LIFE CHANGES
LifeChanges
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Where are my People Pleasers?!!
How many times have you told yourself you’re going to start saying “NO” to every request or supposed obligation? Ya... me too..
Holiday stress is a real thing. We set ourselves up for a lot of it - with unrealistic expectations, overflowing calendars, too many commitments - juggling and spinning.. and then we crash, full of resentment & guilt.
You’re faced with sooo many decisions, every single day and they aalll feel urgent and important. Where is there any room for that little word “No” ?
It’s waiting for you to claim it It’s right there in a short pause, while you close your eyes, drop your shoulders, take a deep breathe and choose your answer Be honest with yourself - WHAT FEELS LIKE FREEDOM?
That, my friend, is your answer
Try it on for size It might feel uncomfortable at first, but it gets better the more you use it as a guide There may be a little (or a lot) of push-back from the ones who depend on your perpetual ‘Yes’, but they’ll adjust and figure it out And you’ll be basking in the freedom of a life you love more than ever Freedom to choose what you say ‘yes’ to & enjoying those things even more.
Happy HoHoHolidays!
You CAN live a life you love waking up to You do actually get to choose! If it helps, start with little things at first and work your way up to the bigger flexes.
Dialing back on the mountain of gifts to find, buy & wrap by having a ‘charity’ Christmas was a start. We drew names and then got creative by giving to a charity that was meaningful to our recipient.
I’ve wanted to celebrate Christmas in a hot climate for years, away from the cold, the snow and all the busyness When I finally spoke up and suggested it, I was happy to hear that I wasn’t the only one who’d love this And now we’re planning to do it for the second year in a row, this time bringing some of our family along
What decisions are you struggling with? Big or small? I’d love to hear about the creative solutions, the times you said ‘no’ and how that changed your life Send them to me: hello@lifechangesmag com
And for some more inspo , check out my blog article “Unsure about Indecision ”
Happy Happy HoHoHolidays!!
Deena
DIVORCE PODCAST IN CANADA!
Life comes with many changes - some expected, some unexpected, some positive, some challenging, but you don’t have to navigate them alone There are people who care & want to help I'm here to connect you with them!
What is YOUR next life change?
Hi! I’m Deena Kordt, creator & host of the Life Changes Channel podcast. Join me here to meet people who can help you, as well as hear other people’s stories that will give you hope
You will hear from our team of experts & professionals how to navigate life's changes with more ease and less drama
Do you have questions or a suggestion for a topic you want to know more about? Let me know!
You can watch these interviews on our YouTube channel
Follow this podcast and find us on social
Our PODCAST is available on all your favorite players. With 150+ episodes, there is lots to get caught up on (or catch replays of your favorites) through December. We’ll be back in 2025 with more inspiring guests to empower you!
with Deena Kordt
to scale your business, a leader seeking clarity, or someone eager to turn ideas into action, my coaching will equip you with the insights and support to make 2025 your breakthrough year
Through tailored guidance, we’ll create a personalized roadmap that aligns with your unique journey, giving you the momentum to achieve success beyond what you thought possible Don’t let another year go by without stepping fully into your potential
THE 2025 TOP PERFORMANCE SUCCESS PLANNER
Let’s Make 2025 Your Year
Together, we can create a powerful shift in your lifewhether it’s through the Top Performance Success Planner or personalized coaching Your dreams are within reach, and now is the perfect time to take action and claim the success you deserve Here’s to a new year filled with growth, purpose, and unstoppable success Let’s make it the best one yet
Your path to success starts with intention My Top Performance Success Planner is not just another calendarit’s a roadmap to your best year yet Imagine starting each day with purpose and ending it with a sense of accomplishment This planner is your personal coach in print, designed to keep you motivated, organized, and aligned with your goals With reflection prompts at the beginning of each month, you’ll track your growth, set new intentions, and stay focused on the big picture
“Greatness is built one intentional step at a time.”
