September 2025

HEARTHELD MAGAZINE FEATURIN G AN INTERVIEW WITH ONE MAN ’S TREASURE

HOW TO EASE BACK-TOSCHOOL ANXIETY IN KIDS RECIPE: AN EASY BREAKFAST BAKE FOR A CROWD OR MEAL PREP

A GENTLE NOTE FOR SUICIDE AWARENESS DAY

KIDS’ CORNER RECIPE: NOBAKE ENERGY BITES

hello from the

GUESTS OF HEARTHELD

Jasmine Jenne

Jessica Schultz

Ryder Jenne

Vickie Boechler

Director of Operations

Heartheld Health

Balance Psychological Services

Angela van Leeuwen

Pw Design & Co

Donnalea Ferguson

Kids’ Corner

Wellness

The Balanced Mom

Around the Nook

Creative Director

Executive Editor Grace-Filled Business

Sarah Warrener Local Love

Finding Balance

Kate from St. Albert Toy Share

Rita Sjouwerman Papers & Prose

GUEST ARTICLE Rayanne Forbes

PHOTOGRAPHY

Hi, I’m Jasmine, Creative Editorial Photographer for Heartheld Magazine. I love bringing magic to life through bold colour, creative set-ups, and collaborative ideas. Always looking to travel and explore - let’s dream big and then bring it to life.

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-to-colour 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 MNR Beauty Boutique.

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CONTENTS TANGIBLE SELF - CARE 03 | Self-Care Stella 05 | Simple Self - Care

LETTER FROM THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Dear Heartheld Community, The changing season has me reflecting on the importance of slowing down and being mindful of how we’re feeling. It’s easy to get

10 | Papers & Prose

swept up in the rush, but I’ve found that taking a step back to breathe and check in

GENTLE LIVING & WELLNESS 08 | Grace-Filled Business 20 | Finding Balance

with ourselves can make all the difference.

As the seasons shift, let’s be gentle with our minds and our bodies. Taking time to slow down isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for our wellbeing. I’m committed to taking those

27 | A Gentle Note for Suicide Awareness

moments for myself and I hope you can find

30 | Around the Nook

In love and kindness,

33 | Heartheld Health

space to do the same.

Jasmine Jenne Creative Director || Heartheld Magazine

FAMILY LIFE 22 | Kids’ Corner

HEARTHELD COMMUNITY 12 | MNR Beauty Boutique 14 | Interview with Emma Smith of One Man’s Treasure

COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL EDITION

17 | Angela V Wellness 35 | Sarah Warrener 40 | Advertising Community

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Simple Self-Care is slowing down and embracing the quiet moments of change.

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self-care

Month

Year

1st Priority

2nd Priority

Goals for my mind

Reflection Notes

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priorities

3rd Priority

Goals for my body

self-care

tracker

Date Activity

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T

W

T

F

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Wake up on time Take a shower Eat breakfast Read a book Write in journal Exercise Eat nourishing food Take a nap Skincare routine Practice Yoga Cuddle a pet

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Written By: Jess Schultz

Grace-Filled Business Effective, Grace-Filled Business Advice For A Digital Age

Ask A Digital Expert...

Q: What is a keyword? Do I need to use those?

A: A keyword is a term or phrase that is used to describe the content of a webpage or website (or really any content online).

In the context of search engine optimization (SEO), keywords are important because they are used by search engines to help determine the relevance and ranking of webpages in search results. In other words, if someone types a keyword into a search engine, the search engine will look for webpages that contain that keyword and rank them in order of relevance to the search query.

It's important to choose the right keywords for your content in order to optimize it for search engines and make it easier for people to find, but this doesn't only apply to your website!

Social media platforms like Instagram, Youtube, and Facebook also utilize keywords to an extent. It's definitely in your best interest to make sure that your captions, text on screen, and alt text all contain keywords that strongly connect to your content and its goals.

TRUE OR FALSE? Organic SEO (search engine optimization) is pointless.

Verdict? This is FALSE! More than 50% of web traffic is generated by organic keyword searches. What does that mean?

It means that more than half the people who find websites are finding them based on the keywords on that page, and NOT because of paid advertising. While paid advertising has its place, organic SEO is effective and absolutely worthwhile.

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WATCH YOUR MOUTH! WHAT YOU SAY TO YOURSELF MATTERS We've all done it - we missed a deadline, burnt our lunch, or broke a cup. We let words slip out before we had really thought them over, we called someone the wrong name, or delivered a less than stellar product.

