Stories of Perseverance #2 by Motivation & Success Publishing

One night, the living room was transformed into our very own dance floor. My daughter cranked up the music, and suddenly, we were having so much fun dancing, jumping and laughing. As we danced, I could see the pure joy in her smile , and it felt like the world outside melted away. In that moment, it was just us—two silly souls celebrating life. I felt so grateful for this bond, and it reminded me that happiness can be found in the simplest of moments, especially when we let loose and just have fun together.

- Jackie

Heartfelt

Moments

One rainy afternoon, my daughter brought me a colorful drawing she had made during art therapy. It was a swirl of colors that represented her feelings, and as she explained it to me with such excitement, I felt a rush of love and admiration. This simple piece of art became a window into her heart and mind, a reminder of her courage in expressing herself. I hugged her tightly, realizing that these moments of connection through creativity are what truly enrich our lives.

- Nikki

Sitting in the audience, my heart raced as the curtain rose. I saw my son on stage, a little nervous but so excited. When he delivered his lines, the room erupted in applause, and I couldn’t help but tear up. In that moment, surrounded by the cheers of supportive friends and family, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. It was a reminder that my child’s uniqueness was not just accepted but celebrated.

Stacey

Well, one thing that comes to mind right now and that we all still laugh about is how when my children were all very little until the time they were teenagers, I secretly went to each one of them independently and told them a secret with a pinky promise that they are indeed my favorite baby. However, they can never tell the others. This went on for years where I would periodically reiterate that to them in different moments throughout their childhood. Until one day when they were all young adults and they got into an argument with each other about something or another and one of them said,“Well I’m mom’s favorite and always have been”. While one of the other siblings said,“No, you’re not I am”. Then the third one says,“Look I don’t know what either of you two are even talking about because mom told me personally since I was a baby that I have always been her favorite so take that!”and so there you have it the cat jumped out of the bag LOL!

- Julie

Ask Rae

With Rae Indigo

Rae Indigo, is an esteemed yogi and martial artist known worldwide for her unique courses on wellbeing, including mind science, meditation, and breathwork. As a biochemist, she also pioneered a line of high-end, organic skincare. When she’s not teaching others how to live stress-free, she’s likely surrounded by the love of her three feisty Pomeranians.

Q:Hi Rae,

I hear that nature is healing, but I am not sure how to add it in or if I even should into my busy days, how important is nature in self-care?

A:Nature’s Healing Touch: Incorporating Outdoor Time into Your Self-Care Routine

In an era where the hustle of daily life often confines us to the indoors, the healing power of nature stands as a silent, yet profound, counterbalance. The concept of nature as a source of healing is not new; it’s a wisdom passed down through generations, from ancient cultures to modern science. Incorporating outdoor time into your self-care routine isn’t just about taking a break; it’s about reconnecting with an essential part of our human heritage that nurtures both body and soul.

Imagine the cool touch of grass under your feet, the whisper of leaves in the wind, or the serene expanse of a lake reflecting the sky. These moments in nature are not merely pleasant; they are vital for our well-being. Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, combat depression, and improve overall mental health. But how can we effectively weave this healing touch into the fabric of our daily lives?

First, recognize that selfcare through nature doesn’t require grand gestures or long escapades into the wilderness. It starts with small, mindful

steps. Begin by integrating short, regular nature visits into your daily schedule. This could be as simple as taking your morning coffee on your balcony, where you can feel the first rays of the sun and listen to the awakening world. Or, if you live near a park, make it a ritual to walk there during your lunch break. Even a brief 15-minute walk can reset your mind, providing a natural pause in the day’s rhythm.

To truly benefit from nature’s healing touch, it’s essential to be present. This means engaging all your senses in the experience. When you step outside, don’t just move through nature; immerse yourself in it. Feel the texture

of the bark on trees, listen to the cacophony of bird songs, smell the earth after rain, or watch the dance of light through the leaves. This sensory engagement can act like a natural form of meditation, grounding you in the moment and distancing you from the stresses of daily life.

One effective way to ensure you’re getting enough outdoor time is by scheduling it like any other important task. If your mornings are too rushed, perhaps your evening could include a nature walk or a sit in a local garden. The key is consistency; just like any other health regimen, the benefits of nature are cumulative. Over time, these moments add up, contributing to a more balanced, healthier you.