- Deb Drummond
Packed with over 64 QR-coded inspirational quotes, this planner gives you daily doses of encouragement to keep you moving forward As one of my favourite quotes reminds us, “Greatness is built one intentional step at a time.” That’s exactly what the Top Performance Success Planner helps you do - break down your dreams into actionable steps, guiding you to the success you deserve
Deb Drummond
Performance Coach
Winter is here, and with it comes Red Deer Polytechnic’s Continuing Education and Corporate Training Fall Professional Development Guide
Here you can discover the breadth of continuing and professional education courses and programs that will enable you to launch a new career or advance your skills in your current role, including through short-term career development programs.
With flexible delivery models for these non-credit diploma, certificate and micro-credentials programs, you can effectively advance your lifelong learning goals while balancing competing life priorities
Our learning experiences are innovative, industryrelevant and connected to high-demand sectors
We are thrilled to draw your attention to RDP's Continuing Education and Corporate Training department's new programs:
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® Exam Preparation Training in collaboration with Inexertus Integrated Project Management Inc
Digital Marking Strategist Bootcamp in Collaboration with Jelly Academy
Power Engineering Fourth Class Part A & Part B
Project Management Professional (PMP)®
Exam Preparation Training in collaboration with Inexertus Integrated Project Management Inc
Solar Photovoltaic Systems Micro-credential in collaboration with Stardust Solar
Statistical Consultant Micro-credential
Are you unsure where to start? Contact us at continuing.education@rdpolytech.ca, and we will gladly walk you through your next steps.
continuing education@rdpolytech ca www rdpolytech ca/CECT 100 Donald Blvd | Red Deer | AB | T4N 5H5 | Canada
Hibernation Time is Reflection Time
Winter is a time for snuggling into blankets and cocooning on l dark nights This quiet time creates the perfect space for reflect People start to think about what they want in the coming year. If lif not as satisfying as it could be, the new year becomes a symbol taking charge and creating change.
What are your hopes for the new year? Are you happy with y career? Is it time to make a change? How much longer do you wan work at a job that isn’t going anywhere?
The actor Steve Harvey says, “You are never too old to reinv yourself ” Reinvention comes with reflection and planning
When I was a little girl, I remember my mom getting her s catalogues in February. On cold snowy days, it was hard to think tha a few months, the snow would be gone, the sun would be starting shine brighter, and the days would be getting longer. But the time plant seeds for the future starts when the seed catalogues come in dead of winter What would we plant? What would we want to harv in the fall? These decisions were always made in the dark days winter, not in spring or summer
Our lives are like the gardening process We start to plan the seed our spring and summer life seasons in our times of winter It is in our darkest times that we dream of a better future. We reflect on what is working and what needs to change. What steps do we want to take and what are we willing to do to make our lives better?
As we settle into colder days and long winter nights, it’s time to curl up in front of the fireplace, maybe with a cup of tea or a glass of wine and take stock of what we want the new year to bring. What’s your career plan for the coming year? Do you need to reflect on what is important to you and align your values with your career plan? Will you start planting the seeds of your life now to create the future you want?
CHOOSING YOU DURING
Life has this way of constantly changing, constantly throwing us cu so easy to get caught up in the change and lose parts of ourselve But this does not serve us in the long run Instead of losing ourselve are some simple things we can do to continue choosing us, even w changing around us
Here are three things you can do to CHOOSE YOU during times of ch
Set and hold boundaries - We all know how much talk there is a of setting and holding boundaries and during times of change th more important When things are changing we have to remem our “no” We have to remember we don’t owe everyone an expl say no, a simple “no I am not available” or “no, that doesn’t wor takes. 1
Take time for you - yes self care has also become a bit cliche bu of how important it is. The biggest thing to remember about self have to mean massages or candlelit baths, it is whatever refue makes you feel safe. The key is finding what gives you these th sure you are scheduling time for them. And setting boundaries a
Being nice isn’t all it’s cracked up to be - often being nice mea your feelings or level of comfort to make others feel good or time to stop being nice and start being kind. Yes there is a d being nice is doing what other people need and want and being yourself first No that doesn’t make you selfish, it often makes u when we set boundaries and take care of ourselves we are able a place of abundance versus a place of overwhelm 3.
