women with vision ® fall, 2014

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VISION! Fall Issue 2014 WE ARE CANADIAN BUSINESS • HEALTH • FASHION • GOURMET • DESIGN • ART • ENTERTAINMENT • MOTIVATION • DESTINATIONS Women with Showcasing Business & Lifestyle in South Georgian Bay Tips FOR PET TRAVEL HAVE A FALL feast feast 16th ANNIVERSARY ISSUE Hollywood MARKETING Hollywood MARKETING Take A Personal Style Quiz Take A Personal Style Quiz The fall Issue Brenda VanTorre Barnim Brenda VanTorre Barnim My abc’s of life My abc’s of life

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Women with Vision.™ is a networking organization that educates, promotes, motivates and inspires.

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Page 1: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

VISION!Fall Issue 2014

W E A R E C A N A D I A N

BUSINESS • HEALTH • FASHION • GOURMET • DESIGN • ART • ENTERTAINMENT • MOTIVATION • DESTINATIONS

Women with

Showcasing Business & Lifestyle in South Georgian Bay

TipsFOR PETTRAVEL

HAVE AFALLfeastfeast

16thANNIVERSARYISSUE

HollywoodMARKETINGHollywoodMARKETING

Take APersonal

Style Quiz

Take APersonal

Style Quiz

The

fallIssue

BrendaVanTorreBarnim

BrendaVanTorreBarnimMy abc’s of lifeMy abc’s of life

Page 2: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

51 Eliminate Procrastination By Karen Sencich

52 6 Tips For Pet Travel By Dr. Tina Grey

Arts &Entertainment58 Singing For My Life By Lorraine Leslie

Motivational & Inspirational64 Brenda VanTorre Barnim... My ABC’s Of Life By Lorraine Leslie

71 Following Your Dreams By Marj Sawers

72 Living Life’s Simplest Essence By Deborah Johnson

Destinations74 The Camino De Santiago By Jane Tilley

76 Lest We Forget By Lorraine Leslie

Lifestyle & Beauty14 ABC’s of Entrepreneurial Health Debbie Bullock

17 Automatic Balancing... Consciously Jessy Morrison

18 Anorexia vs. Healthy Eating By Lesley Paul

24 ABC’s of Dressing Well By Marilyn Wetston

26 Personal Style Quiz International Image Institute Inc.

32 Beautiful You Fall Makeovers By Jeannine Faubert

Georgian Gourmet34 ABC’s Of Cooking By Susanne Mikler

36 Fabulous Fall Feast By Lorraine Leslie

40 Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili By Amanda Wood

Home, Garden& Design46 ABC’s Of House Hunting By Monika Gibson

48 The Second Harvest By Janet Kurasz

Fall 2014

64

On the CoverBrenda VanTorreBarnim

28

Regular Features 6 Editor’s Desk ~

ABC’s Of Business By Lorraine Leslie

78 Life Numbers By Paola Gucciardi

79 As The Mountain Turns Georgian Bay Life & Pictorial 82 Last Word By Lorraine Leslie

83 Vision Wordsearch By Lorraine Leslie

Business, Finance& Communication8 How To Master The Art Of Follow Up By Susan Baka

9 Hollywood Marketing By Janette Burke

10 ABC’s Of Networking By Donna Messer

11 When One Is Better Than Two By Rick Ziemski

12 The Value Of Writing Those ABC’s By Mary Ann Matthewsco

ntents

Page 3: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

www.womenwithvision.ca 5

To advertise call:

1-866-306-6021or e-mail:

[email protected]

Wo m e n w i t h Vi s i o n ! ™ m a g a z i n e

i s p u b l i s h e d b y Wo m e n w i t h Vi s i o n I n c .

Founder/Publisher, C.E.O. Lorraine Leslie

Sales/Marketing: Lorraine Leslie

Feature Writers: Susan Baka, Janette Burke, Monika Gibson,

Paola Gucciardi, Deborah Johnson,

Janet Kurasz, Lorraine Leslie, Donna Messer,

Marj Sawers, Karen Sencich, Marilyn Wetston, Rick Ziemski

Select Design/Layout: Candice Lewis |www.candicelewis.ca

Special Mini Feature Design/Select Ad Design: Lorraine Leslie

Cover Photography: Elise McMillan

Sectional Page Photography: Dreamstime.com

Feature Photography:Lorraine Leslie/L’original Productions |Women with Vision Inc.

Lifestyle & Gourmet Features: Lorraine Leslie/L’original Productions-Women with Vision Inc.

Proof Readers: Lorraine Leslie, Margaret Adolphe

Style Quizs: International Image Institute Inc.

Women with Vision!™ magazine aims to provide editorials thateducate, motivate and inspire people of all ages and from allwalks of life, and to promote success in business and daily living.

Mailing Address:156 Brophy’s LaneBlue Mountains ON L9Y 0K3

Bus: 1-866-306-6021Fax : (705) 445-7153 Email: [email protected]

Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome. Copyright 2014Women with Vision! Inc. No part of this publication may bereproduced in whole or in part, without the written permissionof the publisher. The views, opinions expressed herein are notnecessarily those of this publication and/or publisher whohereby disclaims any liability whatsoever arising from theadvice, information or offers presented in articles oradvertisements herein. Women with Vision! welcomessubmissions, but accepts no responsibility for unsolicitedmaterials. All manuscripts, illustrations and photographssubmitted must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressedenvelope if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Readerswho require legal, accounting or other expert advice shouldobtain the services of a qualified professional.Women withVision! is a Member of the Canadian Copyright Association.

Created in Canada

Customer number: 9067964

RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN TO

156 Brophy's Lane, Blue Mountains ON L9Y 0K3

o YESsend me 5 issues of

VISION!™ MAGAZINE

clip and mail this order form to: 156 Brophy's Lane, Blue Mountains

ON L9Y 0K3 along with a cheque or money order made payable to

Women with Vision Inc.

Subscribe Today!

VISION!VISION!™

Subscribe below or online at www.womenwithvision.ca

Women with

VISION!Women with

Name__________________________________________________

Address________________________________________________

Phone#_________________________________________________

e-mail__________________________________________________

Credit Card no. ________________________________________

Expiry Date____________________________________________

Name on Card _______________________________________

for $14.00+ HST $1.82

at $15.82

Page 4: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

6 www.womenwithvision.ca

The feature people about whom I write, have traveled a long, winding road to success – each one on their ownjourney; a journey that sometimes hasn't been smooth. These people open their hearts to inspire and motivateothers, of all ages, to follow their dreams and passions, creating their ultimate VISION!™

Working with entrepreneurs most of my life, I’velearned the three most valuable ABC’s of Business are:

Acquire business knowledge;

Build and develop skills; and

Cultivate relationships

In 1998, the very first Women with Vision conferencewas held in Collingwood Ontario. Shortly afterward aone page black-and-white newsletter was distributed atthe region’s first chapter of Women with VisionNetworking Meetings; I’ve dedicated my life toeducating, motivating, inspiring and promoting womenin business and daily living. Through this commitment,I have acquired business knowledge to sustain a growingand successful magazine, networking association,television show as well as coaching and mentoringpractice supporting many new start up businesses andentrepreneurs.

The magazine you are reading has gone throughnumerous transformations. As I continually build anddeveloped my skills in the publishing industry along withmy team of writers, we collectively contribute to the‘vision’ of bringing you the most up to date informationon running a business, enhancing your daily living andmost importantly keeping the lines of communicationopen for women of all ages and from all walks of life.

Through cultivating relationships I have seen the impacton small business owners who need assistance insustaining their business or encouragement to continueand follow their dream. I’ve certainly built a followingof faithful customers, business colleagues and made newand lasting friends along the way. It’s certainly been apleasure to work with so many confident andprofessional colleagues.

I am proud to announce that we are now ready to launchthe Women with Vision Institute!© in October 2014.It’s been a long time coming. The Women with VisionInstitute will educate women entrepreneurs in variousmodalities through workshops, seminars and trainingmodules taught by seasoned entrepreneurs.

More than 50% of small businesses in Canada are run bywomen, so it’s the natural thing to do – work together toassist each other in creating and growing our visions andmake our businesses a reality.

Join me and my team and celebrate Women with Visionand the NEW Women with Vision Institute as we moveforward at this exciting time. We’re here to assist youwith the ABC’s of your business – that’s what we are allabout.

Women with Vision!® was created for YOU! You areall women with vision...I’m the woman who cares aboutyour goals in life and how collectively we can all helppave the way for other like-minded women in business.

Our vision is your mission – your mission is our vision!©

Footnote:Thank you for your continuous calls,emails, letters and cards; but most ofall, thank you for your continuedsupport over the past sixteenyears :)

Nominated for

Lorraine LeslieFounder/Publisher

2005, 2006,2009 & 2010

The EDITOR’S desk

The ABC’s of business start small...with a thought, a goal and along term vision. Sixteen years has passed since Women withVision!® started, and what a ride it’s been.

abc’s of Business &BUSINESS, FINANCE

COMMUNICATIONBUSINESS, FINANCE

COMMUNICATION…connecting through

educational &networking updates

…connecting through educational &

networking updates

© Photoroller | Dream

stime.com

2013 International Toastmasters Communication & Leadership Award

Page 5: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

www.womenwithvision.ca 9

BUSINESS, FINANCE& COMMUNICATION

What Hollywood specifically knows about movie-makingpales in comparison to what they know about marketingin general. They are able to convince millions of people toleave the comfort of their homes and go to movie theatresto spend thousands of dollars a year, or so, for less thantwo hours of mediocre entertainment in order to make theirpromotional efforts pay off.

It’s all about Marketing! The way Hollywood marketsmovies is of great benefit to small business owners. Justlike us movie producers want to protect their investmentsin their businesses and turn a profit. So they invest inmarketing national campaigns purposely designed to get asegment of the public, and most importantly for them totake action.

When a new movie is released, you see TV and webadvertising around it with the best teaser highlightpreviews to get you excited. Often these ads are tied-inwith fast-food chain promotions making you want to seethe movie event even more. At the same time, the stars ofthe movies make the talk shows rounds. This isn't a luckycoincidence. Every one of these activities is part of acarefully constructed marketing campaign to make youwant to wait in a line-up to watch that movie at the theatre,rent it online, or buy it when it comes out on DVD.

So how can you, the small business owner, possiblycompete with Hollywood’s marketing? Well, the truth isyou can't. However you can learn a lot from how they getthe job done. It all starts with knowing your customer, andwhere he or she is most likely to see or hear about yourproduct or service, and then creating ways to show upwhere they are at.