For those with less access to green spaces, urban gardens or community parks can serve as your natural sanctuaries. Even small spaces like rooftops or fire escapes can be transformed into personal oases. Consider planting some greenery, no matter how modest. Watching something grow, nurturing it, connects you to the cycle of life, offering a sense of accomplishment and peace.

Another aspect of incorporating nature into self-care is through activities that require interaction with the natural world. Gardening, for instance, is not only good physical exercise but also engages you with the earth

in a primal way. It teaches patience, care, and the joy of watching life unfold. If gardening isn’t your forte, perhaps bird watching, photography, or simply sketching outdoors could be your avenue to connect. These activities encourage you to slow down, observe, and appreciate the intricate details of nature that often go unnoticed in our fast-paced lives.

Seasonal changes offer another opportunity to adapt your nature-based self-care. Winter might mean different activities like snowshoeing or simply observing the stark beauty of a bare tree against the sky. Spring brings renewal, with new blooms and the return of birdlife, perfect for rejuvenating walks. Summer invites us to bask in longer days, perhaps with picnics or evening strolls, while autumn captivates with its palette of colors, offering a meditative walk through falling leaves.

Nature’s healing doesn’t stop at physical or mental health; it extends to social connections as well. Sharing these outdoor experiences with friends or family can deepen relationships. A hike, a picnic, or even a communal garden project can build bonds, providing both social and personal enrichment. These moments create memories and stories, further knitting us into the fabric of the natural world.

To maximize the healing benefits, it’s also crucial to occasionally disconnect from

technology when you’re outdoors. The constant pull of emails, notifications, or social media can fragment our attention and diminish the quality of our outdoor time. Designate tech-free zones or times during your nature visits. This disconnection can lead to a deeper connection with your surroundings and yourself.

Consider nature’s role in your self-care as an ongoing journey, not a destination. Like any form of self-care, it requires adaptation, experimentation, and patience. Some days, nature might not feel healing, and that’s okay. It’s about recognizing the ebb and flow of your relationship with the natural world, learning to listen to what you need on any given day.

Nature’s healing touch is a profound yet accessible source of wellness. By consciously making space for nature in our daily routines, we not only care for our physical health but nourish our minds, spirits, and social bonds. In a world that often moves too fast, nature beckons us to slow down, to breathe, to be. By answering this call, we find not just solace but a deeper, more meaningful connection with life itself. So step outside, engage with the natural world, and let its healing touch transform your self-care routine into a journey of rejuvenation and joy.

Love, Rae

Glass Craft and Bead Expo

Glass Craft and Bead Expo will be celebrating our 29th year at the South Point Hotel in Las Vegas, NV from April 2nd6th 2025! Heralded as one of the most professional, family orientated, educational art glass and bead trade events in the US. Our show is put on with tremendous love and support for the art community and we work hard to keep the show up to date with the latest art techniques for classes and vendors for our show floor.

We offer over 350 specialty classes from glassblowing,

jewelry making, fusing, stained glass, mosaics and more! We have over 80 instructors that come from all over the world, bringing their expertise into their respective fields. Taking classes at Glass Craft and Bead Expo offers the opportunity to learn from the world’s best artists in an intimate setting.

Our show floor has everything you can imagine, from supplies, tools and equipment for hobbyist/artists to beautiful, finished art pieces by artists of all levels of expertise. With over 100+ Craft vendors, this is the perfect

event to bring your family of all ages. Children 18 and under get free entry into the expo!

Shopping isn’t the only thing you can do on our show floor, you can also watch live demonstrations by some of the most talented artists, including flameworking! We offer some Free Make and Takes for families of all ages, as our goal is to introduce art to the future generations. There is a free photo experience to capture memories on the show floor that will last a lifetime. We also have a gallery filled with incredible art for all

attendees to admire. You can even vote in our Gallery of Excellence competition.

The annual Gallery of Excellence juried art competition entries in both professional and amateur categories astound the attendees each year with the beauty and skill of the work. Local high schools have participated in the gallery for many years. Scholarships for local high school students and teachers have been made available through the Kay Bain-Weiner Foundation, show management and other contributors.