At Healing You First Coaching I help women learn how to do all the as uncover limiting beliefs, regulate their nervous systems, and filled with connection, presence, and alignment
Nicki Laberge
Senior Mortgage Broker, specializing in divorce
Healing You First Coaching nicki@healingyoufirstcoaching.com
www.healingyoufirstcoaching.com
FINEST HOT TUBS & SWIM SPAS
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WHY WOMEN SHOULD PLAN DIFFERENTLY FOR RETIREMENT
Longevity: Canadian women are living longer, with a life expectancy of 84 years on average versus 81 years for men 1 With more years spent retired, women need to amass a larger retirement nest egg to maintain their lifestyle
The gender pay gap: In 2018, women aged 25 to 54 earned on average 13 3% less than their male counterparts 2 Gender inequality in the workplace can be even more pronounced because women are more likely to work in part-time, temporary and lower-wage jobs
Caregiving obligations: From looking after young children to caring for elderly parents, women are more likely to have interrupted careers due to family responsibilities The “motherhood penalty” is estimated to cost women US$16,000 annually in lost wages,3 which can impact their long-term savings and retirement income
Being single: A third of women 65 years and over live by themselves.4 Whether single by choice or due to the death of a spouse or partner, living alone during the senior years has implications ranging from reliance on formal care to housing needs and finances. For many women, being single means having sole control and responsibility for their financial future.
Streamlining Workplace Efficiency and Loyalty
The Role of Fresh Start Mediation’s Conflict Diagnostic Tool
In today’s fast-paced workplace, unresolved conflicts can cripple productivity, erode team morale, and lead to higher turnover rates Fresh Start Mediation’s Conflict Diagnostic Tool offers an innovative solution to address these challenges effectively, enabling organizations to transform conflicts into opportunities for growth
This tool stands out as a systematic approach to recognizing, analyzing, and resolving workplace conflicts Its comprehensive framework begins with identifying potential conflicts, distinguishing them from mere issues, and assessing their symptoms With sections designed to confirm the presence of conflict, it ensures that employers understand the root cause of disruptions, be it opposing interests, communication breakdowns, or scarcity of resources.
By diagnosing conflict at its type and level whether interpersonal, intragroup, or intergroup the tool enables tailored interventions that align with the organization’s goals. Additionally, its strategic analysis of conflict styles allows leaders to prioritize relationships or outcomes, guiding them toward solutions that enhance team cohesion and performance.
The benefits of implementing this tool are manifold Resolving workplace conflicts promptly leads to improved communication, reduced employee stress, and increased commitment to the organization It also fosters innovation and collaboration by addressing underlying issues before they escalate Organizations utilizing the Conflict Diagnostic Tool often see measurable improvements in workplace climate, with employees reporting higher satisfaction and loyalty
Moreover, the tool encourages organizations to address systemic issues such as differing values or resource distribution By doing so, it not only resolves conflicts but also strengthens the organizational culture, creating a more inclusive and productive work environment
Whether your workplace is grappling with frequent disagreements, declining efficiency, or concerns over blocked growth, Fresh Start Mediation’s Conflict Diagnostic Tool offers a proven pathway to resolution It empowers leaders to identify conflict sources, engage employees constructively, and build solutions that foster trust and cooperation
Don’t let unresolved conflicts hinder your workplace’s potential Contact Fresh Start Mediation today to learn how their Conflict Diagnostic Tool can help your team thrive, streamline efficiency, and build lasting loyalty. Turn workplace challenges into opportunities for growth and success with Fresh Start Mediation.
Calling All Fierc
Fabulous, Fascinating Women
Have you ever wished for a moment of timeless beauty? A keepsake that illustrates not just your likeness, but the essence of your individuality? A portrait that whispers, “This is me.” A photograph that echoes, “Here I stand.”
Visualize your ideal image Is it filled with strength, sophistication, charm, or perhaps a touch of intrigue? All of these facets, and more, can be yours to behold
You’ve done enough waiting It’s time to discard the “I’ll do it when ” excuses You are perfect, just as you are, at this very moment Now is the time to let your true self shine
Your story is waiting to be told. Let’s honour it with a portrait that encapsulates not only your physical presence, but your spirit, your courage, and your fortitude
Your portrait will be a testament to your existence. A beacon for future generations, inspiring them to say, “She was here, she was real, and she made a difference.”
