Women Rock Magazine - Fall 2021

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE coming back stronger

embracing friendship

MOVING THROUGH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY

FALL EDITION 2021

RELAX REFRESH RENEW SELF CARE

FEATURE ARTICLE FAMILIES FOR FAMILIES YOUR REAL ESTATE FRIENDS

PLANNING FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

HOPE helping orphans prosper through education

LANDSCAPE ART THE BEAUTY OF NATURE

A LABOUR OF LOVE

HELLO FALL &

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Mission Statement WOMEN ROCK is a virtual, interactive, online women’s magazine targeted to female audiences ages 30 and up, while maintaining the inclusivity of younger and older women of all ages.

We provide inspirational stories and articles that motivate and nurture the mind, body and spirit. We are dedicated to providing fun, knowledgeable, and meaningful content to amazing women everywhere.

The Goal of Women Rock Magazine is to empower, inspire, uplift and support all women while encouraging them to be their very best selves.

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F I

Editors Note

all is a spectacular time of year. With the leaves changing colours and the weather cooling down to a perfect temperature, it is more than just a transition into another season.

Autumn represents new life, new growth, a new beginning, and a time for personal reflection.

Thinking about Fall can bring us a feeling of calmness, a sense of tranquility. And while it is common to think of cozy sweaters and pumpkin spiced lattes, the symbolic meanings of Fall is much more profound than you might think.

Ancient cultures, astrology and science have associated many aspects of this beautiful season to human life. Symbolic associations such as changing of the seasons, the preservation of life and it's basic necessities, accepting to letting go of one season to embrace a new one, are all timeless rituals of the human condition.

As much as I love the season of Summer, I equally love the crisp and cool temperatures along with the vibrancy of this beautiful season we call Fall. This picturesque time of year brings a sense of warmth along with a feeling of excitement.

Choosing a warm cozy pullover and sipping on a warm delicious latte with a friend at a favourite café is a simple example of how we adapt to the changing season.

Deanne Tobin Sinha THIS ISSUE OF WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE IS A VERY HEARTFELT AND PROFOUND ONE. I HAVE BEEN SO EMPOWERED BY ALL OF THESE BEAUTIFUL AND EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN. THEIR STORIES ARE LIBERATING, DEEP AND INSPIRING. THANK YOU LADIES FOR BEING A PART OF WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE AND SHARING YOUR PERSONAL JOURNEYS. WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU AND ALL THAT YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED. YOU ARE STRONG, POWERFUL WOMEN WHO HAVE STRUGGELED THROUGH ADVERSITY AND CHALLENGES, BUT HAVE COME OUT ON TOP - AND THAT IS SOMETHING TO BE VERY PROUD OF. YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ALL. WITH LOVE, DEE XO

Deanne Tobin Sinha Editor in Chief

Deanne Tobin Sinha ____________________________________

If you have an inspiring story you would like to share or if you 'd like to place a business ad we would love to hear from you. Please email us at:

women@womenrock.net (click to go to email)

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE

FALL EDITION 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS 3

EDITORS NOTE

6

A FALL OBSESSION by deanne tobin sinha

8

A FALL GATHERING by deanne tobin sinha

10 20

32

FEATURE ARTICLE HOPE - HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION by marjorie williams

18

COULTAS AND CO - FAMILY REALTORS families for families by laura coultas

20

EVA WONG PHOTOGRAPHY celebrate your story by eva wong

22

INSTEP HEALTH the fitness business by dany lapointe

24

MAMA'S AWESOME BLOSSOMS circles of love by melissa milito

26

AN OBSESSION WITH FALL by deanne tobin sinha

27

THE IMPORTANCE OF WEARING SUNGLASSES

10

by deanne tobin sinha

28

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF NATURE by noemi l cote -landscape artist

32

THE BIZ STUDIO - PLANNING FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS by lara wellman

35

ROAD MAP TO SUCCESS by deanne tobin sinha

36

SACRED SPA - MY JOURNEY by annamaria barbera

38

FLOMATE - YOUR PERIOD PACKAGE by courtney williamson

36

18

40

JLS DESIGNS - REDISCOVERY FROM PANDEMIC TO PRODUCTIVITY by jennifer steinberg

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF EVA WONG PHOTOGRAPHY

60

43

CONTENTS A FALL POEM october walk by giselle braeuel

44

WEST CARLETON HOUSEHOLD SERVICES HIGH TECH TO HANDYWOMAN a journey to finding myself by shannon spallin

46

A DAILY COMMITTMENT by mel lucier

48

LIVING IN LIMBO - THE PATH AHEAD by stephanie darby coombs

50

PUSHING THROUGH THE ERA OF THE GREAT PANDEMIC by dr. judy osmond

52

HOLISTACLEAN - FOLLOWING A DREAM by jennifer endicott

54

FORGIVENESS by elaine lindsay

56

LIVING WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER by lara wellman

58

HOW I MOVED TO TURKEY by rhonda king

60

GradUit - MOVING THROUGH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY by liz raymond

62

FALL WARDROBE MUST HAVES by deanne tobin sinha

FASHION 63 FALL by deanne tobin sinha

64

8

28

FEATURE ARTICLE A LABOUR OF LOVE by deanne tobin sinha

74

FALL REBOOT - 3 WAYS TO GET YOUR MOTIVATION BACK ON TRACK by carole blackburn -life & wellness coach

78

I AM NOT WHO YOU SAY I AM by elizabeth wright

80

MOVING FORWARD - DEFINING CHANGE THE RIGHT WAY by sarah roberts

82

RUNNING FOR CHARITIES by tamara leitch

84

STAY STRONG by roja baddepudi

22

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FALL

IN LOVE A FALL

OBSESSION

BY DEANNE TOBIN SINHA

OK SO WHAT IS THIS OBSESSION WE HAVE WITH FALL? AS SOON AS

SEPTEMBER

PUMPKIN

HITS,

SPICED

MEAN, I DO

LOVE

WE

LATTE'S

SEEM AND

SWEATER

TO

BE

BOMBARDED

HALLOWEEN

WEATHER

BUT

WITH

DECORATIONS!

IT'S

STILL

HOT

I

AS

HECK OUTSIDE AND WE ARE JONESING TO LITERALLY CHILL ON A PATIO LOL.

I AM A DIEHARD FAN OF SUMMER MYSELF AND I LIKE TO SOAK UP EVERY

SECOND

I

CAN

AS

YOU

MAY

HAVE

GATHERED

FROM

MY

PREVIOUS MAGAZINE PUBLICATIONS. BUT I DO HAVE TO ADMIT I DO

GET

A

LITTLE

EXCITED

WHEN

FALL

COMES

AS

I

AM

ASTOUNDED EVERY YEAR WITH THE GORGEOUS COLOURS OF THE LEAVES

AND

THE

COOLER

TEMPERATURES

THAT

ARE

PERFECT

FOR MY MORNING WALKS!

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 6

falling for FALL

BY DEANNE TOBIN SINHA

THE SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF AUTUMN

Spiritually

speaking, Fall represents the Harvest time of year, a time to acknowledge growth and expansion as a natural evolution of being. Our lives go through cycles of growth, harvest, death and rebirth, just as we see in nature.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 7

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PHOTO COURTESY OF EVA WONG PHOTOGRAPHY A FALL GATHERING

BY DEANNE TOBIN SINHA

PHOTO COURTESY OF EVA WONG PHOTOGRAPHY

Getting together with friends again was definitely an exciting venture for me. Just to hug again, to laugh and reconnect again.. Just to feel normal again.

It's something that we all crave and desire. It is an element of life that we have all missed tremendously.

It's great for our mental health, as well as our emotional health. Friends are extremely important to us. Friends make us feel happy.

THANK YOU LADIES FOR A WONDERFUL AFTERNOON!

It has been a long haul since this crazy pandemic started and it's not over yet. It has been almost two years since COVID-19 was identified and we are still struggling. So many people have died and been affected by this deadly virus. Directly or indirectly, each story is unique, but equally heartbreaking. Now we have the variants, which means there is still a concern and we still have to be very mindful in taking care of each other.

With the vaccine being readily available now and with many opting to get it, we now can get back to somewhat of a normal life again.

We can now visit our loved ones, spend more time with our families and celebrate how far we have come with our dear friends, We can start feeling normal again without feeling petrified about getting this nasty virus. We can start doing things that we have been missing for so long. It's the little things in life that we sometimes take for granted, and these little things is what holds us together as a family and as a community Taking care of each other is something we feel good about. Looking out for one another, protecting ourselves and othersN O M A D is I C | 2 4our responsibility as a community and a nation.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 8

CREATE A FALL TABLE THAT WILL WOW YOUR AUDIENCE

design with vibrant fall colours

PHOTO COURTESY OF EVA WONG PHOTOGRAPHY

IT'S ALL ABOUT COLOUR by deanne tobin sinha PHOTO COURTESY OF EVA WONG PHOTOGRAPHY

Think "colour" when you are decorating your Fall Dining Table. Pull in lots of reds, oranges, yellows and in various shades. Add textures to your table as well, including glass, wicker, pine cones, rustic ropes, fall foliage and so on, Also don't forget to implement different shapes like round, square, and cylindrical, Fall is a season to celebrate the bounty of the harvest. So enjoy these cooler months as a thanks to Summer for providing the sunshine and nutrition to the crops you get to enjoy at your Fall feast!

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 9

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A Women Rock Magazine

Feature Article

BY MARJORIE WILLIAMS

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 10

HOPE HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION A Newfoundland based charity that provides

compassion and support to Ugandan orphans

through education sponsorship.

On August 13, 2015, our lives were forever changed. Our small group of Newfoundland women were introduced to a group of orphans that simply stole our hearts. While living in a state of poverty and sickness, orphaned by their parents who no doubt suffered or died from HIV, they were the happiest, most beautiful children we have ever met. They were full of smiles, full of dance, full of song and full of gratitude for the things we had brought to them that we thought at the time would help. But, we soon realized that you can’t treat cancer with a Band-Aid and BandAids were all we really brought to them. We have committed ourselves to contributing to the betterment of their futures through education and empowerment. Our love is strong and we believe in the children. We want to give them the chance at life they deserve.

"THEY WERE THE HAPPIEST, MOST BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN WE HAVE EVER MET. THEY WERE FULL OF SMILES, FULL OF

DANCE,

FULL

OF

SONG

AND FULL OF GRATITUDE."

... This is our Story...

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 11

HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION

W

EPOH

hen we returned back home to Newfoundland from that original visit to Uganda, we knew we simply had to do more. We couldn’t pretend that we never experienced the love, the connection, the sincerity. The truth was, that we lived a very wealthy and privileged life. We felt, and knew that we could, and should, do more.

Four Newfoundland women who had never done anything like this before, were determined that they were going to make this happen. Marie Woodford, a teacher from Avondale, Madlyn Carew, an Ironworker from Conception Harbour, Betty Whalen, an Engineer from St. John’s and Marjorie Williams, an Office Manager from St. John’s, realized that there was no reason why they couldn’t, no reason why they shouldn’t, so they did. They just simply did. We moved forward one small step at a time and we never looked back.

So in 2016, we began an educational sponsorship program that is already providing enhancement to the lives of the children. We started the group H.O.P.E. (Helping Orphans Prosper through Education) and began fundraising to help the children.