This year we are excited to be offering a Community Mosaic Project on our show floor as well. Attendees get to help create a group mosaic that will be installed into this year’s charity, the Las Vegas Ronald McDonald House. The (RMHC) provides a homelike environment for families of children who are sick or injured and need medical care. The goal of the Ronald McDonald House is to reduce stress and financial burden for families, and to help them participate in their child’s care. This will be a fun time for you and the family to work on a beautiful mosaic together and get your artistic spirit flying!

Glass Craft and Bead Expo is very passionate about the art community and exposing the younger generations to the magic and necessity of

art. Glass Craft and Bead Expo team has also created the Glass Craft Art Foundation in which we provide scholarships and other financial support to those in the glass and metal smithing industry across the country which include scholarships for students interested in pursuing hobbies or careers in the industry, educators who need assistance purchasing or maintaining studios, artists who lack access to studios or materials, and industryconnected individuals who are in need of miscellaneous financial and disaster relief. Our goal is to inspire growth in the Glass and Metal art industry by providing educational support to students and emerging artists.

Last year we were able to procure 2 Paragon kilns, a Techniglass Grinder and Oceanside glass for the Green Valley High School Art Department for the students to start learning to create glass art.

We look forward to donating more in the future to several schools, to broaden the arts across the nation!

Glass Craft and Bead Expo offers

opportunities to everyone of all ages and abilities to participate in the showcasing of their arts and to learn more about how to create various kinds of arts. At our 2024 show we had the lovely Tateonna Hass, the founder of Sunshine Beads, exhibit with us for her first tradeshow! She sold her handcrafted beaded bracelets/jewelry and offered her amazing smile for free to everyone. To say that she was a hit at the show was an understatement. Everyone was walking around wearing one of a kind, Sunshine Bead bracelets. Find her on the 2025 show floor and stop by to get a bracelet and some sunshine!

Our team is looking into bringing sensor-friendly classes in the future for the special needs community. Art is a wonderful and therapeutic way for adults and children with special needs to explore their creativity, discover new passions, and boost their self-confidence. Art creation

can open the door for choicemaking, self-expression, and when created in an inclusive setting, can boost community engagement and social skills. We look forward to bringing everyone together to experience the beauty and magic of art.

You maybe wondering, how did Glass Craft and Bead Expo start? Well, here is the fascinating history of our show:

In 1994 Tommy Licata, founder and owner of Las Vegas Management and Creative Endeavors, was asked if he would be interested in organizing an educational conference and tradeshow for the Art Glass Industry. He and Nancy Montgomery consulted with industry leaders such as Kay Bain-Weiner, Norm Dobbins, Vicki Payne, Joe Porcelli and many others; the

result was the Glass Craft Expo. It was held at the Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas the spring of 1995.

1996 Glass Craft Expo moved to the Cashman Convention Center, where it was held for the next 10 years. The Expo was designed to help promote the art glass industry, by offering educational classes, a trade show and networking opportunities, all which were open to the public. The goal was to include all forms of art glass, including stained glass, fused glass, cold working, mosaics, and flameworking.

Lee Anne Short, who worked on the Creative Endeavors side of the company, took over production of the show after the conclusion of the 2003 Expo. On the 10th anniversary, the show was renamed “Glass Craft & Bead Expo” to include the growing flameworking

and bead industries.

As the show continued to grow, filling every square foot of the Cashman Center, it was determined that we had outgrown that facility. In 2006 the South Point Hotel and Conference Center was opened and the show moved to this great facility, with a great combination of meeting rooms, event space, trade show halls, and best of all, on site hotel rooms.

Tommy Licata passed away in 2008, and the International Hot Glass Invitational held during the 2009 show was dedicated to his memory. The Invitational was the largest flame-off that had been held, with teams of 4-5 well-known national and international lampworkers competing over two nights creating some of the most incredible sculptures.

Fast forward to today where Lee Anne and the team (Amy Short, Skye Jones, Kelly Corcoran and Jeff Keating) continue to work hard every year to bring the art community together and put on one awesome show for everyone. We look forward to growing the art and glass community for many years to come!

Home Cooked Happiness: Cooking with Love with

Jennifer Affronti

Jennifer Affronti is a former model, actress, stage performer, television personality and burlesque dancer. Her personal journey through chronic illness led her to completely change her career path to become a resource and advocate for people who want to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. She is now a certified Holistic Health Coach and the founder of Wholelistically Healing, where she focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being through personalized coaching and guidance.

