We all have an innate ability to recognize something beautiful, our Happiness Formula columnist writes I agree with the phrase “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” The word “beauty” has a definition — the quality present […]
Kita Szpak
Anticipation for the nation
In the words of singer-songwriter Carly Simon: ‘We can never know about the days to come, but we think about them anyway’ I’ve always seen “anticipation” as such a positive word: full of hope and happy expectation. Though the […]
Joy required
In building a lifelong relationship with books and reading, the desire has to come from within, writes our Happiness Formula columnist “I gotta read this book for school.” “I don’t want to. It’s boring.” “Daddy doesn’t read books so […]
Learning to let go
When her youngest son left for school outside of Ontario, our Happiness Formula columnist willed herself not to be overprotective. It’s paid off Whether it’s starting junior kindergarten, heading to summer camp, going to college, moving out with friends, taking […]
The beach
Kita Szpak shares one of her favourite ways to while away an Ottawa summer’s day An early riser, I make my way to Britannia Park. Little traffic and extensive free parking this time of day are a bonus. Depending on […]
Three steps to feeling good
Caring for yourself is not a once-in-a-while endeavour We often hear the phrase: “You can’t take care of anyone else unless you first take care of yourself.” This speaks volumes as far as parents and caregivers are concerned. Today, the […]
People of influence
Be careful what you say—your choice of words is affecting your children’s attitude towards money Given today’s uncertainty around job security, rising food and housing costs as well as infrastructural instability, you parents and caregivers feel added pressure on yourselves. […]
Holiday homecoming
Having a loved one walk through the door is the most joyful part of the season The holiday season and homecomings go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re coming from school, another city or another country, who of us hasn’t experienced travelling […]
Memories of teachers past
Teachers, do you recall a student named Kita Szpak? Because she remembers you Who doesn’t remember a favourite teacher; a teacher who picked on you; one who made you laugh; or one who made you nod off in class? With […]
Doing it your way
When making summer plans, take into account your family’s rhythms, and most of all, be kind to yourselves You’re just getting up; a little bleary eyed. The kids aren’t up yet, and this is the perfect moment for that first […]