FLOWERS FRESH FLOWERS• FRIENDLY FACES

STORE HOURS Monday: 9:00am - 6:00pm Tuesday: 9:00am - 6:00pm Wednesday: 9:00am - 6:00pm Thursday: 9:00am - 6:00pm Friday: 9:00am - 6:00pm Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm Sunday : Closed

Knighton & Co. At Knighton & Co.’s café, we believe in creating a welcoming atmosphere where quality meets comfort.

Whether you’re stopping by for your morning coffee or taking a break while exploring our lifestyle store, our café offers a selection of carefully crafted beverages and delicious bites to refuel your day.

LD RTHE A HEA URITE FAVO

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With a focus on using quality ingredients, we aim to provide a satisfying experience that complements your visit. Pull up a chair, relax a moment, and let the rich aroma of coffee and the warmth of our space refresh your spirit.

At Knighton, we don’t just serve food and drink—we cultivate connections, one cup at a time.

www.knighton.ca

Whimsical Vintage Creations Bay 101, 3919 49th Avenue, Stony Plain

Whimsical Vintage Creations has been proudly serving the Stony Plain community since 2013.

ABOUT US

We’ve gradually expanded our size, reach, and services, offering unique products at competitive prices. Our carefully selected vendors and onsite creators bring you exceptional products at competitive prices.

WHY DO YOU HELP US

Whether you are shopping our retail space or online, you can depend on our friendly and knowledgeable staff always being eager and available to help.

Come visit us, we would love to see you!

ABOUT US

LD RTHE A HEA URITE FAVO

Homegrown Foods

www.homegrownfoods.ca 53

Collaborative Content Planning Join us at MNR Beauty Boutique on Thursday, July 10th from 6 PM to 8 PM for a focused session on effective strategies for social media.

We'll dive into planning campaigns for Thanksgiving and Christmas, helping you kickstart your year-end content.

Enjoy snacks, drinks, and great company while transforming your blank calendar into a wellorganized plan!

Where: MNR Beauty Boutique, ​319 McLeod Ave #110, Spruce Grove, AB When: Thursday, July 10th from 6 PM - 8 PM

B O O S T C O N S T R U C T I O N

4300 SOUTH PARK DRIVE, UNIT 502 STONY PLAIN (NEXT TO SHOPPERS DRUG MART)

Whether you'd like your home to be completely remodelled or need a few repairs in one room, we're here to guide you and we'll work with you to get you exceptional results.

www.boostbuilding.ca For The Love Of Building

WWW.MAVERICKSDONUTS.COM/STONY-PLAIN

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# 3 0

2 1 0

M c L e o d

S p r u c e

ROMANTIC NOTIONS

A v e

G r o v e

Bras, Briefs , Boxers, Bikinis and so much more!

3802 49 Ave #102, Stony Plain

www.empowereddefencecentre.ca

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Heartheld Magazine 5115 54th Avenue Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1B8

Edition 4.05