Now you likely won’t get booked on national talk showswithout a well-written press release conveying your clever

pitch, angle, hook or story line, supported by a propermedia kit, designated media section of your website andtargeted media contact list, just like that. But you certainly can and should show up on someone's Google Handout,web-TV series and podcast, as well as in their newsletter.And don’t forget social media posts.

The trick to employing the ABC’s of Hollywood marketingin your marketing is to think bigger, think more and thinklike a Hollywood producer.

When you do, you’re bound to experience blockbusterresults.

So go ahead and shine that inner star!

I look forward to seeing you in thelimelight!

By Janette Burke

n Janette Burke Marketing/PR Coach, Consultant and Columnist Fempreneur Marketing Mentor, Host, I’m Every Woman! TV [email protected] www.yourmarketingmagnet.com

8 www.womenwithvision.ca

Phot

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Van

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Here are five tips to get results from prospect follow ups:

1. Have a process. When business is brisk, we tend tofall down on follow up with new prospects. Put aprocess in place, including a calendar and what actionyou’ve taken so that you don’t lose track of valuableopportunities. And follow up with indirect prospects:gather website data about who has visited your site ordownloaded information from it. Make sure that youcontact event and trade show attendees too.

2. Tell them what you want. It sounds simple, but you’dbe surprised how easy it is to take your eyes off theprize. If you want a meeting, for instance, ask for it.But don’t be needy or vague. For example, don't justsay, "Could we please meet sometime?" Say, "I’mavailable to meet on (date and time). Are you free then?"

3. Break through the noise with multiple media andcreativity. It was a long time ago that MarshallMcLuhan coined the phrase, "The medium is themessage." But with all the distractions andcompetitors approaching your target, it’s as true todayas it ever was. Phone calls can go to voicemail. Emailscan get lost in a full inbox. But a postcard or certifiedmail piece can be an attention getter. You have to bebold, creative and memorable in your communication.For example, send a mini flashlight with the message,“I appreciated your time today. I hope you found ourconversation as illuminating as I did.”

4. Get personal. Include something about the prospectas an individual (you’d be amazed what you can findout via social media), like where she/he went to schoolor a previous city lived in. You can also customize andshow your value by sending articles or information ofinterest (without including a sales pitch). When youdo pitch, focus on helping by solving a businessproblem or issue.

5. Know when and how to back off. By using acombination of email, phone, note, package, etc. youcan make up to six or seven follow up attempts. Onceyou get some attention, if you’re unsure whether theprospect is ready for a follow up meeting, ask if it ispremature to schedule one and what you need to dofirst. If it becomes obvious that you aren’t going tomake a sale, why continue? A good “Dear John” letter,however, doesn’t slam shut the door. Instead, itconcisely recaps why you were trying to connect,including your value proposition and is friendlyenough to let the recipient reply now or in the future.

By changing up your follow upmethods, using a little humour, andshowing yourself to be a valuableconnection to have, you will beremembered – not as a nuisance, butin a positive way. And being wellregarded drives sales.

n Susan Baka, President Bay Communications & Marketing Inc. [email protected] www.baycomm.ca

BUSINESS, FINANCE& COMMUNICATION

….The ABCs (Always Be Closing) of sales need a little updating in today’s market

By Susan Baka

HOW TO MASTERthe Art of Follow Up

It’s rare to make a sale on the first attempt with a new prospect. In fact, a HarvardBusiness Review study found that 80% of new business materializes on or after the fifthsales attempt. Follow up is vital. But how do you keep prospects interested? When andhow often should you follow up? You don’t want to be forgotten, but you also don’t wantto become an annoying pest. And you don’t want to waste your time with those who willnever buy your product or service.

HollywoodMarketing

The ABC’s of

For the Toronto International Film Festival, the Grammies and even the Oscars,celebrities get ready to walk the red carpets at their movie premiers well in advance ofthe event. Having experience in hosting and creating my own television show...just likethe publisher of Women with Vision Magazine, Lorraine Leslie...I thought I would takethis opportunity to share with you the ABC’s of Marketing Hollywood Style.

© Christos Georghiou | Dream

stime.com

Page 6: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

www.womenwithvision.ca 1110 www.womenwithvision.ca

The A is for ACHIEVE. To accomplish the goals weset for ourselves. In networking this means we follow asystematic process that can produce measurable results.

Below is the action plan to achieve those goals.

• Start with a vision -What would you like to accomplish?• Next give yourself a mission statement, when and

what do you want to accomplish? • Follow up with an objective, use the SMART

acronym, specific, measurable, accountable, realisticand time bound.

• Move on to the strategy - how will you accomplishwhat you’ve envisioned?

• Finally what plan will you put into place to makethat vision work?

The results of your simple action plan will provide thesolutions you need to accomplish your goals.Remember, Goals are just dreams with a destination!

The B is for BELIEVE - To have integrity and to lookfor others who share a similar vision. Believe inyourself and others; find common ground. This is animportant part of business building.

Be systematic and focused. Be upfront on the ROI

you expect from your networking. Give to Get.

Ethical networking is building business that is oftenbased on perception; we perceive that because wenetwork is a specific way, others will do the same. Weneed to learn to become more aware of why peoplenetwork. Some network to sell, some to buildrelationships, while others network for alliances andjoint ventures. Decide where your best fit may be.

The C is for CLARIFY - to free from confusion; to beunderstood; to become clear. When you network, youneed to state clearly and concisely who you are, whatyou need and what you can share.

Use a 30 second infomercial. Ask open ended

questions. Listen to responses. Share resources.

Clarification is a one of the first rules of networking.Never assume, clarify the information you need as wellas what you can share with others. Ask questions thatwill enable you to make wise decisions. People likepeople who are like themselves, try building rapportusing common interests, associations, and industries.

7 Steps to Good Networking

• Be prepared – have plenty of business cards• Be open minded – have a We not Me attitude• Don’t be afraid to ask – but “give to get”• Build your network wisely,

use social capital• Say Thank You – in writing! • Don’t waste your resources –

use the Internet• Set realistic & achievable goals

be accountable

BUSINESS, FINANCE& COMMUNICATION

By Donna Messer

n Donna Messer Networking Expert, International Speaker www.connectuscanada.com

I’m always looking for ways to enhance business opportunities and in keeping with theWomen with Vision fall theme let’s focus on the ABC’ of networking…

ABC’S of NetworkingBUSINESS, FINANCE& COMMUNICATION

When Oneis Better Than

Two“There's a way of transferring funds that is even faster

than electronic banking. It's called marriage.”~ Oscar Wilde

One of the best things in life for me is walking withouta crowd. So naturally I’m a bit of a contrarian,particularly when it comes to the subject of advice forbest money management practices for married couples.In fact I am amazed at how much published advice from“financial advisors” is frequently aimed at telling the“sheep” what they want to hear; namely that the bestmoney management techniques are the ones that makeyou feel most “comfortable”. They can be acquired withthe greatest of ease; no change of behavior, nothingcomplicated, no new disciplines or learning necessary.All you need is separate bank accounts and the onlyspending that needs to go through a joint account is forthe basics of food and shelter. Sound like rubbish?Absolutely!

A couple or a family is an “economic unit”, no differentthan any other economic unit such as a government orcorporation. The challenges are the same. There ismoney flowing in and out that needs to be controlled andthere is a need for a strong balance sheet, mixing assetsand debts properly to avoid bankruptcy. Couples need tobuild a strong net worth over time (net worth = assets -debts). For a couple, net worth determines how well theywill retire or even whether they get to retire at all. Forcorporations good money management processes andsystems have evolved over time. The fundamentals havebeen standardized and widely accepted and theprofessionals who run these systems do not allow sub-structures in these organizations to do whatever makesthem feel “comfortable.” So each department does notget to have its own bank account. Isn’t that amazing?

They keep one set of financial records, a single chequingaccount along with short and long term investingaccounts. All transactions must flow through the singlesystem and be kept in one set of software based records.

Through this system of centralized financial control abusiness can derive greater leverage from the moneythat it has worked hard to earn. So why anyone wouldadvise a couple or family to do anything different thanpool their money and follow a similar formal process ofmoney management is beyond me? The only possiblereason is to ingratiate the advisor with clients who areafraid of change and learning or who don’t want theirmarital union to include financial union.

On the latter point, it seems ridiculous to stand at thealtar and make a life commitment that might go like this;“I promise to love and honour you and to share with youthe most intimate aspects of my life with fulltransparency, except for my finances, about which Iwant you to know as little as possible.” Marital unionthat excludes finances is a breeding ground for poorcommunication, build up of suspicions and eventualfinancial infidelity. Marital counselors claim financialinfidelity to be as serious a problem as emotional andphysical infidelity. A financial system that includes jointaccounts, joint record keeping, family budgeting withregular review and communication not only enhancesthe power of family money but also strengthens themarital bond through its high level of transparency.

So if you are prepared to share your bed, your body andyour deepest feelings with someone then why not yourfinances too. And if that doesn’t make sense, then justremember that if and when yousplit up the law divides it all in halfanyway.

n Richard Ziemski, C.A. Management Consultant [email protected] www.linkedin.com/in/rickziemski

By Rick Ziemski

© Penyw

ise | Dream

stime.com

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12 www.womenwithvision.ca www.womenwithvision.ca 13

I disagree.

There have been many cycles of

rise and decline in handwriting

throughout all of known history.

In every cycle of decline in

handwriting one thing remains

true – those who could not write

were always in a worse position

than those who could write. We

are already in the phase where

only those who are wealthier

and can afford private schooling, tutoring or home

schooling will ensure that their children are able to read

and produce cursive handwriting.

Although I deal with printing, scribbling and doodling as

well as cursive writing, I want to urge readers to take a

look at the value of writing in longhand. Here is some

interesting information:

Do you want to be smarter? Just grab a pen or pencil.

According to The Wall Street Journal, more and more

studies show that good-old-fashioned handwriting boosts

brainpower in everyone from kids to seniors.

Handwriting is a functional task. It is a way of expressing

thoughts, ideas and knowledge. It is a very complex skill

that encompasses visual motor coordination, higher-level

cognitive processes, perceptual abilities, tactile

sensitivity, kinesthetic sensitivity, spatial organization,

temporal control and the integration of written language.

Neuroscience and cognitive science research are

providing strong correlations to cursive handwriting,

resulting in higher scores in reading, improved eye-hand

coordination, and dexterity. The physical activity of

writing in cursive strengthens neural pathways and calms

the emotional brain.

Writing is harder to forge than printing.