We make mistakes, each and every one of us.

Do you know why? Because we are human. We are not robots (although even they aren't 100% flawless), we are human and it is completely normal to make a mistake once in a while.

Unfortunately, somewhere along the line we got the idea that it wasn't ok. We started to demand perfection of ourselves, and any time we delivered anything less than perfection (which, spoiler alert, is basically all the time) we came down on ourselves hard. That voice in our head has become far from kind.

Since this is all happening in our minds and isn't something we often talk about with our business colleagues or friends, we assume that it's normal and probably ok. I've got news for you - it might be "normal", but it's definitely not ok.

Recently I was reading a blog post written by a local provisional psychologist on this very topic. She explained that "negative self-talk has been found to not only be predictive of anxiety and depression but also influence their severity, persistence, and relapse. Worse than that negative self-talk can affect how brains function when doing cognitive tasks. What that means is that how we talk to ourselves can make it harder or easier for us to complete challenging mental tasks."

So speaking to ourselves like this is not only increasing our chances of feeling anxious and depressed, it's actually making it harder for us to complete the challenging task in the first place. We're setting ourselves up to fail and then beating ourselves up when we do.

Friends, as we move into a new season and a new academic calendar year I invite you to join me in a challenge. When we find ourselves speaking to ourself in a way that we wouldn’t speak to a friend or loved one, let's pause. Take a breath, and then say to ourselves, "I forgive you for speaking unkindly. I know you think that's helping us be better, but it isn't. Instead, I'd like to say (and insert words filled with grace).

Personally, I think the most important step here is the forgiveness. If you get frustrated with yourself for failing to make this shift instantly, you're only repeating the cycle. Accept that it will take time and lots of practice, and continue showing yourself the same level of love and kindness you would show your friends, your sisters, your nieces, or your daughters.

Wishing you a fall season filled with love and kindness! ~ Jess

References: Hoyt, Lorelei “I Am a Horrible Person - Hello Pot it's the Kettle Calling.” Balance Psychological Services, June 24, 2023 www.balancepsychservices.ca

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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 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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BEAUTY & APPAREL FOR THE EVERYDAY WOMAN INSTAGRAM: @MNRBEAUTYBOUTIQUE 12

FASHION HUNT GAME

Here’s a little game for you to enjoy!

1. Visit our boutique and find an item in your favorite colour.

2. Snap a photo of yourself with the item.

3. Post it on Instagram or Facebook and tag @mnrbeautyboutique with the hashtag #MNRFashionHunt.

4. The most creative post wins a special discount on your next purchase!

We hope you enjoy the game and we can't wait to see your creative photos! Come visit us at MNR Beauty Boutique to explore your unique style and be part of our fabulous community.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @mnrbeautyboutique to stay updated on all the latest happenings and join in the fun.

CONNECT WITH US

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An Interview with Rayanne Boychuk

EMMA SMITH: BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO OLD TREASURES AT ONE MAN’S TREASURE

Every morning, like clockwork, Emma Smith opens her antique shop and gently dusts off relics of the past, one item at a time.

It might sound like the plot of a Hallmark movie, but for one local resident, running a cozy antique shop in a small town is her everyday reality.

Emma is the proud new owner of One Man's Treasure in Stony Plain. What caught my attention was how young she is to be at the helm of a business often associated with older generations.

At just twenty-eight, Emma spends her days surrounded by vintage and antique finds, and her evenings with her two dogs or swimming in local lakes. Her love for the old and storied runs deep. Born in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Emma grew up in various small towns across BC, Alberta, and Ontario, thanks to her parents’ forestry careers.

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But how did someone so young form such a deep connection with items from generations long before her own?

“My mom collected antiques, so I was familiar with beautiful old wood furniture," Emma explains. "My bedroom set was a 1940s waterfall set, which I now realize didn’t get the respect it deserved—I would have happily traded it for a white canopy bed made of particleboard at the time!”

Her personal passion began at age fourteen when she stumbled across a pristine buttercream yellow 1950s grad dress in a thrift store. That discovery sparked a love for vintage treasure hunting that only grew stronger.

“I started upcycling thrifted clothes and eventually moved on to small furniture and home décor once I had my own space,” she says. “As I began to buy and sell more, I really focused on mid-century modern (MCM) furniture. Now that I own One Man’s Treasure, I’ve been able to broaden my focus to antiques from all eras.”

