RECIPE: CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER LASAGNA
KINDNESS DAY - A TRADITION THAT SPREADS LOVE
FALL = THE PERFECT TIME FOR A SOCIAL MEDIA AUDIT
SORT + SIMPLE: EMPOWERING SENIORS THROUGH DECLUTTERING + ORGANIZING
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief HeartheldMoments
ExecutiveEditor G Fill dB i
AlbertaPress&Paper EmpoweringYoungMinds
DirectorofOperations HeartheldHealth
SortandSimple
Balance Psychological Services
BalancingBusiness
PHOTOGRAPHY
Hi,I’mJasmine,CreativeEditorialPhotographerforHeartheldMagazine Ilove bringingmagictolifethroughboldcolour,creativeset-ups,andcollaborativeideas Alwayslookingtotravelandexplore-let’sdreambigandthenbringittolife
eZeePhotography
mNicole! I’maSpruceGrovephotographerwhoisdrawntobeautifulnatural calmingtones,simpleitems,andlovingconnection WhenI’mnottaking res,Ilovepaintingandworkinginmygarden Ifyoulovelightandairy,true-tourphotos,I’dlovetoworkwithyou! nicolezeephotographycom
rstpassionismyfamily!Ihaveawonderfulhusband,plus3greatkidswhoareall n!MyhusbandandIaredefinitely“home-bodies” Welovespendingtime rtainingfriendsandfamilyorjuststayinghomebyourselvessnuggledupwitha movieandsomehomemadepizza!Andofcourseabeerorglassofwine! Iamsohappytohavetheopportunitytosharemyrecipes,bakingandcookingtipson mysiteAroundTheNook!Ihopeyoucanpoponandfindinspirationfromsomeofmy ideas wwwaroundthenookcom ndtheNook
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.
Hidden between pages 3 - 48 of Heartheld Magazine is our very own Self-Care Stella.
When you find her, send heartheldmagazine@gmail.com an email with a photo of your magazine and the page number you found her on to be entered to win
A $25 gift certificate to Bliss MediSpa.
Dear Friend of Heartheld,
As we embrace the crisp air and golden hues of the changing seasons, I find myself reflecting on the moments that matter most in my life This edition of Heartheld Magazine is especially close to my heart as it is threaded through with themes that touch the very essence of our shared human experience
For many of us this is a season of transitions; a time to slow down and savour the simple joys that often get lost in the rush of our daily routines.
This month, I encourage you to take a step back, breathe deeply, and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the present moment Let’s celebrate the art of slowing down, of finding peace in stillness, and of reconnecting with ourselves and our loved ones.
This month also holds a day that is deeply personal to me - Suicide Awareness Day I lost my dad to suicide, and it’s a pain that never truly fades.
It’s also a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health and the power of reaching out If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember that you are not alone. There is strength in seeking help, in speaking up, and in finding solace in the support of others.
Together, we can create a tapestry of love, compassion, and connection that makes our world a gentler, brighter place.
In love and kindness, Jasmine
Jenne
Editor-in-Chief || Heartheld Magazine
In shadows deep, a father's pain, He battled demons, hope waned. He left us, searching for peace, Memories cherished, love won't cease.
Let's break the silence, extend a hand, In compassion's light, together we stand His legacy, love's timeless grace, In hearts, his spirit finds a place
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health and suicidal ideations, please reach out.
You are important, you are worthy, you are loved.
Call Talk Suicide Canada at 1-833-456-4566. Support is available 24 hours/day, 7 days/week
Connect with a mental health professional one-on-one: Youth can call 1-888-668-6810 or text WELLNESS to 686868 Adults can call 1-866-585-0445 or text WELLNESS to 741741
There are those that believe in happily ever after and fairytales, in magic and in soulmates I count myself lucky to most definitely be one of these people
Once upon a time I met this guy and he kind of liked me and I kind of liked him. We went on a river trip with friends and spent most of the cold 8 hours talking only to each other. He asked for my number and painfully large phone bills ensued. We started dating, 23 days later got engaged (that is not a typo), and were married in a candle-lit ceremony only a few months later We bought an anciently old house that needed more renovations than we had money, had a gaggle of children, and lived happily ever after And that is all true.
It is also slightly less nuanced than real life always is. It leaves out the heartbreak of loss that engrained the belief of "it is better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all" into the very cores of our soul
Entire chapters could be written on sleepless nights and chronic health issues.