If you cannot sign your own name, you

cannot put your own thumbprint`` on

critical transactions like a bank loan, a

mortgage, a lease, a car purchase,

permission for medical procedures,

income tax returns, court documents,

land deed or a will. Misreading

prescriptions and illegible record-

keeping can result in costly and

potentially life-threatening errors.

Our society continues to value handwritten notes over less

personal, typed, or emailed messages.

It would be a cultural loss if our children were unable to

read the handwritten messages in family albums, letters

from grandparents, and historical documents. The loss of

the ability to write by hand will have the most profound

impact on our children’s future.

There is no need to give up texting and keyboarding.

Why not do both?

We pay a lot of attention to physical fitness and physical

workouts these days. Let`s do ourselves a big favour and

have a mental workout. Starting writing! The rewards are

endless.

By Mary Ann Matthews

n Mary Ann Matthews, CGA Certified Graphoanalyst Certified Cursive Writing Coach [email protected] www.handwriting.ca

BUSINESS, FINANCE& COMMUNICATION

THE VALUE OF WRITINGTHOSE ABC’S

Far too often people ask me, “Why do you continue to analyze handwriting? Cursivewriting is a lost art. With the increased popularity of keyboarding, i-pads, texting, etc.,handwriting is no longer valued. You are flogging a dead horse.”

...living lifeat its best

LIFESTYLE BEAUTY&

© M

artinmark | Dream

stime.com

Page 8: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

I don’t have time to get sick, injured or take time off to

help a loved one. My business wouldn’t survive if I

couldn’t be there every day!

Does this sound like you?

I’ve loved spending the past

fifteen years dealing with

families who want to make

sure their financial health

is taken care of, just like

their home and car (and

even now lawyer’s fees).

I can’t tell you how

many appointments I

have had to reschedule

because I receive a last

minute call…“my

mother had a fall and

I need to go to the

hospital” or “ my

child broke their arm

and we’re headed

to the hospital”.

Well, my conclusion is

‘life happens’ and it is

often not an “if”

but a “when”! So in

retrospect I now offer

the ABC’s of life,

which includes an

Automatic Business

Compensation package

for Women with Vision!

Entrepreneurs –simply,

financial security for

whatever happens...

As an entrepreneur ask yourself these five questions:

1.What would happen to my business (and family) if

my income stopped due to illness or injury?

2. How long will my emergency fund last? (Yikes! I

don’t have an emergency fund! All my money goes

back into my business!)

3. How do I pay for office space and employees if you

can’t work?

4. Am I prepared to dip into my retirement savings and

how long will that last?

5. How will the income continue to flow?

As entrepreneurs we all try to keep our taxable income

down as low as possible so we may not qualify for

traditional disability insurance from insurance

companies – they often determine the amount you are

eligible for as per your taxable income! Or because you

only have a couple of employees, some small businesses

don’t qualify for traditional group benefits…so what’s a

businesswomen to do?

Luckily in today’s hectic world there are options for

Entrepreneurs like us when it comes to income

continuation, health care and medical benefits…and

having it lets me sleep at night!

Peace of mind is what I need when I’m working and

having an ABC (Automatic Business Compensation©*)

package in place has given me the security in knowing

my family and I will be taken

care of should my ABC’s of life

be called upon…how about you?

By Debbie Bullock

n Debbie Bullock Independent Insurance Broker Founder of Savvy Sense Financial Education for Women www. Savvysense.ca

Many Entrepreneurs are often so caught up in their business and continually trying tomove it forward to the next stage, that sometimes they lose sight of the fact that ifthey get sick, have an accident or find themselves in the position that they need timeoff to care for a child, parent or spouse…they don’t know what to do!

ABC’Sof Entrepreneurial Health

*phrase created by Lorraine Leslie

LIFESTYLE& BEAUTY

M A G A Z I N E™

Women with

14 www.womenwithvision.ca

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www.womenwithvision.ca 1716 www.womenwithvision.ca

However what we learned in kindergarten no longer servesus. At the very least it is outdated, at the worst it is distortedand keeps us stuck, ill, or unfulfilled.

We are not content to just “go to school, get a job, get married,have kids, and retire…”. We’ve realized that this is NOT theformula for Inspired Living. More and more people arewaking up to a more conscious lifestyle.

Our goal is simple: We want to overcome our personalbarriers, to give back and realize our highest potential.

What if all it takes to live the life of your dreams is learninghow to Automatically Balance our energy Consciously. Thenew ABC’s of inspired living “Automatic BalancingConsciously©”, a phrase coined by my friend LorraineLeslie, to explain the skills we now need but were nevertaught, to help us live life to the fullest.

Here is three easy ways to start living your authentic inspired life…

A• A used to be for “An Apple a day keeps the doctor away”.

They were on the right track but with the advent ofprocessed foods people forgot this old adage, and now wehave to heal what we messed up and take it to the next level.

• Alkalize your body, your mind and spirit. Eat your greens,live foods, veggies and fruits. Processed food creates anacidic environment depriving your body and brain ofoxygen, ripening the development of germs, inflammation,pain, depression, excess weight, and more unconsciousnegative thinking.

• Avoid negative sources – people, places, things and habits.• Acknowledge where you are now in

mood desire or deed, (withoutjudgment) so you can move forwardtowards your goals.

• Accept that there is never just oneright Answer – school taught us therewas only one - the one the teacherwanted; but we know differently nowdon’t we.

• Answers are not solutions; in orderfor energy to move we must AskQuestions, rather than makeconclusions or limited decisionsbased on fear or playing small. Andat all times strike a fair deal – itsgood karma

B• BREATHE deeply and allow yourself to receive Life Force

energy. When you inhale and exhale deeply it isphysiologically impossible to remain stressed, and you allowyour body and all your cells to awaken your power andpotency within, keeping you balanced. That’s why your bodyinvented yawning to reboot your system, and de-stress you!

• Breathing allows you to Believe in You! and BE Yourself!BE inspiring, BE passionate, and BE BIG and Bold! Just BEexcited, life is a gift, not a drudgery to be endured. Bemindful, Be true to your values, BE real and settle fornothing less in others.

• Break bread together and eat family meals together. In factbake bread together it’s a fun way to spend time. Creatememories together – oops that’s a C

C• Care about others• Choose CAN instead of CANNOT and live in the “Yes” of

possibility. • Choose your thoughts, consciously not on automatic pilot.• Have the Courage to Convert your thoughts into positive

actions

Challenges make life interesting,overcoming challenges makes livingmeaningful, stimulating and stretchesyou; When you welcome challenges theydo not paralyze you, they help youdiscover who you truly can BE!

We were taught that Music begins with Do Re Mi. Numbers begin with 1, 2, 3; and learning began with A, B, C.

AUTOMATIC BALANCING...ConsciouslyBy Jessy Morrison

n Jessy Morrison Body Talk - [email protected]

7 third Street,collingwood

[email protected]

New LocatioNNew LocatioN• Tattoo Removal• Electrolysis• Permanent Makeup

LIFESTYLE& BEAUTY

VISION!Women with

VISION!Women with

INSTITUTE

© Dream

stime.com

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www.womenwithvision.ca 1918 www.womenwithvision.ca

We look in the mirror and wish we were skinnier, morebeautiful, fitter or smaller. The media bombards us from allangles with touched-up images of models that epitomizehuman perfection. And this summer, the fashion industry hitus one more time when retailer J. Crew came out with thesize 000 clothes.

By adolescence, more than half of teenage girls (and evenboys) feel the pressure to be thin and beautiful. Thispressure erodes our self-esteem, increases anxiety and insome cases leads to eating disorders.

According to the National Eating Disorder InformationCentre, approximately one percent of the adult populationsuffers from an eating disorder. Although more common inwomen, men are not immune as the fashion industryfocuses on male models that appear slimmer and moreandrogynous. Mainstream attitudes towards food andweight begin at a very young age. Sadly, the earlier a child

begins obsessing about his/her weight through strict dietingthe more likely they are to develop an eating disorder.

There are three main types of eating disorders: Anorexianervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder.Although they have different symptoms, they all have onething in common; an unhealthy obsession with body imagethat affects the person’s self-esteem. They often feel thatthey are out of control and being able to manage one’sweight to what they feel is acceptable helps them to feel incontrol.

Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by inadequate foodintake leading to dangerously low weight and an intense fearof weight gain. There is often an inability to truly appreciatethe severity of the disorder. Obviously, such restriction canhave serious consequences such as heart and kidneyproblems, bone loss, digestive problems and even fertilityproblems. Sadly, up to ten percent of those with anorexia

nervosa will die fromcomplications or suicide.

On the other hand, those withBulimia Nervosa frequentlyconsume very large amounts offood and then purge by self-induced vomiting or extensivelaxative use. Long-term, thesehabits can also lead to kidney anddigestive problems as well asdehydration and damage to themouth, teeth and throat due tovomiting. Those with Binge-eatingdisorder have similar behaviours,however they do not find ways to

“Put your make-up onGet your nails done

Curl your hairRun the extra mile

Keep it slim so they like you, do they like you?”*

ANOREXIA VS.

Healthy EatingBy Lesley Paul, B.Sc. Phm

LIFESTYLE& BEAUTY LIFESTYLE& BEAUTY

© Arne9001 | Dream

stime.com

prevent weight gain. They often feelashamed or guilty about their habits thatcan lead to weight gain, Type 2 diabetesand high blood pressure. While it seems that those with an eatingdisorder are focused on food and bodyimage, the roots run much deeper.Eating disorders are complexconditions involving behavioural,biological, emotional, psychologicaland social factors. To say that the mediais solely responsible for causing aneating disorder is wrong, although itcertainly contributes to the low self-esteem of many.

Eating disorders can be treated.Actually seeking treatment is probablythe most challenging aspects of healing.Not only will they have to face theirworst fear of gaining weight but there isalso the discussion of the guilt andshame felt with the illness. Treatment ofan eating disorder will often involvemany health professionals. It mayinclude hospitalization to treat the physical symptoms,counseling (cognitive-behavioural therapy and interpersonaltherapy), support groups, stress management, and in somecases medication to help with mood problems that oftenaccompany eating disorders. It is common for the entirefamily or even friends to be involved in treatment especiallywhen it involves a young person. Treatment will take time andmay be ongoing, but a full recovery is possible.

“You don’t have to try so hardYou don’t have to give it all away

You just have to get up, get up, get up, get upYou don’t have to change a single thing.