MINIMAL LIFE & VINTAGE LIFESTYLE During the pandemic, Emma began selling vintage furniture and décor under her brand Lightly Loved YEG on Instagram. In September 2022, she rented a small vendor space at One Man’s Treasure.

“I learned so much from the other vendors and loved the community.

After a year of running my booth, I started working at the shop a few days a week. I was still managing my own business on the side and helping vintage furniture find new homes.”

Over time, she developed a deep appreciation for the shop and the effort the previous owners had invested over 16 years.

“When they decided to retire, they were looking for someone to carry on the One Man’s Treasure legacy, and they thought I might be that person.”

In August 2024, Emma officially became the shop's new owner.

“I decided it was an adventure I was ready to take on! Of course, there were bumps and challenges, but I’ve been lucky to have the mentorship and support of the previous owners through the transition. I also owe so much to my vendors, staff, and customers for sticking with us.”

So what does a typical day at an antique shop look like?

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Emma spends her time helping customers, coordinating with vendors, and keeping the store filled with interesting pieces. She also refinishes damaged furniture, creates new displays, and manages the store’s social media. Much of her time outside of store hours is spent sourcing and transporting merchandise from estate sales, auctions, garage sales, and online marketplaces.

“We’re also lucky that some people reach out directly to sell us their items,” she adds.

Why does Emma think antiques have surged in popularity in recent years?

“I think antiques are loved for their history and nostalgia,” she says. “They’re often better quality, unique, more sustainable, and more affordable than new items. Above all, they make people feel good - they bring back memories.” Some pieces, she says, are especially in demand.

“Uranium glass is something we get asked about almost daily. It was made during the Depression in the 1930s and glows green under a black light.

The pieces get snapped up quickly whenever we have them.”

For anyone looking to add antique charm to their home, Emma offers some advice.

“Start small - mix a few antique pieces with your modern décor. If you can find special vintage or antique items that you genuinely love, they’ll naturally fit into your space. And don’t be afraid to swap things out over time!”

Emma also has words of encouragement for aspiring young entrepreneurs.

“My best advice is: it’s okay to take small steps! I started selling a few items on Facebook Marketplace and Instagram and doing a few vintage markets. It was all outside my comfort zone at first, but those small steps built the foundation of my business.”

If you haven’t visited this local gem yet, stop by One Man’s Treasure at 4912 50 Avenue in Stony Plain and discover a little magic from the past, brought lovingly into the present.

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GALLER

“My favourite part is that every day is different!”

Emma says. “We have around 30 vendors, six staff members, and we’re open seven days a week.

Plus, we host several special events throughout the year.”

YOUR FALL RESET

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Take Charge of Your Life Doesn’t September feels like the true start of the year? It sure does for me. The long, chill days of summer fade, routines return, and suddenly everything speeds up.

Work ramps up. Schedules fill with kids back in school & sports. Emails pile up. Before you know it, you’re spending your days reacting to life instead of living it intentionally.

But what if this year you did it differently? I used to run through fall on autopilot - juggling a corporate job, raising a family, and checking off an endless list of “shoulds.” I’d tell myself I’d figure it all out in January, but by the time I got there, I was exhausted and starting from zero again.

Everything changed when I started treating September as a second January - thinking of it as a fresh chance to set intentions, create healthy habits, and build a foundation that carries me through the rest of the year, feeling grounded and in control.

I still have a million things to do, and I’ve also got a strategy in place so that I can do it all without crashing and burning out.

And that’s why I became a Certified Health & Life Coach. I want to help other parents navigate the hectic, sometimes overwhelming list of things to do. I am living proof that you can still thrive with a demanding schedule and live a healthy, purposeful life.

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Through my Hike Your Way Healthy series, I guide women to do exactly that: step off autopilot, get outside, and reset their minds and bodies.

Each hike combines gentle movement, fresh air, and focused coaching on themes like mindfulness, self-care, and goal setting. You leave the hike not just feeling better, but with simple tools you can actually use in your daily life.

For businesses, I also offer customized corporate programs designed to help teams reduce stress, boost morale, and work together more cohesively - even during the busiest seasons.

