Stories of Perseverance #3 by Motivation & Success Publishing

The Unstoppable Spirit of Makenzie

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Sip & Celebrate! How Matt is Making Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf a Hub of Inclusion

WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS NATURE:

The Harmony Garden Experience with Ika Greens

What Dog Breed is RIGHT FOR YOU?

I can still picture that Saturday morning when we decided to have a picnic in the backyard! My son was so excited as he helped me pack the basket. We filled it with peanut butter sandwiches, strawberries, and a big bottle of lemonade that we made that morning. Watching him carefully place each item in the basket was such a beautiful reminder of the joy in small moments.

- Allison

We were at the park last summer and my daughter began to tell me stories about the clouds. She pointed out shapes, imagining everything from fluffy animals to magical castles. Something I used to do with my grandmother when I was little. Her laughter filled the air, and made me laugh also. It warmed my heart to see her so engaged and so free in her imagination.

- Nicole

Heartfelt Moments

One of my favorite memories is that time we turned our living room into an art studio! We pulled out every crayon, paintbrush, and piece of paper we could find. My daughter was so excited, her eyes lit up with creativity. I remember her diving right into her imagination, painting the most fun scenes inspired by her favorite stories. It was so awesome to watch her little hands work diligently, adding splashes of color like a true artist

- Serene

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,

Some days can feel super busy and stressful. What do you think I could do to make things a bit easier and manage that stress before it kicks in?

A:I don’t just have one tip; I’ve got ten great ones that can really help you kickstart your morning and improve your day from the start!

The way you start your morning can often dictate how the rest of your day unfolds. Especially if your day feels stressful, by intentionally setting a different tone in the morning, we can improve our experience and how we show up in everyday life.

By embracing a series of simple yet game-changing habit upgrades, you have the power to set a positive, joyful tone that resonates throughout the day.

These habits aren’t just about adding more to your morning routine; they’re about transforming the quality of your day with minimal effort. From the moment you open your eyes, each small action can lead to a cascade of productivity and peace.

Here are ten habits that, when practiced, promise not just to change your mornings but to elevate your entire life’s perspective.

Starting your day with a positive mindset can dramatically influence your mood, productivity, and overall satisfaction. Here are ten simple habits to ensure your morning is not just good, but joyful:

1. Wake Up with Purpose: Begin your day by setting

a small, achievable goal. It could be as simple as “I will smile at everyone I meet today” or “I will complete my morning routine without rushing.” This gives you a sense of direction right from the get-go.

2. Embrace the Morning Light:

Exposure to natural light as soon as you wake up helps regulate your circadian rhythm, boosting mood through serotonin production. Open your curtains or take a few minutes to step outside or by a window.

3. Hydrate Your Body:

Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. Hydration kickstarts your metabolism, flushes out toxins, and can even help in maintaining energy levels throughout the day.

4. Practice Gratitude:

Spend a couple of minutes noting down or thinking about things you are grateful for. This could be your health, your family, or even the coffee you’re about to enjoy. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to the abundance that’s already present.

5. Move Your Body:

Whether it’s stretching, yoga, a quick workout, or just dancing to your favorite song, movement in the morning energizes you and releases endorphins, setting a positive mood.

6. Mindfulness Meditation:

Even if it’s just for 5 minutes, meditation can decrease morning stress and anxiety. Sit quietly, focus on your breathing, or use a guided meditation app or video if needed. This practice centers your thoughts and prepares you for the day ahead.

7. Nourish with a Healthy Breakfast:

Starting your day with a nutritious meal sets a positive tone for eating habits throughout the day. Opt for something balanced with protein, fiber, and maybe a piece of fruit. Eating mindfully, without distractions, can also enhance your morning joy.

8. Set Your Daily Intention:

After your routine, take a moment to set an intention for the day. This could be about how you want to feel, treat others, or approach your work. It’s like a mental

roadmap for your day.

9. Connect with Loved Ones:

If possible, share a few moments with someone you care about. This could be a quick call, a text, or simply sharing breakfast. Human connection increases feelings of happiness and belonging.

