logo
logo


subscribe

COMMUNITY, EVENTS & SERVICES

  •

    0 Global Tree of Peace & Reconciliation

    • by Biljana
    • 05-08-2025

     JUNE 15, 2025 planting of the Global (Juniper) Tree of Peace and Reconciliation with a Sunrise Sacred Pipe Ceremony at Frog Hollow Sacred Gardens

  • 0 Frog Hollow TEA PARTY

    • by Biljana
    • 13-05-2024

       “Reneissance Tea Party & Children’s book launch”   on June 14 from 2pm  to 4pm  The Gardens will be open for an expressive Medieval explorations  (dress your best), enchanted tea, light snacks and live music with our  Frog Hollow gusts musicians. Book signing by the Author, Kristin Carter Groulx & Illustrator, Biljana Banchotova Webb  Attendance is by donation and reservation at:  birthingstar@gmail.com    For the upcoming session 2024 we have two scheduled events: June 2th and Aug. 4th, 2024  THE ROYAL TEA PARTY We are inviting the community to meet at the Gardens while we  welcome the presence of King Bamidele, an African ‘Wisdom Keeper’ On August 4th from 3 to 5pm The event is accompanied by live music (with local 'frog hollow musicians)and intuitive offerings. Assortment of herbal Teas and delights will be provided... Event min. Donation $22 for adult or $5 for child  Followed by a SACRED FIRE JAM ceremony at the Tipi, from 7pm to 9pm on African Spirituality and Drumming.   Donation will be shared for fire wood, lodging and community development projects in Africa.  Bamidele will be staying at the Whirling Wisdom Studio and seeing the community for Consultation and divination sessions on Aug.4 and August 5th  Available times: August 4th from 3pm to 6pm, August 5th from 9am until noon For our more information on Bamidele visit:   https://www.froghollowartexperience.com/community.php?controller=pjLoad&action=pjActionView&id=51 To reserve your attendance; book a private session with Bamidele And for the one interested for overnight accommodation you may arrange with  Biljana at: birthingstar@gmail.com  www.froghollowartexperience.com       ENCHANTED TEA PARTY presents "RISE" an  Aerial Art Performance June 2th, from 1 to 3pm  Here is to our Frog Hollow favourite and Opening of the 'enchanted' season. Will begin with 'spoken word' with Douglas Smith poetry, intuitive messages by Biljana and sound offerings by our Frog Hollow guest musicians. Our highlight special features an Aerial Performance. For more information on the Artist and featured guest visit the Community page. Event is by donation. Confirm your attendance at e-mail: birthingstar@gmail.com  for information on our Areal Artists and ‘Featured Guest’ visit our Community page.  WhirlingWisdom @ Divine Play Studio

