EXPLORING
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7 ways journaling can help you discover your passion
2009 was a remarkable year for me. I met my mentor that year. Meeting her once a month has turned into a ten-year friendship, and thankfully, we are still meeting today. In 2009, I was at a pivotal point in my journey with God. Are you even here? Where are you, Lord? I was losing faith in Him. At the first meeting, I found out that my mentor had a habit of keeping a journal. In her diary, she recorded her ah-ha moments with Jesus. Her experience inspired me to start recording my special moments with Him. Now journaling has become a part of my life. The personal reflection helps…
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10 tips to reach your event fundraising target
Congratulations! You have decided to support a worthy cause. You are now brainstorming ways to meet or even exceed your fundraising target. How about hosting a fundraising event? Here are 10 tips to get you started! Form your team Putting together an event is no easy feat! Gather your friends who share the same vision as you, create a meaningful team name and start planning your event. Set your objectives The key to success is to have measurable objectives. What is your fundraising goal? How many attendees will you invite? Pick your theme Put the ‘FUN’ in FUNdraising! What will people do at your event? A few years ago, I…
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Unforgettable bed and breakfast at Nestleton Waters Inn
Spontaneous trips are the most fun. Our dear friend, Miss S, invited us to spend Easter weekend with her family at the beautiful Nestleton Waters Inn in Nestleton Ontario. “This place looks as gorgeous as the photos online. I can’t wait to explore,” I said to Hercules. We admired the beautiful estate as we pulled into the driveway. Spot greeted us with a warm welcome. Rubbing his furry face against our legs, he followed us into the Inn. Who is Spot? He is their friendly cat! We were soon captivated by the owners of the Inn, Erica and Deborah, with their infectious smiles. I took a deep breath and felt…
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Pencil drawing to an estate – Meet Deborah at Nestleton Waters Inn
My husband and I stayed at the picturesque Nestleton Waters Inn over the Easter long weekend. What an unforgettable bed and breakfast experience! Delicious foods, late night conversation with friends, and singing at breakfast overlooking a breathtaking view made our stay such a delight. It was a treat to meet Deborah, the owner and operator of the Nestleton Waters Inn. Her genuine sharing has encouraged me to continue developing my passion and “find the fun that keeps family, friendship, and faith” in my life. I hope you’ll enjoy this interview! What do you love? My family, being close and sharing life together, writing poetry, and songs that speak of…
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Meet illustrator and comic artist, Bonnie
Every Wednesday and Saturday, these cartoon animal characters would pop up on my Facebook feed. Episode 216 “What If” – I smile while I’m scrolling through the pictures during my commute to work. This mini-comic series reminds me of the good times during my dragon boat days with Sweet (my good friend). I was the rocket, and she was the pacer! I am thrilled to connect with Bonnie Pang, the creator of Roar Street Journal. She released the first episode in 2015. Now, her fans can enjoy over 200 episodes online! Bonnie, what do you love? What do you hate? And what gets you going? I love baking, playing with…
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Your childhood dream? Meet Aileen from Sifted, your vintage boutique.
“Something in me said that I would never know unless I tried. If I were to fail at least I tried. I wanted my kids to see that dreams can come true no matter how big or small. I encourage them to dream always.” On a wintery Sunday afternoon, we visited Sifted, a vintage boutique located in Scarborough by Markham Road and Ellesmere. We met Aileen, the owner of Sifted, for the first time. Dressed in a decorative patterned sweater with her hair clipped to the side showing her undercut bob, Aileen greeted us at the front door. I admittedly told her that hairstyle is one that I’ve always wanted…
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3 Landmines to avoid. Part 2 – Meet Derek from Twisted Inflations
Here is part 2 of the interview with Derek, the founder of Twisted Inflations. His business specializes in balloon sculptures, art and decoration. Catch up on part 1 here! Since we last chatted with Derek, he had travelled to Orlando Florida to compete at the 2017 Twist & Shout competition with high caliber balloon twisters. His entry won first place in the large sculpture competition, and he was also placed second in the medium entry. And guess who also brought home the title “Top Twister” of the year? Congratulations to Derek! What an accomplishment in one month’s time! One thing you would notice when you visit Derek’s Facebook page is the…
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Let go of logic. Meet Derek, the founder of Twisted Inflations
What did you want to be when you grow up? Do you still remember? In our ever-changing economy, we begin to see more individuals taking up unconventional vocations that surprise and delight us. They stop you in your tracks, and you find yourself asking, “wow, THIS is what you do?” I think of individuals like Derek who is a world-class balloon artist. When I first learned about his work, I was intrigued to find out more. We were thrilled when Derek said “Yes!” without hesitation when we sent him an invitation for a featured interview. I’ve never met Derek in person. From our conversation on the phone, I can sense the genuine passion in…
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DoNUT ever give up – Meet Rhea from The Canvas Postcard
To Jup You UP today, here is a story about an artist who turned her love for puns and painting into a business. Rhea and I have been corresponding on email to find a time to chat about her new found love. I haven’t seen her in a few months. In this short span of time, she has created an online shop called The Canvas Postcard. I can’t wait to get on the phone to catch up with her on the latest happenings. Rhea, thank you so much for sharing your story. Here at Jup You UP, we love to encourage others to find their passion and do something about it.…
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6 ingredients in building a strong team – Meet Betty from Bridal Secretary Makeup & Hair Design Studio
Have you ever been stunned by someone’s creativity and passion the very first time you cross path? And you immediately tell yourself that when the time comes, I will definitely call on this person. This long lasting impression can be so vivid even a decade later. Today is a beautiful day for a celebration. Betty is going to help me look presentable for my friend’s wedding! This is my second time visiting Betty’s studio in Markham. The first time I stepped foot into her stylish studio was for my wedding consultation 🙂 We begin catching up on our lives as she styles my hair. Looking into the mirror, I…