Shortly after we were approached by a Canadian woman who lives in Uganda, Catherine Koch, who dedicated her life to helping orphaned and vulnerable children. She knew exactly what we needed to do and how to go about doing it, and education was the way. Education, of course, is the one valuable thing in life that nobody can take away from us.

The Children at Jinja Central Boarding School

sharia, Olivia, Shalia, Dona, Emma

https://www.facebook.com/HOPEinNL/

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 12

HOPE

W

HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION

e originally had four of the children placed in a boarding school, then ten, and within a year or so we were fortunate enough to have all 24 of the children in a boarding school. These boarding schools take them away from any challenges they face at the orphanage and allows them to have constant and reliable access to food, water, shelter, healthcare, education, supervision and compassion.

Education can often be the escape route from the poverty cycle which they need.

An opportunity to go to boarding school is considered a privilege, a luxury and a right that so many children go without.

Later, we came to realize that the children were constantly getting ill, mostly when they were on school breaks. Quite often the children suffered with malaria, typhoid, infections, tuberculosis, etc., sometimes getting so sick they need to be hospitalized. We endeavoured to seek out and find a Doctor who was willing to check on the children every month to prevent their sickness from worsening and was able to treat their illnesses when they were minor.

We have been fortunate to be able to visit the children in Uganda every year, except through the 2020/2021 Covid outbreak.

Each year, we brought them some small gifts, but mostly purchased what they needed from local vendors in order to support the community as a whole. But through the love and compassion of many people, we bought them local gifts such as hand-knit teddy bears, clothes, book bags and pillowcase dresses. Some of these dresses were made by teenagers at Holy Trinity High School in Torbay, Newfoundland as a class project.

UGANDA

One of my favourite memories is the delightful reaction of a young girl seeing the dress that she made on a sweet child in Uganda. What a wonderful world we live in.

We brought them clothes, we brought them gifts, but mostly what we brought to them was love. They know they have four very special aunties in Newfoundland that love and care for them very much and that means a lot to an orphaned and vulnerable child, and we know that we have 24 children that love us too. We have created a bond that hopefully will continue for the rest their lives.

"Pillowcase Dresses" https://www.facebook.com/HOPEinNL/

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 13

HOPE

C

HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION

ovid has created a very difficult struggle in Uganda in a much different way that we realize. Extreme lockdowns caused the shut down of schools and businesses and poverty and sickness spread more than it typically would. We were very fortunate to have continued support from our many friends, family members and businesses who have come through for us. The children were continuously provided with care, food and medical attention that they have been receiving over the past five years. Each time we hear from the children, or get a picture, our heart's smile. We know they are in good hands. One day we hope to see them graduate from school, get a higher education and succeed in life. We are giving them an opportunity in life that they never even knew they had.

Madlyn Playing with the kids

Marjorie with the kids

Marie and the children

We can’t wait to get back to Uganda, to a place that provides inner peace because of the simplicity, the beauty, the smiles, the happiness and the music and dance. We all need to step back a little to what is important in life, children playing happily in the dirt (nothing wrong with it), but the children themselves, Zaina’s eyes, Maria’s smile, Shafic’s stick legs. They have become our family and we will do everything that we can A thank you note from the kids to make sure that they continue to grow, live life, and dance. https://www.facebook.com/HOPEinNL/ WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE| 14

HOPE HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION

Marjorie and Zania

Marie and the kids

“Hope is being able to see that there was light despite all of the darkness” Reverend Desmond Tutu

Thankyou to our Sponsors

Madlyn with one of the boys

Marjorie reading to the children

https://www.facebook.com/HOPEinNL/

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 15

HOPE HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION Our small group of four have received support from so many people, and we can not thank them enough. Every cent we get goes directly to the children’s needs. HOPE has affiliated with a registered charitable organization out of Vancouver, BC, which is called LITA (Love Is the Answer). They make sure the money is used on the ground in Uganda in a very responsible and safe way.

The children continue to adapt through this terrible COVID-19 pandemic. Schooling from the orphanage had its challenges but we are grateful to have them slowly getting back to the classroom. We at HOPE have also learned to adapt. The pandemic brought many additional challenges and expenses. We are working through them. We are relying on our own determination as

well as donors.

the

generosity

of

We are graciously accepting monetary donations big and small. We also accept any monthly donations as well as one time donations. We are able to provide charitable tax receipts for both business and personal donors through our affiliation with LITA based in Uganda.

In the words of Desmond Tutu, “Hope is being able to see that there was light despite all of the darkness”.

We would like to think that we are helping them light their way.

MADLYN CAREW

BETTY WHALEN

MARIE WOODFORD

https://www.facebook.com/HOPEinNL/

MARJORIE WILLIAMS WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |16

MARIA

HOPE The Stars of the Show HELPING ORPHANS PROSPER THROUGH EDUCATION

Madlyn with one ofFAITH the boys

UGANDA

ZAINA

ZAINA & FAITH

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A CHARITABLE DONATION TO THIS WONDERFUL CAUSE AND THESE BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN CLINK ON THE LINK BELOW

SHAFIC

https://www.facebook.com/HOPEinNL WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |17

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Families for Families By: Laura Coultas Real Estate Professional

“Laura was everything we could have asked for in a real estate professional.”

www.lauracoultas.com 709-728-1532 Laura Coultas – Real Estate Professional (facebook) @lauracoultassells (Instagram)

Heartfelt comments like that from a satisfied client make me realize that I must be doing something right. We all know how difficult it can be trying to find your niche in life but after being involved in a variety of business endeavors over the years, selling and buying properties is where I feel most comfortable right now.

I come by it honestly. Both my parents have operated their own businesses.

Intuitively, they always encouraged myself and my sisters to be independent minded while at the same time being aware of others who work and live around us.

I’m very lucky to have been involved in a family business as the owner and manager of the Five Island Art Gallery for several years. You can imagine the satisfaction I felt on receiving the Youth Entrepreneur of the Year for my work at the gallery. I was also an Executive Assistant to a prominent leader of a political party. Both of those responsibilities made me realize I have an innate trait of being able to connect with people. But personality is one thing, dealing with the hard realities of buying and selling a home is another.

I’ve come to realize that people who find themselves in that position often know only the surface of the legal, monetary and practical concerns of home ownership.

Through personal experience of having built, bought, and sold several homes myself I have come to realize how daunting it can be, and the many pits that people can fall into throughout the process. Based on feedback from clients I can say with confidence that I have be able to help many to bypass some of those pitfalls.

No matter what path you follow in life it’s pretty hard to be all things to all people. Like everyone, I have certain skill sets. I am strong at some things, not so strong at others. That is where my cousin Erica Coultas Kennedy comes in. As they say, ‘it was meant to be’.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 18

Families for Families By: Laura Coultas Real Estate Professional

We both were blazing our own paths in real estate and over time came to realize how our skill sets complemented each other. No surprise that this family and professional formula of building on individual strengths and skills is what eventually brought us together, and today we are branded as Coultas & Co Family Realtors® under the RE/MAX balloon.

Laura Coultas

What I’ve learned from Erica has enhanced my real estate career, and I hope she has learned some things from me.

There’s that family team thing again. All I know is that it works! And our clients are protected like family.

Erica Coultas Kennedy Click for Links

www.lauracoultas.com Laura Coultas – https://www.facebook.com/LauraCoultasSells/ https://www.instagram.com/lauracoultassells/ 709-728-1532

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 19

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WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 20

Eva Wong Photography

ABOUT EVA My mission is to help you celebrate your story, your vision, and your relationships through photography.

“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever… It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.”

— Aaron Siskind

W

hen I was young, I always had a camera in my hand. Photography was just about capturing silly candid moments, and nothing to be taken seriously. The real appreciation of photographs came later in life when people I loved passed away. I can always remember the feeling and the moments I shared with them, but the memories of what they looked like slowly faded in time. Once in a while, I would pull out those old discoloured pictures and journey through time once again.

Photographs are the vessel to the past and the future. They become proofs of our existence, our relationships, and our legacy on earth.

Photography gives me a way to help others capture their stories, empower women to fall in love with themselves, and celebrate relationships.

Photography Style

Eva works with different styles to suit the clients' tastes. Her love for dramatic lighting is inspired by the combination of modern fashion and the classic fine art portraiture of oil masters. The mission is to bring out the personality, uniqueness, and soul of the clients no matter what style is chosen.

www.evawong.photography click to go to site

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 21

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I

THE

was looking to lose weight and get back into shape. I had let myself go to the point that my joints were constantly aching. I had served 12 years in the Canadian Forces and since getting out, my physical and emotional state had spiraled down and I had no idea how to regain control. Emotional eating, self-degradation, bouts of depression, my life seemed hopeless. And then, I saw an ad come across my Facebook page and I decided to give it a try.

Emilie entered my life and we connected instantly. Unbeknownst to me, Emilie too, needed support as she was also going through a hard time, something that changed the course of her life.

We helped each other, and with Emilie’s support, competence and patience, I lost 50 lbs and learn to look at myself with compassion. In return, I provided her the support she needed to rise above her hard times.

But the best thing to come out of this is the indescribable friendship that we formed. I saw how amazingly talented Emilie was, and how she changed my life. I told her how she should start her own business so that other men and women could benefit from her expertise. She suggested we start it together! Born was InStep. Why InStep? - because that is the best way to achieve long lasting changes.

For our first gig, we rented an office in a big gym, but then COVID hit, and we had to refocus and reinvent ourselves.

Like many small businesses, we lost revenue and clients. It was hard, especially for Emilie as this was her only means of revenue.

But resilient we are!! We were able to service some clients in the basement of Emilie’s house when protocol allowed and offered online consultation when confined.

FITNESS BUSINESS ARTICLE BY DANY LAPOINTE We were each other’s cheerleader when days were tough and when it felt like we were all losing hope of ever coming out of this pandemic.

Although this pandemic brought many losses and heartbreaks, it also gave us a chance to refocus and dream other dreams. We also felt that the Gatineau crowd may not be the right crowd for our type of business. We had talked about moving to Ottawa for months but the cost of renting is much higher than Emilie’s basement.

Through a mixture of serendipity and connections, we found this place available for sublet at a price that we could not pass. It may not have been the exact spot we had on our vision board but it was the at the right price in the right neighbourhood, the Glebe.

https://www.instephealth.ca/ click for link

Co-owners Dany and Emilie WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |22

O

n a leap of faith, we signed the lease, fixed the place up and patiently waited for the lockdown to be over so that we could positively serve our new community.

We offer one-on-one personal training sessions, "Stick Mobility" sessions and Holistic nutrition services.

Big gyms can be intimidating.

Not everyone is comfortable working out in front of a crowd, where to start, how to use the equipment, the right posture…

So our studio offers privacy, comfort and one the best coach in town (I am bias of course).

Emilie is an extremely talented, effective, and compassionate professional.

We both thrive to make our clients healthy, we do not believe in counting calories, fad diets or depriving yourself of food. We want our clients to understand the effects of food on the body and how you can make better choices that will last a lifetime.

THE FITNESS BUSINESS

We also have a smoothie bar, we use a protein (Raw Nutritional) from a Canadian company based in Trois-Riviere.