10. Limit Morning Tech Use:

Try to avoid diving straight into emails, news, or social media. These can wait for a little while. Instead, focus on yourself and your immediate environment. When you do use technology, make it positive; perhaps listen to a podcast that inspires or educates you.

Incorporating these habits into your morning routine doesn’t require a drastic lifestyle change but can significantly enhance your day’s quality. Remember, the key to joy in the morning is not about perfection but about setting a positive, intentional tone for your day. Over time, these small acts accumulate to form a joyful life, one morning at a time.

Love, Rae

The Unstoppable Spirit of Makenzie

Cheerleading, FFA, and the Unshakable

Faith That Fuels Her Dreams

Makenzie is a 20-year-old beautiful young lady. She has an older brother and a younger brother, who are both her everyday heroes. Makenzie grew up in a rural community on the Eastern Plains of Colorado. She has been surrounded by a family and community that adore her and have supported her every step of the way. As a little girl, Makenzie sparked a love for cheerleading as part of the Junior Denver Bronco Cheerleading team through the Global Down Syndrome Association. Makenzie is

currently in her first year of a transition program as she graduated from Limon High School in May 2024.

While in High School, Makenzie made the most of her time as she was a 4-year letterman on the Cheer and Dance Team and a three-year member of Future Farmers of America (FFA). Makenzie was voted by her peers as Prom Princess her Junior year and Homecoming Queen her Senior year. What is most evident to anyone that has ever met Makenzie is her

unwavering love for Jesus and for her family.

Hi Makenzie, we’re so excited to interview you! Let’s start with something fun—what’s your absolute favorite subject in school, and what you love most about it?

My favorite class in High School was Ag (Agriculture). “I love everything and learning new experiences and overcoming obstacles.” The teacher of the Ag and FFA programs was her all-time

favorite teacher who always supported her and pushed her outside of her comfort zone.

We love celebrating accomplishments. Can you share a proud moment from your time in middle or high school that really touched your heart and made you feel like you were shining?

“Probably speaking to 35 principals telling the Creed.” As part of the FFA program, her sponsor pushed her to memorize the 5 paragraph FFA Creed which earned her a third-place honor in a regional speaking competition. She was then asked by a previous Limon HS principal to share the Creed during a Principal training seminar showing what success can look like when we don’t put limits on our kids but rather encourage them to do what may seem impossible.

Can you tell us about a project or activity you participated in that made a meaningful impact in your community?

“Being a Badger cheerleader and biggest fan”. Makenzie was an integral part of the Limon HS Cheer and Dance team for all four years of her high school. Makenzie quickly became known by the community as the Badgers BIGGEST Fan. You can still find Makenzie cheering in the stands at all the games and leading her famous cheer

“L……H…..S……”.

Can you share a memorable experience that taught you an important lesson about perseverance?

“Learning all the cheers and dances” –Makenzie was amazing with learning all the dances and cheers and being able to perform in front of large audiences at games. She even performed half-time shows of several Football State Championship games. “Also, working with the little kids”. Makenzie is currently a Teachers Aid (TA) for a kindergarten class and is learning that “little kids is hard” – she said they don’t always listen to her, and she doesn’t know how to get them to listen to her. She is definitely learning about perseverance through her work study as a TA.

a church that lives out the motto of “Jesus Makes Life Better”. Makenzie proudly wears clothing that displays this motto, and she isn’t afraid to share with others her belief that Jesus Makes Life Better.

Who inspires you the most in your life, and how have they influenced your journey?

You’re such an inspiration, Makenzie! What advice would you give to other young people who are dreaming big?

The advice Makenzie would impart to other young adults pursuing their dreams is “think of the positive and not the negative” and “Faith can move mountains”. Makenzie is also an active member of

Makenzie has been fortunate to have many positive people in her life that have influenced her journey, but Makenzie answered, “probably my mom.” She added “She taught me how to love one another and don’t be someone you are not.”

Looking ahead, what are some of your dreams for the future?

Makenzie has had a lifelong dream – “I want to get married and have kids. I also want to be a famous you-tuber”.

