Shannon

10/23/2024

Well done players! Some incredible PWHL players here to represent us. Congratulations on this recognition by the incredible management and leaders. Go Canada Go!

Here;s part of their press release:

National Women’s Team roster unveiled for first leg of Rivalry Series
Team Canada to face United States starting Nov. 6 in San Jose, California
NR.072.24|October 23, 2024

2024-25 National Women’s Team

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada has announced the 25 players who will wear the Maple Leaf with Canada’s National Women’s Team for the first three games of the 2024-25 Rivalry Series, starting Nov. 6 in San Jose, California.

Three goaltenders, eight defence and 14 forwards were selected by general manager Gina Kingsbury (Rouyn-Noranda, QC/Toronto, PWHL), head coach Troy Ryan (Spryfield, NS/Toronto, PWHL) and Cherie Piper (Scarborough, ON), senior manager of player development and scouting. Assistant coaches Kori Cheverie (New Glasgow, NS/Montréal, PWHL), Caroline Ouellette (Montréal, QC/Concordia University, RSEQ) and Britni Smith (Port Perry, ON/Syracuse University, CHA), along with goaltending consultant Brad Kirkwood (Calgary, AB/Toronto, PWHL), also provided input.

“The 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship is only six months away, and getting a look at our team and roster depth begins with these first three games,” said Kingsbury. “These teams know each other very well, but we still have an opportunity to build on what we worked on at September camp as we evaluate ourselves now and throughout the season.”

The roster includes 21 players who helped Canada win its 13th gold medal at the 2024 IIHF Women’s World Championship (Ambrose, Bell, Bourbonnais, Campbell, Clark, Desbiens, Fast, Fillier, J. Gosling, Jenner, Larocque, Maltais, Maschmeyer, Nurse, O’Neill, Poulin, Rattray, Serdachny, Shelton, Stacey, Turnbull).

Canada has won the Rivalry Series in back-to-back seasons, winning the final four games in 2023 and 2024 to secure victory in seven games. Since the start of the Rivalry Series during the 2018-19 season, Canada holds a 15-13 advantage over the Americans.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Women’s Team, please visit HockeyCanada.ca or follow along via social media on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.

10/22/2024

Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women.” – Maya Angelou

10/16/2024

Whether you’re striving for personal growth, empowering others, or making an impact in your community, this space is for you. ✨

Here, we believe in:
🔥 Breaking barriers and creating opportunities for everyone
🔥 Empowering women, advocating for diversity, and leading with purpose
🔥 Making our communities and businesses stronger through mentorship and meaningful action

As a social entrepreneur and a mentor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen first-hand the power of collective impact. Now, my mission is to inspire change globally and help others realize their potential—because we all deserve a world where diversity is celebrated and everyone’s voice matters.

Follow for stories, tips, and inspiration to create lasting change in your life, your business, and your community.

Together, let’s and build a better future!

🔔 Hit follow to join the movement of empowerment and inclusion.

10/15/2024

Join me on this journey of i
Let’s work together to create a world where diversity is celebrated and impact is felt!

"Inspiring change starts with the courage to dream and the commitment to act."

Every significant transformation in our lives or communities begins with a vision—an idea of what could be, rather than what is. It takes courage to dream beyond the boundaries set by societal norms, personal limitations, and past experiences. Dreams are the seeds of innovation; they challenge the status quo and envision a better future.

However, dreaming alone is not enough. Change requires a commitment to action, an unwavering determination to turn those dreams into reality. This means stepping outside of our comfort zones, taking risks, and confronting obstacles head-on. It involves making deliberate choices that align with our values and aspirations, whether it’s advocating for equity, supporting marginalized communities, or working towards personal growth.

When we blend courage with action, we empower ourselves and inspire others to do the same. Each step we take toward our dreams not only moves us closer to achieving our goals but also creates a ripple effect, encouraging those around us to pursue their own aspirations. By fostering a culture of courage and commitment, we can collectively drive the change we wish to see in the world.

Ultimately, inspiring change is a continuous journey, fueled by our dreams and sustained by our actions. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and where our dreams of equity, inclusion, and empowerment become a shared reality.

10/07/2024

Kudos to VOLT Hockey Canada for their commitment to inclusive hockey. They were recently in Barrie and if follow their page see they have several various upcoming events. They also have a Sensory Backpack Program that supports children with sensory processing disabilities (available in some locations).