One of the services we offer is Stick Mobility. Stick Mobility is a training system that improves your mobility, stability and strength. It combines joint mobilization, strength training, and active stretching to reduce the risk of injury, and speedy recovery from strength and/or conditioning training, and increases athletic performance.

Anyone can engage in this activity (all skill, fitness and experience levels). You start feeling the benefits immediately.

Emilie is one of the few certified Stick mobility coaches in the Ottawa region.

Emilie takes care of the training and nutrition and I take care of the administration and finance.

We are really excited to start and make Ottawa the home for our new business.

Visit us online at our website below!

THE FITNESS BUSINESS ARTICLE BY DANY LAPOINTE

Dany Lapointe

Emilie Paradis Emilie Paradis

DanyLapointe

https://www.instephealth.ca/ click for link WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |23

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MAMA'S AWESOME BLOSSOMS

Circles of Love

I

By Melissa Milito adore the heartfelt stories of what

flowers or accents mean to that individual, family, friend or colleague.

How lucky am I to be able to custom make something so precious for someone? Nothing beats the expression on my kids’ faces when they see a completed piece – It is heartwarming to say the least!

To have my kids cheer me on and tell me “so cool!” and “way to go Mom!” it reminds me that we have done something right in raising them. We continue to remind our kids that anything is possible and to never to give up on a dream.

Today, I am proof of that! My inspiration comes not only from my children, but also, from the natural beauty around me.

Be it the uniqueness of a bird, the eye catching colours of a flower, the soothing sounds of a wind chime, the harvest from my grandfather’s garden, the change in seasons, the aroma of coffee - THESE, are just the some of the inspirations and beginnings of how I create my “Circles of Love” wreaths.

y erel c n i S

Melissa Milito Owner/Operator

sa s i l Me

https://www.facebook.com/melissa.milito.9 https://www.facebook.com/mamasawesomeblossoms/ click links

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |24

As you might have guessed, I love flowers! Their natural beauty, colour, smell, and sentiment have always brought me pure joy.

MAMA'S AWESOME BLOSSOMS Circles of Love

By Melissa Milito

A wife to my husband of 10 years and proud mama to our three very busy little beans they are my world and my WHY for starting Mama’s Awesome Blossoms. Nobody truly prepares you for motherhood and the rollercoaster you embark on, but boy, I wouldn’t change it for the world!

This past year and a half of a global pandemic has truly challenged my limits but has also opened my eyes to a world of possibility.

Without the support of my family and friends, this new venture would not have been possible.

As mothers, fathers and caregivers, we tend to put our self-care on pause. It wasn’t until I spoke with an individual who put into context for me that my personal motherhood has led me to this perfect storm. Amidst all the difficult days, and weeks of soul searching, this Mama right here took a CHANCE and started a home based business of what I love most - FLOWERS!

mama's awesome blossoms WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |25

D

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WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE ON'T APOLOGIZE FOR YOUR OBSESSION WITH FALL!

SCIENCE EXPLAINS IT ALL!

E

veryone i know seems to love fall! So what is it about Autumn that gets everyone so excited?

ACCORDING TO KATHRYN LIVELY, A PROFESSOR OF SOCIOLOGY AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, OUR OBSESSION WITH THE SEASON IS A SOCIAL CONSTRUCT THAT STARTS WHEN WE ARE CHILDREN.

“We’re

conditioned

from

a

very

early

age

that

” Lively

autumn comes with all these exciting things,

“ As children, we come to

told The Huffington Post.

associate fall with going back to school, new school

’

supplies, and seeing friends. It s exciting, for most.

We

still

respond

to

this

pattern

that

we've

”

experienced for eighteen years.

Humans also view fall as comforting, Lively said. If we live in a place it is a season that symbolizes a fresh new start for

where

children

routines.

thicker blankets, we shake off salads and ice-creams for heavier stews

making new friends and seeing old ones too. a clean

and soups. (Though it s important not to discount that shorter days

slate marked as a whole new beginning.

and colder months can also cause depression for some.)

and

adults

alike.

creating

new

“We’re conditioned from a very early age that the autumn comes with all these exciting things.”

the

seasons

turn

dramatically,

we

break

out

flannel

shirts,

’

“From

a sociological lens, our emotions are tied inextricably to the

meaning that we make about ourselves, others, events and times of

”

year.

In other words, we imbue football season or holidays like Thanksgiving and Rosh Hashannah with meaning, and by cherishing those memories with people we love and enjoy, we build an idea about what the fall comes

to

represent.

Thus,

we

look

forward

to

this

season

in

a

particularly special way.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |26

THE IMPORTANCE OF WEARING SUNGLASSES IN FALL

by deanne tobin sinha

When we think of Fall accessories we think of cozy warm sweaters, long sleek stylish boots, and thick fuzzy scarves. Another essential item we may want to add to our Fall ensemble is a quality pair of beautiful, chic UV ray blocking sunglasses!

THE SUN'S POSITION While we squint more in the summer time, the sunlight's path to the eyes is more direct in the Fall as the sun sits closer to the horizon. This places our eyes at great risk for over-exposure to UV rays.

UV RAYS Exposing your eyes to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is problematic year-round, as it can result in serious eye diseases, such as cataracts and macular degeneration. That’s why it’s important to wear 100% UV-blocking sunglasses anytime you're outdoors, no matter what season it is.

FALL'S DANGEROUS SUN GLARE Because the sun is positioned at a lower angle in the fall, it can produce a brutal glare that poses a danger for driving. Rays of light that reflect off of smooth surfaces like the metal of nearby cars can be so bright to the point of blinding the driver.

You can combat this dangerous glare by wearing polarized sunglasses. These lenses reduce the glare’s harmful effects by filtering out horizontal light waves, such as the ones reflected by a shiny car bumper.

Fall is literally a feast for the eyes of brilliant colours, contrasts and beauty. Enjoy it all, but keep your eyes safe with the right pair of sunglasses!

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |27

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Experience the Beauty of Nature

Noemie L Cote landscape artist

I'm Noémie and landscape painter.

I'm

your

local

The last couple of years of semiisolation has forced many of us to look within. This couldn’t be truer for me. I found myself at a crossroads trying to figure out my purpose in life and how to align to it. I’m happy to say that I’ve figured it out, it was always there - I just needed to believe in myself.

I help nature lovers enrich and elevate their homes by capturing the essence of nature in bold colours that inspire and bring joy.

I simply want to express myself and bring beauty and joy to you and your world. ☺

As a contemporary impressionist, I use oils with vibrant palettes and textured strokes.

This beautiful planet that we are privileged to enjoy drives my work: strength and softness, contrast, movement, and the feeling that it evokes.

In the Spring Edition of Women Rock Magazine, there was an article on the psychology of colour and how it affects our emotions. Now imagine how impactful it is to add colourful nature scenes in your surroundings.

This could be the view of our beloved Gatineau Park, our calming Mer Bleue Bog, Petrie Island, or any landscape that brings out joy or serenity. It's incredible how meaningful art can elevate your mood and productivity.

Discover your originality through paintingsWhether you’re a new homeowner embarking on a redecorating project or just looking to freshen up a tired space, the best way to establish a room's personality is by decorating the walls with meaningful art.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |28

Noemie L Cote landscape artist Let’s be honest, most furniture stores sell wall decorations, and it may be easy to pick up a few character pieces from large retailers, but what are you really getting at these stores? A copy of the real thing, a reproduction made by a machine.

Let me be clear, there is nothing wrong with purchasing prints, but I believe there is something intrinsically valuable when a piece of original artwork is hanging on your wall.

As a landscape artist, I've come to appreciate the impact of original art on myself and my clients. I'm struck by the power of nature, how it grounds us and puts everything into perspective. My work has often been called, “happy landscapes” that connect with your essence, calmness, and personal power. I have a series of ready to hang paintings and offer commission paintings for that extra special piece.

Through commission art, I have the great privilege of capturing moments in time, the view from the childhood cottage, nature surrounding your home, or a certain place that moves you. It's the story behind the art piece that makes it so meaningful.

It says something about you and what you stand for. Beauty, quality, and originality.

Original artwork is a personalized experience that is different for everyone.

Just like you, it is one-of-a-kind! It's rare.

There is no other version out there. It's a way to connect with nature in a meaningful and expansive way.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |29

Noemie L Cote landscape artist Life without art would be so empty.

It’s a way to express yourself, your eye for beauty, your individuality, and your hidden decorating talent.

There are many benefits to original art and to name a couple, would be the emotional element and the investment value. There’s so much value in quality original artwork that has a meaningful story. The great thing is that it can often appreciate in value. Your artwork may be worth more after years hanging in your living room than it was worth when you first purchased it.

NOEMIE

If you are looking to surround yourself with meaningful art or capture a memory of nature that speaks to you, I would love to connect.

Sign up to the Nature Art Lovers newsletter at noemielcote.com or follow me on social for behind the scenes.

www.noemielcote.com

https://www.instagram.com/noemielcote

https://www.facebook.com/noemielcote.artist/ click link to be directed to website

click link to be directed to website

click link to be directed to website

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |30

BEAUTIFUL COLOURS OF FALL

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |31 WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |31

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Planning for Business Success

By Lara Wellman

“I just wish I had a plan...”

Having a plan is one of the most common desires I hear from business owners who feel overwhelmed and off-track from their dreams of building a business that has a significant impact and makes good money.

They never get to writing the plan though because it feels like such a big and impossible task.

A plan doesn’t have to be a big formal document like the kind you bring to investors or the bank. It is just a roadmap for yourself, so you know that you’re working towards meaningful goals.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |32

H 1

Planning for Business Success

By Lara Wellman

ere are some of the most important things to consider when you sit down to reflect and plan for your business.

Know what you want your life to look like Before you can make any solid plans for your business it's important to get a picture of what you want your life to look like. Why? Because otherwise, you may be building a business that will never mix well with the life you want to have.

I see this all the time: “once my business is a success and I’ve put in all the hard work, it will let me have the life I want.” But that may not be true!

Instead of waiting to see if it all works out, it’s important to be clear from the outset what your priorities are so you can build a business that works around those things.

You want to ask yourself questions about what you want to earn and what that money is for, how much time off you want, do you want to work remotely, and what are the things that are a priority in your life? The more you understand what you want, the better you will understand what you're working to earn money for and how to create a business model to reach those goals.

2

Know where you want to go (what are your goals?)

3

Stop thinking you need to know it all

Without a bit of a roadmap, it can be easy to get distracted. It can be easy to start a million different things, and consequently not follow through or finish any of them. Instead, you will feel frustrated that things aren't moving forward. Concrete, meaningful goals help keep you motivated and moving forward because you understand WHY they’re so important.

If you’re anything like me and many of the people I talk to, planning feels too restrictive – “I don’t KNOW what I’m going to want 5 years from now!”

The key here is that you can plan, but that plan is flexible and doesn’t need to be your forever plan. You can start with the next month if that's easiest! You can plan to keep things flexible enough to keep them interesting. You can make money without doing ALL THE THINGS you've heard will make more money.

This applies to the over planners too.

Let’s meet somewhere in the middle of “starting with no idea what we’re doing” and “never starting because we haven’t figured out every detail yet.”