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.

Momma Kate’s Crazy Spaghetti

Growing up with a single Mom, we didn’t have much and Mom made sure every penny stretched until her next paycheck. My Mom created something she called “Crazy Spaghetti”. It was something she could make quick for us. She would normally make a big pot, so we had “Bucketof-the-week”. Anyone that knows me or someone in my family knows about “Crazy Spaghetti”. Even the pickiest of eaters have given this a try and fell in love with it. One of

my friend’s children describes it as pizza pasta.

It may not be what you would typically think of as “health” food but this is what I refer to as “LOVE” food. She made this as a way to feed her children a hot meal and a meal we loved. The love and energy she put into this meal you can taste. Plus, we didn’t have the money to eat out nor was she feeding us garbage. And with that knowledge, I hope you smile and think about

the smiles on the faces you are cooking for, even if it’s for yourself! (Substitutions and additions after recipe)

What you need:

• 2 - 14.5oz cans of Diced tomatoes (ones with basil, garlic & oregano)

• 1 - 4.25 can of chopped black olives

• 2 cups of shredded full fat mozzarella cheese

• 2 cloves of crushed garlic

• 1 TBL of olive oil

• 1 stick of butter (½ cup)

• ¼ cup of grated or shredded parmesan cheese

• 1 box of penne pasta (1lb)

• A big pinch of Celtic sea salt (or any good salt)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, use plenty of water to allow the penne pasta to cook evenly and add a big pinch of salt (I use Celtic Sea Salt). Bring salted water to a boil.

2. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta.

3. In a skillet on medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and your two cloves of fresh crushed garlic. Heat the garlic for a few moments and then add the two cans of diced tomatoes with basil, garlic and oregano. Stir around for a couple of minutes and then add the can of chopped black olives and stir some more. Let it bubble a bit and boil off some of the juice from the can of tomatoes. I cook this at the same time I

am waiting for my water to boil, and while the pasta is cooking.

4. Your penne pasta should be al dente at 11 mins, remove from the stove and strain the pasta. While it’s still hot, take the pasta out of the strainer and back into the large pot.

5. Now add your stick of butter (I cut it up into eight pieces) and stir, stir,stir! Get your penne covered in your butter. Next add your parmesan cheese and make sure it’s evenly coated on your pasta.

mixture is distributed. Voila’.... Crazy Spaghetti!

Now for substitutions! If you are vegan or lactose intolerant, there are amazing vegan mozzarella cheeses and I use olive oil instead of butter on the noodles for my vegan friends. I do not suggest alternative butter as it is a chemical storm. I am also severely gluten intolerant, so I use gluten free penne pasta. There are now healthier vegetable based penne pasta that works just as well and tastes amazing!

6. Now add a cup of your shredded mozzarella and stir like crazy. At this point, the cheese will start becoming stringy. Then take half of your tomato mixture and pour it on top and mix in. Then the last cup of mozzarella cheese and the tomato mixture. The trick is to keep stirring until the cheese is stringy and the tomato

For additions, my aunt adds ground beef. She first puts the garlic in olive oil and then adds the ground beef to brown it. Once it is browned she adds the tomatoes and black olives to the mixture. You can even add Italian sausage ground up as well!!

Remember to have fun! You are nourishing yourself and those you feed. And if your soul tells you to, add a bit of “cheesoning” of parmesan on top!

Discover more content by Jennifer! Visit her website or follow her on social media:

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf was founded in 1963 by Herbert Hyman in Los Angeles, California. Hyman’s passion for coffee grew after he and his wife Mona discovered gourmet coffee during their honeymoon in Sweden. This experience inspired them to import, roast, and sell highquality coffee beans.

In 1968, they opened their first store in Brentwood, Los Angeles, bringing the flavors of the world to their neighborhood. The brand quickly gained popularity for its unique blends and highquality products. In 2002, the first Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf came to Las Vegas under a franchise agreement with Las Vegas Coffee Investors. Since then, LVCI has opened 12 locations around the valley.

What makes Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf unique?