At Willow Creek Studio, Lorraine and her team, will capture more than a picture; she will capture a legacy. Let’s create yours, together.
Give yourself the gift of a beautiful legacy portrait!
Lorraine Hjalte – Award-Winning Photographer
Rising Above Pain: RECLAIMING LIFE
Arthritis and osteoporosis have been my uninvited companions for most of my adult life Over the years, I’ve mastered the art of pushing through pain golfing, working out with a personal trainer, and even strutting around in 4-inch heels like I had something to prove (and let’s be honest, I probably did) But when the burning, throbbing waves of pain started stopping me in my tracks, I knew it was time to take action
I wanted this surgery for many reasons: to regain my freedom, to live pain-free, and, let’s be real, to keep up with my energetic nephew Benny That kid doesn’t stop, and I need to match his pace, he keeps me young! And of course, there’s another motivation: being ready for whatever glamorous red carpets might be in my near future. (Getting Lost, anyone? Stay tuned!)
Like many Canadians, I faced a frustrating dilemma when I decided to pursue knee replacement surgery. Alberta’s wait times for the procedure are staggering, averaging nearly three years I knew I couldn’t spend another day in pain, let alone years While it’s heartbreaking that so many in our country are forced to wait or even travel internationally for timely care, I opted for a different route I went to Montreal and booked with a private clinic The decision wasn’t easy, but I knew it was the right one for me
The clinic I chose? Let’s just say their hiring criteria seem to include good looks, as every doctor could have moonlighted as a model I joked that their “charm” almost made me look forward to surgery A day after the procedure, my surgeon, Dr Martin Lavigne, stopped by my room with an unexpected observation
Did you know you have osteoporosis?”
“Of course,” I replied, wondering why this was coming up again.
“Well,” he said with a grin, “it worked in your favor. Your kneecap was basically mush we just scooped it out!” It wasn’t exactly comforting, but it made me laugh
“Recovery has been its own adventure While most people rest and take it slow, I was walking, driving, and doing light exercises within days When I did take a break, I indulged in marathon binge sessions of The Resident Six seasons, 107 episodes, and a lot of popcorn later, I felt oddly accomplished As part of my post-surgery reset, I treated myself to sugar-free pudding topped with sugar-free whipped cream, it was the perfect comfort food for those quiet recovery moments
Now, months post-surgery, I’m back in the swing of things: physio, gym sessions, riding a stationary bike, and walking The most frustrating part has been bending my knee to hit those “perfect angles” my therapist keeps mentioning. And the stiffness? Let’s just say it’s a love-hate relationship. But all the hard work is paying off.
And come January 2025, my knee and I will take on an adventure 20 years in the making: visiting the Taj Mahal. I can’t wait to leisurely stroll its beautiful grounds, pain-free, finally living out a dream that’s been too long on hold
This experience has reminded me of the power of resilience, humor, and determination Whether I’m chasing Benny around the yard or preparing for life’s next big adventure, I’m ready for whatever comes next
So here’s to healing, to moving forward, and to always keeping life and knees on the go
Janet Folk Author / Entrepreneur
You can find Jan’s book on Amazon.
on SUPPORTING Sobriety Jan Folk
As everyone is likely aware I am very involved and committed to the SMART Recovery Program. It has helped me stay on my sobriety journey which will be 3 years next month.
Please do read about SMART and what we plan to do with your help
SMART is for every type of addiction - alcohol, drugs, gambling, eating disorders, sex , shopping and the list goes on
We are non-profit and would really appreciate your help so we can double our size in 2025
Empower Recovery, Empower Lives
SMART Recovery Alberta is dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives through evidencebased, self-empowering recovery We’re aiming to raise $10,000, with up to $5,000 matched by the Alberta government!
Your support can expand our meetings and bring life-changing resources to more Albertans in need. Let’s build a healthier, stronger community together!