You don't need to have everything figured out to move forward.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |33

Planning for Business Success

By Lara Wellman

4

Know how much money you want to make You may not be able to make it from the start, but you need to know what kind of money will make sure you feel good. If you want to make $8000 a month profit, your business needs to earn quite a lot more than $8000. You also want to understand that running a business means you have expenses that people who

work

for

others

don't.

Understanding your numbers instead of fearing them empowers you to make more money confidently.

5

Do more of the things that feel good and work well So many of us fight the easy stuff. We feel guilty making money doing things that we enjoy because "work is supposed to be hard."

It’s not true.

You're going to do the stuff you love with more heart. You're not going to procrastinate as much if you're selling things you love instead of things you know you can do but wish you didn't have to do. Look for the things that light you up and look for the things that flow to you with ease. Plan to do more of those! ____________ A plan is just clarity on what you truly want from your business so that you can figure out the first action steps to reach those goals.

I encourage you to take time and think about how all of these play into your business and how best to move forward to reach your big goals and dreams. If you want some extra resources to help you reflect and dive deeper, visit

https://www.thebiz.studio where I’ve included my life and reflection worksheets.

Lara Wellman Business Coach at

click links below

Email: lara@larawellman.com Web: http://www.thebiz.studio Pronouns: She/Her WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |34

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Road Map to Success A FEW TIPS ON HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN LIFE by deanne tobin sinha

01

THINK POSITIVE THOUGHTS One of the first steps towards success is to rid yourself of negativity.

We’ve all heard the phrase “you are what you eat,” but a more accurate expression may well be “you are what you think.”

02

BE PREPARED TO LEARN

03

DON'T BE AFRAID OF HAVING BIG GOALS

04

FOCUS ON YOUR STRENGTHS AND PASSIONS NOT YOUR WEAKNESSES

Take time to notice and learn new things every day. Even if you consider yourself to be an expert on a subject, you’ll be amazed to discover all the things you never realized you didn’t already know.

Thinking big doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a plan and smaller steps, but it does mean that you have a dream and a goal that you can work towards.

Instead of spending all your time and effort working on the things you’re not good at or not passionate about, focus on the things you are good at. Not only to help you decide what your goals in life should be (we’ve already established there’s no clear-cut answer to that one) but to help you see what skills you have that will help you along the way.

HTTPS://SIXADS.NET/BLOG/HOW-TO-BE-SUCCESSFUL-IN-LIFE/ WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |35

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SACRED SPA M Y

G

J O U R N E Y B Y

A N N A M A R I A

oing on 19 years of working in the beauty industry, my passion for aesthetics is still strong and my love for my clients even stronger.

I’m originally from Toronto, this is where I began my journey as a certified medical aesthetician working at high end medi-spas alongside some incredible talented plastic and cosmetic surgeons as well as injectable (cosmetic) nurses.

B A R B E R A

I became exhausted with the hustle and bustle of a big city and decided to move to Ottawa in 2006 and immediately landed a job building up a medi-spa from scratch and going forward, I continued refining my craft.

As I worked providing numerous types of services, I noticed one thing that stood out time and time again, so many women wanting so badly to treat their acne or feeling awkward about facial

hair or just wanting to improve their skins' health, but simply could not afford it.

Fast forward to 2019, I started to feel the need to help these women who found themselves frustrated and very self-conscious. I decided to open my own homebased spa in Nepean.

My philosophy is that every woman should be able to afford to look and feel her best.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |36

I

SACRED SPA

feel an obligation to empower women in this way, therefore, I offer affordable prices without compromising quality. I believe in giving optimal customer service. You shouldn’t have to break the bank to car for your skin, be it acne issues, hair removal or simply anti-aging. I want anyone who visits Sacred Spa to feel comfortable and to ask questions as I customize and tailor treatments according to your skin type and concerns. I know my clients really appreciate the fact that I am honest with them. I will guide you in your skin care journey, and do it without trying to sell you things you simply don’t need.

The menu of treatments vary from laser hair removal to facials, micro needling, electrolysis, chemical peels, PRP, photo-facials, just to name a few. My number one, most popular treatment by far is the micro needling treatment as it is known to effectively treat everything from scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, minimize pore size and overall stimulation of collagen and elastin. Typically, micro needling will run you $350 and up elsewhere but at Sacred Spa its $100. My thought is this will allow you to have numerous treatments as opposed to possibly just one. I also created my own botanical skincare line, Sacred Skin, which is highly effective, natural and again affordable.

Annamaria

Self-care is more than just about looking good, it’s a ritual, not a routine. It’s about feeding the soul with time to yourself. More than ever people are looking to improve the health of their skin, all the while pampering themselves and getting very some much needed “me time”. So come indulge yourself in a relaxing deep cleansing facial or more of a medical treatment such as an enzyme peel. Whatever your needs are I will make sure your confident in the choice we make together, but most importantly enjoy the experience. Its time to look and feel your best. Love yourselves, love your skin!

annamaria barbera SACRED SPA https://sacredspa.ca/menu click link

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |37

F

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self care

self care

COURTNEY WILLIAMSON

loMate is the monthly period care 2 7 arrives when you package that need it the most! Whether you use pads or tampons, are a choco-holic, or just need to treat yourself this month, we are here for you. We will send your monthly supply of period products, delicious snacks, and some feel good gifts. All to put a smile on your face and change the way you experience your Flo!

"Part of the reason I wanted to create FloMate was because I did not see anything like it out there, and being someone who gets her period regularly, I often thought of how nice it would be to have someone send me all the things I need to get me through my Flo." WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |38

personalized period care package he idea for FloMate came one day when I was thinking about how I had to go out, yet AGAIN, to buy more period products. I knew my Flo was on it's way while sitting on the couch in my favourite sweats, messy bun, and oversized tee, I thought how great it would be to have these items magically show up at my door. This way I would no longer have to worry about the same mundane task again, or worse FORGET! From there I began to consider how this simple idea could change the way someone would experience their Flo. Taking a negative time of the month and putting a positive spin on it would make a world of difference to a women suffering through their period pain. I am very passionate about what I do. I created FloMate because I did not see anything similar to this idea that caters to the emotional and physical needs of a woman's monthly cycle.

Being someone who has their period regularly I often thought of how nice it would be to have someone send me all the things I'll need to get me through my Flo. Not only that, but getting a special care package full of the things I need, including some of my favourite goodies.

personalized period care package

T

This would change the stereotypical uncomfortable time of the month into something a little better. And we definitely need to start putting a positive spin on periods!

I also wanted to use FloMate to create a fun and open platform where period talk is normal and could help open the conversation to those who may be struggling with how to bring it up. We have a long way to go in the world of women's health and I hope FloMate can help with that.

FloMate proudly Canadian and features Canadian owned businesses as the extra special products in our care packages. Leave all the work up to us by subscribing to one of our subscription plans or order today at www.flomate.ca and spoil yourself during this time of the month when you need it most!

Contact info (click links)

Website: https://flomate.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flomate.box/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flomate.box/

Email: flomate.box@gmail.com

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |39

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JLS designs is 1 YEAR!!

This past year has been a wild journey! Lots of late nights and hard work but there's no turning back!

Thank you to all my family, friends, and clients who have supported my small and growing business! I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn't for all of you!

Thank you to my husband for also supporting me through this adventure and dream come true! I can't wait to see what the next year has in store !

Jennifer Steinberg WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |40

Rediscovery - From Pandemic to Productivity Jennifer Steinberg - JLS DESIGNS

2 0 2 0

was a circus, let’s be real! After being off on maternity leave for 18 months, I was finally on my way back to work and getting into our new routines of work and daycare. Three months after returning to work, Covid-19 took over the world.

My job asked me to go on a temporary leave, which then turned into a permanent layoff. While on leave, I decided I couldn’t just sit at home and twiddle my thumbs as the days went by...

Not everything about Covid-19 was negative

I

started exploring new passions: baking &

offers a wide range of customized

cooking home cooked meals, projects

products for all ages and occasions.

around the house and also exploring my

Some of the items we offer are: birth stat

creative side to help the long days become

animals, baby blanket and onesies, wine

productive again.

and beer glasses, t-shirts, wedding slippers and so much more.

I have always dreamed of owning my own business. I just didn’t know what I wanted

We are always happy to work with the

to do.

client to make their idea come to life. We have also done some fundraisers for

Not

everything

about

Covid-19

was

Cancer and CHEO foundation.

negative. Sure I lost my job, but it allowed me an opportunity to experiment with different passions and figure out what type of business I was truly passionate about and wanted to venture into.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |41

Rediscovery - From Pandemic to Productivity

Jennifer Steinberg

My husband, who is a night owl, regularly stays up later than me, however, there have been many nights in the past year when I stayed up later than him in order to grow the business.

A small business owner wears many hats to become successful.

Some of our responsibilities include: Owner, product maker, creative designer, marketing specialist, accountant, accounts receivable, packaging/shipper and many more.

This year has taught me to follow my dreams and never give up on them.

Helping people create custom gifts for their family and friends is a passion of mine that will never get old. I can’t express the joy I feel from creating the custom gifts for clients and seeing photos of them using my products.

Never give up on your Dreams

Growing up with a Father who owned a small business, and seeing the sacrifices he made, inspires me to follow in his footsteps and become a successful entrepreneur.

This past year has been a roller coaster ride of emotions: scary, exciting and challenging all at the same time. Covid19 has thrown everyone a curveball and my best advice is “When life hands you lemons make lemonade.” Never give up on your dreams, have a “can do” attitude and life will turn around for you!

JLS designs celebrated our 1 year anniversary on July 20th, 2021 and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store!

To place an order or for more products (click links)

www.instagram.com/J.L.S_Designs

https://www.facebook.com/JLS-Designs102917964840424/

email: JLS.Designs@yahoo.com

Jennifer Steinberg Phone: 514-824-4381

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE | 42

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A FALL POEM

OCTOBER

WALK

From the soft, mossy ground rises

the pungent smell of fallen trees,

of tired fern and bark decaying.

The fragrance of autumn!

Brilliant leaves float soundless,

one by one in a trembling dance,

joining the others on the earth beneath.

I tread on this glorious carpet,

patterned in orange, gold and in between

Overhead a crimson canopy!

The sun still feels warm on my face,

though a foreboding prevails

of the deep sleep to come!

I hear the rustling of squirrels preparing

and the excited call of geese flying south.

~ BY Giselle Braeuel ~ WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |43

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In March 2019 while driving down the highway, I couldn't hold it back any longer. I found myself sobbing in despair with tears of frustration rolling down my cheeks. I had come to the realization that "I can't do this anymore".

I was 48 years old, making minimum wage in a job that was only supposed to last three weeks before I landed a “proper” job.

Somehow seven months had slipped by and I was no closer to where I wanted to be. I was heading straight into another burn out.

Hi Tech to Handywoman A Journey to Finding Myself Article by Shannon Spallin

I had a breakdown in 2012 after 23 years working my way up the corporate ladder with local engineering companies. I had hit the glass ceiling and had gone through layoff after layoff. I was done with the tech world. My children were pre-teens and I didn't want to work 80 hours a week any longer. I was bitter and exhausted.

I left tech in 2013 for a job in a funeral home which I loved. Sadly it was short lived and I was on the job hunt again.

