Quirk March April 2018

ns de MAGAZINE

Volume 8 • Issue 2 March - April 2018

CONNECTING

LETHBRIDGE

MYSTICAL ART Upscale Upcycling

PALLET CREATIONS All Hands on Deck

SCANDIA FARMS Flight of the Bumblebee

JOSIAH LAUNSTEIN PHOTOGRAPHY PHENOM

P. 28

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www.lushdecortile.com Quirk - 4

Lethbridge Meditation Retreat March 17 & 18, 2018 JOIN FACILITATORS BRUCE MANAKA AND JADE SOETAERT Sacred Breath - Sacred Sound Workshop Guided Crystal Singing Bowl Meditations w/Vocal Overtones Word/Intention/Universal Vibration Meditation Laughter Yoga Mediumship Demonstration by 5 Mediums TO JOIN JADE AND BRUCE’S EVENING OWL ENERGY HEALING WITH CRYSTAL SINGING BOWLS...

VERY LIMITED SEATING For more information and to register, visit www.jadesalchemyconnection.com or call 403.625.1600

Introducing Bruce Manaka, author of "The Alchemy of Bliss" and founder of the "Ecstatic YOU!" program of sound and vocal resonance, who spent 19 years in a monastery, living a life of meditation and contemplation. We welcome Bruce to our Lethbridge Meditation Weekend with gratitude and excitement!

cÉãxÜyâÄ ∏ \ÇÇÉätà|äx ∏ gÜtÇáyÉÜÅtà|ÉÇtÄ *No meditation experience necessary

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*Funding available through Canda Job Grant

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Decked Out

How to create a deck with virtually no experience or budget

Scandia Farms

Taking a look at the business of making honey

Artist Profile

Bryan Weibe drafts new tools to complete his unique artistic creations

Advocacy in Action

Local group champions community conference to share the power of self-advocacy with others

Josiah Launstein; Photography Phenom

The story of a very young and talented award-winning local photographer

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Publisher ThePublisher From FromThe Seems Seems totobe betaking takingforever foreverfor forWinter Winter let to let gogo of of usus here here in in Southern Southern Alberta!

Alberta!

Hopefully Hopefully very very soon, soon, wewe can canstart startthinking thinkingabout aboutSpring Springand andworking working outdoors outdoorstotobeautify beautifyour ourspace. space.With Withthat, that,keep keep these these dates dates inin mind mind forforthe theannual annualHome Home&&Garden Garden Jean Van Kleek show show atat Exhibition ExhibitionPark ParkMarch March21-24.

21-24.This Thisshow showgets gets Photo: Thomas Porter bigger bigger and and better better every every year year as more as more peoplepeople enjoy creating enjoy creating a personal a personal oasis in their oasisown in their yard. own Thisyard. past This Fall,past afterFall, writing afteran writing articlean about article pallet about creations, pallet creations, I decided Itodecided try a creation to try of a creation my own and of my built own a deck and from built a stranded deck from pallets. stranded It was pallets. relatively It was simple relatively andsimple fun, soand I’d like fun,tososhare I’d like with to share you the with process you the I went process through I went to give through youto some giveideas you some of your ideas own.of Spring your is own. the time Spring when is the wetime plant when our we flowers plantand ourhope flowers our and friend hope “the our bee” friend helps “theusbee” along helps to make us along ourto flowers makeflourish. our flowers We visit flourish. a local We bee visit afarm local tobee talk farm about tothe talktypes about ofthe bees types we of have bees here, we and havethe here, process and the of harvesting process ofhoney. harvesting Christina honey.

ScottChristina also speaks Scottwith also a speaks local artist withwho a local recently artist had whoarecently show athad CASA a show and creates at CASAvery andunique createsworks very unique of art using works toothpicks of art using instead toothpicks of paint instead brushes. of paint brushes.

SRSAN SRSAN (South (South Region Region Self-Advocacy Self-Advocacy Network) Network)a a network network ofof over over 120 120 people people across across Southern Southern Alberta, Alberta, is hosting is hosting a conference a conference this this April.

April.

SRSAN SRSAN is a is safe a safe space space forfor literally literally anyone anyone toto share share their their ideas ideas and and learn. learn.

ItsIts mission mission is to is to bebe a united a united voice voice forfor people people with with different different abilities abilities that that brings brings inspiration inspiration and and opportunity opportunity toto achieve. achieve.

This This issue, issue, wewe are are also also very very excited excited to introduce to introduce youyou to Josiah to Josiah Laundstein Launstein and and hishis family. family.Josiah Josiah recently recentlywon won 2017 2017 Young Young Outdoor OutdoorPhotographer Photographerofofthe theYear.

Year.This Josiah is the holds second the distinction time Josiah of nothas onlyreceived being thethis youngest award, to have making received him the this award, only photographer but also the only to have photographer won this award to have twice received in the history this award of thetwice competition. in the history Whatof makes the competition. this especially What exciting makesisthis that especially Josiah is exciting only fifteen is that years Josiah oldisand onlybegan thirteen entering years old competitions and beganat entering the agecompetitions of ten. No doubt at thethis age young of ten.prodigy No doubt has this a young very bright prodigy future has ahead a veryofbright him. future ahead of him.

We We are are always always looking looking forfor new new things things toto share share with with you, you, soso wewe thought thought we’d we’d have have some some fun fun and and include include aa local local word word find find puzzle puzzle starting starting this this issue. issue.

Thanks Thanks toto Curtis Curtis Goodman Goodman ofof the the Helen Helen Schuler Schuler Centre Centre forfor providing providing the the words words forfor this this puzzle puzzle with with names names ofof wildlife wildlife that that can can bebe seen seen byby the the river river bottom bottom in in the the spring. spring.

Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Notes Notes toto the the Editor: Editor: Keep Keep upup the the good good work work ofof promoting promoting our our wonderful wonderful city city and and local local businesses. businesses.

Alice Matisz Alice Matisz Great Great magazine magazine both both in in terms terms ofof content content and and quality. quality.

Keep Keep it up! it up!

Raymond Huel Raymond Huel

Please Pleasesupport supportourouradvertisers advertisersthey - theysupport supportourourcommunity! community!

Let Us Take Care of Your Recycling For You!