Shawarma Chicken Dinner and Bowl Recipe

I make this meal just about every week. Sometimes I make it as a plate, other times a bowl, and I’ve even meal prepped it for a week of lunch. It is deliciously good and healthy for you. This will be four different recipes for a meal. Chicken Shawarma, Turmeric rice, Mediterranean Salad, and Tzatziki. When I grocery shop, I come home

and wash all my veggies and fruit. I normally place them in my clean sink and put them in a bath of cold water and a cup of apple cider vinegar. This way, I do not have to stop and clean my veggies before I start cooking. I intentionally didn’t use the word organic in these recipes. I do buy organic when available, but if it is not available or not affordable

don’t. When I first started down my health journey, I would purchase organic when I could afford it or find it. When it came to spices, I used up the ones I had and then replaced each one with organic. Remember the most important thing is you are feeding yourself and others a meal that came from love.

Shawarma Chicken

What you need:

• 2lbs of chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)

• 3 TBS of lemon juice

• 3 TBS of olive oil

For Shawarma spices:

• 2 tsp ground coriander

• 2 tsp ground cumin

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground clove

• 1 tsp cardamom

• 1 tsp allspice

OR you can purchase Organic Shawarma spice at your local health food store or Middle Eastern store.

Directions:

1. Prior to baking your chicken, wash and pat dry your 2 lbs of chicken thighs (you can use chicken breasts as well, just make sure they are skinless and boneless). Put the chicken in a bag or glass container along with lemon juice, olive oil and spices. Coat evenly and refrigerate for 30 mins to hours before baking.

2. Preheat your oven to 425’, and take the chicken out of the refrigerator and rest for ten minutes.

3. Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165’

4. Enjoy!

Turmeric Rice

What you need:

• 1 cup of uncooked jasmine rice

• 1 (14oz) of full fat coconut milk unsweetened

• 1 cup of water

• 1 tsp of turmeric

Directions:

1. Rinse your rice thoroughly and strain all the water out. I do it twice or until the rice water rinses out clear.

2. In a medium saucepan, add the coconut milk, water and turmeric. Your canned coconut milk may be separated, this is normal. Stir together and bring it to a boil. (If you have a rice maker, wash rice and add all the ingredients into rice maker and cook)

3. Then, add your rinsed rice

and give it a stir. Bring to a boil again and then reduce to a low simmer. Cover the rice with a lid and leave to simmer. The rice should absorb all the liquid in 20 minutes.

For my insulin sensitive and carb conscious friends, I will make the rice the night before eating it and refrigerate it. The next day, I will heat it back up. This creates something called resistant starch. Resistant starch is a carbohydrate that resists digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the large intestine. As the fibers ferment they act as a prebiotic and feed the good bacteria in the gut. Also cooking it in coconut milk helps feed the good gut bacteria, plus turmeric for the anti inflammatory benefits. This rice is a homerun for you and your gut.

Simple Mediterranean Salad

What you need:

• 1 large cucumber or 4 mini cucumbers

• 3 roma or capri tomatoes

• ½ of a red onion

• Fresh parsley

• 1 TBS lemon juice

• Pinch of Celtic Sea Salt

Directions:

This one is easy peasey! I dice everything up and add lemon juice and a pinch of sea salt. I add about a handful of fresh parsley leaves chopped up. If I am not using tzatziki, I will add some olive oil and more lemon juice.

Homemade Tzatziki

What you need:

• 2 cups Greek yogurt (full fat)

• 1 cup diced cucumber (scoop out the seeds before dicing)

• 2 TBSP chopped fresh dill

• 2 tsp chopped fresh parsley

• 2 cloves minced garlic

• 2 TBSP lemon juice

• 1 TBSP olive oil

• Pinch of sea salt

Directions:

1. Chop/dice cucumber. Make sure you scoop out the seeds in the middle prior to chopping.

2. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix together. Adjust to your taste.

I keep tzatziki on hand at all times in my home. I store it in a mason jar and when I’ve had those moments I want a snack, I pull it out and eat some carrots with it. Greek yogurt is a great source of protein, contains probiotics, is a good fat, and is high in B12.

I truly hope you enjoy your meal. Whether you make it as a bowl or a plate, high five yourself for taking the time to nourish yourself and those you feed.