If you read those statements alone you would perhaps believe in demons but you would no longer be partial to happily ever after
And most importantly it leaves out all the moments of in between It leaves out the first time Malachi said, "Red Light" and the paw patrol birthday he was beyond excited for. The twins that tell us all about the stories in their eyes that come as they sleep. It leaves out the time I baked healthy quinoa brownies, only to find Nathanial staring into the stove as they baked When I asked him why he was staring into the oven so intensely he replied "Well Mom, I am just wondering when these things will turn into cookies?"
(It has long since been established that he only considers it baking if the end result is chocolate chip cookies.)
So yes, there is a hopeless romantic here behind the pages of Heartheld Someone who will forever be focused on the beautiful details of special moments, captured by photo or written word
But there is also a girl who understands real life, joy and heartbreak and believes that the fairytale happens somewhere in the in-between.
Once in awhile, in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives you a fairy tale.
~ Unknown Embrace each day with a heart full of creativity and warmth.
Do one act of self-care each day and add a heart to the grid to track your progress.
What ordinary moments breathe magic into your day-to-day life?
Find joy in the simple moments and let them light up your spirit.
You have the power to turn any challenge into a beautiful adventure.
Together, we create a world filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.
Q: HOW DO I COME UP WITH CONTENT TO POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA? I STRUGGLE TO THINK OF IDEAS.
A: IF YOU'RE ASKING THIS QUESTION, YOU NEED A CONTENT STRATEGY!
You've probably heard this phrase thrown around a lot online, but maybe you aren't sure what it means.
Essentially, you need a game plan before you post It's so much easier to come up with content if you know a) who you are speaking to b) where your audience is spending their time and c) what they need to hear from you
I always recommend that people spend some time identifying their target audience (see the workbook on my b i ) d h i
TRUE OR FALSE?
IT'S OK IF SOCIAL MEDIA IS THE ONLY WAY I CONNECT WITH MY CUSTOMERS/AUDI SO I CONNECT WITH MY CUSTOMERS/AUDIENCE.
Verdict? This is FALSE!
You don't own your social media followers. The platform providers can, at any time, remove your account and you would lose those followers!
This is why you see so many people preaching about the importance of creating an email list!
Writer: Jess Schultz
While fall feels like the end of something for some people, to me it has always felt like a season of fresh starts; of new beginnings; of growth and change.
It's also the perfect time to give your social media accounts an audit. Here are a few areas you can do some "fall cleaning" in.
Take Stock. Figure out which platforms you have accounts on and make note of them. Are there some that haven't been used in years and should be removed? If so, now is the time
Stay On Brand. Have you updated your branding colours, logos, etc recently? make sure that all of your social media accounts are consistent and current This might mean updating profile and cover images, updating your bio, removing old pinned posts, making sure all links are current, and updating your handle (it's also a good idea to make sure you use the same name across all social platforms so people can easily find you)
See What's Working. Identify which posts have performed the best on each platformthis will help you create content moving forward
Understand The Audience For Each Platform. Look at the insights for each platform you are using and see if there are any big discrepancies between the platforms you are posting on. If there are, you may need to tailor your content to ensure it's speaking to your audience on that platform!
Identifying your ideal client/target audience is important for more reasons than one. If you haven't figured out who your target audience is, head to my website and download my free workbook, "Know Your Audience". It's a great place to start!
Ingredients
1 box chocolate baking crumbs (400 gram size)
½ cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
¼ cup butter
Peanut Butter Layer
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
½ tub whipped topping 1 L tub, about 2 cups
Chocolate Layer
2 Tablespoons cocoa
1 teaspoon espresso powder
3 cups milk
2 packages instant chocolate pudding (6 serving size)
Topping
½ tub whipped topping 1 L tub, about 2 cups
¼ cup peanut butter
chocolate sauce as needed
crushed peanuts optional
chopped Reece's peanut butter cups optional
mini chocolate chips optional
DIRECTIONS
Bottom Layer
Quick Tip! Place peanut butter in a zippered bag and microwave for about 15 second until soft enough to drizzle. Snip off one corner and drizzle it over the whipped topping!
Heat butter and peanut butter in the microwave on high for 30 seconds
Add the Oreo crumbs and stir until fully combined
Pour mixture into 9×13 inch baking dish, press down with fingers (or a measuring cup) until level
Refrigerate
Peanut Butter Layer
Blend peanut butter and cream cheese with a hand blender
Add powdered sugar and blend Fold in whipped topping until incorporated Carefully spread over chocolate crumb base Refrigerate
Chocolate Pudding Layer
Combine cocoa, espresso powder and pudding mix
Slowly add milk and mix with a hand mixer until smooth, about 2 minutes
Spread over peanut butter layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Topping
Add whipped topping by spoonfuls onto the top of the chocolate layer. Spread gently to the edges first, then spread to the middle.