Whether it’s a group hike that fosters connection, an onsite team-building workshop that strengthens communication, or a full wellness package tailored to your company’s needs, I’ll create something that aligns with your goals. If you’d like more information, just scan the QR code in this article to reach me and I’ll send you a package with all the details.

Here’s the truth: life isn’t going to slow down. But you can slow yourself down long enough to get intentional about how you want to show up.

September gives you that chance, but only if you take it.

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Let’s take this journey together; you’ve earned it!

“I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees.”

-Henry David Thoreau

So ask yourself: What would it feel like to end this year already on solid footing for 2026?

What could change if you stopped reacting and started leading your life, one small, intentional step at a time?

I’d love to help you find out.

Join me for a hike, sign up for a workshop, or reach out to customize a program for your workplace. Scan the QR code or visit my website to get started.

Why Hire Angela van Leeuwen, RHC™ When it comes to your health and well-being, credentials matter. In Canada, anyone can call themselves a coach - with zero training or oversight. I don’t operate that way.

I’m a Registered Health CoachTM (RHCTM), trained through one of the top schools in North America, the Health Coach Institute. I’m also a Certified Hiking Guide with the Outdoor Council of Canada. My services may even qualify under your Health Spending Account - check with your provider to see if you can access this benefit.

I go above and beyond to ensure you’re in good hands: • I am fully insured for all my services.

• I’m a member of the Health Coach Alliance, Canada’s governing body for health coaches.

• I’m committed to continuing education, meaning I stay up to date with the latest industry standards so you always get the best support possible.

• I have extensive Corporate Leadership Training.

I specialize in helping women who are overwhelmed and burnt out create empowering routines, break through habits that hold them back, and finally feel better: physically, mentally, and emotionally. I also offer corporate programs and team-building experiences to help businesses reduce stress, boost morale, and build stronger, more cohesive teams.

Whether you’re looking for in-person coaching, online programs, workshops, corporate wellness, or guided hikes, I bring the same level of professionalism, expertise, and care to everything I do.

It’s not mental health or physical health, it’s simply health.

Let’s talk about how I can help you or your team thrive. Scan the QR code to get started today.

WWW.ANGELAVWELLNESS.COM 19

F I N D I N G How To Ease Back To School Anxiety The fresh, crisp air sends small shivers down your spine. A yellow leaf flutters off a tree. Fall décor lines the store shelves. All little signs that the summer days are coming to an end. And for some, that can mean only one thing: Back to School.

While some long for the unstructured summer days, some are equally ready to get back into a routine. There are so many new things to enjoy with back to school: shopping for new clothes, shoes, and fresh school supplies; reconnecting with friends; and getting back into sports and afterschool activities.

When Returning To School Brings More Worries Than Excitement Not everyone looks forward to back to school. For many kids, school is a source of anxiety. It’s a lot of pressure - to study, to fit in, to sit still most of the day. The mere mention of school might send these kids into a spiral.

So how do we help?

Get Back Into A Routine BEFORE School Starts If routine has gone out the window over the summer, a good place to start is getting back into a schedule. Ways to do this include: Bedtime/Wake Up Time: About a week or so before school starts, try moving bedtime closer to their typical school night bedtime and waking them up earlier. Sleep is so vital to children’s mental health, and it’s often one of the first places I look to fix.

Meals: Have set times for meals and snacks. Try to eat together as a family if possible.

Screen Time: If screen time rules have gone out the window over the summer, see if you can start limiting screens to 1-2 hours a day before school starts.

Practice Calm Breathing: A simple “In through your nose, hold, out through your mouth, hold” can do wonders for calming the nervous system.

Explore What’s Wrong Without Reassuring Or Problem-Solving Once your child is calm, talk to them about what their specific worries are. Our instincts might be to reassure them it’s okay, or try to find a solution, but I encourage you to let them sit with those feelings for a minute.

Let them know it is okay and normal to be worried about going back to school. School can be hard. Making friends doesn’t come naturally for everyone. Studying isn’t usually fun. And that’s okay. We all get nervous and scared sometimes.

This simple process is called validation. Sometimes kids just want to be heard and understood.

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B A L A N C E Ask If They Want Help Coming Up With Solutions Once you’ve thoroughly explored their feelings, ask them if they want support finding a way to deal with it.

Potential solutions could involve: Positive Self-Talk: Encourage your child to say things like “I can do it.” “I’m good at making friends.” “Not everyone will like me, and that’s okay, I can still make friends.”