…Take a breathLook into the mirror, at yourself

Don’t you like you?‘Cause I like you.”*

For more information on eating disorders:• National Eating Disorders Information Centre (nedic.ca)• Canadian Mental Health Association (cmha.ca)• National Eating Disorders Association

(nationaleatingdisorders.org)

*Caillat, Colbie. “Try.” “Gypsy Heart”, 2014

Republic Records

n Lesley Paul, Pharmacist [email protected]

VISION!M A G A Z I N E

Women with

Page 11: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

Finding Health Clinic

ReikiBodyTalk

NLP Hypnosis Timeline Therapy

EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique)

Workshops and more

Are you looking for an alternative health care system that has

the power to transform your health...one that respects and

operates in cooperation with your body’s priorities and needs?

Then Jessy’s “Finding Health” Clinic is for you! Grandma listen to the birds singing!

Hearing is essential to allow us to communicate

thoughts, feelings and ideas with one another.

Hearing loss is the third most chronic medical

condition experienced by the general population.

Aside from reducing our ability to communicate

with one another as our hearing diminishes we may

also experience depression, isolation,

embarrassment and in some cases dementia.

An Audiologist is responsible for helping

rehabilitate the auditory system. Just as a

physiotherapist helps rehabilitate a hip or knee

replacement.

Mark Neukom is a certified Audiologist at Blue

Mountain Audiology. He is passionate about

improving people’s ability to communicate with one

another. An improvement that can be achieved not

only by hearing aids, but also PSAPs (personal

sound amplification products), auditory training,

aural rehabilitation, education and counseling.

Mark has many interests and holds degrees in

engineering, medicine and music. These interests

have provided Mark with a unique perspective to

hearing, hearing loss and its rehabilitation.

If you have any questions about hearing loss or

would like to chat with Mark Neukom contact

[email protected]

Find, Optimize and Maintain

your Health with Us.

Call Jess to reduce your stress!

705 241-8680

www.jessymorrison.ca

Photography © Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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Page 12: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

We at COLLINGWOOD SPORT MEDICINE/Life Mark Health, are dedicated to work-ing with you to reduce the time between your injury and your return to activity. We want to help

you enjoy the life you were meant to live.

Many Canadians under-estimate the seriousness of their injuries and don't seek adequate or

timely treatment. They hope things will get better by relying on remedies, or by using over-the-

counter medications which often provide only short-term relief. Unfortunately these treatments

don't address the cause of the injury and may in fact prolong the pain.

Our Therapy Team can help you. We are highly skilled at relieving the cause of your pain by

getting to the root of your injury. Using a broad understanding of all of your bodily systems we

assess and diagnose your problem.

Physiotherapists create a customized program which encompasses numerous therapeutic tools

combined with focused exercise protocols. Our goal is to get you on the road to recovery and

discharge you in a timely manner with a program you can continue at home.

Trust our TEAM! They have over 100+ years of combined physiotherapy experience!

If physical pain from injury is inhibiting you in your

everyday life - you are not alone...

Why Physiotherapy?Why Not!Why Not!

imagine a life without pain...imagine a life without pain...

© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

omen with Vision! M

agazine™

© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

omen with Vision! M

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Page 13: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

We all learn to read and write and build a vocabulary so we can communicate with oneanother. Each year the dictionary adds new words like "Selfie". To relate we need to keepup with the language of today both verbally and in the way we dress. Author MalcomGladwell pointed out that we create an impression in the time it takes to blink!

www.womenwithvision.ca 25

Dressing is a key method of communicating. Your clothesare the vocabulary and how you combine them pullstogether your message. Your accessories are thepunctuation.

Usually the more exact the word you use to share an ideathe less words you have to say. A current and variedvocabulary gives you the most efficient way to express anidea.

Similarly, the fashion world offers new trends eachseason so we have new ways of expressing ourselves. Wecan take our basics, add fresh items and reinventourselves so our look has positive impact and relateseffectively. The truer our selections of trends are toourselves, the more pared down our outfit can be.

To speak well with our clothes we need to explore thenew trends and find what best expresses our message.

This fall the top 10 trends are:

1. Leather items or leather trim on clothing2. Leopard prints for anything including foot wear.3. Colors – red, rosy tones and aubergine, cobalt blue,

nature greens both cool and warm, and friendlyorange.

4. Non –colors such as black, navy, taupe, grey, mochaand winter white.

5. Color blocking a la Piet Mondrian. Stripes, dots andfloral prints add to a solid mix.

6. Oversize blazer and a general men’s wear look

24 www.womenwithvision.ca

© bing.com

of DressingWell

of DressingWell

By Marilyn Wetston

The Wardrobe Doctor

7. Pants of all leg styles and lengths from leggings toslim to boot leg to wide palazzos and event culottes

8. Butterfly motif items including jewellery and aspatterns on fabrics used for everything includinghandbags and shoes.

9. Scarves, shawls and capes to drape over anything,indoors and out!

10.Knits –tops, bottoms, and dresses. Head to toe knitlook is comfy as well as chic.

Review the trend list above. Select what speaks to youand helps you look and feel your best. Eliminate thetrends that are definitely not for you and enjoy therefresh of adding your favourites to your existingwardrobe.

Your goal is to frame yourself so you make eye contactin clothes that make you feel as if you are wearing asecond skin. Human connection requires clearcommunication. Build your skills to use your wardrobeto create your unique message this season and everyseason.

Reinvent yourself so you dress every day to create theimpression you desire; always keeping in touch with theauthentic you. Be sure to clothe yourself with items thatcreate a balanced and proportioned look. Highlight yourpositive qualities. Camouflage what you wish and finishwith a "selfie" that reflects your best you!

Fashion trends are yours to help you speak to everyoneincluding your contemporaries. Select carefully, thenenjoy the effect of the messages you create with yourupdated wardrobe.

ABC’S ABC’S Walk-ins always welcome

36 St. Marie Street, Collingwood36 St. Marie Street, Collingwood

LIFESTYLE& BEAUTY

VISION!™

Women with...

Life Line TransformationalCoaching

Business Mentor•Marketing Consultant•Advertising Specialist

Lorraine Leslie 1-866-306-6021 [email protected]

Life Line Transformational Coaching is your professionallink to building awareness and taking your business andpersonal life to the next level. Improve your marketing andcommunications skills while achieving your life goals.

n Marilyn Wetston [email protected] www.marilyns.ca

Page 14: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

Once you have completed your

questionnaire send it to Women

with Vision and Julia Leslie of

Image Impact will be in touch to

chat with you about your

Personal Style Category...

BONUS: Each individual who

mails a completed questionnaire

will receive a complimentary

copy of Women with Vision

Magazine.

SEND YOUR COMPLETED

QUESTIONNAIRE TO:

156 Brophy's Lane

Blue Mountains ON

L9Y 0K3

Deadline December 31st 2014

Personal Style Quiz

To define your individualstyle, check the answer thatmost applies to you. If twoseem to be equal, then checkboth. It’s important to payattention to your own heart, rather than society’sexpectations. This quiz willnot necessarily define yourabsolute style, but it can befun!

1. The home that fits me the best is:

o A A penthouse condominium in the heart of a cosmopolitan city

o B A traditional country estate, perhaps a castle

o C An ecological home, perhaps made from logs, with windowseverywhere, somewhere in the country

o D A traditional home in a safe, well-tended neighbourhood

o E A warehouse or other unusual space

o F A beautiful home in a gated community

2. The decorating scheme that fits me best is:

o A Contemporary, steel, glass, clean lines

o B Antiques, large scale, elegant

o C Hand-crafted, rustic, unique

o D Classic, tasteful, understated, elegant

o E Unique, unexpected, whimsical, creative

o F Luxurious, ornate, mirrors, glass

3. A vacation that fits me best is:

o A First class in a major European city

o B Activity such as skiing, scuba diving, or rock climbing

o C A safari in Kenya

o D A tour to a cultural centre or a stay at a resort

o E A visit to a place of great meaning

o F A luxurious, relaxing resort-spa

4. In my career I am motivated most by:

o A Wealth and recognition

o B Intelligence, effectiveness, and achievement

o C Ethics, freedom, and rights

o D Peace, harmony, safety, order

o E Personal development and self-expression

o F Relationships & nurturing

5. I appreciate:

o A Trends, technology, progressiveness

o B Space, country, tradition

o C Freedom, the environment,a bargain

o D Reliability, standards,protocol

o E Self expression, individuality, intuition

o F Luxury, beauty, pampering

Courtesy of Karen Brunger, President of

International Image Institute Inc.

26 www.womenwithvision.ca

6. An activity I am most likely to do in my spare time is:

o A A trip

o B A sport

o C A productive outdoor activity

o D Organize something

o E Something creative / artistic

o F Go to a spa

7. The clothing styles that I like to wear most are:

o A Fashion forward, dramatic

o B Elegant sporty

o C Comfortable, easy, breathable

o D Tailored and elegant

o E Soft, creative, personalized

o F Flowing and sensuous

8. The communication style most natural to me is:

o A Assertive, cool, confident

o B Formal, reserved, gracious

o C Casual, lively, straightforward

o D Accommodating, gracious, warm

o E Expressive, light-hearted, fun

o F Warm, heart-felt, flirtatious

9. My body type is:

o A Angular, slim

o B Strong bone structure

o C Compact, strong

o D All average proportions

o E Fine bone structure

o F Full, curvaceous

10. The frequency that most

resembles my walk and talk is:

o A

o B

o C

o D

o E

o F

Now add up the numbers

you had for each letter, and

enter below. The category

with the most is your

Individual Style category.

A: __________ - Dramatic

B: __________ - Aristocratic

C: __________ - Natural

D: __________ - Classic

E: __________ - Creative

F: __________ - Romantic

Quiz Courtesy ofInternational ImageInstitute Inc.

© Paultarasenko | Dream

stime.com

© Selvan Raghupathy | Dream

stime.com

www.womenwithvision.ca 27

Page 15: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

The Nissan Rogue

www.womenwithvision.ca 29

Drive a for all occasions...

...your perfect Fall

Fashion accessory

The Nissan 370ZCOLLINGWOOD

28 www.womenwithvision.ca

Photography © Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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agazine™

Photography © Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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COLLINGWOOD

The Nissan Micra

www.womenwithvision.ca 31

© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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Page 17: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

Beautiful YouFall Makeovers

Beautiful YouFall Makeovers

Julia Leslie

Beatrix Lindavi

Julie Fliin

Natural

Makeup by Jeannine Faubert of Beautiful YouMakeup by Jeannine Faubert of Beautiful You

Day Look After Five

32 www.womenwithvision.ca

Gourmet ™Gourmet ™

Georgian

...eat, drink and entertain

© Subbotina | Dream

stime.com

Photography © Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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Page 18: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

www.womenwithvision.ca 35

Sandra’s ABC’s of culinary passionstarted in high school where shewanted to enhance her enthusiasmfor cookery – an obsession by theway, that she developed from hermother, a Chef (and founder of SureChefs). Enrolled for the culinaryprogram at Liaison College for halfday morning classes, Sandra wasable to complete her high schooldiploma in the afternoons. Then,after school, she would dash to herco-op job as a dishwasher. A busylife that was leading her on alifelong journey...