  •

    0 Soundbath & Healing

    • by Biljana
    • 19-04-2024

      Soundscapes with WhirlingWisdom Being one of my core passions and long-standing practices here at WhirlingWisdom @ DivinePlay Studio. I have studied, observed, and worked with Sound Healing for over 25 years, and I remain deeply devoted to both the practice and the teaching of this ancient-yet-ever-evolving art. Over the years, I have developed a unique, integrative approach that weaves sound, voice, intention, and presence into immersive healing experiences. I offer Sound Healing as: ~Private sessions ~Group or couples experiences .~Online sessions via Zoom ~Ongoing LIVE presentations ~ Collaborative Events  “Exploring Sound as Medicine”,  …collectively and individually, in a variety of settings, including: Soundbaths, Sound Ceremonies and Sound Wave Attunements,  Open to travel and private arrangements. Investment Online Group Zoom SessionsSuggested donation, sliding scale: $30–$55 Private Zoom Sessions & Mentorship: $60 — 45 minutes,  $120 — 1 hour 30 minutes Private In-Studio Sessions: $120 — 1 hour 30 minutes,  $170 — Couples session, 1 hour 30 minutes In-Studio Community Events: Sliding scale: $25–$55 For upcoming Mentorship, Healing sessions & Events You may contact Biljana and subscribe to our Newsletter at: birthingstar@gmail.com     UPCOMING EVENTS:  You are warmly invited to a Sound Celebration at the Heart Space—a deeply immersive journey to attune with the energies of wellbeing through natural rhythms, sacred sounds, and ancient wisdom. Performed in the intimate Studio setting at the foot of “The PYRAMIDION”-a copper pyramid installation (6’ x 6’ x 9’3”)—this Sound Ceremony aligns with the gentle charm of Valentine’s energy, welcoming all hearts—not limited to couples. This experience offers Heart and Voice meridians initiation, guided by healing Hz vibrations and spoken meditation. Through diverse sound tonalities, crystalline waves, and inner synchronicities, we invite the embodiment of unconditional love—nurturing compassion, expansion, and harmonic resonance. Together, we open to the creational flow that supports personal and collective realignment with Love, Light, Joy, Peace, and Health. Enter a space of deep listening as we dive into the stream of consciousness for expanded awareness. Experience the power of sound medicine as crystal and brass singing bowls emit pure, high-frequency tones that gently attune the body and psyche, promoting balance and healing. The soundscape is enriched with flutes, spirit and ocean drums, four-element chimes, Idopan, didgeridoo, tuning forks, and other culturally diverse instruments—true flavours for the soul. Intentional alter will set the ambiance. Beneath the instruments at the studio floor lies a hand-painted mural depicting the “Creational Spiral & Celestial Heart Opening”, infused with Symbols of The Creational Teachings—designed to support harmony and optimized light waves. Allow every cell of your body to celebrate, inviting peace, tranquility, and enchantment. This is an invitation to awaken the light seeds and dream into the New Earth. Registration required in advance Tickets may be purchased via Eventbrite or e-transfer at: birthingstar@gmail.com We look forward to sharing this transformative sonic circle—the Circle of the One—with you. Tickets with Eventbright: upcoming  Location & Google Map link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qXHmUStZuWpvEpV19 Community link at: www.FrogHollowArtExperience.com   Featured original artwork by Biljana, titled: 'Love is Medicine'  www.BiljanaArt.com      #soundhealing #meditation #wellness #originalart #valentine’s #love #medicine #studio #theworld    IMAGE GALLERY:      

  •

    0 Workshops

    FEATHER FAN WORKSHOP     I am offering a sacred space and my guidance to explore the ‘wisdom of feathers’ and make a smudge fan or a smudge feather along the way. At this in-structural workshop you will be supported in the creation of your fan and more importantly learn about traditional and contemporary understandings of ‘meaning of feathers’; proper handling and care; understandings by diverse cultural awareness and also tune to your own intuitive cognitions with the nature of this offering.  All materials are inclusive, including feathers, natural hide & coloured, crystals, beads etc.. You are also welcome to bring you special feather or decorative element if you have some to include in your creation.   Duration of the workshop 2 hr.        Investment: $70   Meaning of Feathers The Meaning of Feathers plays an important role in the awareness of many cultures. Most understanding embodies the spiritual idea that all natural things within the universe, including birds have spirits forms. That spirit exist, not only in humans, but also in birds (they imprint their fluidal energy onto their feathers) and in animals, plants,  and all living beings. The doctrine is that everything is alive, and possesses an inherent virtue, power and wisdom. The generalized meaning of feathers signified honour & connected the carrier with the Creation and the bird whose feathers came from. Feathers are perceived as gifts from the sky, the sea and the trees. Feathers arrive unexpectedly, but not without purpose.   Birds were revered as bringers of messages and symbols of change and often symbolized light-hearted freedom, their feathers have many spiritual, ceremonial & ritual uses. Decorated feathers were sometimes attached to sacred objects and tools, in the ancient culture and traditions of First Nations the meaning of feathers are inextricably tied to the understanding that birds, as spirit guides, appear through different stages of life to a person, teaching and guiding them, and in some instances protecting them. The meaning of birds and their feathers are of great significance as they are considered to possess Creational energetic powers that can embody, attach and influence a person, empowering them with the powerful traits, attributes and characteristics of the bird.    At the duration of this workshop we will also discus meanings of birds and observe information of the significance of each bird’s attributes and symbolism. Also learn about the purpose, teachings and proper ways of ‘smudging’ and handling sacred objects.  All ages are invited to attend this fun feather crafting afternoon at SpirolGate of Art & Wellbeing by, Biljana Webb   STAINED GLASS WORKSHOP Educational hands on workshop with Whirling Wisdom Studio. At this experience you will be supported to envision and create your unique "element"-design out of stained glass. Example:  feather, leaf, star, mushroom, est. This is a "step by step"  instructional learning experience, all tools and materials are inclusive. You will be learning about glass, drawing and cutting, soldering and decorating your unique creation. Duration approximately 3hr. To 4 hr      Investment: $280 For private or group bookings reach Biljana at: birthingstar@gmail.com 