They're looking for players, volunteers, sponsors, ambassadors and more

Link below

VOLT Hockey Canada Variety Ontario is proud to present VOLT Hockey. This exciting accessible sport is the ultimate team opportunity for children with a disability. VOLT Hockey has a fresh...

09/27/2024

"If you change nothing, nothing will change" is a powerful reminder that growth and progress require action. If we stay in our comfort zone, repeating the same habits, patterns, or environments, we can't expect different results. Change takes courage, effort, and sometimes discomfort—but it's the only way to move forward and create the outcomes we truly want.

Whether it’s in your career, relationships, or personal development, doing the same thing over and over won't bring about new opportunities or success. Taking that first step to break the cycle is crucial for real transformation.

Be kind to you

09/25/2024

These adorable ones with the collaboration with Barbie and the PWHL. They've made some more sizes available. Now, these are youth but I got an XL. It's a little snug for "the girls" and around the neck, just sayin ;)

If you want to make a great gift for that little one in your life (or perhaps yourself), these are great quality and I love them too

https://ca.shop.thepwhl.com/products/pwhl-barbie-chasing-dreams-youth-hoodie

Dream big and stay warm with the PWHL x Barbie White Hoodie, showcasing the inspiring "Chasing Dreams" graphic on the front and the PWHL x Barbie logo on the sleeve. Crafted from a cotton/polyester heavy blend, this hoodie features a cozy, brushed interior and a classic fit, making it ideal for any....

09/25/2024

Another one of my most favourite shirts available done by an artist that represents diversity in hockey. These were done for International Women's Day and of course, Women Making History

Shop official merchandise from the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) and the Original Six teams. Replica jerseys, hoodies, and collectible items are available now and new items will be added to the merchandise collection throughout the season. Shipping available to Canada and the U.S.

09/25/2024

If I recall correctly, I think some friends said they wanted PWHL toques? They've restocked and now have 4 different styles online. You're lucky now because there's a designated Canadian site now and shouldn't be charged custom/duty fees. Here's the link below.

You're welcome. I've been dubbed the PWHL Merch Queen. I'm ok with that lol

Shop official merchandise from the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) and the Original Six teams. Replica jerseys, hoodies, and collectible items are available now and new items will be added to the merchandise collection throughout the season. Shipping available to Canada and the U.S.

09/13/2024

Finding Strength in Difficult Times

Life has its way of challenging us when we least expect it, but it’s in those moments we often discover our true strength. When facing difficulties, we sometimes need to pause, reflect, and dig deep to keep going.

I know one thing for sure, this week has not been an easy one, at all, BUT the difference is having the right people around who support, were patient, giving, loving and kind.

Here's what we can do during those difficult times:

1️⃣ Focus on What You Can Control:
Life can feel overwhelming, but by focusing on the things we can change, we regain our power. Small, purposeful steps make a big difference. Don't be afraid to decompress and switch off for that moment of self care.

2️⃣ Lean on Your Community:
Never hesitate to reach out. Whether it's family, friends, or support groups—your community can lift us up when we feel low.

3️⃣ Self-Compassion:
Be kind to yourself. You’re doing the best you can, and giving yourself grace helps you get through the hardest days.

We all have the strength within us to rise above, but sometimes we need a little help finding it. Don't face your struggles alone—reach out, connect, and happens together.

Let’s start a conversation. How do you find strength during tough times? Let me know in the comments or DM if you need someone to talk to.

09/01/2024

Honestly, AI has made me nicer. I say this to my team and friends all the time. Of course, I always add my own tweaks (as in the case below). It takes my sarcastic reply that could come off via text or email as a smarta$$, condescending or rude from "not a chance would my clients accept that lowball offer $300k off the asking price when you haven't seen or analyzed the property or income" to:

"Thank you for your interest in my listing. While I appreciate your blind offer of $635,000, that’s a good entry-level starting point. Let’s discuss how agency and representation work, and explore a path forward that aligns with your investment goals while also reflecting the property’s true value.

Looking forward to discussing this further."

08/31/2024

She's 11. And the first ever to be given permission to play a Metallica song on AGT and owned it. Love her own spin and ouuuu those riffs. Enjoy

AGT Master of Puppets - Maya Neelakantan (Full Song)

How inspiring. What were we doing at 11? I think I was doing hopscotch when I wasn't training to dance lol

08/30/2024

Are you a caregiver? Check out this free program we came across to support you in the journey of that and mindfulness.
We have no affiliation.