Melt ¼ cup peanut butter in the microwave for about 15 seconds and add to a zippered bag (or add peanut butter directly to the bag and microwave until soft).
Snip off one of the corners of the bag, and drizzle peanut butter over the whipped topping. Drizzle chocolate sauce over the peanut butter
WrittenBy:JasmineJenne
September has always been a month of introspection and new routines The anniversary of my dad's passing encourages me to pause, reflect and truly evaluate my own life
Where am I? What am I doing? Where do I want to go?
Time and time again I am brought back into the simple. Warm blankets and watching the stars with loved ones. Small inexpensive gifts for friends and loved ones, reminders that they are thought of and appreciated, words and thoughts I never want to miss out on expressing.
Warm bowls of soups shared over candlelight and conversation
In the simple, I find comfort, I find solace and so very often, I find community and the village I hope the following ideas for cultivating the “simple” in your life are useful!
There is nothing quite as wonderful as a relaxing scent I love gifting people things that can be used, enjoyed, won't create clutter, and can easily be recreated and regifted (keeping the ripples of kindness flowing throughout the community) A DIY room spray checks all those boxes! One of the great things about creating your own room spray is just how much you can customize it to your own preferences This is one of my favourites, with the refreshing scent of clean linen, the subtle allure of soft powder, and the invigorating essence of extra clean. With a few simple ingredients and a dash of creativity, you can make a room spray that not only uplifts your home but also makes an incredible gift for your friends.
Ingredients and Materials:
1 cup of filtered and distilled water
2 tablespoons of vodka (or witch hazel as an alcohol-free alternative)
2 drops of fresh linen fragrance oil
2 drops of soft powder fragrance oil
2 drops of extra clean fragrance oil
A glass mister bottle (4 oz. capacity)
Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation
Before we begin, ensure your workstation is clean and organized Lay out all the required ingredients and materials within easy reach Don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly before handling anything
Step 2: Choose the Right Essential Oils
The magic of this room spray lies in the combination of fragrance oils. Fresh linen provides a crisp, clean scent reminiscent of freshly laundered clothes Soft powder adds a touch of subtle sweetness, while extra clean brings a sense of freshness to the mix Feel free to experiment with other fragrance oils or essential oils, but ensure they complement each other.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Grab your glass mister bottle and carefully pour in the filtered and distilled water Add the vodka next, which helps disperse the essential oils evenly and also acts as a natural preservative. Finally, add the drops of fragrance oils one by one - fresh linen, soft powder, and extra clean. Make sure to start light and add one drop at a time, mixing until you get the scent strength you like A little goes a long way
Step 4: Shake and Blend
Give it a gentle stir to mix all the ingredients thoroughly (I like to use a cocktail stir stick for this) then seal the mister bottle tightly
Step 5: Test and Adjust
Spritz a small amount of the room spray in a wellventilated area to test the scent strength If you desire a more intense aroma, you can add a drop or two of your preferred oil On the other hand, if the scent is too strong, add a bit more distilled water to dilute it slightly
Step 6: Store and Gift
Your beautiful and elegant room spray is now ready to be stored or gifted The mixture should remain stable for approximately 30 days Remember to keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prolong its shelf life.
In the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, it's easy to get discouraged by all the negativity in the world The world is heavy There are problems There are things weighing on our souls and hearts I've found that one of the only ways to not be bogged down by all the heaviness is to take a step back and live out kindness and compassion
For our family, Kindness Day has become an annual celebration filled with love, enthusiasm, and new ways to spread positivity (and now tends to last closer to a week than just one day) The joyous anticipation and genuine excitement of our kids counting down the days to this special event fill our hearts with warmth Over the years, we have refined our approach to make Kindness Day the most memorable adventure In this article, we'll share our helpful tips for planning ahead, mixing up activities, cherishing self-kindness, and continuing the spirit of kindness throughout the year.
The week leading up to Kindness Day is dedicated to preparation. We gather together as a family and brainstorm ideas, making lists of potential activities. Planning ahead ensures that we are fully ready for the big day, allowing us to focus solely on spreading kindness. From organizing the logistics to gathering necessary materials, preparation ensures that the day goes smoothly and lets us concentrate on making a positive impact on the world around us.