  •

    0 Crystal Trail Hike & Meditation

    • by Biljana
    • 06-04-2024

      "Love is in the Earth" -Guided Crystal Trail Hike ~ with Crystal Bowls Sound Initiation ~Explore mineral trails at Titanate Hill, known world wide by its unique findings of: Titanite, Apatite, Richterite, Feldspar, Calcite, Mica among others. At the explorative and educational part of the experience you will have an opportunity to walk the trail in sacred awareness and witness the minerals at their natural habitat, learn of the crystals metaphysical and healing properties, and have some "findings for keeps". Followed by and Crystal Bowl Sound Meditation and initiation of your findings in a sacred awareness at SpiralGate of Art and Wellbeing. Investment: $ 80 per person (only hike ) or $130  Crystal Bowls Meditation Families are welcome, for children between 7 to 12 years: $25All inclusive- including: Crystal Elixir, Crystals and chiseling materials for the one interested( basket, chiseling tools, shovel, hammer, safety classes)What to bring: Journal; comfortable hiking boots/ wear, bottle for water, snack) To book your time and register, contact Biljana: birthingstar@gmail.com 

  •

    0 Hand DRUM Offerings

    • by Biljana
    • 06-04-2024

    Hand Drum Making Workshop  I am truly honored to guide you through the process of creating your hand drum and to support you in the flow of becoming a Drum Carrier. Please know that this is a sacred ceremonial work. Throughout the drum-making process, there will be sharing of intercultural wisdom and traditional teachings, honouring the universal Spirit of the Drum and the songs that carry its prayers. This is a mindful, heart-centered experience rooted in respect, healing, gratitude, and intention. Materials & Craftsmanship We will be working with: White-tailed deer hide; Cedar wood frames ; A choice of rawhide, leather, faux suede, or synthetic lacing All materials are mindfully and locally prepared, sourced in sustainable ways, and created in collaboration with First Nations communities and local artisans. All materials are included in the Drum making workshop investment. The creation of the mallet/ stick is optional and additional of $30 for materials & teachings.  Drum Frame Options & Rates: ~10” Drum Frame — $200 ~12” Drum Frame — $300 ~14” Drum Frame — $350 ~16” Drum Frame — $380  Drum Blessing & Ceremony (Optional & Included) Following the creation of your hand drum, you are invited to participate in a Drum Blessing / Initiation Ceremony, including: ~Sacred drum blessing ~Feasting for the drum gathering ~Ceremony held in my Tipi, with Sacred Pipe and Smudge This portion is inclusive and optional, offered as a continuation of the drum’s journey. Booking & Reservation To book the workshop a 50% deposit of the workshop cost is required. This allows me to prepare and arrange the necessary materials with care and intention.  Workshop Formats & Availability The Hand Drum Making Workshop is offered in several formats: ~ One-on-One Sessions at my studio (for those who can travel) ~ Annual Group Workshops (dates announced seasonally) ~ Online Workshop via Zoom. At which case the materials will be pre-shipped to your home Shipping cost added to base price ~Local Travel for Group Arrangements (by request) Session Duration: Approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on group size and flow. For those traveling to my lodge, overnight accommodation or camping may be available. Contact & Booking For more information or to book your Hand Drum Making Workshop, please contact: Biljana birthingstar@gmail.com       Drum Feast & Blessing Ceremony “Drum Birthing” Initiation Location: Cosmic TipiSpiralGate of Art & Wellbeing18378 Highway 118,Tory Hill, ON K0L 2Y0 The Drum Blessing / Drum Birthing Initiation & Feast Ceremony is open to all Drum Carriers—those who have just made their drum, those who are inquiring, and those who feel called to learn the ways of the Drum and its sacred teachings. I have dedicated myself to offering this ceremony once per year, traditionally held in the month of October, in alignment with the harvest season and ancestral energies. Ceremony Details The gathering will take place in the Cosmic Tipi, around a sacred fire, honoring this potent seasonal threshold. During the ceremony, there will be sharing of: Intercultural teachings about the Drum Medicine songs Spiral Initiation Sacred rhythms connecting Spirit & Heart You are warmly invited to bring your favourite food to “feast” your drum and to share in a potluck meal. This is how we welcome you, your drum, and celebrate community and belonging. I am more than delighted to support you in this sacred rhythm and ceremonial flow. What to Bring Clothing appropriate for weather conditions; A blanket for comfort; Your drum (if you have one); A potluck dish to share  Friends and children are most welcome. Communal drums will be available for those who are called to Drum.  