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www.ResidentialRecycle.ca RESIDENTIAL RECYCLE HELPS SAVE YOU TIME AND GAS IN YOUR EFFORT TO HELP CREATE A GREENER ENVIRONMENT Quirk Quirk - 6- 6

8 • 8 • Issue Issue 2 •2March • March - April - April 2018 2018 Volume Volume

www.quirkmagazine.net www.quirkmagazine.net ISSN ISSN 1929-2112 1929-2112

Published Published bi-monthly bi-monthly inin Lethbridge Lethbridge byby

SHABELLAPUBLISHING PUBLISHING SHABELLA

th Ave. N., Lethbridge, T1H 1J8 th Ave. 1010 - 10 1010 - 10 N., Lethbridge, T1H 1J8 403.382.7240 403.382.7240

Printed Warwick Printing, Printed byby Warwick Printing, Lethbridge, AB. Lethbridge, AB. Publisher Publisher Jean Van Kleek Jean Van Kleek info@quirkmagazine.net info@quirkmagazine.net Design & Layout Design & Layout UniVerse Graphics UniVerse Graphics Photographers Photographers Chris Yauck Chris Van Yauck Jean Kleek Jean Van Kleek Laundstein Family Laundstein ThomasFamily Porter Thomas Porter Cover Photo Cover Photo “First Snow” taken by Laundstein JosiahJosiah Launstein at ten years old using a super-telephoto lens.

It is Josiah's best-selling Writers Limited Edition release.

Christina Scott Ginger Malacko Writers Michelle Zandstra Christina Scott Jean Van Kleek Ginger Malacko Michelle Zandstra General Inquiries Jean Van Kleek info@quirkmagazine.net

General Inquiries Inquiries Advertising info@quirkmagazine.net info@quirkmagazine.net 403.382.7240 Advertising Inquiries info@quirkmagazine.net 403.382.7240 LEGAL LEGAL INFORMATION INFORMATION All information All information provided provided in this in this magazine magazine is accurate is accurate andand correct correct to to the the bestbest of the of the knowledge knowledge of Quirk of Quirk Magazine Magazine andand Shabella Shabella Publishing, Publishing, andand current current at the at the time time of publishing. of publishing.

Quirk Quirk Magazine Magazine andand Shabella Shabella Publishing Publishing areare notnot responsible responsible andand will will notnot be be liable liable for for damages damages whatsoever whatsoever arising arising outout of or of or in connection in connection withwith the the useuse of the of the information information contained contained herein, herein, or through or through anyany unauthorized unauthorized useuse or or reproduction reproduction of such of such information, information, even even if the if the publication publication hashas been been advertised advertised of the of the possibility possibility of these of these damages. damages.

TheThe information information in this in this magazine magazine applies applies to Canada to Canada oinly oinly andand may may not not be be appropriate appropriate or or correct correct outside outside of Canada. of Canada.

TheThe magazine magazine is not is not responsible responsible in any in any wayway for the for the content content provided provided by contributing by contributing writers writers and/or and/or advertisers advertisers or other or other third third parties parties who who advertise advertise or provide or provide content content for for thisthis magazine. magazine.

Unless Unless indicated indicated otherwise, otherwise, all opinions, all opinions, advice, advice, information information andand resources resources offered offered or or made made available available in this in this magazine magazine areare solely solely those those of third of third parties parties whowho advertise advertise or provide or provide content content for this for this magazine. magazine.

ThisThis magazine magazine andand its its content content do do not not necessarily necessarily reflect reflect the the views views of Shabella of Shabella Publishing Publishing or or its employees. its employees.

No No endorsement endorsement or approval or approval of any of any thirdthird parties parties or their or their advice, advice, opinions, opinions, information, information, products products or services, or services, including including those those available available or or offered offered through through thisthis magazine magazine or or anyany websites, websites, is is expressed expressed or implied or implied

by Shabella

by Shabella Publishing Publishing or any or any related related company company or its orofficers its officers andand directors. directors.

Links Links to websites to websites of third of third parties parties areare meant meant for convenience for convenience only. only.

TheThe publisher publisher does does not not review, review, endorse, endorse, approve approve or control or control andand is not is not responsible responsible for any for any such such websites. websites.

EACH EACH

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The TheStyle StyleofofBeing Being

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Adorable AdorableAdoptables Adoptables

19 19 36 36 37 37 38 38

Lethbridge Lethbridge&&Area AreaPhoto PhotoContest Contest

Pet PetPhoto PhotoContest Contest Lessons LessonsI’ve I’veLearned LearnedFrom Frommy myDogs Dogs / /Dog DogRecipe Recipe Quirk QuirkWord WordFind Find

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Quirk Quirk 9-- 7 9 Quirk Quirk -- 7

by Ginger Malacko

Cup of tea

I’m not everyone’s cup of tea. Really, I’m not. I tried for years to be liked by all, hammering my very square personality into an unyielding round hole, but that inevitably failed. Finally, after much misadventure, I discovered that I like my sharp corners. People come in strange and complex artisinal flavors, like farmers market cheese. And we certainly don’t all like the same flavors, do we? It may seem odd for an inspirational columnist to write an article on NOT liking people, but I have a reason.

You see, many of us attempt to love all of humanity the same, as if such sentiment is proof of our own virtue. It sounds great in theory, but the problem is we are bound to come across someone we don’t enjoy, and then we feel the need to justify our un-brotherly feelings. To maintain the ideal and remain blameless, we must turn that unpalatable flavor of human into the enemy so that we are allowed to despise them. Their flaws must be exaggerated, their crimes inflated (or invented). We feel exonerated, but in reality we have learned to hate when hatred is unwarranted, and pretend to love where love has not been earned.

That is unjust, and it’s dishonest.

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“Disliking people is not a failure it’s a kind of natural selection. It’s a way of choosing the people you want and need in your life. Not everyone is a good fit.”

As a child I had an aversion to peanut butter. Not an allergy, just plain old dislike. But this was back in the day when all children took peanut butter sandwiches to school in their lunchboxes and all of my compatriots adored them. I tried so hard to like peanut butter! I still recall those thick, pasty mouthfuls. My dislike soon turned to resentment – for my friends who didn’t like anything I liked, for my mom who urged me to just be me, and for myself for not fitting in – and for not having the courage to stand out.

Disliking people is not a failure it’s a kind of natural selection. It’s a way of choosing the people you want and need in your life. Not everyone is a good fit. Somewhere along the line we made that a bad thing, when it’s really just part of being human; a part of letting others be themselves. In giving myself permission to not like everyone, I’ve actually found that I have less capacity to hate, a diminished tendency to judge, a deeper appreciation for people.

And now, not only do I accept that I’m not everyone’s cup of tea – I revel in it.

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Decked Out

by Jean Van Kleek

This past September, we ran a very well-received article about repurposing pallets. After finding out about all of the wonderful creations that can be made, I decided to try a project myself. This issue, I share with you my adventure as someone with no experience creating a deck.

No experience necessary, however, common sense, patience and some ability to use a drill are very helpful.