Kindness Day is a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences. We strategically plan the day to include a variety of kindness acts Often that encompasses giving thoughtful gifts, performing acts of service, surprising friends and family, greeting strangers with warmth, and supporting local causes close to our hearts This eclectic mix of activities adds depth and diversity to the day, making it engaging and enjoyable for everyone involved Moreover, we thoughtfully balance the costs of each activity to fit within our family budget, because kindness doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag
As we teach our children the value of kindness towards others, we also emphasize the importance of self-kindness On Kindness Day, we encourage open conversations about self-care and what makes each family member feel special and loved These discussions serve as a reminder that we all deserve to be treated with kindness and respect, not just on this special day but every day In the weeks following Kindness Day, we make a conscious effort to practice these acts of selfkindness for our children and ourselves, fostering an atmosphere of love and compassion within our family
While Kindness Day is a grand and joyous occasion, we firmly believe that the true essence of kindness lies in the thoughtful little moments scattered throughout the year. Our family aims to continue the spirit of Kindness Day by incorporating random acts of kindness into our daily lives. These small gestures, whether helping a neighbour with their groceries, complimenting a colleague's work, or simply offering a smile to a stranger, have the power to create ripples of positivity in our community.
By weaving kindness into our everyday actions, we hope to make the world a brighter and happier place, one small act at a time.
At Bliss MediSpa, we are dedicated to helping you create a life filled with slow mornings, rest, and rejuvenation; where you can nurture a secure nervous system and achieve mental clarity We understand the importance of being able to think clearly, stay focused, and remain calm even when faced with challenges, as these are essential for your overall well-being That's why our spa is designed to be a sanctuary where you can spend the day tending to each facet of your self-care, from the physical to the spiritual
When you step into our spa, you are greeted by a peaceful environment that encourages relaxation and introspection Our tranquil setting sets the stage for your self-care journey, allowing you to leave behind the stresses of daily life and focus on nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.
Start your journey with us by indulging in our physical self-care offerings. Treat yourself to a luxurious massage or facial, or try one of our specialized treatments like microneedling or laser hair removal. These services are not only about enhancing your appearance but also about promoting your skin's health and vitality
We are also here to help you with your physical well-being Invest in one of our wellness services like our Vitamindrip or wellness workshops Our skilled technicians will ensure that you leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, inside and out
As you move through your day at Bliss, you'll find opportunities for mental self-care Join one of our yoga classes or book a meditation session to clear your mind and enhance your mental clarity These practices can help you let go of worries and distractions, allowing you to be fully present in the moment and better able to cope with the challenges of daily life.
Emotional self-care and well-being is also a key focus at Bliss. Our spa provides a supportive environment where you can explore and express your feelings. Whether through creative outlets like journaling or engaging in activities that uplift your spirit, we believe in the importance of nurturing your emotional health Our goal is to create a space where you can feel safe and supported as you navigate your wellness journey
Social self-care is another integral part of the Bliss experience. Our spa is a community where you can connect with others who are also on a journey to wellness. Join one of our social events like our Yin & Aromatherapy evenings, or simply relax in our lounge area and strike up a conversation with a fellow guest These connections can be a source of support and encouragement as you continue your self-care journey
Our spa is a place where you can engage in practical self-care Take some time to plan and organize your life, whether it's through scheduling your next spa day or setting goals for your overall well-being Our goal is to provide you with a holistic experience that nurtures every aspect of your being, leaving you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the world
At Bliss MediSpa, we are committed to helping you create a life that is full of joy, vitality, and well-being
“As soon as you walk into Bliss you are welcomed by such friendly staff. Getting any type of spa treatment is like a little vacation. I love heading to Bliss early for my appointment to slip into a comfy robe, sip on a warm drink, have a cookie and enjoy the relaxation space. The steam shower is also pretty great!”
“Had such a lovely spa experience here with my mom! My massage with Michelle was amazing, I really appreciated how she checked in with me a few times during to ensure pressure was good. At the end of the massage she even showed me a few stretching exercises to practice at home which was super helpful. We loved the waiting areas and the babor skin products in the change room! Looking forward to coming back!”
If I fall asleep in the next ten minutes, I might be able to get four hours of sleep…
I don’t have time to workout today, my deadline is coming up soon
I can’t believe I forgot about that appointment, what is wrong with me?
I wonder if I’m depressed…I hope no one can tell.