Energy Exchange This gathering is offered by donation, to support: The lodge; Firewood; Ceremony and service Those receiving a Drum Blessing may offer a “sacred gift” and contribute to the potluck feast for all. Reservation To reserve your attendance, please email: Biljana  at:  birthingstar@gmail.com   DRUM ZOOM MEDICINE   Online Hand Drum Sessions  At the ‘centering fire’ of our inner Creation energy, there is a pulse that unites all living beings—a ‘Universal Heart’ that celebrates the many rhythms and paths of life. I have come to realize that it is our Ancestral Journey and our evolving & progressing BEING that keeps us attuned to our inner light & truth, in service of harmony, healing, and peace. From this place, I come to share called to celebrate in community. As a Spirit Drum Carrier with a multi-cultural background, I have been on this path for almost three decades. I have been fortunate to meet, sound with, and be initiated by many ‘medicine people’ from around the world—especially with our Indigenous - First Nations here in Canada. My teachings follow the Colourful Trails of unity consciousness, cosmic understandings, and lived practices, always rooted in an intimate, heart-centered healing space and a living continuum of prayer and relationship with Drum Creation & Nature- on practical, ceremonial, and spiritual levels. I take care of my Drums with deep reverence and sacredness. Over the years, many of you have come to know me through social drumming, song circles, and sacred fire ceremonies. I am now actively holding space for universal soul work in my “Whirling Wisdom Studio” and sacred lodges on my land at “SpiralGate of Art & Wellbeing” in Tory Hill, Ontario. I’ve been called to bring the sacred work online and by the “Frog Hollow Art Experience” initiatives I am opening my commitment to a safe, sacred and intentional private Zoom sessions called: “Drum Zoom Medicine” The session's intentions are to: Deepen your relationship with the Hand Drum through the awareness of a “medicine keeper” Be supported in finding and sounding your soul vice & songs Learn and share multi-cultural hand drum songs Explore inner core vocals, Nature-oriented and mindfulness Experience Shamanic Drum Journeying Learn how to sacredly care for your drum and explore new rhythm awareness Be guided & learn of ceremonial protocols and creating sacred spaces Be introduced to and experience other multi-cultural drums, such as:Ocean Drum, Frame Drum, African Drum, Egyptian Drum, Celtic Drum, and more Experience light percussion as complements to drumming: rattles, flutes, whistles, etc. Support the continuation and sharing of wisdom teachings and drum medicine This call is especially for those who: Already have or have made their own hand drum and feel called to deepen the relationship  Seeking to fine-tune their sacred ways, share in safe space  Have inquired about drum-making and are called to become a Drum Carrier Each session will carry a unique and spontaneous sound ceremony focus, while also offering gentle structure for learning and practice.  Session’s investment is $70 for one hour.  Sugested Requirement: yo will need a set of stereo head phones for maximum sound benefit connection. For further questions and inquiries, please contact Biljana at the email: birthingstar@gmail.com    STAY TUNNED FOR UPCOMING DRUM JAM AND CEREMONIES IN MY STUDIO AND SACRED LODGES!    Drum Painting Workshop  For the one interested in painting their Spirit Drum, I offer private or group guided sessions. Investment coast will vary on the complexity of the design, hands on, envisioning and in-structural painting. All materials are inclusive, bring your drum or purchase one made by the artist. Commissions also welcome! To inquire more info, book and reserve your private or group time contact Biljana: birthingstar@gmail.com 