Developing a Positive Mindset: Talk about the good/exciting parts of school.

Help Them Prepare: Walk/drive to the school together, play in the playground there, or find any other way to get used to the environment prior to school starting.

Praise and Reward: Give your child lots of praise for pushing past their anxiety and going to school. Rewards can be useful, especially in cases of school refusal.

When Should You Seek Extra Help Let’s say you’ve done all this, but your child is still anxious. When is it time to reach out for help from a therapist? Here are some warning signs that anxiety is getting the best of your child.

Your child: has constant physical complaints with no medical cause cries before going to school every day lashes out/has tantrums refuses to go to school constantly asking for reassurance

In the end, only you can decide if your child needs some extra support from a mental health professional. I encourage you to seek out support before your child is missing multiple days of school due to anxiety. Once a child starts missing school, they get behind and it becomes even harder to return.

Many of the therapists at Balance have helped children cope with school-related anxiety. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation if needed.

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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Where value meets variety

meet the owners mother / daughter duo Looking for something special? Your Stony Mart in Stony Plain has it all and then some!

Recently rebranded from Your Dollar Mart, this family-owned shop is all about stretching your dollar further while offering a wide selection of products you won’t find just anywhere.

From vibrant artificial flowers that brighten any room to beautiful arrangements for gifts or events, Your Stony Mart has everything you need to add a little extra charm to your life. If you’re the creative type, you’ll love their range of DIY supplies, whether you’re painting, knitting, or sprucing up your home décor, they’ve got what you need to bring your ideas to life. And if you're looking for something specific, they’re happy to order it in just for you.

But that’s not all. Your Stony Mart is also your destination for a variety of home essentials, party supplies, and everyday items all at prices that make it easy to fill your cart without breaking the bank. Need something extra special for a celebration? Their custom balloon arrangements are a hit for birthdays, anniversaries, and just about any occasion that calls for a little extra fun.

With an ever-growing selection of quality products and unbeatable value, Your Stony Mart is your go-to spot for everything from the basics to the unexpected treasures that make shopping so much more fun.

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hours Monday 9:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday 9:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.

4600 48 St, Stony Plain, Alberta

www.yourdollarmart.ca

Wednesday 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Friday 9:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

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Discover, Create, and Have Fun!

Kids’ Corner SPONSORED BY: ST. ALBERT TOY SHARE

Challenge of the Month: Put on a Parade Host your very own parade—just for fun, right at home!

Here’s how to get started: Q: How do you make an egg roll?

A: Push it down the hill!

Choose who (or what!) is in your parade: toys, stuffies, action figures, pets, or even YOU Line them up and give your parade a name (like “The Great Jellybean March” or “The Rainbow Band Parade”) Make mini signs, flags, or instruments using paper, crayons, and anything you find Parade through your room, down the hallway, or across the backyard

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No-Bake Energy Bites FOR YOUNG CHEFS WITH BIG HEARTS

(ALWAYS CHECK WITH AN ADULT BEFORE CREATING IN THE KITCHEN)

X6 X1

X1

INGREDIENTS

2.

1.

2 hours

3.

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B u t t t u e o r b f A lies l l A L M Y E A D U L T C U C A EGG LARVA PUPA

E A L B C S L P U R S I P

G T F Y A G T N E I I A U

G P R U A V R A L S L S P

C V E L F D C L O A A E O

M E T A M O R P H O S I S

ADULT CATERPILLAR NECTAR

H C T S T A F T A I Y I S

M O U I N E C T A R R T O

E R B D O U E R E A H E U

R A L L I P R E T A C M T

BUTTERFLY CHRYSALIS METAMORPHOSIS 27

HI! I’M KATE! I’m the founder of the St. Albert Toy Share, and I’m so happy you’re here!

As a mom and a lifelong lover of play, I know firsthand how magical it is to watch our little ones discover the world through toys. But, I also know how quickly our homes can fill up with outgrown toys, plastic clutter, and guilt over waste.

That’s why I created this toy library: to offer families a more intentional, joyful, and sustainable way to play.

St. Albert Toy Share is about more than just toys. It’s about connection, community, and creating a simpler path for parents who want to provide enriching experiences without overconsumption. Every toy we stock is thoughtfully chosen for its quality, creativity, and developmental value, and every item you borrow helps reduce landfill waste and promote mindful parenting.