Sandra’s culinary career goal was tobake and specialize in the pastryarts. With school, classes and a parttime job her body started to agree with that at all; shewas over-sugared and under-weight and generallyunhealthy (which caused her to also be unhappy). Itwasn’t long before Sandra took another turn in theculinary road. The solution to her career and healthissues was clear: study nutrition. The Canadian Schoolof Nutrition was the answer leading her to a newappreciation of food and chemicals; how the bodyprocesses what we feed it.

High school completed, Sandra moved to Egypt whereher mom, brother and step father had moved for workreasons. Sandra worked in her mom’s catering businesswhile her brother attended an elite private school. Thenew outlook for nutrition opened her eyes in many ways.Overwhelmed by the obesity and health issues around the

kids at her brother’s school; a worldclass facilities yet the kids werelethargic and over-weight. Hernewfound culinary skills for nutritioncombined with her existing zeal forcooking started another interest:helping people learn about what theyeat and how to prepare it.

The first class of Sure Chefs wasestablished as a summer camp wherekids learned about healthy choicesand how to prepare the foods to theirliking to stimulate the craving forhealthy options that provided energyand nutrients for growing bodies. Thefeedback was outstanding. Sandrahad found her ultimate passion!

Unfortunately the revolution in Egypt ended the journeyand Sandra ultimately moved again to join her family inArgentina. It was here she started the “Mom and KidsPicky Eater” program. Kids were taught to take healthyfood and make it three ways – writing down every recipeand noting which method they liked best. By the end ofthe classes, each student completed the program with ajournal/cookbook of recipes that they had written. Thisoutcome reinforced Sandra’s belief that kids will eat foodthat they have prepared and if it is food they like it’s evenbetter.

Now back in Canada Sandra has continued her journeyand is presently hosting Junior Sure Chef classes atLiaison College in Etobicoke with great success. Sandrais host of a community TV show featuring her ideas on

abc’s OF COOKING

GeorgianGourmet

By Susanne Mikler

GeorgianGourmet

super foods, kids, cooking and healthy eating/living. Herpassion spurred her on to really make a difference and hasnow written a grant proposal for a Sure Chef food truck. Thefood truck will allow her to go to all schools in Ontario andteach kids how to make good food taste great and choose ahealthy menu. With her food truck she could train 120 kidsper day and do an entire school in a week. A focus onallergies and other dietary concerns while showing kids howeasy it is to make healthy food choices and prepare forthemselves – how cool is that? Sandra would like to start aseries of classes for Mom’s who are plagued with the lunchmaking phobia. We all know someone who dreads theschool year; making lunches, especially when they are noteaten because they are not palatable. There’s also the TeenSeries where teens focus onbody issues - skin conditionsdue to incorrect diet intake. This lovely, bright-eyed younglady is truly following theABC’s of life with her craft andwants to share it. Her energyand enthusiasm is contagious;that’s for Sure.

Sandra Bruton has a passion! Actually, she has several passions and they allintertwine beautifully and deliciously in her healthy food venture: Sure Chefs.

n Susanne Mikler

34 www.womenwithvision.ca

Page 19: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

GeorgianGourmetGeorgianGourmet

fabulous Fall Feast...a

turn the page for somesavoury fall recipes...

© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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38 www.womenwithvision.ca

GeorgianGourmet

Page 21: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

www.womenwithvision.ca 41

Subscribe Today!

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Ingredients1 can (28oz) PC Blue Menu Diced Tomatoes½ - 1 cup of water or PC Blue Menu No Salt Added Vegetable Broth 1 can (19oz) PC Blue Menu White Kidney beans 1 can (19oz) PC Blue Menu Red Kidney beans 1 can (19oz) PC Blue Menu Black beans 1 Onion, chopped 1 Green Pepper, chopped 1 Jalapeno Pepper, minced – optional 1 Stalk Celery, chopped 3 Cloves Garlic, minced 1-2 Tbsp (15-30mL) Chili Powder 2 tsp (10mL) Cumin 2 tsp (10mL) Dried Oregano

Directions• In a slowcooker, combine all ingredients except for cheese. • Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.• Or if you don’t have a crockpot you can use a large saucepan and stove top to cook thechili. Over medium-high heat, add some vegetable oil and the first eight ingredients tothe sauce pan and cook until vegetables are tender.

• Add in the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. • Reduce heat, cover and let simmer for a minimum of 20-30minutes or up to 6 hours,stirring occasionally.

• Chili is great served over rice or couscous or in a whole grain tortilla.• If desired you can garnish your chili with shredded cheese and a dollop of PC 0% MFPlain Greek Yogurt.

Tip: This recipe is an easy freeze for quick and easy lunch or dinner on another day!

By Amanda WoodRegistered Dietitian, R.D.Loblaws, Collingwood

8-10 servings GeorgianGourmet

Slow Cooker Vegetarian ChiliSlow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Page 22: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

www.womenwithvision.ca 43

GeorgianGourmet

Fresh Whole Foods for Fall

© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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Page 23: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

44 www.womenwithvision.ca

© Steven Dem

ing | Dream

stime.com

&HOME, GARDEN

DESIGNHOME, GARDEN

DESIGN

...creative and helpful tips

&

Page 24: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

www.womenwithvision.ca 4746 www.womenwithvision.ca www.womenwithvision.ca 47

Looking for a home can be an opportunity to get back tobasics and get really honest with ourselves. It canprovide us the opportunity to change the old patterns thathave always led to frustration and perhaps even apathy.My suggested ABC’s for House Hunting

Look within yourself and ask what are my AUTHENTICneeds and desires for my home? Give yourselfpermission to really know what brings ease and joy toyour daily life. This may involve challenging some ofthe things you have accepted in the past, things that havecome from outside of you. Do your parents prefer acertain neighborhood or style of home, so you followthat? If it truly reflects YOU, that's great! If it doesn't,only you can make a change.

That change is possible when you allow yourself to beBOLD and take some risks in doing things in a new way.Working with a seasoned real estate agent who is openminded, understanding and supportive of your goals will

be invaluable to you as you move into living a new visionfor your life. The power to make these changes, to allowyourself to really let your home reflect you, lies only withyou. Taking charge of your power can be challengingand stressful in its own way.

Have COMPASSION for yourself as you boldly stepwhere you have not stepped before. Compassion is abeautiful gentle way to support yourself and nurtureyourself as you grow and create your experience just theway you want it.

The result of living these ABC's is waking up to the newhome and the new you that you haveenvisioned!

VISION!M A G A Z I N E

Women with

HOME, GARDEN& DESIGN

n Monika Gibson Sales Representative Century 21 Millennium/ Collingwood

The theme for this issue is "The ABC's of life", and inthat vein, I share with you a simplified means of meetingyour needs and fulfilling your dreams.

Our homes reflect who we are! On the surface this canmean things like functionality and the face we present tothe world; but let's go a little deeper. Are there "problem"areas that always seem to collect clutter? Do you always

have that room that seems to collect things that neverseems to get sorted and organized? Do you find yourselfunder stress trying to always meet a standard ofcleanliness and tidiness, which is forever unattainable?

In today's world we are constantly under stress and therenever seems to be enough time to get everything done. .

HOME, GARDEN& DESIGN

46 www.womenwithvision.ca

By Monika Gibson in collaboration with Sue Kern

Often, buying a new home feels like a new beginning in our lives. Sometimes we have the luxury

of time, to carefully search for our dream home, and other times we must move more quickly.

Either way can seem stressful as we deal with all the challenges and questions that come up

along the way.

of House Huntingabc’s

© Skypixel | Dream

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www.womenwithvision.ca 4948 www.womenwithvision.ca

and nurturing; and the absence of pesticides which wenow know plays a major role in our health andsusceptibility to various chronic illnesses. If one of thegoals is to provide fresh, organic food then ideally thisfood will provide for the entire year. In our climate,that does present challenges. Of course, potatoes andcarrots will store for several months, legumes can beblanched and frozen; while tomatoes and cucumberscan be preserved in a variety of ways. Too often wethink of vegetable gardens as a summer activity, butthere are vegetables that can be grown in the fall, rightup to frost.Extending the gardening season with a second harvestcan dramatically increase the yield and allow you toenjoy fresh vegetables into fall and winter. Fallgardening is often easier since there are less pests, andless watering required in cooler weather.Seeds of beets, carrots, chard, leaf lettuce, radishes andspinach can be sown and broccoli and cabbagetransplants (seedlings) can be planted as late as the endAugust. Many herbs are perennial, coming back year after year.Sage, thyme, hyssop, catnip, caraway, chamomile,mint, oregano, lemon balm, horseradish and lavendercome to mind. Watch out for the mint which canbecome invasive! Drying herbs is a relatively easyprocess. Air drying herbs is not only the easiest andleast expensive way to dry fresh herbs, but this slowdrying process also doesn't deplete the herbs of theiroils. This process works best with herbs that don't havehigh moisture content such as Bay, Dill, Marjoram,Oregano, Rosemary, Thyme and Sage. The ABCs of life, is about getting back to the basicsand finding a foundation to build a life upon. Thebasics, in my opinion, is the simplest approach toliving; there is nothing more basicthan growing your own food.

n Janet Kurasz, Horticulturist

www.kurasz.ca

VISION!M A G A Z I N E

Women with

HOME, GARDEN& DESIGN

The SecondHarvest

The SecondHarvest

Over the past few years, I have focused more energy on vegetable gardening. My interest, like so many, began with afew pots of herbs on the patio and then expanded to include some choice vegetables in amongst the flowers in theornamental gardens. Eventually, I had containers of tomatoes, barrels of herbs, radishes and leaf lettuce. It seemsfunny, in hindsight; why didn’t I just build a vegetable garden? Well, that takes time and like so many, I just kept

putting it off. Finally, we decided thetime had come to install a “proper”vegetable garden. We did our researchon various styles of garden and withlimited space, decided on the “squarefoot garden” design. In our case, wecreated four, 4’ x 4’ gardens containedwithin a raised bed protected by abarrier of wire fencing to keep out thewildlife. Because we are on a well, withlimited water resources, we needed toinstall a rain collection system which wedid by capturing rain water from ourhouse and storing it in a 1000 litrecontainer.