  •

    0 Intuitive sessions

      Whirling Wisdom Intuitive Sessions with Biljana Webb Available by phone, virtual connection, or in person, Whirling Wisdom Intuitive Sessions offer a nurturing space for insight, clarity, and soulful realignment. These individual or group sessions provide transformational tools and gentle guidance to support your personal evolution with a creatively awakening insight. Are you seeking counselling that deepens your sense of purpose and wellbeing? Questions on personal or business related matters? Matters of the heart?  Do you feel the quiet (or not-so-quiet) calling of your soul—inviting you toward greater truth, insight, and alignment with your life’s passion? Come with a question… or simply come open.The wisdom you seek is already reaching for you. As a wisdom keeper and light-worker Biljana tunes into the subtle fluidal energy’s and fibres of your presence to reflects from the subconscious of what’s  ready to unfold. Each session is guided by intuitive listening, compassion, and respect for your unique journey. Biljana draws upon teachings and Creational energies from multidimensional realms of awareness, awakening ancestral knowledge and embodied wisdom passed through ancient and contemporary lineages. Readings are intuitively channeled and woven through a blend of divination and insight tools, which may include Tarot, Oracle and Power decks, Karma Cards, Plant Oracles, Star Seed wisdom, Ancestors and Spirit Guides. For those who feel called, Biljana can also explore: Maya and Aztec birth signs; Celtic wisdom of the Trees, revealing your mythical and symbolic story A central theme of her work is remembering our living relationship with Mother Earth. Through the “Medicine Wheel”,  Animal Allies, plant and tree wisdom, and traditional teachings shared by Elders from diverse Indigenous nations, Biljana opens doorways to deeper understanding, harmony, and the path of All Our Relations. Sessions are gently held within the energetic presence of her Whirling Wisdom Visionary Art, whose light, geometry and visionary imagery support expanded awareness, grounding, and reconnection with the Higher Self—offering insight into your relationship with the emerging New Earth. Individual Whirling Wisdom Sessions Investment:- 1-hour session — $120  - 30-minute session — $70 - Couples combined session - $180  Sessions available in person, by phone, or virtually. Phone: 647-518-5593 (Canada)Email: birthingstar@gmail.com    

  •

    0 Musicians

      Biljana Webb  Your Frog Hollow host & practising visionary artist, intuitive, sound healing and ceremony.  Working with Sound explorations for over 24 years in diverse modalities , mindful meditations and in intentional collaborative sound  experiences~ Offering private & group sound healing sessions and mentorship program. For Group SondBaths and Sound Ceremony experiences, please refer to upcoming news and Soundscapes page on this site. FEATURED GUEST MUSICIANS   Peruvian Elder and sound healer Tata PEPE MENDOZA LOLI Pepe Mendoza Loli is a musical alchemist who shares healing musical sounds with groups and individuals. Rooted in traditional modalities that he has been engaged with for decades, Pepe’s deep gratitude for the beauty and wonder of life is expressed in his work and play, which currently takes the form of musical offerings.  BACKGROUND Born and raised in the forest village of Pucalpa, Peru, Pepe first started to play music during his youthful travels around Peru and neighbouring countries of Ecuador, Columbia and Bolivia. He continued playing various pre-columbian flutes, first in Europe, and then around the world accompanying Japanese musician Kitaro san and his group giving Pepe a more expansive vision for the sonoric and musical potential of this art.  Pepe then spent some 20 years playing music in a variety of contexts for and with traditional communities in Mexico and first nations communities in the USA and across Canada. He then spent a few years in Europe visiting many countries, continuing to develop his own musical texture using a variety of hand-made instruments including some that he made himself.  Pepe returned to Canada and deepened his musical process doing sound healing with his unique form of MUNAY (heartfelt ) musical offerings. He continues to lovingly share his music with people and the natural surroundings.Visit PEPE’s home page at: www.pepemendozaloli.com  Meet Pepe at the upcoming Soundscape Performance, dates to be confirmed… Whiring Wisdom @ Divine Play STUDIO   Pepe and Gabi    David Guess who "hopped in"? David is playing old favourites on saxophone and clarinet in a relaxing free range jazzy style.  You may meet him at  the featured Tea Parties and other event happenings.   SpiralGate of Art and Wellbeing 18378 Highway 118, Tory Hill, ON   E-mail your attendance: birthingstar@gmail.com www.froghollowartexperience.com 