SMART Recovery Alberta: Empowering Recovery Through Science and Support
At SMART Recovery Alberta, our mission is to enhance the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. We do this by promoting a self-empowering, science-informed approach to overcoming problematic addictive behaviors. SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) offers a transformative path from addiction to a fulfilling life of self-respect and lasting change
SMART Recovery Alberta provides a fresh, evidencebased alternative to traditional recovery programs Our methods are grounded in science, with 30 years of experience teaching practical tools for lasting recovery Through mutual support meetings both online and in-person participants develop their own personalized recovery plans, creating a balanced, purposeful, and meaningful life
Your contribution makes a difference
Tips to Maintaining the Holiday Spirit with Alzheimer’s in the House
ay Season is that special time of year for us to celebrate with our family and friends through sharing, laughter and creating life-long memories. Getting everything done on time can be highly hectic.
Many families struggle with the decision as to whether to include a loved one who is living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in the festivities – Is it a good idea to bring them along, or not? A person living with Alzheimer’s will often feel a special sense of loss because of the changes in their behavior due to the disease Families and caregivers sometimes feel overwhelmed by trying to balance the maintaining of traditions with the stress of caregiving
“It’s not only a difficult decision to make, but it’s also a difficult question to answer, ”said Lisa Skinner, an expert in Alzheimer’s disease and caregiving. “Every person living with dementia experiences the disease differently, so you need to take into consideration how the disease is impacting each person individually, such as how a change in their environment affects their personalities and moods.”
Holidays can be enriching times for both your loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease as well as the family and caregivers Family traditions provide a feeling of belonging and identity It’s a link with a familiar past that can be quite reassuring for a person with Alzheimer’s However, holiday celebrations, which may include other people, can cause confusion and anxiety for a person with Alzheimer’s
Tips for Creating a Safe & Stress-Free Space
Some situations may be easier and more pleasurable than others It’s all about finding balance in the busy holiday activities with the special care required for your loved one coping with the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
1 “Most people living with dementia do well with a routine and with familiarity Keep them in familiar locations free of noise, a hectic environment, too much clutter, or a stressful situation. An overload of stimulation can trigger emotions that can escalate into a potential catastrophic reaction that you might not be able to manage,” Lisa Skinner explains
2. Other tips for coping with the Holidays and Alzheimer’s disease could include determining what stage your loved one is in – if your loved one is in the early stages of their disease, it’s often much easier for them to cope with a change in their environment, etc., versus a person in the mid to later stages of the disease. As the disease progresses, the person living with dementia becomes more and more confused and less able to understand what is happening around them They can also become easily agitated and/or frightened in a world that no longer makes sense to them and may rely on their instincts of flight or fight as a response to the surroundings
3. If you do decide to include your loved one, you may want to limit the amount of time they visit with the family. If you notice any changes such as nervousness, anxiety, irritability, or a sudden change in their level of confusion, then those are telltale signs that they are not coping well with the current environment You can also pay close attention to their body language and demeanor to determine if they are increasingly becoming upset
4 Finally, you should have a dedicated family member or caregiver be with your loved one, at all times to watch for signs of distress and to keep reassuring your loved one that they are safe and that you will be taking them home shortly
5 “You need to take charge and set your own limits Be clear about them with others,” said Skinner “You do not have to live up to the expectations of your friends and family As a caregiver, your situation is very different now You need to find time for the holiday activities that you like to do like taking a walk in the neighborhood to see the holiday decorations or bake cookies Taking care of the caregivers is also a very important way to celebrate the holidays.”
Relatable Resources:
“Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s: Its Secret Faces” serves as a worthy follow-up to Lisa Skinner’s #1 best-seller, “Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost.”