Growing one’s own vegetables andherbs is a rewarding activity: beyond theobvious appreciation of fresh produce,there is the knowledge of the effort thatwent into the planning, sowing/planting

© Arne9001 | Dream

stime.com

By Janet Kurasz, Hort, AMCT(A)

HOME, GARDEN& DESIGN

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50 www.womenwithvision.ca

A is for ActionTaking action is sometimes important and often it isurgent. Paperwork is important; failure to maintain afiling system often results in misplaced paperwork,added stress and panic. To avoid an important billbecoming an urgent last minute issue, set reminders inyour phone several days before each bill is due. Look ahead to anticipate important upcoming events.Create a perpetual annual calendar of important datessuch as birthdays and anniversaries. Pencil in carmaintenance, pet care and scheduled checkups with thedoctor and dentist for yourself and every family member.

B is for BackupDisaster proof your life by creating a backup plan tocover each of your responsibilities. If you became ill orincapacitated who could replace you at work? Who couldtake over childcare and essential daily activities at home? Create a database of emergency service providers to helpyour family through any potential disaster. Ask forrecommendations to locate resources in your communitywho provide childcare, eldercare etc. For example,research which restoration company to call to clean up inthe event of a flood or fire. Of course, the word backup has become synonymouswith electronic maintenance including computers, tabletsand cellphones. Protect computer files, documents andphotos by scheduling regular backups stored either on anexternal hard drive or on a cloud based service.

C is for Chore ChartCreate a list of each task that must be performed tomaintain your household. Break the list into suitabletime frames: annual, semi-annual, monthly, weekly anddaily chores. Briefly outline what needs to be done,specify the skills how to do it and the standards required.Most importantly, determine when the best time is toperform each task. In my experience as a ProfessionalOrganizer I find that the main reason chores don’t getdone is that there isn’t a specific time assigned tocomplete tasks. Analyze your family’s weekly scheduleand carve out some quality time when everyone is free totackle chores around the house. Compiling a chore chartwill make it easier to delegate and switch jobs betweenfamily members.

A little pre-planning using the ABCMethod will prevent procrastinationand keep you focused on yourpriorities.

n Karen Sencich CPO®

Certified Professional Organizer®, Speaker and Writer www.havoctoharmony.com

My passion in Real Estate

leads to your Good Fortune.

My passion in Real Estate

leads to your Good Fortune.

Monika GibsonSales RepresentativeMonika GibsonSales Representative

72 Hurontario Street, Collingwood, ON L9Y 2L8Direct Line: 705-607-0445 Office: 705-445-5640

www.century21.ca/monika.gibson

Eliminate ProcrastinationUsing the ABC Method

By Karen Sencich

Do you find that there is so much to do and so little time? Which of your household priorities

have you been neglecting? Stop procrastination at the source by applying The ABC (A Bit Calmer)

Method to your list of things to do.

HOME, GARDEN& DESIGN

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dogs. Familiarize harnessing and crating your dogor cat in the car before the departure date.

Identification and Health RecordsMake sure your pets wear identification tags andare micro chipped in case of escape during the trip.When travelling bring your pets’ health recordsalong. You'll need them in case your pet bitessomeone or gets bitten. Put your name, destinationaddress and cell phone number on your pets’ cratesin case of emergency.

Pet AccessoriesBowl and bottled water is all you need. You neverknow what might upset your pet's tummy, and youcertainly don't want to find out while you're trappedin a small car together. So, stick with water - Nofood until you reach your destination for the day.Bring pooper scooper, waste bags, treats, extraleash and your pets’ favorite pillow or toys forcomfort. Pack a toiletry kit for yourself and your pet– hand wipes are useful for both you and your pet!

Restraint SystemThe best way to keep your pet safe during a car tripis to use a restraint system. Harnesses that attach toyour regular seat belts, or straps that attach to theceiling of the car work great. You wear a seat beltfor your own safety -- give your pet the samerespect. There are many options to choose fromdepending on the size of your pet and vehicle.Secure and cushion crates for comfort and to avoidyour pet from being slammed against the sides ofthe crate. Avoid pets in the front seat to avoid injuryif an airbag is deployed.

Restless PetPets sleep in the car, but like you get restless. Avoidletting your pets head out the window - speed isdangerous. Your dog could be hit by flying objectsand the wind and cold air can cause inner-eardamage and lung infections. Excitable canines canunexpectedly leap out an open window, leading toserious injury or death. Instead, bring along afavorite chew toy and treats. During any trip stopoften so pets can stretch their legs, relievethemselves, burn off some excess energy and sniffout their new surroundings. The best part is you'llenjoy a break from driving just as much!

Prepare in AdvanceIt’s always a good idea to prepare in advance whentraveling in a vehicle with your pet. Pets that have neverbeen in the car before need some short trips first to seehow they react. To avoid anxiety or even motionsickness, talk to your veterinarian about appropriatemedications. Keep pet’s vaccinations up to date in case

of an emergency – especially if you have to take your petto a boarding kennel.

Cat TravelCats feel safer traveling in a small crate. To prepare yourcat for crate time, leave the crate around the house for afew days so the cat gets used to it. This also works for

By Dr. Tina Grey

6 Tips for PetTravel

© M

onika Wisniewska | Dream

stime.com

HOME, GARDEN& DESIGN

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© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

omen with Vision! M

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Hues of Fall ColoursHarvest Flowers and Greenery

Every Corner Full of Happiness and Fun

Hues of Fall ColoursHarvest Flowers and Greenery

Every Corner Full of Happiness and FunProperty Owner - Janny of Wasaga BeachProperty Owner - Janny of Wasaga Beach

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&ARTSENTERTAINMENT

...experiencingclassical &creative

masterpieces

© W

am1975

© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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...experiencingclassical &creative

masterpieces

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ARTS& ENTERTAINMENT

from left to right; Joe, Mike Janet, Lorraine, Stacey & Luke

© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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www.womenwithvision.ca 61CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO www.womenwithvision.ca

ARTS& ENTERTAINMENT© Lorraine Leslie | L’original Productions | W

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&MOTIVATIONAL INSPIRATIONALMOTIVATIONAL INSPIRATIONAL

...gentle insightsof awareness and change

© Constantin Opris | Dream

stime.com

VISION!Women with Vision was founded

in 1998 to offer business women

a networking venue in which they

can provide support for one

another and develop new business

connections. Through this

dynamic networking opportunity

attendees will receive motivation,

inspiration, advice and mutual

support to help them take their

business & lives in general to the

highest possible level.

Guests & New Members are always welcome.

Luncheons/Dinners:Breakfasts 7 a.m. / Luncheons 11:30

a.m. Dinners at 6:00 p.m. and last 2.5

hours. Each district has its own

networking day and location.

Districts: Barrie, Brampton, Collingwood,Etobicoke, Grey County, SouthSimcoe, Owen Sound

Cost:Each district has its own fee structure

starting at $35 per person. Reserved

seating is a MUST! Contact the

District Coordinator no later than 48

hours prior to the Women with Vision!™

Networking Breakfast/ Luncheon/

Dinner at the location of your choice.

Membership:Annual Fee: $75.00 + $9.75 HST =

$84.75

Members benefits:• Direct mailing of Women with Vision

Magazine to home or work

• $5 Discount on networking

luncheons/dinners

• 10% Discount on long term advertising

• WWV Membership tax receipt

• Advance notification of networking

events, conferences and trade shows

• Annual Membership Card

• Franchise opportunities

NEW:ONE 2 hour consulting with

Certified Life & Business Consultant

Lorraine Leslie

NEW:Annual Referral System – ONE

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NEW:FREE review of your business

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New Regions Opening all the time…

To become a District Coordinator:Phone: [email protected]

B E C OM E A M EM B E R . . .

Women with...

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www.womenwithvision.ca 65

MOTIVATIONAL& INSPIRATIONAL

BrendaVanTorreBarnim

MY abc’s OF LIFEBy Lorraine Leslie

Walking into the Collingwood Library in the fall of 2013 friends and business colleagueswere all there to support Sue Tennent’s Free School’s Literacy. Mingling and saying helloto as many people as I could before the evening’s presentation I turned to take a seatwhen I was introduced to the women who was presenting some of her poetry. The topicof the evening was ‘literacy’ and how so many lives have been affected, not only aroundthe world but right here in our own county and community. After a very moving slidepresentation the master of ceremonies introduced a bright eyed woman who I hadrecently met…she stood tall as she took to the podium. Her introduction was astounding,to say the least. Brenda VanTorre Barnim was making her very first reading of her poetryfollowed by a presentation on her life’s journey to becoming a published poet…

Brenda was born in Tillsonburg Ontario on a Julysummer’s day 1962 to Lillian and Murray Barnim.Murray worked in construction and Lillian babysatchildren for extra cash flow.

“I was raised in the small town of Otterville. Mrs.MacNeil’s house is where I started pre kindergarten atage five. It wasn’t a regular school atmosphere… but Ido remember Mrs. MacNeil reading to the kids a lot, andthis is where I learned to tie my shoes and print myname.”

“I wasn’t a quick learner so when my father passed awayin 1971 during my second year of grade two I didn’t

realize at such a young age that he left my mother withthree children and a house that was not paid for...plus shedidn’t have a job.”

“After Dad’s death mom went to hair dressing school inBrantford while my older sister and one younger brothertook care of me until she got home. This had its problemsas young kids lose control of who is in charge. Fightingand craziness was what it was all about until she walkedin the house - this was not a very memorable time in mylife.”

“Otterville is known for its beautiful park with itsamazing walking bridge and trails. On the other side of

continued on pg. 66

Brenda with her dog Tippy Brenda, Christmas morning with

her sister Tammy in the background

Brenda in the middle with her sister Tammy

and Brother Richard

photo credit - Elise McM

illan

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my bike going door to door. I’d put three large greencabbages in the carrier on the front of my bike, hold themwith one hand and steer with the other. I sold a cabbagefor twenty-five cents a head - my sales pitch was “theymake great cabbage rolls”. Some people would buy twowhen I said that.”

“I also picked dew worms for my Grandpa. He paid metwo cents a worm. Looking back, I was definitely not agirly-girl, but I liked the money, I liked making money.Money was important to me at that age. I was a buddingentrepreneur.”

“Life on the farm had its merits but also had manynegatives and difficulties. Not a day went by that therewasn’t something to be done. Tobacco and ginseng werethe two crops we grew and the tobacco alone kept ushopping - the crop cannot be grown without hiringpickers to help with the harvest. The Ginseng was verylabour intensive also; we found ourselves servants to allthe work that needed to be done on a continual basis.”