First off, I measured the length and width of the area I wanted to deck.

I then went on the hunt for pallets that would fit the area. Pallets come in different sizes, but one of the most common sizes is 48 inches x 3 feet. This sizing lent itself well to an 8 x 12 foot deck. Pallets are also made from a variety of wood. A deck needs to be made from hardwood pallets, they are strong and designed to bear weight.

I learned to take a measuring tape with me as I searched for pallets after eyeballing a few that I thought “looked right” but were not at all the right size after I got them home. I also found that even the same size pallets varied slightly in height, and fixed that problem with shims because no two pallets were exactly the same. Canadian Tire and Costco are good places to start when looking for your material. Most places will be glad you take the pallets away for them, but it is always a good idea to ask permission first.

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Left over wind wall piece

Deck boards on pallet base

When laying the base, the pallets should be slightly raised from the ground to avoid moisture from the ground. To do this, I placed cinder blocks I had on hand under the corners of each pallet. My layout was two pallets wide and three pallets long. Once the first layer of pallets was level, I placed two more layers of pallets to create the right height to my patio door. There is no need to stack the pallets unless you require height as I did. The deck I made is free-standing; not attached to the house, so I didn’t require a permit from the city. Also, the height of the deck was just over two feet which doesn’t require a railing, but I chose to have the deck closed in. When deciding to do a project like this, it’s always best to contact the city first and find out about building codes before you build something you may have to tear down at a later point!

Once the base was in place, I looked for materials to attach to the outside perimeter for skirting. This helps brace the pallets together to prevent movement and also provides a surface to attach finishing material. I found some “chipboard” remnants at a building site a few doors down to use for this. It was perfect! Once the pallet base was complete, the deck boards were placed and screwed in.

Pallet base

Deck rail and privacy/wind wall

“Besides the fun of recycling material to make something new, this project was completed for very little money.”

Next, I was on the hunt for pallets that could be used for railing. These were more lightweight than the base, and I used three of them for the length of the deck. I found one longer/taller pallet that was perfect for a wind/privacy wall on the open side of the deck. It was a little too long so I cut off the end of it. The end was a perfect size to attach to my fence as a shovel/rake holder… there truly is no end to what you can do with pallets!

When making a railing, you need to ensure it is secure. Even though my deck isn’t very high, it wouldn’t bode well to have someone lean on the rail and fall over the side. I secured the rail pallets to the deck, each other, and the wind wall, while attaching the wind wall to the fence and the deck.

The three rail pallets were a little uneven where the horizontal boards meet. To hide this, and to secure the railing better, I attached fence boards from the top of where the rail pallets join, down to the bottom of the deck frame. These boards made the rail very solid and created a nice look at the same time. I placed fence boards on the inside of the deck rail as well to match it up and secure further. I covered the “chipboard,” on the base with fence boards staggered horizontally to finish. To complete the deck, I ran additional fence board across the top of the rail to create a ledge. All of these finishings help strengthen support as well. I’ve learned there is no such thing as too much support!

Chipboard skirting

While the project was quite a bit work, it was fun and very creative. I had no idea beyond the base, what the rest was going to look like. It was a matter of working with what I found for material and the design created itself in the end.

Besides the fun of recycling material to make something new, this project was completed for very little money. All together, the deck was built for under $200, with those costs being the fence boards, deck boards and screws.

“No experience necessary, however, common sense, patience and some ability to use a drill are very helpful.”

Front of deck Quirk - 13

Thirsty bees on a hot day in Scandia

Creating a

Quiet in the winter months, busy as a bee during the summer

Buzz

Beehives in a field

Over the past 20 years, Reece Chandler has been stung close to 40,000 times. For most, the sharp, pain-filled fury of a bee’s bite is enough to avoid the species at all costs. But, as a honey producer, Chandler steels himself with an old, familiar adage: no pain, no gain.

Chandler and his wife, Echo, are the owners of The Scandia Honey Company, based out of the small hamlet since 1937. The pair bought the operation in 1996, following two previous owners. Born and raised in Calgary, the couple grew up together and married in university. Surrounded by friends and family, they were on their way: both built successful businesses in the city, with smart financial decisions boosting them to the top of their game. Soon, the birth of their two children would turn a house into a home, and, it would seem that for the Chandlers, life was perfect.

But, money didn’t buy happiness. Chandler grew increasingly dissatisfied with his construction job.

After learning about a beekeeping operation for sale in rural Alberta, the couple bought it and sold everything they had in Calgary, trading big city life for small-town adventure.

“I’d never seen a honeybee before in my entire life,” says Chandler with a laugh. “We moved in the middle of January 1996. It was - 30 C and it was ridiculously cold and dark. We both kind of thought, what did we do? Maybe this was a mistake.”

Eventually, winter eased its grip. As the snow melted, so did the couple’s doubts. As the sun Quirk - 14

Scandia Honey sees sweet success

appeared, they warmed up to their new life as the owners of Canada’s largest beekeeping operation.

“It was a huge learning curve for Echo and me, but we finished our first season and have never looked back since,” says Chandler.

The company produces one million pounds of honey per year from 15,000 beehives strategically placed on multiple farmlands from Barnwell to Bow Island and from Taber to Viking. A dedicated staff of 30 branch out from the company’s headquarters, visiting each hive 14 times per year.

Employees come from around the globe, including Canada, Mexico, South Africa, Thailand, the Philippines and New Zealand. Staff rarely change; some have been with the company since before the Chandlers took ownership.

“We really are a team,” says Chandler. “We do a lot of stuff together: we go on camping trips as staff, we go on holidays a staff, we have a really tightknit business.”

In addition to producing honey, the company also specializes in pollinating hybrid canola, making beeswax and selling bees. Beekeeping is becoming increasingly popular.

“Fifteen years ago, we would’ve sold maybe 20 beehives in a year, and in 2017, we sold almost 2,000 beehives to hobbyists. We start taking names and numbers in January and we typically get our bees in April.”

The fun part - extracting honey!

Reece and Alfonzo finishing a day of hard work

For production purposes, the company uses European honey bees from breeders in New Zealand, Hawaii and California. The bees are air shipped, but the couple has spent the last two decades forging relationships with breeders across the globe.

“We’ve been doing business with these companies for 20 years,” says Chandler. “We have a great working relationship. I try to go visit my supplier is at least once every two years.”

So, how is honey produced?

In the spring, the company takes steps to maximize the population of each hive by feeding the bees sugar water.

The queen mistakes this for honey and lays more eggs.

When alfalfa and dandelions start to flower in mid-July, the hive’s 60,000 bees work non-stop to pollinate and collect nectar.