Whether you’re here out of curiosity, looking to simplify your toy rotation, or wanting to make more eco-conscious choices, I’m truly grateful you’ve found us.

I hope this library brings ease to your

Did You Know?

Young children benefit more from rotating toys than

parenting journey and lots of giggles to your home.

Welcome to a new way to play, I’m so glad you’re part of it.

at once?

For more details, visit www.stalberttoyshare.ca and follow along on Instagram and Facebook.

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Memberships

having a large collection all

HOLDING SPACE: A GENTLE NOTE FOR

Suicide Awareness A CO-WRITTEN PIECE BY VICKIE B. & JASMINE J.

BEFORE YOU CONTINUE, KNOW THAT THE WORDS AHEAD SPEAK SOFTLY ON THE TENDER TOPIC OF MENTAL HEALTH AND SUICIDE. IF YOU’RE NOT IN A PLACE TO READ ABOUT THESE THEMES TODAY, FEEL FREE TO CONTINUE READING ON PAGE 34.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEART FIRST.

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Every Fall, Suicide Awareness Day invites us to pause and listen more deeply to ourselves, to each other, and to the quiet struggles we may not always see.

In Canada, around 12 people die by suicide each day. It’s one of the top ten causes of death, and the second leading cause among young people aged 15–34. Behind each number is a story, a life, and a chance to show up with compassion.

What to Look For Someone who is thinking about suicide may not always say it directly.

But there are signs that someone might be struggling: Talking about feeling hopeless or like a burden Withdrawing from friends or usual activities Giving away personal items Changes in sleep, appetite, or mood Taking more risks than usual Asking “Are you thinking about suicide?” doesn’t put the idea in someone’s head. It opens a door for support and it could save a life.

How to Help If someone shares that they’re having thoughts of suicide: Stay calm and listen without judgment Ask if they have a plan or access to anything that could hurt them If there’s immediate danger, call 911 Let them know they’re not alone and help is available Encourage them to talk to a doctor, call 811, or reach out to 988, the Suicide Crisis Helpline If you're not sure what to do, just being there and helping them take a step toward support can make all the difference.

If You're Struggling Please know this: you are not alone.

If you are hurting or feeling overwhelmed, help is available 24/7.

Call 988 or 911 in an emergency Visit your local ER or clinic Talk to someone you trust Even in the hardest moments, hope and help are still possible.

Let’s keep listening. Let’s keep each other here.

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I don’t have all the answers about what comes next, but I know this: You would be missed.

Deeply. Quietly. Completely.

By the people who love you, by the world you’ve touched, and even by those who never found the words to say it.

I know because I’ve felt it in the spaces where others once stood, and in the ache of wishing they’d stayed.

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Breakfast Bake For A Crowd Packed with savoury sausage, mushrooms, vibrant green onions, healthy spinach, hashbrowns, and a rich blend of feta and cheddar cheeses, this breakfast bake is a symphony of flavors that will kickstart your day on a delicious note.

Ingredients: 3 Italian sausages 2 cups diced mushrooms ½ cup diced green onion 1 cup chopped spinach ½ tablespoon butter 1 pkg dehydrated hash browns ½ cup feta 1 cup shredded cheese ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 18 eggs 1 cup light cream Instructions: 1.Preheat oven to 350˚F. Grease a large 11 x 15 inch baking dish with 1 teaspoon butter.

2.Re-hydrate the hash browns as per package directions.

3.Remove casing from sausages and scramble fry in a large skillet. Set aside.

4.Saute onions until opaque, add mushrooms and cook until moisture is mostly evaporated. Add hash browns, cooked sausage, and spinach. Stir and fold everything into greased baking dish.

5.Sprinkle feta and shredded cheese evenly over mixture.

6.In a large bowl, whisk eggs with cream and season with salt and pepper. Pour over hash brown mixture. Shake pan to ensure even distribution.

7.Cover with foil and bake for 30 min.

Remove foil, reduce heat to 325˚F and bake 15 min longer, or until egg is no longer jiggly in the centre.

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heartheld health Written by Vickie Boechler

PAY FORWARD KINDNESS (PFK) IN PARKLAND COUNTY: VANESSA’S STORY

IF YOU READ MY ARTICLE IN THE AUGUST EDITION OF HEARTHELD MAGAZINE, THEN YOU’VE ALREADY BEEN INTRODUCED TO VANESSA, A PIVOTAL MEMBER OF THE PAY FORWARD KINDNESS TEAM. I HAVE ANOTHER INSPIRATIONAL STORY FROM VANESSA TO SHARE WITH ALL OF YOU TODAY.