The latest project, co- authored with Douglas W. Collins, continues Skinner’s quest of working with dementiarelated illnesses and teaching families how they can have a better-quality relationship with their loved ones through education
Available on Amazon com via Hardback Paperback Kindle WorkBook
Lisa Skinner
Co-Author & Alzheimer’s Expert
Best-selling author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with more than a quarter-century of experience in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias She is a Certified Dementia Care Trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association
Lisa has appeared on such national and regional media broadcasts including CBS News, NBC News, Fox News, ABC News, USA Today, Health & Fitness, and many others.
www truthliesalzheimers com
COERCIVE CONTROL
by Carrie McManus
Director of Innovation and Programs l Sagesse
Navigating relationship changes can be complex and overwhelming, an emotional and psychological roller coaster as the life we planned starts to shift and change Within that, navigating experiences of domestic abuse or coercive control makes everything more difficult and complex. If you haven’t heard of coercive control, you aren’t alone. The unfortunate reality is that many people experience coercive control in their relationships, like with an intimate partner, family, work, or in their faith community, but most don’t know how to identify it. So, what is coercive control, and why should we care about it?
What is Coercive Control?
To start with, coercive control is complex. While individual tactics may be easily understood, there is no complete list of coercive control actions, which can make it difficult to identify when it is happening to you – or if you are using coercive control on someone else. This is a shift away from historical patterns of talking about domestic abuse and providing everyone with a list of “red flags” to avoid or trigger a response if they are happening. “red flags” don’t work for a number of reasons; they place blame firmly on the person experiencing abuse to have seen or known that something was going to cause them harm, and are blamed if they don’t do something or if they choose to stay with a partner even if they see the flags. Additionally, we know that not everyone has the same experience of abuse and coercive control. For example, what might feel abusive to me might not feel abusive to someone else, and the “red Flags” system doesn’t allow for that individual experience.
These coercive control tactics can lead to situations that fit into our societal understanding of abuse, like isolating someone and preventing them from forming relationships with others But when this result is achieved through coercive control, it can look harmless from the outside, so we don’t ask more questions The person showing up every day at lunch to take your co-worker out is sweet, and just wants to spend time together But maybe they are showing up every day to prevent their partner from forming any other connections
So then, instead of talking about a list of “red flags” or giving a checklist of actions, when talking about coercive control we understand it as a pattern of behaviours and actions used to remove or limit an individual’s personal agency and sense of safety. It can and will look and feel different for everyone.
For one person, their experience might include restrictions to feeding their family the type of food that is part of their culture or upbringing. Someone else may feel like they can’t build relationships with their coworkers without their partner being upset or threatened.
Because of this complexity, when we talk about coercive control, we find it more helpful to focus on the impacts of actions and behaviours instead of on the actual acts themselves Coercive control at its heart is about the experience of fear and feeling a lack of personal agency or self efficacy If you don't think that you can make decisions that are best for yourself, your kids or other family, you might be experiencing coercive control If you are trying to decide how your partner thinks, feels or makes decisions, you may be using coercive control
When fear becomes the driver for our decisions, we are no longer acting within our own best interest or needs. If you think that you must do something because you are fearful of what will happen if you don’t, or you can’t do something because you are fearful of what will happen if you do, that is the impact of coercive control. Coercive control changes how we live our lives, how we think about ourselves and who we surround ourselves with. It starts to change the foundation of ourselves and how we identify, and that is not the basis for a healthy relationship.
What makes coercive control abuse?
When we used to talk about domestic abuse or violence, we would talk about violent incidents These incidents occurred in a cycle, where violence occurs and then everything would be okay again We talked a lot about the cycle being hard to break, but also implied that there were times in the cycle when people would both feel and experience their relationship the way they did before violence occurred
But of course, we know that isn’t true
By framing these experiences as coercive control, we understand the underlying loss of personal agency, and that fear motivates and drives all actions and behaviours This is true even when everything appears fine on the surface, or in a “honeymoon” phase
With that in mind, coercive control should be considered abuse Anything that changes your behaviour, alters your ability to show up in the world, or be the person that you want to be, should be considered abuse
So, what do we do about it?
To start with, it’s important to understand what coercive control is and how it might show up in your relationships or in the relationships of people around you
Remember, understanding coercive control is not about looking for a list of “red flags” or creating a do’s and don’ts list It’s about understanding the impacts that it has on individuals and their actions
And finally, its important to know that you aren’t alone in your experience You might be reading this and think, ugh, am I using coercive control tactics to get something I want or need? Or you might read this and think, wow, that is how and why I make decisions Either way, there are people who want to help you through that experience and ensure that everyone can have safe, healthy relationships
Visit www sagesse org to learn more about our programs, coercive control or to connect with our support team
Email: info@sagesse org
Phone (call or text): 403-234-7337 or 587-801-7337
Book an appointment with our intake team
Be Careful What You Wish For..