I’ll just skip lunch today
Sound familiar? We all know the saying, “you can’t pour from an empty cup”, but are we practicing what we preach? Are you putting on the proverbial oxygen mask to help yourself before others, or are you struggling to prioritize your own needs?
Being “burnt out” is a popular term that is not taken as seriously as it should be.
Burnout is not just stress or exhaustion, it is the result of an accumulation of mental, emotional, and physical fatigue and extreme exhaustion
Burnout is your brain and body’s way of saying, “I can’t take this anymore” We become anxious, depressed, experience disrupted sleep, irritability, withdrawal or isolation, weakened immune system, and become at a greater risk of illness, disease, self-harm, substance abuse, and addictions.
Why is burnout so common? Why do we feel the need to “go, go, go”, work overtime, ignore our basic physiological needs, and push ourselves to our breaking points?
Workplace pressures and expectations? Sure
Family and marital responsibilities? Definitely.
High standards, perfectionism, desire to succeed and achieve your goals? Absolutely
Western society typically views success in monetary and superficial ways; abundance of wealth, status, privileges, appearance, societal influence, and so on
Abuse can take many forms – physical, psychological, eBut what if success was a calm nervous system? What if we considered “having it all” by way of slowing down, working less, connecting more, working to live, and not living to work?
B A L A N C E
How could you begin to prioritize your emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, not to remove stress altogether (because, whether we like it or not, stress is a part of the human experience), but to reduce your risk of burnout, to better adapt to unpredictable experiences, and to improve your overall health and wellbeing?
Emotional, mental, financial/ economic, sexual, verbal, harassment, stalking, threats of violence, degrading behaviour, or violent behaviour toward objects or animals, and/or online or digital harassment/abuse
So here it is: self-care Another buzzword We say it, tweet it, post about it, but are we actually practicing it? Self-care is not just expensive massages and vacations Self-care is anything that improves your quality of life and mental and physical health, and any activity that nourishes you personally!
And remember, everyone has mental health, and mental health is not the absence of mental illness, rather, it is finding ways to personalize your lifestyle to support your unique self! For me, self-care usually takes the form of what I like to call the “20-minute power nap”, a piece of sea-salt dark chocolate, or walking my dog at the park
For you, self-care might look like any of the following:
Spending time in nature
Ordering your favourite take-out meal
Setting boundaries with friends or family
Positive self-talk
Practicing gratitude
Investing in a creative outlet or hobby
Cuddling with your pet
Meeting with your doctor
Listening to music, an audiobook, or a podcast
Self-care is a preventative measure When you make time for yourself, your hobbies, your enjoyable or energizing activities, you actively reduce your risk of burnout.
Many clients often view therapy as a last resort, and will attend counselling in need of damage control, when everything is already at its worst, and hope feels bleak and distant
But when you break a bone, or feel ill, you don’t wait to see the doctor until the arm has almost completely fallen off, right? (At least, I hope you don’t!). No, you call them up right away, in need of help and support. Counselling can have the same effect!
Life doesn’t have to be terrible for you to ask for help, sometimes we just need a check-up
Embarking on the journey of self-care is like wandering through a garden of gentle melodies that serenade our souls. Each tender moment, filled with softness and reflection, becomes a cherished step towards the heart of who we truly are. It’s in the quiet whispers of morning dew, the warm embrace of a cozy evening, and the delicate dance of sunlight on our skin that we find the romantic essence of nurturing ourselves. As we gather these moments of serenity and grace, we weave a tapestry of love and self-discovery, embracing our truest selves with open arms and hearts full of gentle beauty.
In the pursuit of self-care, setting goals plays a pivotal role in nurturing our well-being. It's not just about scheduling time for ourselves, but about creating intentional spaces for personal growth and renewal Whether it's committing to daily rituals that calm the mind or prioritizing activities that ignite joy, these goals serve as guiding lights in our journey They encourage us to listen to our inner voice, celebrate our progress, and adjust our course as needed, fostering a deeper connection to ourselves and a more fulfilling life experience
30 DAYS
60 DAYS
90 DAYS
To use this wheel: Under each segment, fill in the lines to indicate how satisfied you are with that area of your life right now This will help you visualize which areas could use more attention
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 M NOIATIDE 10
Start Doing Stop Doing
Self-love is empathetic and understanding of flaws and appreciative of the good within each of us. Self-love is not only important, but necessary for positive emotional health and various facets of success. Fill each of the spaces below to the best of your knowledge to begin cultivating a mindset of self-love.