“Bees basically work themselves to death,” says Chandler, who adds that a bee’s typical lifespan in the summer is six weeks.

“They’ll easily work until nine at night and are back at work at five the next morning. Bees can probably create 150 pounds of honey in a good beehive.”

From there, the bees place it in honeycombs, which workers remove in August using frames that can easily lift out of the hive. Workers wear full body suits, but that doesn’t prevent them from getting stung.

“It doesn’t matter how careful you are and how tight your suit is, it’s not unusual to get stung five to 10 times every single day,” says Chandler.

“Does it hurt every time you get stung? Absolutely. Once you’ve been stung every day for about a month, you don’t swell anymore. You don’t even feel it five minutes later.”

The honey is then spun out of the frames, put into barrels and shipped all over the world. In southern Alberta, the company’s honey can be purchased at its headquarters in Scandia, the Vauxhall Co-op, Heritage Foods in Brooks, and Barbecues Galore in Calgary.

Its reputation is based on quality.

“What comes out of the hive is exactly what goes to the table,” he says.

“Cattle producers grow a lot of alfalfa and that alfalfa gives us really nice honey. Additionally, due to irrigation, the flowers always seem to have nectar in them.”

After all the honey is collected, the bees are once again given sugar water to replace the missing honey and help them survive the long winter ahead. Chandler estimates the company loses 3,000 to 4,000 hives each season due to the frigid temperatures.

“We really are a team.”

Scandia Honey’s 2017 staff

Despite this, he says bees have an amazing method for surviving the cold that can triple their lifespan.

“In the wintertime, the bees almost hibernate,” says Chandler. They’re still awake, they’re just kind of slow moving in the hive. They know that they have to live a long time, so the queen won’t lay any eggs. The bees that would normally live six weeks in the summer can stay alive for five months in the winter. It’s really incredible.”

He adds queens can live up to five years if everything goes well.

Much like farmers, beekeepers have to rely on proper weather to thrive.

It can be a challenge when that doesn’t happen.

“We have to have rain at the perfect time, and sun at the perfect time,” says Chandler. “Some years, you can have fields with lots of flowers in them, but if it’s dry, there’s no nectar in those flowers for the bees to make honey. Just because you see the flowers doesn’t mean it’s going to be a great year.”

Despite the challenges, Chandler says he loves his job.

“It doesn’t even feel like we’re going to work every day. Even though we’ve been here for more than 20 years, it feels like we’re goofing around all day. In hindsight, what we did was extremely naïve and super risky, but it all worked out perfectly.”

Scandia's barn on a frosty morning

Time to Tone up for summer activities and the bathing suit!

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In conventional training you only use 30 to 40 percent of your muscle (your voluntary muscle) whereas VibraFit Training stimulates 95 to 100 percent of your muscle fibre. This makes time spent on your VibraFit Trainer much more efficient because you are toning muscles that you can’t in a gym! Waste substances that cause pain are more easily removed due to increased oxygen making the lymphatic drainage system more efficient.

Vibration Exercise technology is supported by decades of scientific research since it was first embraced by scientists in the 1960’s investigating cures for osteoporosis.

Not only does vibration training build muscle strength but it also helps to develop “explosive muscle power” that’s essential for sports like hockey and basketball.

IT ALSO increases range of motion, balance, flexibility and coordination used in sports such as golf and tennis.

The net result is more stamina and energy; more speed; increased flexibility, mobility and coordination; rapid recovery of muscles and tissue; improved collagen production and fat reduction. Soon you will begin to notice an improvement in posture and the ability to stand taller and longer.

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University of Calgary Schulich School of Bio-Engineering “Mechanical vibrations appear to alter cell behavior in a way that point to the potential for the regeneration of cells and tissues in the spine. Our results were both surprising and encouraging, given the socio-economic costs of back pain.”

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Healthy Food #1: Lemons

Why They're Healthy: • Just one lemon has more than 100 percent of your daily intake of vitamin C, which may help increase "good" HDL cholesterol levels and strengthen bones.

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Quick Tip: Add a slice of lemon to your green tea. One study found that citrus increases your body's ability to absorb the antioxidants in the tea by about 80 percent.

Healthy Food #2: Broccoli

Why It's Healthy: • One medium stalk of broccoli contains more than 100 percent of your daily vitamin K requirement and almost 200 percent of your recommended daily dose of vitamin C - two essential bone-building nutrients.

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Quick Tip: A dark chocolate bar contains about 53.5 milligrams of flavonoids; a milk chocolate bar has fewer than 14.

Healthy Food #4: Potatoes

Why They're Healthy: • One red potato contains 66 micrograms of cell-building folate — about the same amount found in one cup of spinach or broccoli.

• One sweet potato has almost eight times the amount of cancer-fighting and immuneboosting vitamin A you need daily.

Quick Tip: Let your potato cool before eating. Research shows that doing so can help you burn close to 25 percent more fat after a meal, thanks to a fat-resistant starch.

Quirk - 17

Healthy Food #5: Salmon

Why It's Healthy: • A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of depression, heart disease, and cancer.

• A 3-ounce serving contains almost 50 percent of your daily dose of niacin, which may protect against Alzheimer's disease and memory loss.

Quick Tip: Opt for wild over farm-raised, which contains 16 times as much toxic polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) as wild salmon.

Healthy Food #6: Walnuts

Why They're Healthy: • Contain the most omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce cholesterol, of all nuts.

• Omega-3s have been shown to improve mood and fight cancer; they may protect against sun damage, too (but don't skip the SPF!).

Quick Tip: Eat a few for dessert: The antioxidant melatonin, found in walnuts, helps to regulate sleep.

Healthy Food #7: Avocados

Why They're Healthy: • Rich in healthy, satisfying fats proven in one study to lower cholesterol by about 22 percent.

• One has more than half the fiber and 40 percent of the folate you need daily, which may reduce your risk of heart disease.

Quick Tip: Adding it to your salad can increase the absorption of key nutrients like beta-carotene by three to five times compared with salads without this superfood.

Healthy Food #8: Garlic

Why It's Healthy: • Garlic is a powerful disease fighter that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, including E. coli.

• Allicin, a compound found in garlic, works as a potent anti-inflammatory and has been shown to help lower cholesterol and blood-pressure levels.

Quick Tip: Crushed fresh garlic releases the most allicin. Just don't overcook; garlic exposed to high heat for more than 10 minutes loses important nutrients.

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Healthy Food #9: Spinach

Healthy Food #10: Beans

Quick Tip: Spinach is a healthy — and flavorless — addition to any smoothie. You won't taste it, we promise! Try blending 1 cup spinach, 1 cup grated carrots, 1 banana, 1 cup apple juice, and ice.