True story:
It was a cold dark winter night when a random stranger suddenly & unexpectedly appeared right in front of my car He was carrying something in his hand, but my brain didn’t register what it was in time Before I realized what he was up to, he dropped a soggy wet squeegee right in the middle of my windshield With a huge grin, he washed the entire pane of glass while I tried to figure out why? When I gushed with thanks & appreciation, he said he just wanted to make my day & wished me a “Merry Christmas!” He didn’t even work there
I found myself at this gas station due to a last-minute change in kids’ plans, meeting them ½ way with the needed skates. I hadn’t filled with gas. I’d decided instead to swing into the Costco on the other end of town on my way home (which is also part of this story.. keep reading!).
This incident happened during a week that I was fighting a rare nasty bug – and it was kickin’ my ass. I was fevered, achy & could barely swallow water The thoughtful kindness of this older man, and the obvious pleasure he took in his generous act, left an impression Genuine evidence of how easily we can bring a bit of joy to others, and evidence of the abundance always available to us If we can welcome, accept and appreciate it, no matter how small or seemingly inconsequential, you can know with confidence that more is on the way
Now, here’s the rest of the story – a funny thing.. as I drove away, now sporting a grin as big as his, I started thinking..
I should maybe have taken advantage of the availability of a squeegee (something that isn’t always available at the gas pumps in winter) to wash my grimy headlight covers after a week of slushy driving I was already at the next set of lights when I had that epiphany, so brushed the thought aside Next stop – Costco All I needed was gas and that late at night the usual lineup was non-existent No sooner had I started the pump when I saw an older man making his way from vehicle to vehicle Mine was next He was carrying a spray bottle and rag And wearing a huge grin And yup, you guessed it – wiping everyone’s headlight covers
Never, have I ever, seen this anywhere The timing was not lost on me either Within minutes of me wishing I could clean my lights
As I drove the rest of the way home, I marveled at what had just happened The beauty of human kindness The fulfilling of exact (as well as needed) desires – no matter how small. A reminder to watch for them, expect them, know they are meant for us. And know that there’s even more power when we invite these intentionally! That’s how I ended up spending over 2 weeks of October - in Mexicofor my first visit ever! Totally unexpected. Always yearned for. Often visualized. Trusting the universe with the timing and details. Manifested perfectly. I knew it would happen. And it did!
It happens all the time.
These are just a couple of examples
This shit isn’t woo-woo
There is actual science behind it
You can study it inside out for years, or you can trust it Either way, it’s powerful and it’s simple
There are no prerequisites, no qualifying exams
You are worthy & deserving just as you are
Don’t give up on what you want most. YOU can make sh!T happen!
Curious to get started? Grab a FREE copy of my intro. to manifesting guidebook �� here.
Wanna go deeper? I’ve written 2 new books to inspire and help you – the “You Can Make shIT Happen!” guidebook and the “I Can Make Sh!t Happen!” companion journal. Both available on Amazon & in local bookstores.
Inside your guidebook, you’ll find: simple steps to help you make shIT happen in your life tons of stories to encourage & inspire you journaling prompts (& pages) to pump up your manifesting power!
In the meantime, be careful what you wish for!! The universe is listening and is ready to make sh!T real!
Wishing you the merriest of Christmases! xo Deena
Let’simprovethedivorceexperienceofdomesticabusesurvivors
OurCoalitionisanaction-orientednon-profit501(c)3organization,focusedonreaching professionalsinthedivorce,abuseandotherprofessionalareas.Bytargetingareaslike professionaleducationandawareness,theimpactoffamilyandcriminalcourtsandlegislation, weaimtocomplementexistingvictimsupportorganizations,nottocompetewiththem.Ourgoal istoeliminatetheretraumatizationofdomesticabusevictimsgoingthroughthedivorceprocess.