One of the brand’s significant innovations was the creation of the Ice Blended® drink in 1987, which became a signature item and contributed to the brand’s popularity.

If you could share one message with the community about perseverance and inclusion, what would it be?

Inclusion is at the heart of our values at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. To us, inclusion means creating an

environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We believe that diversity enriches our workplace and enhances our ability to serve our customers with excellence.

CBTL embodies inclusion in our workplace culture by implementing several key practices:

• Diverse Hiring Practices - We actively seek to hire individuals from various backgrounds, including those with special needs, to ensure our team reflects the diverse communities we serve.

• Supportive Work Environment - We foster a supportive and accommodating work environment where everyone has the resources and opportunities to succeed. This includes providing necessary accommodations and

creating an open dialogue about individual needs.

• Community EngagementWe partner with organizations that advocate for the special needs community and participate in initiatives that promote inclusion and accessibility both within and outside our company.

By prioritizing inclusion, we not only create a more dynamic and innovative workplace but also ensure that every team member feels a sense of belonging and purpose. This commitment to inclusion drives our success and helps us build stronger connections with our customers and communities.

Can you share a story or experience that deeply impacted your understanding of perseverance in the face of challenges?

A few years ago, we had the

opportunity to hire a young man named Evan, who has autism. Initially, Evan was quite shy and found it challenging to communicate with customers and colleagues. However, we were committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone could thrive.

Our team worked closely with Evan, providing him with tailored training and support. We encouraged him to take on tasks at his own pace and celebrated his progress, no matter how small. Over time, Evan’s confidence grew, and he began to excel in his role. He developed strong relationships with regular customers, who appreciated his dedication and warm personality.

One day, a customer left a heartfelt review praising Evan for his exceptional service

and kindness. This was a moving moment for all of us, as it highlighted the impact of our inclusive practices. Evan’s journey proved that with patience, support, and understanding, we can help individuals overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

This experience reinforced our commitment to inclusivity and the belief that everyone has unique strengths to contribute. It taught us that perseverance isn’t just about overcoming obstacles but also about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

What advice would you give to other businesses looking to promote inclusivity in their practices?

Advice that I would give to other businesses looking

to promote inclusivity is to find the individuals within the corporation who already have a passion for leadership and to begin encouraging that gift. Those individuals who already have passion can quickly ignite a flame of tolerance and inclusion within the business. They will be the trailblazers for the company’s inclusivity practices.

What does a typical day look like for you as a leader in this company, especially regarding community outreach?

As the Community Outreach Manager at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, my role is dynamic and multifaceted, ensuring that no two days are ever the same. My primary responsibilities include assessing community needs and identifying how our company can effectively address them. I collaborate with local organizations to support our workforce development program, which focuses on hiring disadvantaged individuals. Additionally, I partner with various organizations to participate in volunteer events

throughout the valley.

I also lead the Manager In Training program, where I mentor and develop future leaders within the Las Vegas market. Furthermore, I liaise with the Southern Nevada Health District to ensure our stores comply with health code policies. On top of these duties, I manage the Social Media team for The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s Las Vegas platforms, overseeing our online presence and engagement.

Given the diverse array of responsibilities I handle, a typical day is a rarity. However, I thrive on the excitement and challenges that come with my role, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind through The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf?

I hope to leave behind a legacy that inspires future

leaders to be all that they can be for the team that they lead. A legacy that will awaken a shepherding mantle within individuals, calling them to take personal responsibility for the development of those under them and for the community in which we live.

If you could share one message with the community about perseverance and inclusion, what would it be?

If I could share one message with the community, it would

be to love people for who they are, despite their flaws or disadvantages. Love and support each other through their weaknesses, and share your strengths with them to help build each other up.

Finally, what is your favorite drink on the menu?

My favorite drink is simply 6 shots over ice with a little cream. I’m a very busy man and my drink needs to keep me going and have me performing at the top of my game!

What Dog Breed is Right For You?