Discover more content by Jennifer! Visit her website or follow her on social media: Website: www.wholelisticallyhealing.com Facebook Page: Wholelistically Healing by Jennifer Affronti Instagram Page: @WholelisticallyHealing

Taylor and Lindsay

A Heartfelt Sisterhood of Inspiring Impact

Taylor, can you tell us about the special bond you share with your sister Lindsay and how it has shaped who you are today?

Lindsay and I are only 16 months apart so I really don’t remember life without her. She has inspired my life’s work and has shaped my passion for inclusion and advocacy.

What are some of your favorite childhood memories with your sister that stand out to you?

Ah there are so many! Some of my favorite childhood memories include her being the best sideline cheerleader at all of my soccer games growing up- she never missed a game! Lindsay and I also

love to dance and jam out to loud music and so going to her school dances with her are some of my favorite memories.

Can you share the story how her journey inspired you to create Dig It Coffee and The Garden Foundation? What lessons has she taught you about perseverance?

With Lindsay and I being so close in age, we transitioned to adulthood around the same time. I was deciding what college I wanted to go to, what I wanted to study, did I want to travel abroad, where did I want to get a job, etc. and her opportunities (or lack thereof) looked so much different than mine. Lindsay then attended an organization after she left school and unfortunately just became a number within a system.

Lindsay is nonverbal and has a lot of daily support needs. Unfortunately, those weren’t being met and as my family and I looked for other places where she could be served in a more personalized way, where they would really get to know Lindsay, her likes, dislikes, her goals and she could continue learning vs. just existing - we couldn’t find that. What I did find were other families looking for the same thing. It was then that I decided I needed to create just that. That is where the

inspiration for The Garden Foundation came. I wanted to create a place that was smaller by design, providing personalized programming focused on continuing education and helping individuals reach their fullest potential, whatever that may be.

A few years into programming at The Garden Foundation and teaching work skills, we created a work training program through serving coffee. We pushed a cart through our office building as we served our neighboring offices. I then got to see our people who were so excited to serve, find purpose and value (as well as build great skills- customer service, money handling, team work, communication, etc.) who couldn’t wait for the chance to serve again, as well as our customers who had such a wonderful and heartwarming experience in getting their morning coffee. It was then I knew we were on to something. 4 years after starting our vocational training program, we opened the doors to Dig it! Coffee Co. our brick and mortar coffee shop in downtown Las Vegas, providing competitive wage job opportunities for adults of all abilities.

As you can imagine, none of this has been easy but having

a strong WHY is what keeps me going. I have gotten to see the positive impact that my sister has had in inspiring this work and there is so much left to do. She has faced many challenges in her life but as she has always persevered, she has also been the one to show me I can too.

It’s so inspiring to see how Lindsay’s journey has shaped your mission. Can you share a moment that truly sparked the idea for Dig It Coffee?

I’m extremely passionate about providing adults with disabilities opportunities that I have been given and that we wall take for granted. I have found so much purpose and value through my work and wanted our individuals to have the same opportunity while being compensated fairly.

I knew I wanted to create a positive space of belonging not just for adults with disabilities but for EVERYONE. I wanted our greater community to be able to connect and engage with people with disabilities and what a better way to do that than connecting with coffee!

Through The Garden Foundation’s vocational training program and serving coffee through our office building, farmers markets and special events, we found a

customer base that LOVED our mission and our coffee and I knew we had to do this on a bigger scale.

In 2022 we opened the doors for Dig it! And it has been the most fulfilling experience to see how gracious, loving and supportive our community has been.

How do you think your sister has changed the way people perceive individuals with special needs in your community?

My sister has been the ripple effect of positive impact within our community in so many ways. I hope that because of her, and through The Garden Foundation and Dig it! Coffee Co. that people’s lives and journeys have changed for the better. I hope that as my sister has allowed me to be her voice and advocate for her and her peers, that we can begin to change the perception of individuals with disabilities. That we can focus more on what people CAN do and not what they can’t and most importantly, that we are all truly more alike than we are different.

How has Lindsay’s journey with Down syndrome influenced your perspective on life?

Lindsay being born with Down

syndrome has completely shaped my perspective on life in the most profound way. She has taught me that joy isn’t found in perfection, but in presence— in the small moments, the deep connections, and the ability to truly see and appreciate people for who they are.