Quick Tip: The darker the bean, the more antioxidants it contains. One study found that black bean hulls contain 40 times the amount of antioxidants found in white bean hulls.

Why It's Healthy: • Spinach contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two immuneboosting antioxidants important for eye health.

• Recent research found that among cancer-fighting fruits and veggies, spinach is one of the most effective.

Why They're Healthy: • Eating a serving of legumes (beans, peas, and lentils) four times a week can lower your risk of heart disease by 22 percent.

• That same habit may also reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Waterton Photo: Tony Bevans Winner: March Photo Contest

HOW TO ENTER: Submit your Lethbridge or surrounding area photo in a jpeg format with a size of 1 MB minimum. The winning photo will be published in the following issue of Quirk Magazine. We have modified the rules this year to include enhanced photos. This is because most photos are enhanced to a degree. The integrity of the photo must be maintained to qualify with no added elements besides what the picture originally contained. Quirk Magazine retains the right to use all photos for promotional purposes.

Entry Deadline March 30, 2018

Email your photos to: info@quirkmagazine.net Quirk - 19

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Quirk - 20

The Desk

by Jean Van Kleek

Recently, I took a good look at my office and came to the decision that the desk was too big for the room, and if only I had more filing as part of the configuration, all of my paperwork would be in order. I found a nice tidy, smaller desk that came with a bookcase shelf on top of a couple of well sized filing drawers. I ordered it, and as I waited for delivery I advertised my current desk. I took the desk apart for ease of moving with it’s new owner, and while doing so, I took apart the drawer that I always cursed at because it hardly opened. Wouldn’t you know, it just needed a little attention, as did the screws throughout the entire unit that I thought was just unstable from so many moves. The buyers were a no -show, so in order to be functional, I put the desk all back together. It was now sturdy… and the drawer was happy to open for me.

Suddenly it hit me like a ton of bricks. The simplest of thoughts, but one of the most difficult to admit. There was no problem with the desk, the problem was me. After purging the desk and files, I found I had the room I needed already, and the workspace I had on the desk was already ideal.

A new environment wouldn’t create organization, I needed to become more organized, which upon reflection, I had to admit, was a lifelong problem for me.

Now I know you may say this sounds simple, and why write about a desk, but the reality is, once I saw how easily I deferred my shortcomings onto my surroundings, it came to me that we often do this in many facets of our lives without even realizing it. The mind is a wonderful thing, but it also enables us to artfully and skillfully justify just about anything we do or don’t do.

Deference allows us not to have to be responsible. When the blame can be placed outside of us, we don’t have to fix the problem. My example was the desk, but it could be “if only I had a new house, then I’d be happy… if only “fill in the blanks”… I’m sure we’ve all been there.

Beyond things, our deferrals also spill over into our relationships. I had decided my desk was broken and didn’t serve me well anymore, when in fact, it just needed some attention and care, as do many relationships we give up on too easily.

We also defer our shortcomings onto our partners. For example, a person who says their partner holds them back from pursuing their creativity,” if it weren’t for them I’d be taking art classes and growing”. Often, this same person after leaving the partner, still doesn’t take the classes, or grow. Turns out, it wasn’t the partner that held them back, it was themselves. It wasn’t the desk…

Since this experience, when in doubt I take the time to ask myself this question, “Is it the desk… or is it me’? The majority of the time the answer will be “it’s me”. There are times when it is the desk, broken beyond repair, or our needs have changed and nothing we do can repair it. The trick is to know the difference.

When we are truly and painfully honest with ourselves, we come to realize that most changes needed are internal, not external, and that as they say, “happiness is an inside job”… and a desk is just a desk.

“A new environment wouldn’t create organization, I needed to become more organized, which upon reflection, I had to admit, was a lifelong problem for me.”

Quirk - 21

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“I saw this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so why not go for it.”

Secreta Retexit

Artist Makes his Mark…

One Toothpick at a Time

Calling Bryan Wiebe well-read would be an understatement. The Abbotsford native has kept track of every book he has ever read over the past 25 years, accumulating an impressive personal library of 1,600 titles. A passion for knowledge drives him; in this relentless pursuit, Wiebe discovered he can bring his learning to life through art.

Wiebe moved to Lethbridge in 1996 to provide emotional support to his sister. Upon discovering the substantial difference in cost of living between Alberta and British Columbia, he decided to make Lethbridge his permanent home.

“My sister had no family here and was going through a rough time,” he recalls. “I had just finished my schooling.”

Wiebe took drafting in junior high, excelling as an A student. Several years later, this skill opened new and exciting opportunities for Wiebe as an artist.

“I’ve never taken an art lesson in my life,” Wiebe says with a laugh.

His journey began when a friend asked him to design a tattoo based on the show Lost. Wiebe was hesitant about the request; the permanence of tattoos made him feel uneasy and he decided to create a 16-inch by 20-inch painting for his friend instead.

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by Christina Scott

“From there, the requests just kept coming in,” he says. “I had never painted before that.”

Regardless of his inexperience, Wiebe’s drafting know-how gave him an edge.

“I use a sketchbook, and everything is measured,” he explains. “I then transfer it onto the canvas by extrapolating the size. It’s a lot of geometry.”

When it was time to start bringing his first painting to life with colour, Wiebe found it difficult to use regular paintbrushes. For the fine detail he wanted to achieve, he realized he would need something smaller and more delicate that would allow for greater control.

“I thought of toothpicks. I have toothpicks of different thicknesses that I use for different things.”

Wiebe estimates he owns about 1,000 toothpicks and hasn’t run out in close to a decade. When he sits down to paint (usually with acrylics), he fills a tray with 30 toothpicks of varying sizes. He can reuse the same toothpicks repeatedly. However, creating art in this manner is a slow process which requires dedication and patience.

“It takes forever,” he says. An average twofoot by three-foot canvas takes me between six to eight weeks to finish because the effect that I get is impossible to do with a regular brush.”

Wiebe’s largest painting, a four-foot square, took him three years to complete, due in part to the painting process, and in part to the extensive studying he did to prepare.

“I studied lots of different things,” he explains. “There’s a reference to chess in there. . . I use different ciphers. There’s also Wicca script, Hebrew and Latin.”

Much of what Wiebe paints comes from subjects he learns about in books.

“I love reading,” he says. “I like having a little bit of knowledge on any subject so I can converse with anyone on any matter.”

Wiebe has a keen interest in myths and secret societies, and that often shines through in his work. He also likes to include hidden messages and ciphers. The uniqueness of Wiebe’s work was not lost on Darcy Logan, curator at Casa. After completing a few more pieces, Wiebe’s confidence grew, and he approached Logan to find out how he might be able to display his art in public. Logan told him to bring in a few samples and, upon seeing them, was determined to help.