By Rissa

Are you considering adding a K9 friend to your family but not sure what breed to get? It’s important and requires commitment and a lot of consideration. You will want to make sure you choose the perfect breed to align with not only your family but your lifestyle as well. You’ll need to know the breed’s characteristics which include temperament, grooming needs, and energy levels. As well as how much living space you have for what size breed you should get.

It’s important to understand these traits and how they fit in with your daily routine and home environment. If you’re an inactive apartment-living type of human being, you’ll want to stray away from the high energy, or large breed dogs for they need a lot of space and exercise. You’ll want to aim for low-energy breeds that don’t need a lot of space or exercise, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, known for being one of the most adaptable breeds on the planet. They fit in the toy breed family and are perfect for families with children, they match their owner’s energy level and are not big on barking.

Then there are your English bulldogs and your French bulldogs, two of the quietest and laziest most adored breeds in the world. The Frenchie is another that stays small exceeding only about 30 pounds and as for the English bulldog is up to 50 pounds. Both are manageable sizes and are also fairly quiet breeds perfect for apartment living.

Now you are someone who loves to hunt. There are many breeds born and specialized in this area for you to choose from, such as the American foxhound bred to hunt and track foxes. They require little in the way of grooming and are great family dogs known to be kind with an easy going demeanor.

Next on this list most people wouldn’t believe but it’s actually the American pit bull terrier, what many people don’t know about this breed is that one of their original functions was to hunt wild boar between their muscular

frame and incredibly strong jaws they make excellent hunters with the right training of course.

You can also guess which breed falls next on this list, the beagle is one of the most popular hunting dogs. These dogs are highly trainable and eager to please and enjoy working. Perfect family dogs as they thrive on having a lot of attention as they can be very playful. Bred to hunt game like foxes, rabbits, even birds and small deer.

Now if you are someone who is an active runner or jogger

and who would love a fourlegged companion to join you we have a few breeds for you to choose from like the famous labrador retriever. They love to burn off energy and love to be with their people, at heart they are hard workers who could go all day if you want them to. Running will help keep them calmer throughout the day and strengthen your bond.

Then there is a Brittany Spaniel, who is capable of meeting or exceeding whatever your best distance is when running. Many people have entered marathons who went from start to finish with their Brits.

Another breed that makes it on this list would be The Boxer, an extremely misunderstood breed. They’re more typically seen as a guard dog or even looked at as a lazy breed like the bulldog. That’s further from the truth, Boxers are high-energy dogs who require a lot of daily exercise, they can keep up and keep going, which makes them perfect running partners.

Last but not least, the Weimaraner, with their appearance as well as their temperament screaming “Outdoors.” They are extremely quick on their feet and can keep up a strong pace over long distances. They

thrive running through any environment, such as trails, roads, or beaches, a perfect tag for a long buddy for any type of run.

If you are not much of a runner but love being outdoors and enjoy a nice hike through the woods, we have some perfect breeds to recommend such as The Doberman. Known for being protective and strong, the Doberman can go for a long time and next on this list stay close to their human. Long walks and hikes are essential for them.

Then you also have the Siberian Husky, one of the best hiking dogs who also loves pleasing their owner. They were bred to run and pull some weight which makes them great trail running partners.

Finally, the Australian Shepherd is another great working dog and is even known as the cowboy dog, they love being given something to do. Highly active and always need and want something to do, Aussies need their energy channel through constructor training. Once trained they’re great off-leash hiking partners.

Now we will get into the best dog breeds to partner up with if you are someone who has

plenty of livestock and acres to share. For small-time farmers, you will want breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier. This pint-size bundle of energy is intelligent, independent, and is an expert ratter and will keep your homestead rodent and vermin-free all while being your watchdog.

We also have to rank The Dachshund on this list, you’re probably wondering what role they play on a farm, well it’s all in their name. Which is German for “badger dog.” Originally bred to hunt badgers running rampant and burrowing holes in the soil, some of which destroyed crops, and injured livestock. The breed is ideal for navigating narrow tunnels with fearlessness and tenacity for battling trapped badgers or groundhogs.