Surely my skills and work experience would be transferable to the non-profit and NGO (NonGovernmental Organization) world where I could have a job with purpose. Where I could help people...solve problems...make a difference. I submitted hundreds of job applications and had dozens of interviews over the next five years only to find I didn’t get the position because I didn't have a degree or I was too senior or too junior. I jumped from minimum wage job to minimum wage job to help pay the bills and keep food on the table.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |44

Hi Tech to Handywoman A Journey to Finding Myself Article by Shannon Spallin

Back to the ugly crying on the highway in 2019. What could I do to get off this miserable roller coaster? Earlier in the year I had helped one of my girlfriends after her husband decided that doors and walls needed holes along with other domestic violence incidences. I patched and painted the walls and changed out the doors. That work was the answer. I helped and solved problems.

And I was good at it.

As a teenager and into my adult years, I had helped friends and family with painting and renovations - but certainly picked up the bulk of my skills as a handy homeowner who enjoyed making changes and updates. After helping my girlfriend, I spent the next few months building a list of jobs and tasks that busy households need help with. Top of the list were patching, painting, changing doors and cleaning.

Adding to that, I also found that there was a demand for laying tiles.

In May 2019, I created a business Facebook page and within a week I had a booking. Within a month, I had more bookings and within three months I had two months’ worth of bookings. I left the minimum wage job in November 2019 and haven’t looked back.

I now proudly call myself a Handywoman who solves problems and fixes things.

One household at a time.

clink links below Shannon Spallin Owner

https://westcarletonhouseholdservices.business.site/ wchouseholdservices@gmail.com

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |45

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A DAILY COMMITTMENT by mel lucier

November 13 2016, I lay there, cold, scared, my heart is pounding so loud I swear I can hear it, all these faces and lights; the smell of the room is void of any scent yet it overwhelms me. Sterile. A hand comes at my face holding something, I hear voices, are they talking to me? Cold plastic on my face - voices telling me to breathe backwards from 10. 10, 9, 8, 7……

I wake up, I am groggy and sore, but elated - I did it. My new life begins today.

I have waited 48 years for this, my body has been my prison, a 350+ pound prison. I still feel the burden of my life long food addiction and poor choices, but now I have the power.

I look back now, almost 5 years, that I received weight loss surgery, and I have maintained a 175 pound weight loss, I am half the person I was yet so much more.

This was no magic fix, food is not the enemy. Years of therapy and hope have led me to learn that there ARE no enemies, just challenges. I have learned even though I may fall down - it does not define me. Get the FUCK up girl, brush yourself off and smile. cry - scream - but just keep going. There is more power in trying than succeeding.

“Success is the ability to go from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm” -- Winston Churchill

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |46

A DAILY COMMITMENT

by mel lucier

Life should be simple, I have learned to love myself at all my stages of my journey, even more when life is difficult. It is easy to celebrate success - we need to learn how to celebrate our failures and efforts.

I deserve to put myself in my top 5 priorities, some days I am number one and some days I am backsliding to the dark place that I will never go again.

My body shows the years of abuse , hail to the FUPA - it provided a safe space for my two daughters to come into this world. My arm flags muscles still peeking through. My body is a strong powerful machine. It allows me to smile, laugh and cry and set goals and smash them.

Being obese is one of the few things left that shaming is accepted, hatred is felt from every angle, internal and the external. Media shows a mostly unattainable physique.

Even at my current weight I am considered obese; I work out every day, i eat healthy , I drink my water (UGH!!). This needs to be enough for me to be happy. I am enough and I am happy. Finally.

Join me in loving life and celebrating who we are as women. It is a wild ride...

Buckle Up!

Mel Lucier is a 53 year old power house ass kicking strong woman from Ontario, Canada. She is a Stand-up Comedienne, speaker mother , woman and wanna be Writer WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |47

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Living in Limbo The Path Ahead

By Stephanie Darby Coombs

After living many years as working adults, we are now mentally ready for that next stage in our lives, the one called RETIREMENT. But with a mortgage yet to pay off, and our children still dependent on us, our road to retirement will be a slow one.

I don’t

know many retirees that are just

sitting around listening to the clock tick.

We are currently living in limbo—still working

Most say they are busier than ever. And I am

every day to keep the roof over our heads,

sure I will be no different. Like many others, I

yet silently yearning the freedom to wake up

want to do the things that I have been unable

each morning and just sip coffee on the deck,

to do while working full-time to raise a family.

listen to the birds, and go for our regular For me, along with the travel and morning

daily walks.

walks, I want to spend more time enjoying So what do we do? If you can’t sell your

my first passion which is WRITING!

house, and you can’t live a full-time life of leisure, how in the name of God are you

From what I have seen with those around me,

going to be able to enjoy all the pleasures of

those who have plunged into retirement at an

those friends and family members you know

early age - while still having their health and

who have been fortunate enough to do just

their minds - is that retirement is not a sign

that?

of getting old. It is not a stage to enter before death. From what I can see and what I believe

Early retirement seems to be on the rise, at

for myself is this:

least in my circle of friends and family. I’m sure everyone knows at least one couple that

Retirement is Rebirth….

has managed to do it—retiring between the ages of fifty and fifty-five. The days of waiting for sixty-five and your old age security check are over as far as I can see.

As we witness more friends and family dying young around us, with strokes, cancer, and aneurisms to name a few, the desire to quit work and just enjoy our lives becomes stronger and stronger. And the path ahead can be just as exciting as the trail we have left behind.

With that vision flickering in the distance, who wouldn’t want to retire at fifty-four years old?

While I’m still here living in limbo, in the awkward stage between being a working Mom and a retired re-born writer (and hopefully bestselling novelist)—I have a plan that might work for me. Semi-Retirement….

What’s your plan?

WHAT'S YOUR PLAN? WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |48

Living in Limbo The Path Ahead

By Stephanie Darby Coombs

It’s no mystery to anyone that life is a

I married a wonderful man, who built me

series of stages. It starts with the freedom

my dream home, and then gave me two

of

the

wonderful children, whom we have been

then

lucky to raise together as one. We have

eventually fuses into the liberation of

experienced all the joys and hardships of

adulthood. But it doesn’t end there.

parenting. We have done the trips to

childhood,

confusion

of

progresses adolescence,

into and

Disney, and camping every summer. We For many of us, parenthood is the next

have even taken our children to see Paul

major stage into which we leap. It is a

McCartney perform on the Plains of

rewarding but often frustrating stage,

Abraham in Quebec!

which will keep us busy and virtually consume us for the better part of twenty

Our lives as parents have definitely been

years— at least. Truthfully, parenthood is

exciting,

a lifelong commitment, but the hard fact of

imagination. And I wouldn’t give up one

the matter is that at some point, our

second of it. But now that the diapers are

children will move on to other stages in

gone

their lives. While we will always be part of

interpreting high school math are finally

their world, our role will eventually fade

over - what now?

and

and

the

memorable

exhausting

beyond

nights

of

into the background as they move into their

own

houses,

with

own

With my son, a twenty-year-old working

husbands or wives, and their own children

apprentice machinist, and my daughter, a

perhaps.

seventeen-year-old

But when exactly?

their

For some

future

university

parents, like myself, that move may not

student with an interest in medicine, we

happen as quickly as you would think.

certainly are not able to sell the house out from under them in order to begin our

At fifty-four years old, I feel that I have

golden years of travel, or retreat into our

lived a fairly full life so far. I have travelled

more cost efficient cabin in the woods.

to Germany, Spain, and Paris, as well as

Well, the travel part is probably out for

countries in the Caribbean, and even

the time being, but the cabin is all ready to

Hawaii. I have lived the life of a university

go! Just that…we can’t really go...yet!

student

and

have

proudly

earned

a

Bachelor’s Degree.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |49

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PUSHING THROUGH IN THE ERA OF THE GREAT PANDEMIC A Life Story

Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly

S

By Dr. Judy Osmond

everal years ago, a former student gifted me with a journaling book, the cover of which read, “Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly” (author unknown). This has become my motto throughout this entire era of the Global Pandemic, somehow motivating and inspiring me in times of self doubt and insecurity. I rationalize that if caterpillars can survive the magical process of becoming a gorgeous butterfly, free to fly wherever and whenever it wants, then surely we cannot, and should not, let anything stand in the way of our personal pursuits, dreams and freedom during this time as well. Even in times of transition.

This world event has somehow managed to shatter the core of my very being into a thousand pieces. One year in, and I often find myself grieving and mourning for a life I had created, nurtured and passionately lived out. Why do I feel as though my life has been snatched from underneath me?

Sometimes I don’t recognize myself.

“Where has this woman, who used to be so self confident, so self assured, and alwaysseem-to-land on her feet, gone? Who is she becoming? Where is she going? What happened to her career goals and the hopes of dreams coming true? What will her future life look like for her?”

Self confidence and self assuredness has been pushed aside and replaced with fear and self doubt. Perhaps you feel the same.

The only thing more impossible than changing is staying the same. I knew the time had come to thrive in this digital environment, not just survive. I also knew that this era of transitioning from all things brick and mortar to all things digital would take a lot more effort, work, preparation and determination than I could ever imagine especially in light of the fact that the passion, fire and inspiration, which I could always count on to propel me forward with my goals, had all but disappeared.

I began to realize that the only way to get through the days of feeling powerless and out of control in this digital age was to engage in a process of what I affectionately refer to as the "quest of the push through".

It was time to make a decision to do one thing that would move me forward, simply start that thing, and commit, commit commit, no matter what . . . No matter how I feel, no matter the circumstance, no matter the fear. So, I began with taking the first step towards educating myself on all things digital technology. I began researching youtube channels to learn features of online platforms.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |50

PUSHING THROUGH IN THE ERA OF THE GREAT PANDEMIC

By Dr. Judy Osmond One channel lead to another. I soon discovered a world of online teaching organizations, and decided to apply to one of them. I would need to do a cover image for an online profile, take videos of myself to accompany job applications, join their facebook cohort group to build community, study online training manuals, set up a paypal account, and create my courses. There was only one problem. I had never engaged in any of these technologies before and needed to not only learn these new skills and platforms, but I had this deep desire to master them. The task seemed daunting and overwhelming. It would be easier to give up, close my laptop and walk away from the table. But I chose not to.

Instead, I would engage in a self learning ritual each day. I would begin with a youtube search for instructions to complete any of the tasks at hand. I would apply the instructions, one at a time, until the task was completed and then diligently soldier on to begin the next project. I would repeat this process day in and day out. Each day I would begin to feel a little progress, experience a little optimism and, continue to work towards my daily goal until I was satisfied with the results. Two weeks in and I was ready to launch my first course. Fear and self doubt has been replaced with a sense of pride, a new-found confidence, a better sense of control, and a stronger resolve.

What matters most in our existence is not the obstacles that appear before us, or the chaos that occurs around us, but rather how resilient we are to embracing change.

It is necessary for us to thrive in this era, not merely survive.

Ultimately, if we wish to experience the bliss of freedom and self expression, as beautiful and magnificent butterflies do, we must listen to the call of our hearts and push through any obstacle that threatens to extinguish our light. Accomplishment is the driver that yields a greater sense of self and confidence. Nothing can beat it. I am on your same journey, my friend.

Believe me when I say that YOU can do this! The best is yet to come.