I'm loved by...
I've been told that I'm pretty... People compliment me about...
I'm good at... I feel good when... I feel my best when...
These are the days we all want to remember.
Try to refrigerate your bouquet as soon as possible Remove any wrapping and store upright in a vase with water Attempt to keep the bouquet out of prolonged heat
Wrap stems only in a damp paper towel and place in a plastic bag
Use a box stuffed with paper to keep the bouquet upright
Arrange pick up or delivery of your bouquet within 1 -2 days for best preservation results If you would like to toss a bouquet at your wedding, consider tossing a bridesmaid's If your heart is set on bouquet preservation, try to avoid chrysanthemums as they brown in the process
Consider adding a pop of colour to that all white bouquet. Colour adds depth and contrast that preserves beautifully.
Withthehustleandbustleoflife(andalittlebitofavoidance),itwould beeasytoleavethetaskofdeclutteringtothenextgeneration
However,empoweringolderadultstotakechargeoftheirliving spacesnotonlylightenstheloadonalreadybusyfamilymembers,it alsobringsjoyandpride
Let’sexplorethechallengesseniorsfacewithdecluttering,the upliftingbenefitsofdownsizingproactively,andwhatsupportsare availableforyourorganizingjourney.Changeisscary,let’smakeyour nextlifetransitiononetocelebrateandlookforwardto!
Overthedecadesweaccumulateatreasuretroveofitems,each holdingmemoriesfromvariousstagesoflife Frommementosof joyousoccasions(Imeanyou,50yearoldweddingcake)topractical itemsacquiredovertheyears,ourstuffcanliterallypileup
Someofusholdontobelongingsduetoexperiencesofscarcity, instillingamindsetofpreservingitems"justincase"We’retalking gearfromlongagohobbies,paperworkfromdaysgonebyandall thethingsyouthinkyourkids“willwantoneday”
Otherskeepitemsbecauseofsentimentalvalue,makingthe prospectofpartingwiththemfeellikealossofidentity.Thingslike outdatedtextbooks,giftsfromoldfriendsandsouvenirsallremind usofwhoweare.This emotional connection, coupled with the practical challenge of figuring out how on earth to start sorting, is enough to cause anyone paralysis.
Anexcessofitemsinourspacecancauseissues,especiallyfor seniorswithmobility,cognitiveorvisualimpairment.Fromdifficulty findingessentialitemstoincreasedtrippingandfirehazards, disorganization can impact daily life, safety and independence. Plusthestressofcluttercantakeatollonmentalwell-being,andon relationships Noonewantsthat!
Organizingyourlivingspaceistransformative Beyondaesthetics,itcansignificantly enhance safety and wellbeing.Clearpathwaysandstrategicallyplaceditemsreducethelikelihoodofaccidents,suchastrippingor overreaching.
Additionally,asimplifiedspaceiseasiertoclean,promotingbetterhygieneandphysicalhealth.I’dliketonote thathavingasmallerspaceisalsoeasiertocleanandmaintain!(Agreatmotivatorfordownsizing!)
Atidyenvironmentdecreases distractions andpromotes mental clarity and reduced stress.Adeclutteredandorganizedhome becomesacomfortablespaceforseniorsto engageinactivitiestheyenjoy,surrounded bythepossessionstheyneed,useandlove.
Oneofthesignificantbenefitsof declutteringwhileyou'rephysicallyand mentallycapableistheopportunityto sharethestoriesbehindyourcherished possessions.Ratherthanleavingthistask foryourchildrentoattempttonavigate later,activelypassonitemswith sentimentalvalue It'sabeautifulwayto bondwithlovedonesandtoensure memoriesassociatedwitheachitemare sharedandcelebrated
Whether you plan to downsize your living space or not, proactively downsizing your possessions allows for a smoother transition to smaller accommodation if you do choose to, or need to, move.
Think of the positive changes that are coming. What are you looking forward to in the next chapter of life? This will keep you motivated!
Focus on identifying items that serve you in your current stage of life
Be mindful of passing items on to other generations. Most adult children already have full homes! Take frequent breaks Decluttering a life’s worth of items is an emotionally and physically taxing process
Start now The sooner you begin, the more time you will have to make decisions and enjoy your decluttered space.
Ask for help as needed!
M Y S T I C H E A L I N G A N D C L E A N S I N G
Are you seeking a path to healing and relaxation that's as unique as you are?