“Originally, I had five pieces on display by the dance studio upstairs,” notes Wiebe.

“The feedback was very positive, and [Darcy] asked if I would like to have my own show.”

Upon immediately saying yes, Logan informed him that the next opening for an extensive exhibit was 18 months away.

Although in the distant future, Wiebe would

Bryan Wiebe

“The feedback was very positive, and [Darcy] asked if I would like to have my own show.”

need that time to prepare the 12 to 15 paintings that would eventually make up his display. Wiebe scaled back his work hours to part-time so he could focus his energy on painting.

“I saw this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so why not go for it,” he says.

“I worked four to five hours in the morning, then I would go home and paint for eight to 10 hours a day to get ready for the show.”

Wiebe’s exhibit ran from September to midOctober 2017. Titled “Harbinger”, the theme focused on cultural narratives, alternative theories and secret histories. A self-described hermit, Wiebe admits to being somewhat nervous about people seeing his art.

“It was fun when I was doing it, but then when I got to the point of bringing them in, it’s kind of putting yourself out there and letting people judge for themselves.”

And judge they did. Feedback for Wiebe’s work was overwhelmingly positive.

“The show was incredible. A couple told me they often helped out at Casa and it was probably the best exhibit they’d seen in the last couple of years.”

Basking in his success, Wiebe is currently taking a break from extensive painting. He feels energized by the positivity surrounding his work and looks forward to the future.

“I’m glad people want to see more. I like to push myself. I always think I can do better.”

Stella Nueva Quirk - 25

Advocacy in Action: Local group champions community conference Leaving the safety of the world you know is an important step into adulthood. The time has come to make your mark and forge the mosaic of experiences that will define the rest of your life. But, as we all know, the game of life doesn’t come with instructions. Plotting the journey while navigating its ups and downs are a challenge for the best of us.

Thanks to an upcoming community conference featuring inspiring speakers and stories, you can learn what it takes to successfully weave your own path.

By Christina Scott

Occurring May 29 and 30 at the Sandman Hotel, the conference is being organized by the South Region Self-Advocacy Network (SRSAN).

SRSAN is network of 120 people across Alberta’s south region, from the U.S. border and south of Claresholm and from British Columbia to Saskatchewan. Its mission is to be a united voice for people with different abilities that brings inspiration and opportunity to achieve.

Made of people with and without disabilities, the group meets five times a year. Discussions can focus on advocacy issues across the province, learning opportunities, community involvement and much more. The largest self-advocacy group in Alberta, membership is open to anyone at an annual fee of $10.

SRSAN is supported by the Southern Alberta Individualized Planning Association (SAIPA), a nonprofit whose mission is to inspire people with disabilities to become engaged and empowered citizens. Support to SRSAN achieves a large part of this mandate.

“SRSAN is a safe space for literally anyone to share their ideas and learn,” says Anna Olson, SAIPA’s advocacy coordinator. “Not often are people given the opportunity to build skills when you really don’t know what you’re doing.”

Advocacy Co-ordinator Anna Olson (centre), with self-advocates Nathon Crazy Bull (left) and Ben Rowley (right).

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SRSAN’s 11th Self-Advocacy Conference will take place in Lethbridge May 29 and 30 in Lethbridge.

Past conference themes included Advocating For Your Choices, Opening Doors in Community and Dealing with Everyday Life.

“Where they once were and where they are now is incredible to me. I’ve seen advocates once afraid to live on their own now living successfully in their own apartment. I’ve seen people speaking up, sharing their concerns with service providers and now they’re receiving better support.”

SRSAN was created in 2001 after 38 self-advocates enrolled in a course from the Leadership Today Society of Alberta. The course taught people what self-advocacy involves, what it means to be a leader and how to delegate responsibilities. Advocates enjoyed the course immensely and realized their newfound skills could make a real difference. The group decided they would meet regularly to better themselves and to share the power of self-advocacy with others.

SRSAN decided to focus on building connections through conferences and community development. As advocacy co-ordinator, it is Olson’s role to ensure SRSAN’s vision continues moving forward, while encouraging the group to work towards independence.

“I love seeing the growth in the advocates,” says Olson. “Where they once were and where they are now is incredible to me. I’ve seen advocates once afraid to live on their own now living successfully in their own apartment. I’ve seen people speaking up, sharing their concerns with service providers and now they’re receiving better support.”

Ben Rowley and Nathon Crazy Bull say being a part of SRSAN has boosted their confidence.

“It’s given me a lot of leadership skills that I didn’t have before,” says Crazy Bull, who joined the group last year.

“In self-advocacy, you need the people who are strong to help the people who aren’t,” adds Rowley, who has been part of the group for more than a decade and loves teaching people to speak up.

SRSAN member Kelly Tower.

“It’s [about] encouraging people to have a voice in things they might not realize they can do.”

Rowley and Crazy Bull are part of an eight-member sub-committee tasked with planning the upcoming conference. Crazy Bull is the committee chair.

Since 2002, SRSAN has organized and hosted 10 conferences, each with a different theme based on topics advocates want to learn about. They felt holding a conference showed the community what they believed in and provided the same learning opportunities as anyone else.

High Country Bighorn by Josiah Launstein

Josiah Launstein Southern Alberta's Photography Phenom

by Jean Van Kleek photos by The Launstein Family

Ridgeline Sentinel - Young Outdoor Photographer of the Year Winner - Josiah Launstein

Josiah Launstein. Remember this name because I am certain you will be hearing it often. At the young age of thirteen, Josiah is already very well-known and respected in the photographic community. Most recently he was awarded “Young Outdoor Photographer of the Year” for 2017. Although this is impressive in of itself, Josiah now has the distinction of not only of being the youngest to have won this award, but the first photographer to have won it twice.

Josiah’s images have been selected as winners or finalists in every competition he has entered in 2015, 2016 and 2017, including the Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Bird Photographer of the Year and Por el Planeta competitions as well as the Nature’s Best Windland Smith Rice International Photography Awards. In October, 2015, the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition put on by the Natural History Museum in the U.K. announced that two of Josiah’s images had been awarded and selected as being in the top-100 images from the 42,000+ submitted from 96 countries. “Goose Attack and Snowy Snowy” are featured in their highly-regarded annual Portfolio and have been exhibited in top museums & galleries in more than 70 countries.

“Most recently he was awarded “Young Outdoor Photographer of the Year” for 2017.

Although this is impressive in of itself, Josiah now has the distinction of not only of being the youngest to have won this award, but the first photographer to have won it twice.”