Lastly is my all-time favorite the Australian Cattle Dog also known as the Blue Heeler, highly active and intelligent they will protect and herd your livestock making them the perfect farmer’s dog. There are a variety of breeds out there to choose from whether you’re an inactive couch potato or an active outdoorsy kind of human. There is a dog out there perfect for you and your family with the right amount of research you can find the perfect breed to add to your family.

The Harmony Garden Experience with Ika Greens Where Creativity Meets Nature:

We are excited to announce a partnership that aims to bring people together and nurture creativity. Stories of Perseverance is collaborating with Ika Greens Farm to launch the Harmony Garden initiative, designed to empower our local community members, to engage with nature and learn about the joys of gardening in an inclusive environment.

A Shared Vision

At Stories of Perseverance, we believe in the strength of community and the power of collaboration. Our mission has always been to inspire and uplift through stories of resilience and determination. Partnering with Ika Greens Farm resonates perfectly with this vision. Ika Greens Farm, known for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and community

outreach, shares our passion for fostering a healthy environment and encouraging hands-on learning experiences.

This partnership is not just about gardening; it’s about creating relationships and enhancing well-being. Together, we aim to create a space where creativity and nature intertwine, allowing participants to express themselves through gardening in the Harmony Garden.

The Harmony Garden Initiative

Our Harmony Garden initiative will provide an inclusive environment with accessible garden beds for members in the community who wish to participate. This is an open invitation to families and individuals to join us in this exciting project. Each participant can reach out to us to secure

their own garden bed, where they will have the opportunity to plant and cultivate a variety of vegetables, fruits, or flowers of their choosing.

A fun part of this initiative is the opportunity for children to unleash their creativity. Inspired by the efforts of Tateonna and AJ, who have already decorated and painted their garden beds in vibrant colors and imaginative designs that represent them we encourage all participants to do the same. The garden beds will serve as a canvas for their artistic expression, bringing creativity and personality to the Harmony Garden.

Choosing What to Grow

Participants will have the freedom to select what they want to grow in their garden beds. Whether it’s fresh

vegetables, fruits, or beautiful flowers, the choice is theirs! This not only allows individuals to cultivate their favorite plants but also teaches them the importance of growing their own food and engaging with the natural world. Gardening has numerous benefits, from providing fresh produce to promoting mental well-being, and we are excited to share these experiences with our community and create an inclusive environment for people of all abilities.

A Learning Experience

As part of the Harmony Garden initiative, we plan to host workshops and events that focus on gardening skills, cooking skills, sustainability practices, and healthy eating. These will be designed for participants of all ages, providing educational opportunities that enhance our community’s knowledge about gardening and nutrition.

From soil preparation to understanding plant growth cycles, these workshops will cover the essentials of gardening. Children will learn firsthand about the lifecycle of plants, the importance of pollinators, and how to care for their garden beds. This hands-on experience is invaluable, helping them connect with nature and

understand where their food comes from.

Building Community Connections

Beyond the personal benefits of gardening, the Harmony Garden initiative aims to strengthen community ties. The garden will serve as a gathering place where neighbors can come together, share their gardening experiences, and celebrate their successes. We envision a community space filled with laughter, learning, and collaboration.

As participants work side by side in the garden, friendships will blossom just as surely as the plants they nurture. This initiative is not just about individual garden beds; it’s about creating a supportive network where everyone feels valued and connected.

Getting Involved

We invite all community members to participate in this wonderful opportunity. If you’re interested in securing a garden bed for your family, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Simply email us at editor@ storiesofperseverance.com, and we will provide you with all the information you need to get started.

We encourage families to be involved in the gardening process, from painting their garden beds to selecting what to plant. This involvement fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their contributions to the Harmony Garden.

Celebrating Our Gardeners

Throughout the gardening season, we will celebrate the achievements of our participants. We plan to feature stories and photos of our gardeners, showcasing their creativity and their gardens. The Harmony Garden will not only be a place of growth but also a platform for sharing stories of perseverance, creativity, and community spirit.

Our partnership with Ika Greens Farm and the launch of the Harmony Garden initiative marks a significant step towards creating a supportive, engaged, and inclusive community. We believe that through gardening, we can cultivate not just plants but also relationships, skills, and a deeper understanding of our environment.