I'm here to introduce you to a world of holistic practices that can help you find your inner balance, release pent-up emotions, and embark on a personal journey of healing tailored to your individual needs
As a local practitioner, I offer a range of services designed to help you on your healing journey Among them is the ancient practice of reflexology where I provide therapeutic touch to your hands feet face res
Just as we are all unique, so too are the practitioners who guide us on this path My calling as a healer was evident from a young age when I provided solace to a stranger, and I continue to be a vessel for individuals seeking relaxation, release, and personal growth
So, whether you're looking to find relaxation through reflexology, channel energy with Reiki, experience the transformative power of Intuitive Listening, or embark on a personalized healing journey, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way Remember, your healing journey is as unique as you are, and I'm here to help you find the path that's right for you
Written by Vickie Boechler
Children’s Developmental Milestones: What do they tell us? What good are they? Part 1
As a parent, you are probably already familiar with the developmental milestones of your children However, I would like to discuss them for the first time moms’, seasoned moms’, and caregivers’ that could use a refresher
This is the first part of a two part series and I will cover the developmental milestones and tasks for the newborn and child at 2, 4 , 6 , 9 months and one year (Alberta Health Services, 2023). Developmental milestones are helpful when it comes to assessing any child at any age (CDC, 2024).
As a former Public Health Nurse, I used these to assess a child when they came to the Well Child Clinic for immunization I also used the weight and height scales showing what percentile the child was in compared to other children of the same age These markers helped me to see how well the child was developing However, these milestones do not adequately help to diagnose a child if they are developmentally delayed Parent completed questionnaires and direct observation of the child by a specialist are key when asse
Please remember that developmental milestones are guidelines I remember one of my own children not walking until 15 months (which is at the far end of the marker) I have to admit it was concerning if I compared him to other children his age, but I tried not to as I knew he was developing normally at his own pace If he had not walked until 18 or 19 months I would have had him assessed by a paediatrician
However, I knew things were going great because of the other developmental milestones he was meeting which in his case was accelerated in most areas but slow in mobility (movement). Perfectly fine! How did I know that? Because developmental milestones are only guidelines when used by themselves. They are sort of like a measurement stick and give us some guidance in assessing a child.
Children progressively move from one milestone to the next Remember that each child is different, they go through the milestones at their own pace Your child’s development is going well if they are meeting the milestones for that age group If they miss a milestone or two or reach a milestone and then cannot do it anymore then it is called a developmental delay That is the time to see the family doctor or pediatrician and ask about using a standardized developmental screening tool and other evaluation tests such as vision and hearing on your child
The family doctor or pediatrician will be able to diagnose the problem and if needed refer to an early intervention program so your child can have a better chance at developing optimally. In the Edmonton and surrounding area that would be the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Early Intervention Program. A referral from a family doctor or pediatrician is required.
According to Alberta Health Services (2023) and CDC ((2024) the following are developmental milestones at progressive ages in the child from newborn to twelve months:
Your Newborn Baby
Kicks, grasps, sucks Based on reflexes
Has heavy head with weak neck muscles
Cries or fusses to get your attention - their only method of communication
Depends on you for safety and to cope with their emotions
Startles with loud noises-good marker for hearing
Your Baby at Two Months
Smiles at your face when you smile and talk
Begins to recognize caregivers and prefers familiar faces/looks at your face
Starts to follow you with their eyes; watches you when you move. Makes sounds other than crying. Holds head up when on tummy. Looks at a toy for several seconds. Startles with loud noises.
Askyourpublichealthnursehow togetacopyofthebook,“Healthy ParentsHealthyChildren.” Anewborn’sonlyformof communicationiscrying Somechildrenarefasterintheir developmentsomeareslower Parentsalwaysknowtheirchild thebest Ifyouthinkyouneedapediatrician
Your Baby at Four Months
Holds head steady without support when being held
Opens mouth when sees bottle or breast
When on tummy, pushes up unto forearms
Looks at hands and can bring hand to mouth; can hold a toy
Makes cooing sounds to get your attention or ‘talk’ back to you
Smiles to get your attention
Some babies can drink from a sippy cup
Your Baby at Six Months
Knows who you are; smiles at you, makes squealing noises
Takes turns making sounds with you
Reaches out to grab a toy
Puts everything in the mouth
Some babies can sit up and lean on hand to support self
Back is strong enough to sit in a highchair
When feeding, opens mouth to accept food and closes mouth to refuse food; can self feed small portions of finger food under supervision.
Learns how to manage a spoon.
Can drink from a sippy cup.