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Vanessa shares: What does it mean when we say, “We are a big community street family”? It means that nobody gets left behind or forgotten.

It means that when someone is struggling deeply with their mental health and is feeling like they are not ok, they know they have someone to turn to. It means that someone will show up to sit with you and listen to you. It means that someone will remind you that it’s ok to not be ok and that you are human. It means that when you are not ok, someone is going to stay with you until you are.

That might mean sitting together to go through it to get through it, listening until your tears run out and you catch yourself laughing a little. It might mean the hugs were so big that they helped make it feel like it put some of your broken pieces back together.

Tonight, it was a few things. It was being there. It was listening.

It was talking about the big grief waves and the tough stuff and also remembering the good stuff and memories we are so thankful for. It was sharing old times and how things don’t feel the same and also being ok with our new normal and the changes that have been happening in our community. It was about feeling unsafe at one point and having to make that call to Access 24 together.

It was learning that the supports needed are there but there have been some missed connections with mental health to follow up with. It was a simple contact update being needed and knowing that people do care and did try. That meant the overwhelming feeling of starting from scratch was gone and it is possible to pick back up and have help on most any day.

It meant that when all of the above was done the feeling of “I just don’t want to live anymore” now felt like, “I’m going to be ok”. It meant that when all of the above was done we were able to call on a couple of the guys from the street family to come make sure that this person was not alone tonight because he didn’t want to be alone.

It takes a lot for men to open up, to be vulnerable. We are proud of our communities unhoused.

They do have each others backs. They take care of one another. They show up, they make sure they are ok. Tonight, I’m sure they may have helped saved a life.

The guys remind each other that, “it’s ok to not be ok, just can’t get stuck there”. Tonight, when someone said, “I have nothing to look forward to” some sharing about some exciting opportunities that are different and are being offered to help them dig out, learn, grow and a little hope to break the cycle they have known for so long by having opportunities to connect with community. Help to keep busy and use time differently to grow.

Tonight PTSD, trauma and grief came flooding in and hit someone like a tsunami. We have faced so much loss in our community. The pain runs deep and the love of this community also continues to light the way.

Today we have the tools to work through these moments, today we stand strong together going through it to get through it. That is what we, at PFK mean when we say, “we are a big community street family”.

Love and light to all tonight. Late night, stomachs full, and a few hope carriers heading back to camp tonight with hot meals provided because of YOU all. Thank you for your support. Hope begins with a meal! (V. Fales Vezina, personal communication, May 16, 2025).

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Sarah WArrener

A Real Estate Market Update (The LOCAL Edition)

“Spruce Grove is on the radar in a whole new way for families looking for a safe, affordable, ideally located community to call home.”

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“2020-2023 saw increased demand for affordable Alberta real estate from people relocating from other provinces. Prices increased, which was great news for sellers.

Now? Spruce Grove & Stony Plain are attracting Edmonton families at an unprecedented rate. I recieve calls regularly from my Edmonton office colleagues (as the go-to ‘Spruce Grove girl’) asking what listings I have coming up in Spruce Grove.

Our local market has become increasingly competitive - for reasons we all knew when we chose to call the tri-region home.

But the cat’s outta the bag, now, for a lot more people.

Spruce Grove is on the radar in a whole new way for families looking for a safe, affordable, ideally located community to call home.

With an office on the west end of Edmonton & a Spruce Grove home base - I am strategically positioned to connect that influx of Edmonton buyers to my listings in the tri-region area.

I offer expert local representation with connections to a lineup of buyers for your home here in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain & Parkland County.

Supply? Meet demand.

Thinking of selling your home? I’m your girl!

Call 780-893-5377 and let’s chat.”

- Sarah 36

Top 6 Reasons people are moving to Spruce Grove & Stony Plain Affordability: Average home prices are lower than Edmonton & most other suburb cities. Detached homes tend to be larger for less $$$

Location & access: 15 minutes of easy highway driving has you at West Edmonton mall vs driving through traffic & construction to get through Edmonton.

Safety: Crime rates are lower than Edmonton Opportunity : Prices remain lower comparatively but have risen dramatically over the last 2 years. Commercial investment and projects suggest continued upward trends. (Guess who’s getting our own costco!)