Are you an entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level? Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned business owner in need of a fresh perspective, Mastermind Mixer is the place for you Our group brings together likeminded entrepreneurs from across Alberta, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas meet action.
At Mastermind Mixer, we do more than just network - we create meaningful connections that lead to real business growth. Each month, we gather in Red Deer, Calgary, and Edmonton, not only to share what we do but to roll up our sleeves & help each other succeed.
Being the shift disturbers we are, we decided to pair up to bring you some great convos about all kinds of powerful shift: like the kinds of shifts that you experience in your life
AND the kinds you can create to make the world better
Shift is about to get REAL! So join us!
We’ll be live on Facebook Watch here for updates And hey!! Why not TAG US when your best shift happens! #ShiftHappensShow
Wed Dec 11th @ 4pm (MST) Xmas Shifts
Wed. Jan. 8th @ 4pm (MST) New Year Shifts
Funding provided by
Is life going in a new direction?
Are your personal needs, family life, income needs, work schedule or availability changing?
The Branch Out Workshop series can help you reimagine how you work. These workshops explore non-traditional work as a strategy to establish a new work-life balance. Learn about different ways to work and begin your new path with confidence and realistic strategies.
The workshops are offered virtually and are free.
For more details, go to purposefulcareers.ca
Check out podcast episode #64 Non-Traditional Careers with Gail Kastning on the Life Changes Channel
Founded in 2006, Painting Experts has since expanded to include a dedicated team of 7 professionals offering full RESIDENTIAL REPAINT services.
Voted Best Painting Company for 4 consecutive years in 2020, 2021, 2022, & 2023.
We are excited to continue serving the Red Deer and Central Alberta community with dedication and excellence, taking pride in what we do and how we do it
Everything starts with me and ends with me
’TCUTCORNERS, WEPAINTTHEM CARLOS ARISTIZABAL
Ph: 587-806-5998
We offer learning pathways that are: innovative industry relevant connected to high-demand sectors to help you start a new career or advance your skills
CONTACT
Email:
Community Events
(All times in MST)
Dec 10th @ 5-7:00 pm - Mastermind Mixer: Edmonton / Beaumont
Dec 11th @ 4-5:00 pm - ‘Xmas-Shifts’ on the “Shift Happens” Live Talk Show
Dec. 18th @ 12 noon - Hope in Hell Women’s Online Support Group
Jan 8th @ 12 noon - Hope in Hell Women’s Online Support Group
Jan. 8th @ 7:00 pm - ‘New Year Shifts’ on the “Shift Happens” Live Talk Show
Jan 14th @ 4-6:00 pm - Mastermind Mixer: VIRTUAL
Podcast Episodes
New episodes every Friday @ 9:00 am
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�� join our mailing list for: - events - support groups - new magazines - newsletters - podcast episodes - blogs - resources - offers & specials
There's lots of support available to help you get through this difficult time. We’re here to help
NEWS DMC
C C Co
Your ideal clients are here looking for YOU. Come meet them!
where every story begins with change.
Ourcommunityisasafe,welcomingspaceforindividualsnavigatingthetransformativejourneyofdivorceandothersignificantlifechanges.
Here,yourbrandcanbemorethanaproductorservice-itcanbeapartoftheirnewbeginning.
Who
Connect with your ideal clients in our community. Your expertise is exactly whatthey'researchingfor.
Your guidance, support, and effective solutionsareinhighdemand.
Thisisyourchancetonotjustreach,but deeply impact those navigating through divorcetogivethemhope.
Your next client is here, eager for your help. Don't miss this opportunity. Join usnow-makeameaningfuldifference.
Why You?
You want to help others.
You want to be top-of-mind when they need your expert guidance.
You want credibility as a trusted professional.
You care :)
WhereAreWe?
What
Alberta-Based & Female-Owned
With the top divorce podcast in Canada and a top 10 divorce magazine in the world - our online audience of 14,000+ is diverse & growing, with the vast majority being Albertans who are lookingforyourhelp
We need YOU on our team of experts!