Growing up with Lindsay, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that individuals with disabilities face, but I’ve also witnessed the incredible resilience, love, and strength that define her more than any diagnosis. She has shown me that ability isn’t measured by limitations, but by the opportunities we’re given to grow, contribute, and belong.

Because of Lindsay, I believe deeply in inclusion, dignity, and creating spaces where everyone has a chance to thrive. She’s the reason I started The Garden Foundation and Dig It! Coffee Co.—to make sure that people like her are seen, valued, and given opportunities to reach their fullest potential. Her journey has not only shaped my work but has made me a more compassionate, patient, and purpose-driven person.

At the end of the day, Lindsay has taught me that life is richer when we embrace differences, celebrate small victories, and lead with kindness.

You’ve created a beautiful space for individuals with special needs. What was the most surprising thing you learned while building Dig It Coffee and The Garden Foundation?

I knew in building Dig it! Coffee and The Garden Foundation that the disability community would show up and be incredibly supportive. What surprised me the most is how open, welcoming, loving and supportive the general community has been. The general community coming into Dig it! are those who may have never had an experience with someone with a disability, however, I have watched people’s hearts be opened by their experience in getting a cup of coffee at Dig it! One that I do think transcends outside of our coffee shop. I hope they take that experience with them and perhaps it can shatter some preconceived notions of people with disabilities and just how capable they really are.

What is the most fulfilling aspect of your work at Dig It Coffee and The Garden Foundation?

The most rewarding part of my work is witnessing the profound transformations that take place over time through our programming and coffee

shop. I’ve had the privilege of seeing lives enriched in so many meaningful ways—whether it’s someone building lasting friendships, earning their first paycheck, securing their first job, or even accomplishing personal milestones like writing their name or making their own lunch for the very first time.

Being part of someone’s journey, helping them discover their potential, and watching them grow into their confidence is an unparalleled fulfillment. I am incredibly grateful to be part of work that truly changes lives.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs who want to make a difference in the world, especially those inspired by their own personal experiences?

Stay rooted in your WHY. Your personal experience is your greatest strengt and YOU are the best person for the job. It gives you authenticity, resilience, and a deep understanding of the change you want to create. Let it guide you, especially when the inevitable challenges arise.

How do you envision the future of Dig It Coffee and The Garden Foundation? What dreams do you hold for the impact you want to create?

I hope to continue expanding and growing with purpose and intention. My goal is to positively impact as many lives as possible by delivering the highest quality experiences and programming while creating meaningful opportunities for adults with disabilities. There is still so much work to be done in advancing equity and inclusion for this community, and I am committed to being a driving force for change.

Lastly, Taylor, what message do you want to share with the world about the power of love, perseverance, and the importance of embracing our differences?

The power of love, perseverance, and embracing our differences can truly change the world. Love teaches us to see people for who they are, not just what they can do—it reminds us that every person has value, purpose, and unique abilities.

Perseverance shows us that no obstacle is too big when we refuse to give up, especially when advocating for a world where everyone belongs.

Diversity is our greatest strength, and I hope to build and be a part of a future where differences are not just accepted but celebrated.

Is Your Dog Bored?

Did you know that mental stimulation is just as important as physical stimulation for your furry friend? Mental stimulation helps keep your dog’s brain sharp & is essential for your dog’s overall wellbeing. Mental stimulation reduces stress and without it your dog can become bored and unhappy. This can lead to behavioral issues such as excessive barking, chewing, or digging lets you know your dog is bored.

Dogs are very intelligent creatures and need more than just their muscles worked out for them to be fully happy and content. A physical workout doesn’t challenge the mind the way it needs too or keep it busy to prevent destructive boredom. Mental stimulation and cognitive development are at the core of mental

exercise. Engaging with your dog in activities that challenge problem-solving skills will not only sharpen your dog’s intellect but your bond as well.

Giving your dog a sense of accomplishment when they conquer a puzzle or task. Memory retention also improves, allowing them to learn and remember commands more effectively. It even nurtures creativity and adaptability, helping them to adapt to new situations and respond to new challenges with confidence. Mental exercise significantly impacts their behavior, dogs that engage in regular mental activities are less prone to anxiety and destructive behavior. Stimulating their minds can ease restlessness and give them an outlet for energy that might otherwise

turn to them acting out destructively.