Family Friendly: Great schools, parks, programs, community events, & bussing systems contribute to overall family oriented communities.

Investment: Spruce Grove has an effective net-zero rental availability. With lower housing costs, public transportation to Edmonton, & strong demand, it is an ideal opportunity for those looking to develop their rental portfolio.

I created this recently for my Edmonton colleagues who asked about the increase in people moving to our area. The intended purpose was also to assist in attracting investors to our area.

Would you add anything to this list? social media links DM me on facebook or instagram!

I would love to update it!

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Get to know Spruce Grove & Stony Plain What’s the difference? : Spruce Grove is a small city. Stony Plain is a town.

They are separated by a road that used to be called Boundary Road - now called Veteran’s Boulevard. They are essentially attached however they ARE different.

I often tell newcomers that Spruce Grove became a city as soon as their population permitted, whereas Stony Plain continues to maintain their town status by choice.

Stony Plain has a train that runs right through town, but the majority of people who live there appreciate that it allows for a slightly slower pace of life. Stony Plain offers many local restaurants, a quaint main street with shops, & a thriving weekly farmers market.

Spruce Grove is a small city offering more large shopping options, a movie theatre, leisure centre, public transportation, a variety of established & newer neighbourhoods, & is 10 minutes closer proximity to Edmonton Both communities offer extensive walking trails & green spaces, a variety of great schools, and a quieter lifestyle compared to Edmonton. Stony Plain is slightly more affordable & Spruce Grove has more amenities.

When buyers contact me looking to move to our area, they often ask me about the difference between Stony Plain & Spruce Grove. They see that we are almost connected and they do not know what we locals know they’re close, but they’re different! Both offer amazing value with a decidedly different feel.

“Would you agree with how I describe Spruce Grove & Stony Plain? Would you add anything?

I would LOVE to hear from you!”

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Sarah Warrener REALTOR®

Find me on

contact 780-893-5377 sarah.warrener@remax.net WWW.SELLINGEDMONTONANDWEST.COM

*Each office is independently owned & operated

*Not intended to solicit properties already under contract

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

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

Key topics covered in this workshop include: 1. Understanding the concept of self-care and its significance for working moms.

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

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5. Nurturing your relationships and building a support network.

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

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

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

40

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43

Connect With Us LADYBUGS FLOWERS

107, 314 McLeod Avenue Spruce Grove, Alberta

LD RTHE A HEA URITE FAVO

44

Knighton & Co. is a familyowned lifestyle store located in downtown Spruce Grove, Alberta. Our main focus is to provide quality service and products to our customers.

Whatever your needs may be, we are here to serve you.

Homegrown Foods Homegrown Foods Ltd strives to ensure the products we carry meet the Organic Principles of Agriculture through our producers, processors and distributors. You can also be assured our products are free of herbicides, pesticides and other chemicals, as well as genetically modified products, as they are NOT accepted as organic.

We strive to enthusiastically supply, distribute and process high quality fresh, wholesome, local, organic and natural specialty products; while providing customers with superior service and knowledge, to help them eat right and live well.

19 Granite Dr #10, Stony Plain, AB www.homegrownfoods.ca (780) 963-5305

PEEL-AND-STICK TILE Transform your space effortlessly with our premium Thin Veneer Stone Panels.

Designed for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike, these 6” x 24” peel-and-stick stone veneers make installation a breeze - no mortar or mess required.

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At just 1/8” thick, they are lightweight, easy to handle, and cut seamlessly with a table saw, allowing for precise customization.

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WHY DO YOU HELP US

QUARRY STONE LTD. #13, 55 Alberta Ave. Spruce Grove, Alberta.

Phone: (780) 554-5466 Email: johnpop@quarrystone.ca

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Find us on social media: quarrystoneltd

Quarry Stone Ltd

We are a local, family-run business.

Thank you for your support!

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Pink Elephant Printing (780) 882 7166 WWW.PINKELEPHANTPRINTING.COM

bringing memories to life one print at a time

If you’re hunting for the best donuts in Stony Plain, look no further than Maverick’s Donuts, your go to donut shop and coffee haven. www.mavericksdonuts.com/stony-plain

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Book your free trial class today.

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

Open Monday - Sunday, 11am-10pm

Genuine custom home builder and residential general contractor built on small town charm.

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

Edition 4.09