“I was working in the tobacco industry with my motherat age twelve. Mom taught me a lot. It was hard workbut the money was great - even my grandmother workedin the tobacco fields when she was younger. In betweenmy tobacco picking my real first job out of high schoolwas in a shoe store at a local the mall which gave me lotsof experience working with the public.”

“July of 1978 was a special day for me as I got to fly inan airplane for the first time. Like many children Idreamt of flying to some far off destination. I wasinvited to go to California with a girlfriend to visit herAunt. Mom was happy for me but expressed she wasn’tgoing to be paying for the plane ticket! I saved up all mycabbage and worm money plus savings from working ona tobacco farm. It was ‘a dream come true!’ We went toUniversal studios in Disneyland, played on the beach,shopped in downtown Hollywood – plus it was the bestway to celebrate my sixteenth birthday! I was soimpressed I even thought of becoming a flightattendant.”

Shortly after, things took a turn for the worst for Brendathat would impact her teen years and adult life.

“As I finished grade eight I was really looking forward tohigh school. Before going into grade nine I had to takean IQ Test for the teacher along with two other students.The test asked for us to read a series of short stories andthen answer the questionnaire by filling in the dots... Icouldn’t comprehend what I was reading! I had to re-read the questions over and over. I later discovered I wasan audio learner and only through listening to what theteachers said in class I was able to manage myhomework. I had a lot of difficulty with all the readingassignments, hence I received failing grades. I found theIQ Test too hard so I just filled in the dots randomly –plus I couldn’t read the stories. I failed the test of courseand I had to talk to my teacher about my reading skills.This was the first time I had been asked if I could read...I said no…and broke down in tears!” I still don’t knowhow I got to grade eight without learning to read, I mean,really read!”

“This exercise was to determine which high school I wasgoing to attend. I ended up taking a two yearoccupational course in Tillsonburg. I was so ashamed ofmyself - all my friends went to another high school in aneighbouring town.

I started to hate school and myself even more for notbeing able to read like everyone else. I didn’t like thecourse that they made me take. All I could think aboutwas I needed a grade twelve diploma because I wanted tobe a flight attendant.”

Terrified, Brenda mustered up the courage and took itupon herself to go to the school counselor and ask forhelp. She wanted to get into the four year program. “I tried to explain that my teacher in grade eight hadmade a mistake – but she hadn’t. I couldn’t read! Theychecked into my explanation and were told I wouldn’t beable to complete the course. I told the counselor I stillwanted to give it a try. After much consideration he toldme I’d have to finish the year and get my grades up intothe 90’s. I was so upset but I knew how to work hard andthat I could do it.”

“I persevered! I listened intently to all my teachers and Idid it…I even got a gift of money for doing so well. Iproved myself. But did I? I was allowed to take the fouryear course, but I had to repeat grade nine.

continued on pg. 68

MOTIVATIONAL& INSPIRATIONAL

Brenda VanTorre Barnim ...continued from pg. 65

the bridge is a pool and during summer vacation momwould buy me a membership where I spent most of theday and sometimes after supper as well. I became a verygood swimmer as I was in the water all the time.

One fond but heartbreaking memory is the last barbequeand dance held in the park where Mom and Dad weredancing when he had the massive heart attack that tookhim from us. Still today when I tell people my maidenname, they ask if I’m Murray’s daughter. His death leftthe whole town in shock. Dad was only thirty-one.”

“There is one day at that park that will always holdspecial memories…it was a company picnic and a manwas giving children pony rides and taking mementopictures. I was standing watching the other children as aman asked me if I wanted a ride. The pony rides were notpart of the picnic. He asked me a second time,” Do youwant a ride”? I said “yes sir”? I know it’s not safe toaccept things from strangers but at that moment – I washappy and felt so special … you can only imagine howthat made me feel? I went home and showed my mom thepicture of me on the pony and she laughed for the firsttime in a long time since Dad’s passing. She couldn’tbelieve some of the things I could get myself into. To thisday, I’m still very grateful for that man’s kindness.”

“As time went on I became more and more shy, onlyspeaking when spoken to. Surprisingly, later in my life Iover came my shyness – some people now say I seem tohave what people call the ‘gift of gab’.” Brenda said witha chuckle.

“I wasn’t an angel by any means….’innocent’ did notdescribe me...My friend had a canoe and we’d row across the lake tothis little island across from her house. One particularday we rowed over to the small island which was veryclose to the falls. I’ll call my friend Karen (not her realname). I got out of the canoe and stepped onto the groundas I threw her the rope so she could tie up the canoe.Well, she stepped into a very large bee’s nest, and OMGshe started to scream! I was busy concentrating on gettingout of the canoe when she jumped into the canoe andstarted screaming at me. GET GOING! GET OUT OFHERE! She was swatting at bees and almost tipping usover. I really didn’t know what she was doing at first - allI could do was laugh out loud as I tried frantically to getus away from the bees as fast as I could.”

“We didn’t count the number of bites she had but I doremember it was very serious. She was out ofcommission for quite a while recouping from the stings.”Shared Brenda.

Brenda found herself being influenced by others andbecoming quite the follower…“Karen and I were about eleven years old and found allkinds of mischief – like taking her mother’s car anddriving it up and down the driveway. I could hardly seeover the steering wheel. We were dressed up in hermother’s clothes to boot…like wearing her mother’s furcoat. We zigzagged all over the place and luckily we justmissed driving into the lake. I never heard anything fromher parents and I never told my mom until I was aboutthirty years old. I’m so glad we didn’t get hurt; I reallylearned that was not a good thing to do, we could havedied or even hurt or killed someone else.” Then out of theblue Brenda said, “...but childhood lessons make us whowe are today…”

Brenda was also very sensitive and impressionable as a child...“When I was little, I would sit in front of the TV andwatch the starving children from Africa and start to crywhich prompted my mother to shut the TV off. But Iwould go back and turn it on again and watch it intently.I just wanted to help somehow and thought one day Iwould.”

“I didn’t get an allowance, so when I needed spendingmoney; I ventured out to sell cabbages. There I was on

MOTIVATIONAL& INSPIRATIONAL

Brenda on horse in Otterville park

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Brenda VanTorre Barnim ...continued from pg. 67

I did as asked but I really struggled, I was still havingdifficulty reading at grade level. I was supposed to read anovel in grade ten but I didn’t know how – so I didn’t. Ididn’t pass one of the tests so the teacher asked me pointblank, ‘Can you read? I said, ‘No’. Puzzled to how I gotthis far in school he said, ‘What am I going to do withyou?” I asked, ‘What does it take to pass? He said, ‘Sixtypercent.’ I said, ‘Then just give me 60%!”

“I managed to get sixty percent and moved on into gradeten. With a lot of hard work, fortunately I graduated withmy grade twelve. It’s like I have a gift of retaining whatis spoken…those four years were grueling! They appliedmy first year (grade nine) credits and when added to therest I had enough to graduate out of grade eleven. Inever did go on to become a flight attendant as applicantsalso needed to speak fluent French and I could hardlylearn to read let alone write English.”

Brenda went out into the world functioning the best sheknew how…by faking it. “I could go to the grocery storeand purchase food by pictures on the boxes (cereal) etc.Most of the items were things I had seen on TV.”

Life went on and Brenda eventually got married. “We were still newlyweds; when my husband was sittingreading the newspaper and he’d turned and asked me if Iwanted a section to read. I got nervous and replied no, notright now, thanks. I told him that I really don’t enjoyreading the newspaper, so he didn’t have to share it withme. I never told him why and he never asked.”

“As time went on, my two little boys where putting bookson my lap wanting me to read to them. One night we wereall in the living room – my husband was watching TVwhen the boys wanted a story read to them. Petrified, Iturned to my husband, took a deep breath and said. “Iam going to try and read this book to the boys but I don’twant you to laugh at me. With a puzzled look on his facehe asked me why. It was time to tell him the truth.“Because I can’t read well.” He was really surprised tohear me say that, but he said he wouldn’t laugh.”

“I proceeded to read the book but stumbled on manysmall words, so I asked him what it was… He said ‘REALLY! You don’t know what that word is?’ Isaid “No!” As I felt my eyes filling with tears; I was soashamed and thought how stupid I felt.”

Brenda kept trying to read to the boys and with each

effort she was getting better and better. “The boys didn’tjudge me and my confidence was building.”

Over the years Brenda kept up with her reading;practicing with everything she did, at work, with theboys, when grocery shopping... and at the age of fifty twoshe could read almost anything. She still has challengeswith spelling and grammar but it doesn’t stop her.

“People can still figure out what I am trying to read. Thiswas my life’s challenge and I’ve overcame it because ofhow much I love my boys.”

Eventually Brenda and her husband divorced and her lifeunfolded again as she and her two boys grew up togetherand moved on with their lives.

“I left the farm and found a new life in town where I nowwork as a Civilian Guard for the OPP in London Ontario.I have worked there for seven years, switching back andforth between Ingersoll and Tillsonburg. I love my joband find it very rewarding.”

Brenda dreamed of growing up and having a comfortablelife like many young girls... “A few of my dreams becamerealities – like another plane trip – this time to Haiti in2012.”

Brenda with her two boy's baby Jordan and Craig 1991

Brenda took another positive step in her life when shedecided work as a volunteer with the children in one ofthe villages of Haiti.

“I always envisioned something big was going to happento me, and people would know whom I am. For the pastnumber of years I’ve been writing my thoughts down inthe form of poetry. Poems that share my spiritualism,stories of what I see in nature, or reaching out toVeterans…

The Unknown Soldier

Life inside my ink well pen

Is like frozen ghost of desert storm

Time stands still in land of Zen

Memories yearning to speak

Comes to heaven though mind sweep

Explosions of notions widen my hope

To prove it all… time revoke

Not to quicken… soak

Lightning rods upon my head

Beacon to heaven for word spread

Blink not for us to see

Open heart beat gradually

Shaken out of cold movement

Story told with no improvement

Kind memories, will be free

Out on paper gliding free

Lessons are small and sweet

Only I know defeat.

~Brenda VanTorre Barnim - August 10 2012.

“I was fifty years of age and starting to feel my life wasleading me in a new direction – I’d always wanted tobecome a public speaker, maybe I can do it through mypoetry.”

Writing her poems has become Brenda’s passion. Shehad a collection for about ten years before she started toshare them with her family. “Call it intuition but I alwaysfelt something good was going to come from keeping mypoems but often wondered if I was ready for it.” Brendanow has numerous journals of poetry that are beingpublished for everyone to enjoy.”