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, feel free to reach out to us at editor@ storiesofperseverance.com. We can’t wait to see what you will grow in the Harmony Garden!

Weekly Schedule

Order through the Drive Thru.

About us

KIWI ’ S FISH & CHIPS

Beer-Battered Alaskan Fish. Every Tuesday 11am-6pm

M ade Fresh In-Store Healthy Vegan & Non-Vegan Options Seasonal , Quality Ingredients. Variety Changes.

Find in the Ika Greens grocery refrigerated section.

Rotating Guest Chefs serving hot food at Ika Greens weekly:

Seasonal Menu from Chef Patty. Every Wednesday 11am-6pm

We are a small, family-owned grocer located in Mesquite, NVabout an hour Northeast 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

’ S FISH & CHIPS

Vegan Mex-style Street Food. Every Thursday Hand-crafted. Fresh Ingredients. Every Saturday

Beer-Battered Alaskan Fish. Every Friday.

Ingredients

Ika Greens Power Mix

Microgreens - Pea Shoot, Sunflower, and Radish

Lettuce Spring Mix

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. Eat with

Cucumber

Avocado

Method

Chop and toss together with a simple vinaigrette for a beautiful, colorful, and nutritionally dense side salad. Add any protein to make it a main meal. Everyday “Super” Salad

Home Cooked Happiness: Cooking with Love with Jennifer Affronti

Healthier Chocolate Nut Butter Eggs

This is one of my favorite treats to have. With Easter coming up, I thought this would be a fun treat to make. This is fun to make as we get to play with our hands! When I was a little girl, I loved to get Reese’s peanut butter eggs in my basket. As I grew up, I knew that they were not the best for me nor could my friend with a peanut allergy enjoy them. So I made my own. I hope this brings a big smile to your face and you can share them with a friend.

What you will need:

• 1 cup of almond butter (creamy and smooth)

• 2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey

• 1 tablespoon of coconut flour or you can use 2 to 3 tablespoons of almond flour

• 1 bag of dark chocolate chips

• A sprinkle of Sea Salt

• Spoonful of coconut oil

Directions:

1. First things, first!!! Are you happy and excited? Turn on your music and get ready to dance in the kitchen!

2. In a medium sized bowl, mix together your almond butter, maple syrup and coconut flour.

3. Taste it, if you feel like you would like it a bit sweeter add in another tablespoon of maple syrup.

4. Once you have it to your liking, place the bowl in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

5. While your almond butter mixture is resting

in the refrigerator, take out a cookie sheet and measure enough parchment paper to cover it. Put a dab of coconut oil on the parchment paper and grease it with it.

6. Now we are ready to take out the almond butter mixture and make our egg shapes or any other shape you would like.

7. I scoop a tablespoon full of almond butter mixture and roll it around in my hands to make a ball. Then I flatten the ball out with my other hand. Next, I place the flatten out ball shape onto the cookie sheet and shape it into an egg. There should be enough mixture to make 9 eggs.

8. Now place your eggs in the freezer for one hour.

9. Right before you take your eggs out of the freezer, we are going to melt your chocolate.

10. Place half the bag of the dark chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl for thirty seconds. Take the bowl out after 30 seconds and stir the chocolate. They won’t be completely melted yet,

so we have to do it again for another 30 seconds. Take it out and after you stir it, it should be completely melted and smooth. If not, do it again one more time.

11. Let the chocolate cool down a little bit. If it’s too hot, it will melt your eggs. I would say 2 minutes.

12. Take your eggs out of the freezer.

13. Pop the eggs off of the cookie sheet. Take one egg at a time with a big spoon and dip it into chocolate and drizzle the chocolate until it is covered. Place the egg back onto the cookie sheet with the parchment paper on it. And repeat until all of your eggs are covered in chocolate.

14. If you would like to sprinkle some sea salt on top of each egg and then place them back into the freezer for at least one hour.

