Mind: National Random Acts of Kindness Day & St. Valentine’s Day

elderly people doing activities

The Power of Random Acts of Kindness – Small Gestures, Big Impact Kindness doesn’t need a reason or an occasion. The simple act of brightening someone’s day is powerful at any age, but particularly meaningful for those who have experienced life’s ups and downs. In my 20’s, I was travelling on a B.C. Ferry to […]

Mind: National Global Community Engagement Day

comminity family gardening

A Giver’s Heart A few weeks ago, I was asked to write a character reference for a young man applying for a post-secondary scholarship. I was honoured.  I was delighted.  It was easy, and it was heart-warming. Michael is a familiar face in our community, someone I’ve had the privilege of knowing for a few […]

Giving Life and Hope

medicine on a shelf

The Gift of Life – A Season of Saving Lives   The holiday season shines with moments of joy and connection, but imagine the difference we could make if our giving extended beyond wrapped packages to something even more profound: the gift of life. I received a call this week from Canadian Blood Services, asking […]

Caregiver Appreciation Month

Caregiver with elderly

Honouring Caregiver Appreciation Month   November is Caregiver Appreciation Month.  Preparing for this article caused me to reflect on my own journey in caregiving. I imagine many of you reading this have your specific stories, each with its unique challenges and gifts. For me, it all began many years ago when my brothers and I […]

Gratitude and Togetherness: A Thanksgiving Reflection

Thanksgiving dinner with close family

As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re reminded of the powerful sense of gratitude that unites us. Can you feel it too? The warmth of loved ones gathering around a table, the aroma of a lovingly prepared meal, and the spirit of togetherness that fills the air – these elements combine to create a holiday steeped in both […]

Celebrate World Alzheimer’s Day

Celebrate World Alzheimer’s Day

Image created by AI tool Visual Content Creator PRO – the author has the provenance and copyright Embrace the Canadian Charter of Rights for People with Dementia On September 21, we recognize World Alzheimer’s Day, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. There are more than 25 […]

Paws and Pals For a Longer and Better Life

Paws and Pals For a Longer and Better Life

Celebrating International Friendship Day and Assistance Dog Week Imagine you’re at a cozy café, sipping your favourite beverage, and laughing with a trusted friend. There is joy, comfort, shared stories, and warm memories.  Perhaps you are just sitting together quietly, basking in the contentment of peaceful contemplation.  All of these moments do more than just […]

Your Next Adventure,Travel Tips Part 2

Family on a beach adventure

Your Next Adventure,Travel Tips Part 2 Opening New Doors With Advanced Travel Tips Image created by AI tool Visual Content Creator PRO — the author has the provenance and copyright Welcome back, intrepid traveller! Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or gearing up for your first adventure in a while, there’s always something new to learn to make […]

United Against Elder Abuse

Seniors holding hands in a park

Stories of Strength and Hope     “On this Day, I call upon Member States and civil society to strengthen their resolve and redouble their efforts to eliminate all forms of violence and abuse against older people.” — UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon   Mary’s Story: Mary’s son-in-law pressured her into giving him money to help pay […]

Music as Therapy…… Not Just for Alzheimer’s

Music as therapy has been around since Plato’s days, but it really only took off as a science after the First World War, when musicians living near hospitals and convalescent homes were asked to play for recuperating veterans. Since then formal university programs have sprung up, and music therapists are now accredited by national or […]