You know how goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely? Let’s add to that! Find a role model for a new approach or try visualizing. Say consistent positive affirmations or meditate to maintain focus – even small acts help and release doubts. Read, learn, and listen to things that will aid you on your quest. REALLY believe in yourself. You can do this! If it’s not perfect, relax. Next time will be better. Know that even if not all your goals are met, they will be there when you are ready for the next set of triumphs. Keep that passion burning!

Considering all inclusive retirement living? Sit back and relax at The Hamlets at Deer Park while you enjoy 3 meals a day restaurant style, complimentary bistro snacks, weekly housekeeping, in-house salon, theatre, the privately owed bus for scheduled transportation and weekly excursions, and monthly live entertainment. All this, PLUS peace of mind with 24-hour-a-day, on-site care staff. Your furry friends are even welcome here! You deserve the best and a place to call home. Call today for a complimentary lunch and tour.

Advance care planning is a way to help you think about, discuss, and document your wishes for healthcare. It’s a process that can help you make healthcare decisions now and for the future. It’s important to start talking about your wishes now, before you have a health crisis. None of us know what tomorrow might bring or know how our health will be in the future. Planning today makes sure that your wishes are known, no matter what the future holds. Visit AlbertaHealthServices.ca and search “advance care” to learn more about planning to bring comfort and peace of mind.

Schools out, but you have to work? No problem. Our interpreter will keep your little ones busy with hands-on nature exploration, games, crafts, and new friends. Runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for ages 6 to 12. $30/day per child. Before and after care available for a small extra fee. Dates: Sept. 14 – All Things Animals; Oct. 4 & 5 – Crawling and Creeping Critters; Nov. 7, 8, & 9 – Fall Break Fun; and Dec. 6 & 7 – Let It Snow. For more info or to register, visit WaskasooPark.ca, call 403-346-2010, or drop by the Centre.

Final race in the series. Explore the city of Red Deer one pathway at a time! There is still one event that is open to all ages and abilities on October 27 – see ad for details. Chip timing and low fees, a great way to stay motivated all year long. Register today! Series.RunRedDeer.com

Fridays and Saturdays – FREE Dental Check-up & X-ray Program for children ages 5 and 6 years (see our ad). Call Bower Dental (general dentists) today at 403-347-8008 and mention the ‘FREE Kids’ Check-up Promotion’ to help keep your child smiling.

Schools out, but you have to work? No problem. Our interpreter will keep your little ones busy with hands-on nature exploration, games, crafts, and new friends. Runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for ages 6 to 12. $30/day per child. Before and after care available for a small extra fee. Dates: Sept. 14 – All Things Animals; Oct. 4 & 5 – Crawling and Creeping Critters; Nov. 7, 8, & 9 – Fall Break Fun; and Dec. 6 & 7 – Let It Snow. For more info or to register, visit WaskasooPark.ca, call 403-346-2010, or drop by the Centre.

RD Nutrition Inc. holds this unique workshop regularly for individuals who are fed up with diet culture, fad diets, and being controlled by food. Ideal for people struggling with their body image and feeling disconnected from their bodies and their physical and spiritual health, it’s perfect for anyone who is ready to leave all of that behind. The two-hour session covers everything from how to overcome ‘all or none’ thinking to building healthy food relationships, and strategies for normal eating. Feel empowered to say goodbye to diet culture and proclaim that food won’t control your life anymore!

Did you know that 80% of Canadians will experience back tension? Pam Kats, RMT from Calgary, Alberta, explains, “As a massage therapist, I see a lot of people with back and neck tension and it often stems from their posture at a desk and computer. Our clients like the open, relaxed posture they can maintain at home with The Beam™.” Brandi G., from Vancouver, BC, shares, “I like to put my Beam™ at the back of my chair. It keeps my posture straight, which reduces tension in my shoulders. I’m so grateful for this product.”

The ‘back to school’ health list: clean and check teeth, get an eye appointment, chiropractic adjustment, new shoes, clothes, and book a massage. Why massage? It improves adolescent posture, often affected by computer time and backpacks, aids in sports injury prevention and repair, and can even help reduce anxiety and improve concentration. For younger ones, it can help with sleep! It can also help with body awareness for teens, and promote a healthy lifestyle going into adulthood. Check your health benefits for massage coverage; they often extend to your children, too!

Janet Spafford has lived in Red Deer with her family for over 20 years. She has expertise in assistance with mental health counselling, program coordination and facilitation, career and employment services, and education. In 2016, she received her Master of Counselling from Gonzaga University. As a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counsellor and Psychotherapy Association, Janet has found her true north purpose. Janet shares, “The most rewarding part is supporting clients as they shift perspectives of themselves, their surroundings, relationships and expectations by applying new skills and strengths to realign with their own authenticity.”