Dr. Judy Osmond

Educational Coach and Mentor Former teacher Student success coach and administrator specializing in personal growth and selfreinvention

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |51

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following a dream by jennifer edicott

Hi,

I am a divorced Mother of a 34 year old daughter and a 25 year old son. I am also

a

Nana

to

3

beautiful

grandchildren, girls 2 & 4 years old, and an 8-month-old grandson. They melt my heart, and I am close to all of them.

I have been struggling for years to find my way in this sometimes lonely and unfriendly world. But I have a great support system with family and friends.

I was holding down mediocre jobs one after another trying to make ends meet. It wasn’t until April of 2021 that I decided…I need to start my OWN business! I know crazy thought, right (especially with businesses closing due to Covid-19)? Despite this, I went over it in my head and decided to start up

So, I switched from using harsh chemicals to all natural

my OWN company.

products. I said to myself: Why not do that for the public?

The hard part was deciding what that

This is when Holistaclean was born. This is the name

business was going to be. I said to myself…"what is it that you’re good at…decorating

tables"?

Well,

the

answer is YES…but I wanted to do that for

family

only.

I

asked

myself

again…"what IS it that you like to do?"... I like having a clean home. I like essential oils and believe in a natural approach to health. I eat as healthy as

of my cleaning company, which my son, in his infinite wisdom came up with!

I also like to help people to

“breathe fresh breathe freely” (this is our motto) because life is hard enough, no need to clean your house when I am here! LOL! Sincerely, Jennifer.

I can, why not have all my cleaning products natural too?

https://holistaclean.business.site click link

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |52

I like having a clean home. I like essential oils and believe in a natural approach to health. I eat as healthy as I can.

Why not have all my cleaning products natural too?

breathe freely breathe fresh https://holistaclean.business.site click link

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |53

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FORGIVENESS

BY ELAINE LINDSAY

THIS is my story of

triumph, hope, and joy. Mine.

I’m Elaine, reinvention, redemption and rising from the ashes are my superpowers. None of them would matter however, until I learned forgiveness. The ultimate gift...for others and most importantly for oneself.

I've had many, many lessons over my lifetime. Increasingly brutal drama. Sometimes the actual lesson and the penny dropping are decades apart!

September 1983. Booked an experimental surgery called a VBG. Planned for 3 weeks out of commission, max! ONLY 1 Doctor in the city was performing this procedure.

We’ll never know what actually happened in that 1st surgery. Or the 2nd. Only that it was badly botched.

apart during the 3rd surgery when my heart stopped..

The measures taken to hide the damage were ever more bizarre.

They had cut my throat, and diverted it out my neck for almost 7 months. I wore a colostomy bag on my neck... Unable to swallow food I fed through a tube in my side for more than a year.

7 years before this, At 2 in the morning on a brutally cold night, I was crushed between three cars on the highway, in front of my friend Andrea’s grave. I was 6.5 months pregnant.

Losing the pregnancy, losing part of one leg, multiple broken bones and internal injuries left me in hospital for months. Surgery and painful procedures were weekly events.

We do know the Doctor attempted to cover his tracks, taking it all

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |54

N

one of this was what I signed up for. Nor were the continued issues of chronic illness, and incessant pain I still live with to this day, thirty eight years later.

Yes - I did say BEST! This last assault on my person, was the end to me as the victim. I realized the common denominator was me. I knew in my heart that life had to be more, mean more, offer more than this.

Through teachings, meditation and spiritual advisors I learned to forgive all those involved. Except one, ME. It took a ridiculously long time for me to learn that I too needed to be forgiven for donning the victim label, for wearing the ‘poor me’ banner for so long.

In fact the concept of forgiving me, had to be presented to me. Nearly forty years of angst before the thought even crossed my mind. I can tell you now, looking back, had I forgiven myself sooner, me myself and I would've had a much healthier relationship.

The good news is that it's never too late to forgive!

Even yourself. .. Especially you! Don’t be an incredibly slow learner like me. Put YOU at the top of your list.

Self care includes self love which includes selfforgiveness.

forgiveness

I was run down by a man in a fit of road rage, (yep you read that right) with my kids and granddaughter in a plaza parking lot. BUT It became the best thing that could have happened to me.

Make the best of every moment. In truth this moment is all that we have!

by: elaine lindsay

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |55

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Living With Living With Attention Deficit Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Hyperactivity Disorder LARA WELLMAN I was that kid – the one who handed in all her assignments late and a bit crumpled. The one who had so much stuff in her locker it would all start tumbling out and need to be closed with tricks that seemed bordering on magic. The one who spent more time writing notes to friends in class and doodling than paying attention.

I was lucky, I always understood enough that panicked moments of last-minute stress ensured I passed all my classes, even if my grades weren’t stellar. I figured as I got older, I would outgrow all of this – after all, that’s what everyone told me would happen.

But I didn’t. I continued to be disorganized, messy, a bit distracted, and thrived on “if it weren’t for the last minute nothing would ever get done.” I kept waiting for that “grown up” version of me I was told would inevitably arrive and help me feel a little bit less like a “hot mess”, but she never did arrive.

Instead, I just meandered through life doing fine.

Then I had kids (three, including a set of twins) and I felt even more frazzled and disorganized, as I’d forget to make sure they had their lunch in their school bags, had all the forms they needed signed and returned on time, and that all birthday party RSVPs were responded to. I really thought that the grown up version of me would have shown up by then, and I really really wanted her to!

And then I found out I had ADHD. With one diagnosis I understood that my brain works differently – that to maintain the same levels of organization and attention, it requires my brain so much more mental energy than it does for most people. I realized that I wasn’t lazy and incapable of being respectful enough to always be on time, there was something deeper than that going on.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |56

I know that for many the idea of getting an ADHD diagnosis would feel devastating, but it was the opposite for me. Once I understood that I had a different brain, it not only allowed me to start adapting and finding strategies that did work for me, but more importantly, it significantly decreased the constant shame I had from not living up to the expectations of a responsible adult.

Living With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder LARA WELLMAN

I have stopped thinking of the strategies I’ve come up with to make sure things get done as “cheating” or “lazy” and instead as smart and creative. I stopped trying to force myself to want to do work that I don’t do well and instead focus more on the things I excel at. I get to help my family (and coaching clients) to do the same things for themselves because, ADHD or not, I’ve come to realize that we all live in a constant state of trying to live up to rules and expectations that are entirely made up by society, instead of choosing to find the best systems and ways of being for ourselves.

My ADHD is part of what makes me so good at many things, and one of my goals in life now is to help others see how great they are too, and to work with their strengths instead of constantly trying to fix what they think is broken. My desk is still messy, and I still thrive on deadlines, but none of that makes me any less of a responsible adult who is doing great things in this world.

BE BRAVE - BE STRONG - STAND TALL

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |57

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How I Moved To Turkey

by: rhonda king

you had told me a year ago that I IF would be living overseas with a view of the Mediterranean I would have said you were crazy!

At 40 years of age I started over with nothing after a divorce and imagined that I would be unable to retire until I was 75 years old. I am a Registered Massage Therapist and a Registered Acupuncturist. I ran a small but successful business from my home but I wanted to make my occupation easier on my body.

A few years ago I decided to begin focusing on anti-aging facials and things were going well until Covid-19 regulations put an end to facials.

My business slowed down and even though I enjoyed my work I began to consider the possibility of earning income online.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |58

How I Moved to Turkey BY RHONDA KING

At about the same time I was introduced to an anti-aging/health product that I fell in love with. I am not a salesperson but I tell clients and friends about things I love and know will benefit them so I decided to join the business. Things went well right from the beginning and I was happy with what I thought would be a small side business.

A few months passed until one day a client came into my office and informed me that Covid-19 had driven the cost of houses in our area up significantly. I called my real estate agent and decided to sell. Moving was something that I had already considered since the city I lived in had tripled in size. I love nature and thought about moving to the country. However, a larger mortgage and working longer hours at 54 years of age seemed undesirable.

A few of my friends had moved to Turkey and were encouraging me to make the move. I realized that I would need to make some big adjustments but I also felt the move would be exciting. I was ready for a change.

I spoke to 3 financial advisors about investing the money from the sale of my house and all 3 agreed that with the additional income from my new “side” business I could comfortably live overseas.

I sold everything and came to Turkey with 3 suitcases. Selling my worldly possessions was so freeing!

I have heard stories like this in the past but I always felt there must be more to the story.

"Surely the person must have inherited money or gotten a large settlement in a divorce." But now I know what is possible if you think outside the box.

My life is a dream. I found a furnished apartment with a view of the Mediterranean. I work about an hour a day using my phone. It’s beautiful here. The climate is amazing. The people are friendly. I wonder what else is possible!

Rhonda King

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |59

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Moving Through Change in a Positive Way Article by Liz Raymond

GradUit Thrivers Change is constant - whether we initiate it or not.

Having the right mindset, support and community can make a huge difference when moving through change with a positive outcome.

After leaving a mentally and emotionally abusive relationship with an alcoholic I found myself reaching for life lines every day, trying hard to keep myself afloat and take care of my two little boys. With the help of my mom, the local food bank and some amazing people I found ways to survive whatever was put in front of me. I was surviving.

By the end of 2008 I found myself overworked, burnt out, financially bankrupt and emotionally broken. My boys kept me alive.

This is when my current business partner, Penny Lee Prevost (The Dancing Motivator) came into my life. Her tenacity convinced me to hold a vision board workshop in my home. That workshop and a 3 day “A New Year, A New You” Conference showed me my life could be different-I had choices--it was up to me. And so my GradUit journey began.

The

strategies,

skills,

mentorship

and

community of GradUit, and my commitment to

“do the work” translated to changes-

in me - in my children - and eventually in my

business

at

the

time.

I

moved

from

survivor to Thriver!

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |60

B

MOVING THROUGH CHANGE IN A POSITIVE WAY

y 2015 life as I knew it was completely different. I went from a mindset of lack, to one of abundance. My angry boys became happy, thriving young men. I found new joy in making a difference in my community. My business shifted from a bookkeeping practice to one mentoring entrepreneurs -The Professional Business Organizer.

By November 2015 Penny Lee and I became partners of GradUit Thrivers Inc. taking over the reins of GradUit from the original Founder, Melanie Hayden-Sparks.

We continue the mission of creating a community of success-minded individuals, offering costeffective programs, workshops and mentorship for women from all walks of life so they too, can reach their greatest potential and create the lives they desire step by step.

A

t GratUit Thrivers we help people move through change in a positive way, step by step using our 4 Cs For Success strategies AND the Positive Attitude Zone philosophy.

Achieving new steps, celebrating every success, is like graduating. When we think about graduating, our thoughts automatically turn to school. The truth is we are continually graduating - stages of life, levels of business, goals, challenges and life events. Whatever “it” is that you are graduating from, “U” are always BIGGER than “it”.

Do you have something you are working on?