The evening Brenda came to Collingwood she focused onher own literacy skills and experienced her first publicspeaking engagement. Admittantly she was very nervousbut at the same time was extremely excited. This wasBrenda’s coming out party..

She shares, “I wasready to share mystory with the world.”

Sitting with Brendaafter her presentation Icould see how proudshe was with herpresentation. Her twoson’s stood next to heras I took their picture– they all smiledthrough tears of joy

continued on pg. 70

Brenda with the children in Haiti

Page 36: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

70 www.womenwithvision.ca

Following your DreamsBy Marj Sawers

MOTIVATIONAL& INSPIRATIONAL

Have YOU noticed how fast time is going? We are allexcited about spring and boom it is fall. Did you geteverything done you wanted to do this summer? Lifeitself goes so quickly.... as kids we couldn’t wait to go toschool, then, we couldn’t wait, to graduate, and then tohave a fulfilling career. First comes love then comesmarriage and of course the baby carriage. On the homefront time speeds by as you build a strong marriage andyou raise your kids. On the career front, we constantlyare taking courses to upgrade to keep up with the times.Don’t forget networking...it is imperative to build yourbusiness and in many cases a large part of your sociallife. All of the time managing your affairs to supportyour next dream - Retirement.

I have been blessed to be able to follow my dreams, or asmy loved ones might have seen it as screaming throughlife wanting to do it all. I have practiced the” why not”theory ever since I can remember, allowing me toexperience life, not just pass through it. My businessexperience has been enriched by so many exciting peopleon the same track. Upgrading education or training witha “why not me” mentality we can literally wringing thelife out of the meaning of”experiencing it all”. Be aliveand excited about life, you are a growing being, not just“passing through”. Have you ever noticed the peoplewho have this “wring it all out of life” attitude arecontributors to many others success? Look around andsee who is supporting you and your business, in mostcases it is your networking contacts and business friends

that understand and support your goals and your dreams.I like to think of these people that I have met in my workexperience as trench mates. Most were supportive andcaring; 24 hour a day contacts who were always there forme and my dream, because they understood what it takes.Make sure to protect your dream.....and watch who youlet in to share the ride. I almost had my dream stolen atone point by a trusted contact. But the numbers who hadmy back were many and joyful.

You are correct if you are reading this as a bit of a swansong. I have been retired now for a while and loving it.Getting some travelling in, time to contribute to Family,Friends and of course a few committees.It has been a pleasure to be able to ride along with youas you build your businesses. Remember to keep it lightand enjoy what you do.

MarjFootnote: This is Marj’s last article in Women withVision as she enters into her retirement full time.We thank you Marg from thebottom of my hearts for alwaysbeing there and showing us thepower of love. You are a rolemodel for all who have met you.... We’ve learned by example!Happy Retirement Marj!

n Marj Sawers, Retired Philanthropist

© Valua Vitaly | Dream

stime.com

The dictionary states;”a dream world isdream like, a dazed,hypnotic state, ortrance”. Is it timeyou gave your head ashake and got out ofyour dream world of“ S O M E D A Y ” ,decide today! Areyour dreams real, orare they the “...someday” song you singto yourself.

MOTIVATIONAL& INSPIRATIONAL

n copyright Lorraine Leslie – Women with Vision Magazine

September, 2014

and admiration. Brenda’s courage and determination tolearn how to read at the age of fifty is commendable anda lesson for all of us… It’s never too late to learn, to getan education… and in Brenda’s case, her dream is ofsitting with her grandchildren on her knee and reading tothem their ABC’s over and over again.

www.womenwithvision.ca 71

VISION!™

Women with

membership hasits benefits!

4 Advertising discounts4 Reduce Networking Rates4 Membership Benefits…4 Business Coaching4 Franchise Opportunity4 NEW Networking Chapters

Ask how you can be partour team today...www.womenwithvision.ca

1.866.306.6021

Brenda with her son’s today

Brenda VanTorre Barnim ...continued from pg. 69

Page 37: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

72 www.womenwithvision.ca

...Explore the world

around you

DESTINATIONSDESTINATIONS

© Brian Maudsley | Dream

stime.com

© M

ircea Simu | Dream

stime.com

We have forgotten that we can actually turn our

phones off, thereby turning a portion of our

obligations, commitments and pressures off.

Our pace of life has become so hectic that we no

longer drive our lives, our environment drives us.

When I connect with those on the other side their

messages are words of advice and wisdom from

a spiritual perspective, as one would stand atop

a mountain and be able to clearly see and

understand the lay of the land before them.

Such is the vantage point from the other side

so their messages to those still living often

express embracing life fully, taking time to

connect with family or simply stopping to smell

the roses a little more often. Why is it so

important to those on the other side? Perhaps

they have regrets or perhaps they hope their

words will prevent a loved ones’ misgivings after

they pass.

Living life isn’t about running the race like a

hamster on a treadmill. It isn’t about having free

time to do nothing, it’s about comfortably filling

time with people, thoughts, ideas and events that

excite and inspire you. These people can be

friends, family, co-workers or strangers. The

events can be as simple as walking on the beach

or down a country lane, or as complex as

learning a new language just because you want

to. It is about having balance and deep-rooted

contentedness. It is about being successful in

your own eyes to your own benchmark

regardless of the opinions of others.

Whatever your profession, social status,

monetary situation or educational capacities, all

that

matters when

all is said and done is

the basics of how we

measure up to our own

standards and achievements. If we

are truly content with who we are, what we

do, what we have and who we have around us we

can consider ourselves successful. The essence

of success is to go right back to the basics we

function with as children. As children we are

unfiltered. We speak from our hearts, we play

freely, we are fascinated with what is new and

different, we have a sense of adventure and we

have no benchmarks.

If we could return to those basics, incorporate

them into our adult lives, in conjunction with the

maturity and responsibility we must acquire as

adults, perhaps when it is our turn to transition

to the other side, we will do so with no regrets of

what we should have, could have, would have

taken the time to do with our lives.

Slow the pace, and take time to embrace

and cherish the simplistic essence of just

enjoying your life by your standards–

because you can.

Living Life’s

simplest essence

n Deborah Johnson

Clairvoyant, Medium, Author, Speaker

www.deborah-johnson.net

[email protected]

Somehow in the process called life we seem to haveforfeited the basics of what living life is meant to be.Instead, we have unintentionally placed our focus andenergy on striving, struggling and pushing for thatbetter life and monetary gain toward a social andmedia driven benchmark. We have to a greatdegree, lost the essence of caring, sharing andenjoying the simplest of pleasures.

MOTIVATIONAL& INSPIRATIONAL

By Deborah Johnson

Page 38: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

74 www.womenwithvision.ca

Photo credits: ©

Jane Tilley

Page 39: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

Photo credits: ©

Spencer Rudling and © bing.com

Page 40: Women With Vision ® Fall, 2014

By Paola Gucciardi

DO THE ABC’S & 123’S OF YOUR HOME POSITIVELY SUPPORT WHO YOU ARE?

1 Address Since this number inspiresindependence, ambition, drive andleadership, it is not ideal for singleindividuals looking for a partner. Mostsuitable for individuals interested inadvancing their career/businessespecially if working from a home office.This address encourages self-discipline,self-confidence and strength of character.

2 Address Ideal address for youngfamilies and couples as this addressinspires empathy, romance and sensitivity.Normally it encourages tolerance,cooperation and harmony. However, thesensitive nature of this address sometimescauses individuals to feel energeticallydrained and depressed.

3 Address A cheery address ideal forboth singles and families. It’s creative,optimistic, and expressive energy isexcellent for artists and unconventionalindividuals. Great address for an artstudio however not recommended forambitious workaholics or individuals wholack focus and direction.

4 Address Ideal address for focusedand career-driven individuals as well as

young families with children. Its groundedand responsible energy inspires financialgrowth, inner strength and reliability. Bestsuited for conventional and practicalpeople. Not recommended for theunconventional and creative.

5 Address This address exudesadventure, freedom, creativity andindependence. Idea for single andunconventional individuals looking forchange and exploration. Its changingenergy may cause lack of focus and achaotic environment. Not recommendedfor individuals desiring structure, stability,or long-term relationships.

6 Address This address infused withlove and harmony is ideal for familieswith children. Its warm, protective andgenerous energy encourages residents tocare for one another. Therefore tends tostrengthen family relationships andfriendships. Suited for most individualsincluding artists.

7 Address Since this address inspiresdeep thought, contemplation andintrospection, it is ideal for single adultswho prefer to be alone. It encourages

spiritual growth, meditation andintellectual pursuits. Its serious energy isnot recommended for individuals whoprefer to live lightheartedly.

8 Address A powerful address idealfor career and business orientedindividuals as well as individuals/familiespursuing material comforts. Its energyinspires ambition, financial growth,determination and drive. This addressstrengthens character and often improvesthe health of its residents.

9 Address Ideal address forindividuals involved in humanitarian workand causes. Its energy is serious andcompassionate, and inspires idealismand personal growth. Tends to be bettersuited for singles (especially women)than families. Also great for dormitorieswhere youngpeople live ingroups.

Many clients have inquired about the energy of their homes and whether the address affects them personally.Yes it does! In fact, your Address number (includes numbers and street name) creates a vibrational resonancethat plays a pivotal role not only in how you feel in your home but also the type of experiences it/you’ll attract.If you are looking to move and/or curious whether your home aligns with you, explore your address number.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

A B C D E F G H I

J K L M N O P Q R

S T U V W X Y Z

Life Numbers

n Paola Gucciardi, Numerologist www.lifenumbers.ca

To Calculate...Add all the numerical values of your complete address Example: 536 Harold Drive, Unit 39

1 3 9 5 3 6 H A R O L D D R I V E

2 3 9 5 3 6 8 1 9 6 3 4 4 9 9 4 5

3 3+9+5+3+6=26; 8+1+9+6+3+4 = 31; 4 + 9 + 9 + 4 + 5 = 31;

2+6=8 3+1=4 3+1=4

4 8 + 4 + 4 = 16; 1+ 6 = 7 Address Number

www.womenwithvision.ca 79

As the

Mountain Turns...©

GEORGIAN BAY LIFE & PICTORIAL©

1. Write your full address (Note: Do NOT include words

“unit/apartment” or abbreviations ex. Dr.)

2. Using the chart below, record the corresponding numerical value for

each letter in your address

3. Add the numbers and values of the name and reduce to a single digit

4. Add subtotals and reduce to a single digit

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omen with Vision! M

agazine™

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