Goose Attack - awarded in 2015 Wildlife Photographer of the Year - Josiah Launstein

A couple of years ago, as the Launstein family were preparing to open their Wildlife Art Gallery in the Crowsnest Pass in southwestern Alberta, Josiah learned that his favourite camera company, Nikon, had discovered him and wanted to create a short film about him and his wildlife and conservation photography. John and Josiah travelled to Thailand for two weeks of film production work and nature photography in July and August of 2016, and Nikon Asia released the main film, “Neighbours – I AM MORE THAN YOU EXPECT” and a behind-the-scenes “Making Of” feature in December, 2016. The film quickly rose to over 2 million views on Nikon Asia’s YouTube channel alone, prompting Nikon to declare, “it is one of our most loved films to date!” On a rainy day while in Thailand, Josiah created an image of a monkey moth caterpillar that went on to land him his third award in Wildlife Photographer of the Year, with “Raindrops” placed on exhibition in the Natural History Museum and included in the touring exhibition which will travel the globe.

Josiah Launstein

Quirk - 29

Coastal Blues - awarded in 2017 Bird Photographer of the Year - Josiah Launstein

Left to right is: John, Melanie, Charis, Marlise, Josiah, Jenaya

“They are so powerful, their horns are beautiful, and I love the terrain where they live.

They make great photographs.”

Josiah’s list of accomplishments are very impressive, especially given his age, but talk to him about his awards and he is very humble and almost shy. The attention paid to him by media makes him noticeably uncomfortable, which makes him even more endearing. While he says the awards are nice and confirmation he is on the right track, his main goal is to keep honing his skills and telling visual stories so that people will come to appreciate wildlife and the surroundings they are part of. In the end, he hopes people will realize the need to conserve wildlife and take care of our environment in order for us to all share this beautiful planet. When asked what makes a great shot, Josiah says that beyond composition and technical knowledge, when you love something, it will come through in the photo.

Wise words from a wise young man. I asked him what his favorite subject is to capture, and without hesitation, he said “Bighorn Sheep”. “They are so powerful, their horns are beautiful, and I love the terrain where they live. They make great photographs.”

Bighorn Battle - Winner 2014 Young Outdoor Photographer of the Year - Josiah Launstein

Winter is Coming - Josiah Launstein Quirk - 30

Josiah hasn’t travelled this journey alone. His father, John, is a professional photographer, and his sister Jenaya has won many awards as well. His other two sisters enjoy taking photographs, but found their own creative outlets to express their talents.

Josiah in Thailand

Charis, loves to work with clay and has some of her works on display at the family gallery, while Marlise is happiest with pencils and charcoals in hand. John believes their creative abilities may have come from his mother, who taught art for many years in schools.

John’s wife, Melanie, is definitely the family's official cheerleader and loves being in the field with her family of artists. She also manages their art gallery while John and Josiah are out on their next photography adventure, and provides thoughtful critiques borne from almost 30 years in the business with her husband.

It doesn’t take long when speaking to this family to see that they are very close. They are all very supportive of each other as each of them grow to discover their passion. John and Melanie have always loved nature and carefully chose the location of their home to be able to enjoy the surrounding beauty. Their children have all gone exploring with them from a very early age.

It was during this time in the wilderness together that John began teaching the kids how to use a camera. He would coach his children on the basic skills and foundation of photography including exposure, composition and field techniques. And as a professional photographer, John knows the most important factor in creating a great photograph, is to have a sense of style, and see the world through your own eye of the lens. With this in mind, once John taught his children the basics, he set them loose to discover their own eye and style while offering

encouragement and constructive feedback.

Josiah was seven when he started developing an interest in bringing a camera in tow like his big sister, Jenaya. He started out using one of Jenaya's or his dad’s backup systems, but once he began developing a collector base for his work and licensing images for publication, he saved up his earnings to buy his own mid-level camera and lens to give him the best tools for his type of work.

One very important thing John taught his children is to have respect for the wildlife and their surroundings. The family never baits, calls or lures in their wild subjects, and refuse to whistle or do anything to have the animal look up at them. They try to be as unobtrusive as possible, using a long lens to capture the images so as not to disturb the wildlife. These trips have also taught them perseverance and patience.

Some days can be spent in minus twenty degrees for hours with no results. Hiking through deep snow for miles doesn’t guarantee the animal will show up to the party. Wildlife doesn’t pose on cue!

John tells the story of how he first realized Josiah was very serious about his photography. He says “In 2012 Josiah captured an incredible image of a bald eagle banking in flight that was nearly exceptional–his only mistake was not bumping up to a sufficiently-fast shutter speed to freeze the eagle’s unexpected increased speed as it accelerated on the pivot. He had been nailing shots as a pair of eagles flew by searching the river below for fish. He was surprised and

Little Hunter - Northern Pygmy Owl Josiah Launstein

“On a rainy day while in Thailand, Josiah created an image of a monkey moth caterpillar that went on to land him his third award in Wildlife Photographer of the Year, with “Raindrops” placed on exhibition in the Natural History Museum and included in the touring exhibition which will travel the globe.”

Raindrops - awarded in 2017 Wildlife Photographer of the Year - Josiah Launstein

Quirk -- 33 31 Quirk

The Launsteins’ gallery in the Crowsnest Pass

“Hiking through deep snow for miles doesn’t guarantee the animal will show up to the party.

Wildlife doesn’t pose on cue!”

disappointed when he had come so close to getting his best shot to date but just missed it”. John still remembers Josiah looking through his pictures on the back of the camera on the drive home and asking, “What do I have to do so that never happens again?”

And so began a young photographer’s quest to truly learn his craft and return from the field with the best images his growing skill-set could capture.

The Launstein family works together on several projects while also maintaining their gallery in the Crowsnest Pass. They are currently working on a few special projects that will support the vital work of the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre in Coaldale. The Launsteins are living the life they dreamed of; being close to nature while following their passion, and are very grateful being able to have the opportunity share their work and have it so wellreceived. And while young prodigy, Josiah, has already accomplished so much, he has only just begun what is sure to be an illustrious career.

If you’d like to see more of Josiah’s work or follow along on the Launstein’s photographic adventures, you are welcome to visit the Launstein Imagery Wildlife Art Gallery in Blairmore or visit their website.

