A little over a year ago, I was knocked down.
I was knocked down and I knew it was coming.
I knew it was coming, but I didn't run.
I was knocked down and it was very difficult to get up.

Photo: Luc Cherubino Photography

A little over a year ago, the job and the career that I had built from when I was in my early 20s was ripped away. Due to foreseen (yes foreseen) changes, the job and career I loved were gone. And a big part of me was gone, too.

And it was a loss. A big blow. And yet, even though we I/knew it was coming, it didn't make it any easier. I was "ok" at first, kept myself busy with volunteer initiatives and tried to stay active in the community. But I was constantly (and still am) faced with the question: "so how's work?", or people stopping me, saying: "I love watching you on tv." I smile and say thank you because even though I know full well they haven't seen my face on a tv screen in a year, I'm still grateful for their support.

You see, I loved my job -- even the tedious, mundane and sometimes inexplainable nuances that every job has. I truly loved what I (did) and the people I worked with. And without intention, my job became a good chunk of my identity, Of course, I'm a wife, a mom, a daughter, a volunteer -- but part of my passion was my work. A big part.

In the last 12 months or so, I've noticed how heavily we place value and success on career -- almost like a status symbol. As an "over-achiever" (a title many people have given me over the years), I'm guilty of it, too. Think about how people are introduced, or how people introduce themselves.

"I'm xyz and I'm an abc." Or, "Let me introduce you to xyz; she's an abc for 123."

When your title changes, what's do you do? 

I'll tell you what I'm doing. I'm rebuilding.
Much like the Toronto Maple Leafs, I'm dusting myself off and getting stronger.

6 months ago, I incorporated a company. I had no idea what I was doing, and yet, here I am. I've taken courses in business, marketing, team-building and being an entrepreneur. I bought a camera, am teaching myself to edit, joined networking groups and secured clients. Many tears have been shed through fear and frustration, but I'm here, writing this piece, disclosing publicly for the first time what's going on.

I tell you: I've learned a LOT. A lot of technical, a lot of business but a whole lot about myself. And I've learned a lot about friends, supporters, people who have your back and build you up when your confidence is down. And I'm grateful for the support in a way I can't possibly articulate. It's too raw.

So what is going on, exactly? I've turned my passions into a new career. An opportunity to meet people, tell their stories, help businesses grow. If you want to know more, send me a note and we'll chat. My heart is in my community, and I don't plan on changing that.

But one day, if the plan does change and things don't work out, that's ok. If I get re-routed or change my course, that's ok too.

And if I get knocked down, even if I see it coming, I'll get up again.

If you want to give your heart a break, you can catch one of three Supernatural Shows, featuring acrobats and entertainers you'd never meet anywhere else.

Disclosure: I have partnered with YMC and Local Love and have received compensation for this post. All opinions are my own.

NEW VIDEO: Want a tour? Check out the video for more info and a peek at Market & Co.




Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post, but as always the opinions expressed on my blog are my own. And Market & Co is seriously awesome!

Photo: Kailee Mandel

I was invited to Hillcrest Mall last week to get a glimpse at their brand new wing, along with new stores and upgrades being made to the mall. 
I have fond memories of Hillcrest Mall, and used to shop there with my mom and sister when it was one of the only malls in York Region. This $90 million dollar Glow Up, along with huge expansions in the past, have really changed the old Hillcrest. I love that it'll now have must-visit stores, but still maintains that community vibe.

Photo: Kailee Mandel

You know what else is pretty cool? Hillcrest's commitment to its local community. From September 22-Oct 5, Hillcrest will be creating a staged HomeSense area at Centre court where customers can donate housewares, toiletries, clothing, toys and books. All the items collected will go to Sandgate Women's Shelter in Richmond Hill. Amazing. 

Plus, the mall will also be hosting coding corner workshops benefitting the Boys and Girls Club of York Region inside Old Navy. 

For a sneak peek at the new reno, check out my first ever VLOG!