What is YOUR next step to become a GradUit? Contact info (clink link to go to site) - www.GradUitThrivers.com WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |61

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fall wardrobe MUST-HAVES by deanne tobin sinha

10

fashion tips for fall weather

1. INVEST IN A COZY JACKET OR VEST 2. SEEK OUT A PAIR OF ROCKIN' FALL BOOTS 3. PAIR A WINTER PIECE WITH SOMETHING SUMMERY 4. CHOOSE STRIKING FALL COLOURS 5. PLAY WITH PRINTS AND PATTERNS 6. BRING OUT YOUR LONG SLEEVE DRESSES 7. LAYER UP YOUR SUMMER DRESS WITH A SWEATHER 8. ADD TIGHTS TO YOUR OUTFIT TO ADD PATTERN & TEXTURE

9. WEAR A FUN FALL HAT 10. PURCHASE A PAIR OF SNAZZY SUNGLASSES

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |62

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Fall Fashion YOUR INDIVIDUAL STYLE CAN MAKE A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION. IT CAN ALSO HELP KEEP YOU LOOKING YOUR BEST AND IMPROVE AND BOOST YOUR SELF CONFIDENCE.

YOUR STYLE SHOULD COMPLIMENT YOUR LIFE STYLE AND YOUR BODY TYPE. FINDING AND DEVELOPING YOUR OWN PERSONAL STYLE IS AN ONGOING WORK IN PROGRESS. YOUR STYLE MAY ALSO MAY CHANGE OVER TIME. LOOK FOR INSPIRATION FROM FRIENDS AND FASHION ICONS. YOU MIGHT BE INSPIRED AND EMPOWERED BY A STYLE YOU MAY NEVER HAVE EVEN THOUGHT YOU WOULD BE INTRIGUED BY.

Deanne Tobin Sinha! "i absolutely love fashion"

FEEL GREAT & FIND YOUR STYLE

WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?

STYLE refers to a particular way in which a person expresses themselves. Whether it is through, clothing, a writing style, an architectural style, etc.

STYLE in the fashion world is usually a short way of say "personal style" or the way an individual expresses themselves.

They achieve this through artistic choices such as their apparel, hair style, chosen colors, accessories, and simply how they put an outfit together.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |63

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A LABOUR OF LOVE

By Deanne Tobin Sinha

G

ETTING PREGNANT A SECOND TIME

I HAVE TO ADMIT THOUGH, WHEN I FIRST

AROUND MEANT NEEDING MORE SPACE,

WALKED INTO THIS HOUSE I WASN'T

MORE LAND, AND AN EXTRA BEDROOM; SO

ENAMORED

THE HUNT FOR A NEW FAMILY HOME

CAPTIVATED BY IT'S ORDINARY LAYOUT.

BY

IT'S

BEAUTY

OR

MY INTEREST WAS PEAKED BY THE

BEGAN.

SHEER SIZE OF THE SPACE.

I KNEW IT WASN'T GOING TO BE AN EASY A

MY DESIGN BRAIN WAS IN FAST MOTION

NEWBORN AT HOME, NOT EVEN A YEAR

AS I STARTED VISUALIZING THE ENDLESS

OLD, AND A RAMBUNCTIOUS LITTLE FART

POSSIBILIES OF WHAT I WOULD DO TO

AT BEST.

ACCOMPLISH MY DREAM HOME. I WAS

TASK,

ESPECIALLY

WITH

HAVING

GIDDY WITH EXCITEMENT TO SAY THE I WAS VERY DETERMINED HOWEVER TO

LEAST.

THIS

SPACIOUS

HOUSE

HAD

FIND THE PERFECT HOUSE, A PLACE THAT

GREAT POTENTIAL AND I WAS ABOUT TO

WE COULD CALL HOME, SOMEWHERE TO

BRING IT BACK TO LIFE BY POURING MY

BUILD MEMORIES FOR OUR LITTLE FAMILY

LOVE OF DESIGN INTO IT, AND GIVING IT A

OF FOUR.

LARGE DOSE OF TLC.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |64

A DARK AND DINGY FAMILY ROOM FOUND LIGHT WITHIN REPLACING THE OLD CARPET WITH A STUNNING AND RICH BIRCH HARDWOOD GAVE THIS FAMILY ROOM CLASS. WE PAINTED OUT THE DARK BEIGE WALLS WITH A GORGEOUS LIGHT AND AIRY BLUE/GRAY PAINT TO BRIGHTEN THE SPACE. I CHOSE A VERY PRETTY AND COMFY TEAL MICROFIBRE SOFA AND CHAIR SET TO ADD A POP OF COLOUR... AND VOILA! A NEW ROOM WAS BORN! OF COURSE ACCESSORIZING WITH SOME VERY UNIQUE ACCENTS FINISHED THIS ROOM OFF IN STYLE. BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |65

A CHEF'S KITCHEN

AN OUTDATED KITCHEN RECEIVES A CLASSY MAKEOVER BEFORE I ABSOLUTELY LOVE MY KITCHEN. IT HAS A HOMEY VIBE. A FEELING OF WARMTH AND

A DESIGNER'S

DREAM Kitchen

LOVE. WE SPEND A LOT OF TIME IN THIS KITCHEN

EATING,

PLAYING

BOARD

ENJOYING

EACH

CHATTING, GAMES,

OTHERS

LAUGHING, AND

COMPANY.

JUST IT

IS

DEFINITELY THE HEART OF MY HOME.

AFTER WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |66

A

s a designer, my senses always go a little crazy when it comes

to executing a new makeover project.

Aesthetically speaking, my brain is usually in high gear thinking about the endless possibilities of making a space look absolutely beautiful and reaching its full potential.

The practicality of this kitchen was perfect! All it needed was some TLC which included fresh paint for the cabinets and walls, new baseboards, new hardware pulls,

and some beautiful new

appliances.

I

CHOSE A SOFT GRAY PAINT TO ADORN THE

WALLS, A WARM WHITE FOR THE PAINTED KITCHEN CABINETS AND NEW BRUSHED NICKEL HARDWARE FOR THE DOOR PULLS.

INCORPORATING

GRANITE

TWO

COLOURS

DIFFERENT

COUNTERTOPS ADDS

IN

CHARACTER

AND INTEREST,

AN

ELEGANT

DEEP

BLUE

PAINT

GRACES

THE

LARGE SPACIOUS ISLAND AND PRETTY BLUES AND

TEALS

ACCESSORIZING

WERE AND

ADDED COMPLETING

WHEN THIS

CLASSY NEW LOOK.

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |67

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

CATCH SOME WAVES IN

OUR KITCHEN...

THE HEART OF THE HOME

I'

m sure that most of you have heard the saying "the kitchen is the

LAGUNA BEACH

heart of the home". Well it's mainly because that's where the food is... and food means conversating with family and friends, simply being together and chatting about our day, our lives, what matters to us, sharing our travels, our dreams, and our feelings. It helps us to maintain a connection to one another, appreciate one another and to continue learning about each other as well.

E

njoying family meals together on a weekly basis or whenever

possible gives an opportunity to each family member to tell us about their day and to let us know what is going on in their daily lives. It is also an opportunity to share any adversities. This is a great opportunity for parents to have meaningful conversations

By Joyce Wright Photographs by Mark Halberg

with the kids. our children value this time. Sharing meals as a family is extremely important as it provides an opportunity to help coach

and

build

self

confidence,

The

dinner

table

is

a

great

opportunity to help our kids with issues they may have with friends or with school, Staying connected with family is very important for us and for our children.

T

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

NOMADIC | 24

he kitchen provides this environment every day. Make it a relaxing

warm and inviting space and your kids will gravitate towards it and

AFTER

WANT to sit back and enjoy some time with Mom and Dad :-)

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |68

C O N T E M P O R A R Y CLASSY

SERENITY REST RELAX AND REVITALIZE

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |69

AN INSPIRING MASTER BATH MAKEOVER BEFORE

THIS one

of

the

projects master for

project was probably

I

most

have

ever

bathroom

attention.

incorporating

tackled.

was

The all

anticipated

screaming

potential the

My

bells

for and

whistles were endless as we didn't have

to

plumbing

money

fixtures.

into The

moving

oversized

soaker tub stayed where it was, the

A DATED MASTER BATHROOM GETS A CLASSY MAKEOVER

AFTER

sink

shower did not have to move and the toilet was positioned perfectly.

TO ACHIEVE THIS CLASSY, CONTEMPORARY LOOK I PAINTED OUT THE DATED BROWN STAINED VANITY WITH AN INTENSE HISTORICAL DEEP BLUE AS IT PAIRED PERFECTLY WITH THE MEDITERRANEAN SUBWAY TILE CHOSEN FOR THE BACKSPLASH ABOVE IT. I SWITCHED OUT THE CABINET PULLS TO A STUNNING BRUSHED NICKEL CURVED HANDLE WITH MATCHING KNOBS AND THEN COMPLIMENTED THE BACKSPLASH AND NEWLY PAINTED VANITY WITH A GORGEOUS MARBLE QUARTZ.

A BEAUTIFUL SOFT GRAY PORCELAIN TILE WITH A

SLIGHT WHITE VEINING WAS SELECTED FOR THE NEW BATHROOOM FLOORS AND A WHITE GROUT COMPLETES THIS ROMANTIC OASIS.

TO THIS

STYLE CONTINUE THE ROMANTIC AND AIRY FEEL OF

STUNNING

ARCHITECTURE

MASTER

BY

BATHROOM

INPLEMENTING

I

2

ADDED UNIQUE

IT UP WITH UNIQUE ACCESSORIES

SHELVES WITH HOOKS. ONE IS A WHITE WASHED WOOD WITH A ROMANTIC FLOWER ACCENT AND THE OTHER IS A RUSTIC WOOD PIECE TO ADD WARMTH TO THE SPACE.

A

GORGEOUS

FLOWER

PICTURE

INCORPORATING

SOME BEAUTIFUL VIBRANT COLOURS WRAPPED IN A PAINTED WHITE

WOODEN FRAME SITS ABOVE THE

SOAKER TUB AND VARIOUS WICKER BASKETS ARE PLACED

ACCORDINGLY

WHICH

HOLDS

SOME

ADDING

SOME

BEAUTIFUL FLUFFY TOWELS.

I

COMPLETED

THE

PROJECT

BY

BEAUTIFUL REAL HYDRANGEAS FROM MY FLOWER

AFTER

GARDEN.

BEFORE

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |70

LOVE AND LIGHT...

THIS IS WHERE THE MAGIC HAPPENS

gave my master bedroom a dreamy makeover by using light airy colors such as blue, pink, white, ivory and teal. I created a layered look on the master bed which exudes a romantic feel.

I

BEFORE

A ROMANTIC GETAWAY AFTER

implemented some bling as well to this somewhat fancy and nostalgic bedroom by incorporating a crystal chandelier, and a large sunburst mirror over the white contemporary dresser.

I

AFTER

THE AFTERNOON AND EVENING SUN THAT IS EVIDENT IN THIS MASTER BEDROOM IS ABSOLUTELY REVITALIZING. WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |71

Creating Beautiful Homes To Live In! Dee Sinha Design is an Interior Decorating/Design and Home Staging

Dee Sinha Design

Firm dedicated to providing our clients with creative concepts, highquality design, beauty, and flawless execution.

Dee Sinha - Owner/Operator

Services

We tailor each project to our clients’ individual tastes, needs and budgets.

Contact us to begin your design journey!

Design Consultations Colour Consultations Home Staging Custom Cabinet Painting

https://www.deesinhadesign.com/ https://www.facebook.com/deesinhadesign04/ click links WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |72

Why Dee Sinha Design?