Launstein Imagery Wildlife Art Gallery 12323 20 Ave (Main Street), Blairmore Phone: (403) 627-3969 Website: www.launsteinimagery.com Facebook: Launstein Imagery Instagram: @LaunsteinImagery Twitter: @LaunsteinFamily

The Eye - Josiah Launstein

Quirk - 32

Owl Totem - Northern Pygmy Owls - commended in 2017 Bird Photographer of the Year - Josiah Launstein

Winter Ghost - Josiah Launstein

First Snow - Josiah Launstein

Quirk - 33

The Lethbridge & District Humane Society has been a no-kill haven since its inception in early 1970. It is their goal to take care of strays and abandoned pets until a home can be found for them to thrive and have a new start in life. Some animals stay for years before finding a family to love them.

With the support of Park Pet Hospital & Northside Veterinary Clinic, Quirk would like to introduce a few of the residents who have been waiting for quite some time. Rescued pets are exceptionally loving,

and very grateful for a chance to be with you. If you have room in your home and your heart, please give the Humane Society a call to give one of these furry friends a chance to belong, and be loved.

They are a gift!

Call: (403) 320-8991 Website: lethbridgehumanesociety.com

Speckles

(white with calico markings) Speckles is a petite, shy, young cat who came to the Humane Society in the fall of 2017, with her kitten Tuffy. She is not yet settled in and needs some socialization with people and with other cats. Speckles would probably prefer a home with a patient owner who will give her the time and affection to settle in at her own pace.

She's going to be a sweet little girl to share a Forever Home with!

Pinto

(grey and white female) Pinto is described by the Humane Society volunteers as 'adorable!' She's pretty and petite, and very snuggly. Pinto is a little nervous of the other cats, but truly loves people and loves attention! She's very playful; she runs and plays like a kitten.

Pinto would like a Forever Home where she can play and snuggle!

Samson

(orange tabby male) Samson is a friendly, extremely playful youngster, about a year old. He's new to the Humane Society, but is settling in well. He's getting to know his roommates and beginning to play with them. Samson loves toys, and especially climbing posts.

He likes people too, and is going to make a great addition to his Forever Family!

Ramsey is a good looking orange and white kitten, about 6 months old. He loves to play with his toys, and with his siblings. He's got a great purr, which he uses as soon as you pick him up! He's energetic and fun, very entertaining to watch.

He'sCats presently residing at the • Medical & Surgical Care for & Dogs Lethbridge Humane Society, but is looking for his very own Forever Home!

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Wellness Consultations • Dentistry • Endoscopy, Digital X-Ray & Ultrasound • Laser Surgery • Nutritional Counseling • 24 Hour Emergency Service Available

Quirk - 34

Dash

(short hair black & white male) Dash is an energetic and playful kitten with sparkling eyes and a sparkling personality!

He was born in May 2017, and came to the Humane Society this spring with his brother. Dash will take time to snuggle, but he really likes to play too! He loves toys, the Cat’s Meow is a favorite with him and he can play for hours.

Dash gets along well with the other kittens; he’s easy-going and lots of fun!

Fergus (Fergie)

(black & white male)

Fergus is a loving, cuddly young cat, born in October 2016. He came to the Humane Society in the fall of 2017 with his 2 brothers and has begun to settle in to the cat room. He doesn't like to be held or carried around, but does like people and attention. Once he gets to know you a bit, he loves a good belly rub and snuggle!

He needs a bit of time to settle in to new situations, but once he does, he's a wonderful cat to have around!

Simba

(male orange and white) Simba is a good looking orange and white boy, who was born in 2016 and came to the Humane Society this spring. Simba is a very busy cat and doesn’t have much time for snuggling. He doesn’t like other cats much, and occasionally gets into tussles with his roommates.

Mostly he keeps to himself, exploring and occasionally visiting the volunteers.

Park Pet Hospital 142 Columbia Blvd. West Phone: 403-328-0028

www.parkpethospital.ca

Northside Veterinary Clinic 210F-12A Street North Phone: 403-327-3352

www.northsidevet.ca Visit our website and Facebook page

THE

PET PHOTO

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Winning Photo “A Happy Melody” Photo by: Winona Duram

Winner will receive a gift certificate from

Photos submitted via email must be at least 1MB. Please provide caption and name of photographer. Quirk Magazine, Shabella Publishing and sponsors retain the right to use winning photographs for promotional purposes.

email your photos to: info@quirkmagazine.net

Entry Deadline March 30, 2018

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LESSONS I’VE LEARNED FROM MY DOGS By Jean Van Kleek As I watch Shani sometimes, I see the aging process beginning to accelerate and take it’s toll. What used to be falling down at times, has become falling often, even off the couch and while eating. She will sometimes stare at a wall, or stand in the hallway like she forgot where she was going. Shani began as Bella’s guide to the world. Now Bella lays closer to her, bathing her often, and transitioning into the protector of her increasingly fragile friend.

Life is a funny thing. The more you love someone, the more it hurts. The depth of love seems to come with an equal depth of pain.

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RECIPE

“There is never any certainty of a tomorrow.

There is only now, that is all we have for sure.”

I look at Shani’s beautiful, soulful eyes and majestic face and it brings a tear to my eye.

I wonder when and how it will happen… the moment I will have to say goodbye to my best friend, the one who has been with me through so much, and asked for so little.

I really have to stop myself from going too far with these thoughts, and bring myself back to loving her as much as I can in the moment, for as many moments as we have left. Enjoying what we have in the moment is key to loving anyone. There is never any certainty of a tomorrow. There is only now, that is all we have for sure. So rather than project into the future; say it, do it, feel it and make each moment we exist in right now mean the most…like each one may be the last. Because one day, it will be.

Kiwi

BEEF, BROCCOLI

& Cheese Cookies

This recipe has no grease, oil, flour or oats. Very meaty and leave no crumbs.

Soft to eat for senior dogs or dogs with dental health problems.

Recipe

Broccoli has been shown to have anti-cancer effects and an aid in fighting infections.

• 3 beaten eggs • 1/2 cup ground flaxseed • 1 1/2 cups pureed chickpeas (19 oz).

• Approximately 450 grams (1 pound) extra lean ground beef • 4 cups raw, minced broccoli • 1 large stalk minced celery • 1 cup grated cheese. (Marble, cheddar or mozza)

Preheat oven to 350 F

*Michelle's recipes include well researched ingredients to help make your dog happy & healthy.

A food processor works well for this, if you have one. In the order above, mix all ingredients well in a large bowl. Should be cookie dough texture.

Use parchment paper to line cookie sheets. Pat down to 1/2 inch thick. Score to desired size.

Bake at 350 F for approximately 1 1/2 hours.

Cool. Place in ziplock bags. Must be refrigerated.

They freeze well.

An easy, tasty cookie for your best friends!!

Michelle Zandstra Quirk - 37

Spring Wildlife in the Lethbridge River Valley BADGER

LAKESTURGEON

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