Rolls over tummy to back, some roll over back to tummy.
Your Baby at Nine Months
Is shy of strangers.
Shows facial expressions when happy, interested, sad, angry or surprised.
Knows their name and looks to see who called it.
Cries, reaches, or looks when you leave.
Can make sounds like ‘mamamama’ and ‘babababa’.
Lifts arms up when wants to be picked up.
Bangs things together.
Can sit without support.
Looks for things when dropped out of sight.
Your Baby at One Year
Puts things into a container.
Looks for things you hide.
Plays games with you.
Waves ‘bye-bye’; calls parent ‘mama or dada’.
Understands “no”, pauses or stops when you say it.
Pulls self up to stand.
Walks holding unto furniture.
Drinks from a cup without a lid while being held.
Picks up food/small things between thumb and pointer finger.
Insummary,thesearethe“average”milestonesababyisabletoaccomplishfrombirthtotwelvemonths. PleasekeepinmindtheagesandstagesareblurredandoverlapwitheachothersometimesSomebabiesare fasterandsomebabiesareslowerbutaredevelopingnormallyIhavefoundthatparentsalwaysknowtheir childbest-ifthebabyisnotmeetingsomeofthese,theycanseethefamilydoctororpaediatricianformore guidance
Inthenextissue,inPart2,Iwilldiscusstherestofthemilestonesupto5yearsandgivesometipsandactivities foreachagegroupfromnewbornto12monthstohelpyourbabygrowandlearn
Ifyoufindthisarticleinformative,pleaseletusknowatheartheldmagazine@gmail.com.
Disclaimer: TheinformationinthisarticlewaspreparedbyVickieBoechlerBScN,MNandisintendedforinformationpurposesonly,nottogiveheathadvice This informationdoesnotreplacethehealthadviceofaphysicianoranyotherhealthcareprofessional
References: AlbertaHealthServices(2023) Healthyparentshealthychildren 2023-The-Early-Years third-reprint February-FINALpdf(healthyparentshealthychildrenca); AccessedonlineJune19,2024
CDC (2024) DevelopmentalMilestones “LearntheSigns ActEarly”|CDC;AccessedonlineJune9,2024 HealthwiseStaff(2023) Growthanddevelopmentmilestones GrowthandDevelopmentMilestones(albertaca);AccessedonlineJune9,2024 AlbertaHealthServices(2023) Healthyparentshealthychildren 2023-The-Early-Years third-reprint February-FINALpdf(healthyparentshealthychildrenca); AccessedonlineJune19,2024
Why did the apple stop in the middle of the road?
Because it ran out of juice!
How do you fix a broken pumpkin?
With a pumpkin patch!
What’s the cutest season of the year? Aww-tumn!
Why did the scarecrow win an award? He was outstanding in his field!
I felt
The three things I am grateful for today are
Store Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9 AM - 6 PM
Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM
Sundays + Holidays:
Bakery Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM
Sundays + Holidays: Closed
Living out our dreams and never giving up on them is so important For years, women have faced barriers, but now it's time to knock those down and pursue the desires on our hearts Through my podcast, Designed to Inspire, we aim to give back as much as we can Supporting our community is at the heart of what we do, and I love connecting with so many incredible women helping them feel confident by playing dress-up and guiding them through the art of pairing pieces that bring out their best
At Pink Elephant Printing, we are proud to offer free shipping on all orders! We believe in making the process of preserving your cherished memories as convenient and cost-effective as possible
Whether you’re ordering a few prints to complete your photo album or creating a gallery wall to showcase your favorite moments, you can enjoy the ease and savings of having your high-quality prints delivered straight to your doorstep at no extra charge.
Our commitment to providing excellent service means that you can focus on capturing and celebrating your special moments while we take care of the rest With Pink Elephant Printing, preserving your memories is always affordable and hassle-free
•bringing your memories to life one print at a time•
www.pinkelephantprinting.com
S T O R E H O U R S
Monday: 10 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday: 10 AM - 5 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM - 5 PM
Thursday: 10 AM - 5 PM
Friday: 10 AM - 5 PM
I’mYulitzaandI’mthe womanbehindthese beautifulbars.Icameto CanadafromVenezuela anddreamedofmaking botanicalhaircare productsthatcelebrated myLatinculturewhile promotingresponsible, naturalhaircare
Sanarmonyiscommittedtobringingharmonytoour worldbybeingatrustedbrandthat’srespectfulof bothourcustomersandtheplanet.
Shoponlineat www.sanarmony.com