15. Once they are done, you may keep them in the refrigerator in an air tight container. ENJOY!!!!

Home Cooked Happiness: Cooking with Love with

Jennifer Affronti

Real Homemade Marshmallows

Marshmallow Root is great for a sore throat, cough, and your insides! I love putting marshmallows in my hot chocolate or smores or even by themselves.

These will not look like the perfect ones you buy at the store. These will come in different shapes and sizes but are still perfect and good for your belly!

You will need some help and supervision for this recipe and this one takes a bit to make them, but are so worth it.

What you will need:

• 3 tablespoons of Marshmallow Root (I bought mine at Sprouts)

• 1 ½ cups of cold water

• 1 cup of honey

• 3 tablespoons of powdered grass fed gelatin

• 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract

• 3 tablespoons of tapioca flour

• Spoonful of coconut oil

Directions:

Remember! First things first, let’s get happy and excited to be in the kitchen making something good for us.

1. Place your marshmallow root and cold water in a mason jar. Shake it up with the lid on it and leave it on your counter overnight.

2. In the morning, strain the marshmallow root from the water and throw the root away. We will just need the water.

3. If you have a Kitchenaid stand mixer, put one cup of the marshmallow water in the bowl of the stand mixer. If you do not have one, put one cup of the marshmallow water in a medium sized bowl and we can use an electric hand mixer.

4. Sprinkle the gelatin on top of the cup of marshmallow

root water. We will let it sit there for now so it will “bloom”.

5. In a small saucepan, place the ½ cup of marshmallow root water left over in and a cup of honey on medium heat. PLEASE WATCH IT AT ALL TIMES.

6. Once your honey/ marshmallow water starts to bubble, let it bubble for about 2 minutes. If it starts to creep up, turn off the stove as you do not want it to boil over.

7. Now take that mixture and add it to your bloomed gelatin mixture and add in your vanilla. I know it looks funny colored but it will lighten up while it is mixing in the mixer

9. Turn your electric stand mixer on medium high and whip this mixture for about 15 minutes. It will double in size and become almost white. You want the mixer fluffy and with bubbles in it.

10. While the mixer is being mixed, place parchment paper in a 8x8 pan and grease it with a little bit of coconut oil on

all sides. This will keep the marshmallow from sticking to the paper and easier to handle when you want to cut it.

11. Once the mixture is ready, pour it into your 8x8 pan. (If you want to make shapes with your marshmallows with cookie cutters, use a 9 x 13 pan)

12. Leave this out to dry on the counter for at least five hours. Once it’s completely dry. Lift out your slab of marshmallow onto the counter to cut.

13. I grease my knife to cut my marshmallow cubes with coconut oil and each time I cut into it, I wipe the knife down with coconut oil on a paper towel. It just makes it easier and less sticky. They don’t have to be perfect. You can make them in any shape or size you desire.

14. Once you have them cut into your squares, take each square and toss them in a bowl with your tapioca flour. This keeps them from sticking together.

15. Now they are ready to be enjoyed!!! You can place your marshmallows in an air tight container in the refrigerator for storage.

SHARE THE MIC

WHAT’S SOMETHING FUN WE CAN DO INSIDE WHEN IT RAINS?

A great indoor activity is setting up a mini movie theater at home! Pick a few family favorites, make some popcorn, grab your favorite snacks and create a fun space!

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO START A GARDEN?

Starting a garden is super exciting! Start with a small space, and choose easy-togrow plants like tomatoes, herbs, or flowers. Everyone can pick their favorite plant, and then you can work together to plant, water, and watch them grow!

WHAT’S SOMETHING FUN I CAN DO WITH MY FAMILY?

One trending activity is hosting a “family talent show”! Each family member can showcase their unique talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, or even telling jokes. It’s a fun way to support each other and have lots of laughs together!

Dog Lovers Corner with Rissa

Did you know you can teach your dog to find treats just by playing simple games with them? First you want to start off with something easy, here’s how to begin.

Step 1

Take 3 plastic cups and hide treats underneath one of them.

Step 2

Then mix the cups up in front of your dog.

Step 3

Let your dog sniff the cups.

Step 4