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 […]
Kita Szpak
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 […]
From the editor
I enjoyed winters in Ottawa long before I became a resident. My dad and my uncle Andy spent their early adult years here, attending the University of Ottawa and Carleton University respectively. My parents were married here in 1977. After […]
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 […]
From the editor
As much as we’ve been enjoying summer, heading back to school has been a major topic of discussion in our house for weeks now, and for very good reason. Not only are the kids back in class—older daughter Millie is […]
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 […]
When life gives you lemons
Positive changes to your health may come from adversity A life-altering situation can prompt change. Its sudden appearance runs interference with whatever is experienced as routine, typical, or expected. More neuroscientists, psychologists and researchers are saying a lot of our […]