Mindfulness in 30
2024 Program

The 4-week "Mindfulness in 30" Program is open to all care providers across Canada, including family caregivers, leadership and management professionals, as well as care providers in health, home care, and disability support services, including direct support professionals, and administrative support staff.
Sue Hutton, a mindfulness teacher with 40 years of experience, will lead the program. The program has been developed at the CAMH Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre in Toronto, Ontario, with the support of the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence.
There is no cost to attend. You will receive audio links weekly to practice brief mindfulness exercises as well as readings and support materials to help encourage your home practice.

For this or other events from the Canadian Mental Health Association, go to https://canadiancaregiving.org/events/

Supporting Family Caregivers and Care Providers

08/20/2024

FORE!!!!

Looking for a 4th for this Friday's (August 23rd) charity golf game at Braestone to benefit our incredible U-22 Jr Women's hockey team - the Barrie Jr Sharks. The 4th has to be down-to-earth, enjoy the sport of golf and not competitive as the other players, can play, but still working out their irons (see what I did there?) ;)

So if you're up to it and want to also help our sports team, reach out to my friend Elaine Murray

Other team members will be Jennifer Armstrong and Nicole Ostrynski :) $160 includes cart, etc

08/12/2024

We are all just trying to get through life's challenges and all have something going on. Please...whether personally or professionally:

Be Gentle with Criticism: If you need to give feedback, do so in a way that is constructive and considerate.

Pay Attention to Body Language: Be aware of non-verbal cues, both yours and others', as they can communicate a lot.

Avoid Pushing: Don’t force someone to talk or share more than they’re comfortable with.

Cultivate Self-Awareness

Reflect on Your Own Emotions: Understand your own emotional triggers and how they affect your interactions.

Manage Your Reactions: Practice staying calm and composed, even in emotionally charged situations.

Show Genuine Care

Be Compassionate: Show kindness and understanding, even in difficult situations.

Be kind

08/10/2024

DYK: Giving Yourself Permission to Rest is Powerful?

Did you know that allowing yourself time to rest and recharge is crucial for long-term success? Rest is not a luxury; it's a necessity for sustainable growth.

08/09/2024

Did you know that around 75% of people experience some level of fear or anxiety about glossophobia, or rather, public speaking.

I was watching a show last night for entrepreneurs who know their product, stumble on note cards while reading their names and titles. Their own names and titles? This is personal information they know so why were they reading verbatim? Public speaking. One of the most difficult things for some and not something I relate or comprehend. I'm the opposite and in fact, do better off the cuff without any note cards or prepped presentations. Not bragging, it's gratitude to be in the small % and have this skill. It has taken a lot of time and skill to hone in on this. I do get nervous beforehand, only because I care about the messaging.

One top tip for becoming an effective, confident public speaker is to focus on your message, not yourself. Instead of worrying about how you're being perceived, concentrate on the value you're delivering to your audience. When you shift your focus to sharing your message and helping others, your confidence naturally increases, and your nervousness fades into the background. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about being authentic and connecting with your audience.

Here's something I've put together:

4 Steps to Success: Winning at Salary Negotiations, Fundraising, Joint Venture or New Business

Step 1 — Exude Confidence: Whether you're negotiating a salary, fundraising, seeking joint venture capital, or starting a new business—profit or non-profit—confidence is key. Present yourself with poise and assurance, showing that you’re ready to make an impact. Even if you have doubts, project calmness and determination. Your ability to remain composed under pressure and convey confidence will assure others that you can handle the challenges ahead.

Step 2 — Deliver a Clear Message: Communicate the core of your proposal—be it a salary request, a fundraising pitch, or a new business idea—in 90 seconds or less. Sometimes, 15 seconds is all you need. Your message should be so clear and concise that anyone can understand it instantly, whether they’re a potential employer, investor, or partner. The more straightforward and precise your pitch, the stronger your impact.

Step 3 — Demonstrate Your Ex*****on: Explain how you, combined with your proposal, will successfully achieve high levels of success. Whether it’s securing a salary increase, attracting investment, or launching a new venture, it's not just about having a great idea—it’s about proving that you have the skills and determination to bring it to life. Highlight your ability to execute and why you're the best person to lead this effort.

Step 4 — Know Your Numbers: In any negotiation or pitch—whether it’s for a salary increase, fundraising, or launching a new venture—you must present clear evidence of the financial or social impact. Show potential employers, investors, or partners what's in it for them. Provide concrete data, demonstrate potential returns, and break down the numbers to illustrate a compelling and realistic opportunity for growth or success.

Cheers to your success