The best way to calculate how much mental stimuli your furry friend needs is by taking in account for what kind of breed your pup is, whether it is a high energy level dog such as German Shepherds, Australian Shepherds, and Spaniels, these dogs enjoy a physical work out for they are breed to herd or hunt. Your low-energy dogs such as Shin Tzus, bulldogs, and Basset Hounds are more laid back and require less physical exercise, and don’t need as much to stay healthy these are the dogs that thrive with mental stimulation and keeping their minds engaged with interactive games, puzzle toys, and obedience training, while too much physical activity may lead to fatigue

making them prone to joint issues.

So, if your dog is on the older side mental stimulation is one of the best things you can offer your dog because it supports aging for senior dogs to help delay cognitive decline keeping their minds sharp since they cannot physically exercise as much it still keeps their brain healthy. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes for mental activity per day, your dog will love it, and you can be creative and make it all the fun all while making your bond stronger.

Here is a list for you to try:

Puzzle Toys and Games: Puzzle toys challenge your dog to figure out how to retrieve a treat or solve a problem. Examples: Snuffle mats, treatdispensing balls, or interactive toys like KONGs filled with frozen bone broth or kefir.

Training Sessions: Teaching your dog new tricks or commands engages their mind and strengthens your bond. Ideas: Practice basic commands, teach fun tricks like “spin” or “roll over,” or introduce agility training.

Chewing and Licking Activities: These natural behaviors are mentally soothing for dogs. Examples: Offer long-lasting chews like bully sticks, or use a lick mat with frozen kefir are also really good for this. Which is healthy, and they’re great for cleaning the teeth and

working out the muscles in the jaw.

Rotate Toys: Regularly changing your dog’s toys keeps things fresh and exciting. How to Do It: Introduce only a few toys at a time and rotate them weekly to maintain your dog’s interest. We keep a basket of toys in the closet for just this purpose.

Interactive Walks: Walks that involve more than just movement stimulate your dog’s brain. What to Try: Let your dog sniff freely.

Doggy Jobs: Certain breeds, especially working or herding breeds, thrive when given a task. Ideas: Have your dog carry a small backpack during walks, help “clean up” by picking up toys, or learn to retrieve the newspaper.

Hide & Seek: Dogs love using their noses to find hidden treasures, scent work taps right into your dog’s natural instincts which provides a high stimulating activity. How to start: high toys or treats in or outside and encourage your dog to sniff them out. It may take a little time for them to get it or find them but they certainly will find it rewarding.

DIY Game: Homemade games. can be customized to suit your dog’s preferences. Examples: Create a treat-toss game with a muffin tin or set up an obstacle course in your living room like taking two chairs & putting a broom or

mop through them to make a jump bar. Taking a hula hoop and teaching them to jump through it.

Mental stimulation for dogs is just as important as physical exercise for their overall health and happiness. From puzzle toys to training sessions there are so many ways to engage your dog with the mental stimulation it needs. If you’re not sure how you would like to start your pup, there are a few things you could do. Look up a local dog training facility and participate in a class or do some online searching on enrichment videos to see what is the best fit for you and your pup. Keeping in mind that you want this to be a positive experience for your dog, so patience and encouragement is key.

We want to build your pup’s confidence so if they don’t get something right away, always move on to something they are comfortable with doing and then come back to what they were struggling with. Once they do get it correct, do not have them do it again, so you leave it on a positive note and for them to think about what actions they just did to receive that reward. Whether you’re starting your pup out young or aged the benefits are all positive to keep your dog’s brain functioning and working healthy. Your dog will appreciate not only the activity but the time spent with you making your bond much closer and stronger.

Rotating Guest Chefs

About us

We are a small, family-owned grocer located in Mesquite, NV - about an hour North East of Las Vegas. We focus on seasonal produce and meat from local and regional farms, and small-batch products made in Nevada and surrounding states. We grow microgreens as well as herbs and other leafy greens hydroponically on-site. We have an attached kitchen where we re-purpose some of the produce we bring in to make a rotating variety of salads, soups and ready-made-meals that are available to take home from our refrigerators and freezers in the grocery section. The kitchen is also a shared-use commissary for local makers and chefs to make and showcase their products and menus - hot service is available weekly from rotating chefs.