- Testimonials -

https://www.deesinhadesign.com/ https://www.facebook.com/deesinhadesign04/ click links

WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |73

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Fall Reboot - 3 Ways to Get You Motivated and Back on Track Summer 2021

Fall 2021 Carole Blackburn LFE COACH

T

here is always something special when Summer meets Fall. The crisp, fresh air, an extra layer of clothing when you leave the house in the morning. And let's not forget pumpkin-spiced everything!

In my world, and so many of you out there… Back to school means back to routines! Regardless if you have kids or not; the collective mood changes.

There’s a sense of renewal and establishing healthy routines. It’s time for assessing our goals, projects and commitments for the remainder of the year.

It has given many of us that sense of “We get to go out and do stuff!” which is great, but once the summer turns into fall, many are left feeling like all that we were doing and used to, has flown out the window.

We have all had a topsy-turvy life for 18+ months or so. Many people have felt out of sorts when it comes to routines and more so, motivation.

But I believe that this is an opportunity for a new beginning. A new and fresh start that will support your personal and professional development.

I found this past summer to be one of reconnection with loved ones and getting out to explore locally. A summer that felt just a little different from the rest.

My eyes were open to what I have taken for granted for so long, but also an appreciation for what I have in my life and what I want for myself and my family.

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Fall Reboot - 3 Ways to Get You Motivated and Back on Track

Summer 2021

Fall 2021 Carole Blackburn

In this article, I want to share with you 3 ways you can establish a solid routine when it comes to your daily living and give you the motivation to see it through.

1

Say goodbye to ambiguous goals and hello to defined and meaningful direction: If you feel overwhelmed and a little chaotic at times, it may mean each area of your life may not be clear with very specific goals or desired outcomes. Take some time to get clear on what you want for yourself in each area of your life: Health/Wellness, Relationships, Career/Business, Finances, Personal Projects, Giving. Write down each category and be specific about what you want, what you have already accomplished and what outcome you desire. The clearer you are in specific areas, the clearer your path to success will be.

2

Get to the WHY for each area of life and set boundaries: It’s very easy to set goals and have a list of all the things you want, but it’s another thing to feel like you have the absolute best intentions for yourself and those around you. As you go through your list from above, ask yourself this “Why is this so important to me?” You may find that many of the goals may not be relevant to you or they may be out of obligation to someone else. Once you have established clear and intentional reasoning for yourself, protect it with boundaries. Your time, energy and resources are precious and to not get sidetracked or lose your motivation, setting clear boundaries is a must! Clear communication and the ability to say no may feel scary, but it will give you the freedom you need to NOT end up overworked, exhausted and unable to take care of yourself.

3

Accountability is key! Never underestimate the power of being accountable to yourself and your rock-solid support system.

This means, find your people that will encourage you to see your goals through. People who will cheer you on and even tell you when it’s time to snap back into what you want if you fall off track. If your circle of influence is not exactly the support you should have, then it may be time to start setting those boundaries and find a tribe that will be there to support you and be happy for you! Toxicity and negativity are soul-crushing and can stop you dead in your tracks. Or worse, make you feel like you can’t accomplish anything you want. Be proactive, find likeminded people who genuinely care about you, and have the same zest for the life you want.

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Fall Reboot - 3 Ways to Get You Motivated and Back on Track

Summer 2021

Lastly, I want to let you know that consistency and effort need to be a guide-post to see your goals through and establish healthy routines that will last. Rome was not built in a day.

Neither are the things in life that are meaningful and make you feel good about yourself.

Be kind and compassionate when you don’t have a stellar day. Celebrate your wins and make sure you periodically look back at all the incredible progress you have made!

Fall 2021

Carole Blackburn

If the specific outcome was not what you expected it would be, maybe it was intended to be better because you have let go of expectations and stayed focused on what is important to you.

Savour each day - there are lessons to be learned and beautiful moments to witness everywhere you turn.

Make this the best 2021-2022 you can and enjoy every moment of your journey.

BY CAROLE BLACKBURN

www.caroleblackburn-lifecoach.com (click link to go to wesite)

email: success@caroleblackburn-lifecoach.com

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TAKE CARE OF YOU

ENJOY YOUR JOURNEY

LIVE LIFE ON YOUR OWN TERMS

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Never allow yourself to be defined by some one else's opinion of YOU!

I

have learned this lesson through a very difficult time in my life. I was in a highly abusive relationship for two lost years, with a narcissist. He took away my career, my reputation, my family, my friends...but mostly he took away ME..

BUT I have ME back now and am empowered and living my life on my terms, with love and joy. It has NOT been an easy journey. I have a deep faith and have learned to let go of things that do not serve or elevate my sense of being.

I AM NOT WHO YOU SAY I AM By ELIZABETH WRIGHT

The heinous acts he perpetrated upon me were evil and disgusting. All the while people who were my so called friends including family, chose to believe his lies and so I decided that they were not meant to be in my life. I let them go with the understanding they have their lessons to learn as well. It is extremely difficult when you have grown up with friends who you thought would have been supportive and family who blames you for the abuse you suffered from another.

It has been a helluva learning experience. And at times I fell into old beliefs and patterns. I was suicidal at one time because I just felt I could never get back up ... but I DID!

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ITwas

through my faith..my strength that came to me perhaps partly due to genetics. Knowing that I am here for a purpose...to teach and support others who are afraid and have suffered or are still in that place - that you can make it out and live a healthy happy life. I will not lie.. It is NOT easy... but with love and some key people in my life and a voracious desire to move forward, I did it. I am a holistic practitioner and have an animal rescue sanctuary where people and animals who are in need of healing come together and heal each other unconditionally.

People need to remember we can be taken to the bottom in a blink of an eye. Any one of us...do not judge be there - listen - don't ignore the signs - ask questions - help the best way you can. Don't turn a blind eye.

I AM NOT WHO YOU SAY I AM BY ELIZABETH WRIGHT

Currently, I am writing a book about my experience so that it may help someone going through the same things that I survived, to be even more empowered, not filled with bitterness. Now I look forward to opening my eyes every morning to see my dogs, cats, horses and pigs awaiting their morning cuddles and well.. yes.. food!

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Moving Forward Defining Change The Right Way Sarah Roberts My routine had changed. But the pull remained the same. Instead of leaving work and driving myself to the liquor store to pick up my favorite bottle of wine, I left college and had my boyfriend drive me to the grocery store to pick out my favorite flavor of ice cream. It accompanied me to the couch and, spoon in hand, I’d down the entire tub, desperately seeking the feeling, the dopamine hit, the rush and the crash of the sugar and insulin coursing through my veins. This became my new normal.

My daily habit.

My thing.

Everything had changed.

And nothing had changed.

“Is this what sobriety is supposed to feel like?”

I knew, deep down, that getting sober wasn’t the work. Not the real work, anyway. And yet it’s the hardest thing to not pick up the thing we’ve picked up for what feels like forever, and so it feels like the work.

But it’s just the beginning.

I had thought it was the end. I think a lot of people do and that’s one reason we struggle so hard. We think that getting rid of the one thing that’s messing up our lives will somehow fix all of our problems.

But what I’ve learned is that unless and until we realize our problems are there to teach us things, we will seek to avoid them and use outside substances to soothe inside pain.

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I'D

spent years using alcohol to soothe my pain, and when I removed my coping mechanism, I was left naked, raw, untethered and exposed. My problems didn’t magically disappear when I stopped drinking, and so I used sugar to fill the void booze left behind.

And it became another problem in my life.

Getting myself on a wellness path and seeking to heal mentally, emotionally and physically has been the greatest work of my life. I now see my body and my health in an entirely new way and it took this kind of paradigm shift to allow me to get off the hamster wheel of diet culture and into the joy of food freedom.

Moving Forward Defining Change The Right Way Sarah Roberts

Sobriety was my way IN. And now that I’m inside, there is so much work to do. My life’s work.

You have a way in, too. And I hope you don't stop until you find it.

Sarah Roberts

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RUNNING FOR CHARITIES by

Hi,

Tamara Leitch

my name is Tamara and I have a tremendous passion for helping people. I am a devoted athlete and health care professional and currently training for my fourth Boston Marathon. This is my twelfth marathon and I am proud to say that I run for charities including The Canadian Cancer Society, The Ottawa Heart Foundation, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute of Massachusetts, Brigham and Women's Hospital for Covid-19 research and the Special Olympics Foundation.

I grew up just outside of Ottawa in beautiful Manotick, Ont., then moved to the United States for my University education - and very proud to say that I graduated with my Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene with two minors in Psychology and Communication. I had the pleasure of coaching gymnastics for ten years, two of which were at Brown University. I am currently working in a private practice and as a Clinical Instructor in the Department of Dental Hygiene at the Canadian National Institute of Health in Ottawa and I absolutely love it!

I am also a very busy and devoted Mom of two very active teenaged boys Andrew and Jack.

Please take a look at the video below to get to know me a little better. (click link) I hope I can inspire you.

Lots of love, Tamara

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idYlDQbGf78

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BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU

INSPIRE & BE INSPIRED

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Inside and Out by Inside and Out Roja Baddepudi

am a 45 year old crazy women who is I outdoorsy and fun loving. I have a beautiful daughter who is 15 and my cute son is 9 years old. They are my life and of course not to forget my husband and my dog Lily. My husband and I are in this relationship for more than 15 years now and have survived so far. It was a Canada day weekend and I was super excited to go camping with my family and friends at a park which is an hour away from Ottawa. The weather forecast showed scattered showers but we were ok with it because it was our first outing after the COVID lockdown. We reached the campsite around late afternoon. We checked in to the campsite and were very excited to see all our friends checking in as well.

My friends prepared their tents which were a few meters away from our cabin and we all gathered in the evening near the tent sites to chill and chat. I was in my nice evening dress and summer flipflops and was enjoying strolling around the campsites. When it was time for dinner I wanted to go get some spoons from my cabin.

So I started walking towards my cabin taking a short cut instead of the pathway. There was a small rocky area close to my cabin and I used that path to come down through the rocks to the cabin. It was here, and at that moment, that I slipped and fell on the rocks that were a bit wet because of the rain that had happened a few hours before. I knew as soon as I fell that it was not a normal fall as I could hear my ankle bones crunching. I tried lifting my leg and I noticed that my foot twisted away from my leg and was hanging in a very strange way. My 9 year old son was playing basket ball close by and I gave a shout to him while I was lying down to call his Dad as I was not in a position to get up.

My husband came and carried me to the car and rushed me to emergency with the help of our friends.

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STAY STRONG

Inside and Out by Roja Baddepudi

T

he doctor diagnosed my injury after an X-ray and said it was multiple fractures near the ankle, and that I would have to go through surgery. The Journey from that day until today was completely unexpected and it was quite challenging to be mobile as I had to go between a wheel chair and a pair crutches.

I am still not completely recovered from my fracture. One day hopefully I will be able to walk properly. My family and friends have been very supportive and I am very thankful and blessed to have them in my life.

L

ife is full of surprises. Some are pleasant and some are not so pleasant. It is all about accepting everything and moving on with your life. We all have hard times and good times as these things are inevitable.

Every one has a story. Every one comes to this world with their bags of karma and have to walk through the journey of life by staying strong and happy. We have to stay positive when adversity confronts us.

If you want to make progress in life, avoid laziness and blaming yourself and blaming others.

Practice strong breathing through meditation.

Never give up and always stay strong..😊 WOMEN ROCK MAGAZINE |85

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