Open Tues-Sat 9am-6pm

570 W. Pioneer Blvd. #101

Mesquite, NV 89027

www.ikagreens.com ikagreens

Salad

Soup

Sides

Ready-Made Meals

M ade Fresh In-Store

Healthy Vegan & Non-Vegan Options

Seasonal , Quality Ingredients. Variety Changes.

Find in the Ika Greens grocery refrigerated section.

Bright and Flavorful Spring Citrus Salad

Ingredients

1 Grapefruit, sliced

1 Orange, sliced

Handful Kumquats, sliced

1/2 Onion, thinly sliced

Fava Bean Microgreens (or Spinach/Arugula)

Handful Cashews, toasted

Sprinkle Black Sesame Seeds

2 Tbsp Olive Oil

1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar

1/2 Tbsp Lemon/Orange Juice

Method:

Whisk oil, vinegar & juices.

Toss citrus and onion with greens, cashews and vinaigrette. Top with sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Home Cooked Happiness: Cooking with Love with Jennifer

Affronti

Angelic “Deviled“ Eggs

This is the first thing I learned how to cook. I was so excited to learn how to cook in the kitchen. When I was 6 years old, I made a whole dozen of deviled eggs for my Mom on Mother’s Day. To this day, my younger brother will ask me to make him these. First thing first, let’s get happy! Do you like to listen to music? Put on a happy song and get ready to dance in the kitchen! If you have trouble using a knife, ask an adult to help you with the cutting. Also, you will be using the stove top so ask an adult for help if needed or to watch you create your masterpiece.

What you will need:

• 3 eggs

• 1 celery stick

• 1 small yellow onion

• 1 cup of mayonnaise

• Sprinkle of smoked paprika (optional)

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, put three eggs in and add water to cover the eggs up.

2. Bring the eggs and water to a boil. It usually takes about 12 minutes.

3. After 12 minutes, take your saucepan over to the sink and cool off the eggs with cold water.

4. In a medium size bowl, add water and ice and when your eggs are cool enough to take out of the saucepan, take them out and put them in the ice water. Leave them there for ten minutes. We do this so it makes it easier to peel the eggs.

5. Now here’s the tricky and fun part. Learning to peel eggs. I take my eggs out of the ice water and place them on a plate or cutting board. I

gently tap the eggs on the plate/cutting board all over and they will start to crack. Then I will find a piece of shell that wants to come off and peel all the shell of the egg off.

6. I cut the eggs long way, so when you open them up each side will have a yolk.

7. Take the egg half, turn it upside down and tap the yolk out into a bowl. If it doesn’t come right out, you can use a spoon but gently.

8. Sit the bowl aside, and cut your celery stick. I cut each celery stick in three long pieces and then dice up those three pieces. You will need about ¼ cup of chopped celery

keep your eyes from tearing up. I would say you can cut three slices of onion and then chop it up. You need about a ¼ cup of chopped onion.

10. Add your chopped celery and onion to the egg yolks. Add your cup of mayonnaise to the bowl and mix together.

11. Get a spoon out and spoon the mixture of yolk, mayo, celery and onion and place it in the hole of each egg half.

12. If you are feeling adventurous, sprinkle some smoked paprika on top.

13. P.S. if you have leftover mixture, it is really good on toast!

9. Before you chop your onion, take a paper towel and wet it. Place the wet paper towel next to the onion while you chop it. This will

TA-DA! You just made Angelic “Deviled” Eggs! Now do a happy dance and enjoy your creation!

SHARE THE MIC

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SNACK?

That’s a great question! Some of our teams favorite snacks are oranges, yogurt, chips with hummus gummy bears, and popcorn!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO CELEBRATE?

We love this question! Celebrating is so important! Our favorite way is to throw a mini dance party, go out to a fun place to eat, or get all our friends and family together!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE KNOCK KNOCK JOKE?

Knock, knock.

Who’s there?

Doughnut.

Doughnut who?

Doughnut forget to smile!

Dog Lovers Corner with Rissa

Do you have a dog who is your best friend? Would you like to try some fun activities that they will love? If so, I have some tips and ideas to give you to have a blast spending time with your furry friend. All you will need are some common household items and treats to get started.

Activity One

Step One: You will need a towel and treats.

Step Two: Roll the treats up.