  • 0 Aerial Art

         We are happy to initiate the second showing of “Web Weaver” by our talented “birthing stars” duo, Laura and Neka from  "Whirling Wisdom @ Divine Play Studio"   May 25, 2025 at 2pm event is by donation and fundraising towards portable equipment!  ~keeping this art thriving~ Event is children friendly, due to space limits we ask guest to reserve seating at: birthingstar@gmail.com     Laura Hunt loves creative expression through music and dance. She grew up doing competitive gymnastics and cheer-leading. This naturally lead her into coaching for nearly ove a decade. She then discovered aerial silks and performed for many years with the Hamilton Aerial Group, again for over a decade, she states: “ My heart is very happy when I am flipping, twirling and teaching”!  Laura is the teacher of Shashwananeka Lili Banchotova AKA Neka” who started training at age 9 and now 11 years old and performing together as an inspired duo ”Di*Vine Tribe” and your youngest co-host at Frog Hollow   SpiralGate of Art and Wellbeing 18378 Highway 118, Tory Hill, ON   E-mail your attendance: birthingstar@gmail.com  www.froghollowarttour.com    “Web Weaver” made it to the Haliburton Echo, January performance 2025         Image from “RISE” performance 2023     Images from “Fairy & The Fox” performance 2022       Images from 2021 & 2020 performances      

  •

    0 Featured Guests

         FEATURED WISDOM KEEPERS:      Martin Millen~  Martin Millen is a First Nation Traditional Healer and Lodge Conductor. Martin come to Frog Hollow in 2023 in a collaborative initiative with Earth Dance Studio and Whirling Wisdom Studio for manifesting of the four sacred canvasses that present “Reconnecting to Nature Through Spiritual Teachings and Sacred Geometry of the Sweat Lodge”.The four 5’x5’  acrylic paintings are titled: “The Earth World”, “The Human World”, The Spirit World”, and “The Sky World”. These paintings, otherwise known as “sacred hoops”, are as a teaching tool to share Ojibway oral knowledge of the four races coming together at the sacred fire. We recognize this being the “8th Fire”. Each of the four races were given two gifts each. As humanity has reached a crossroad, we are asked to bring these eight gifts together to create One Great Nation. The gift of the Red Nation is to carry the Earth and Spirit knowledge. It is through the Sweat Lodge that the Red Standing People communicate this understanding. Martin is utilizing these paintings to communicate sacred knowledge, to develop cross-cultural relationships and to reconnect all people back to good relations with the Earth. Martin and his Family travel from their home land in North Bay. For information on their attendance seek at our News and reach out at Contact Us.  Oloja Bamidele Bajowa, wisdom keeper from Nigeria, Africa HRH Oloja Bamidele Bajowa of Bajowa Village in Ondo State Nigeria, Africa is a Yoruba Elder, High Chief (Ijama) and Babalawo who is globally renowned for his sharing of his Yoruba heritage through engaging ceremonies - a focus on honoring the ancestors, libations, lecture, natural medicines, musical presentations, Ifa divination and consultations. Lecture topics include: -Introduction to African Spirituality -Orishas and the benefits of African Spirituality  -Ancestors our closest allies -Living a life of abundance -'sacred intentions' as tools for ,problem solving,.   HRH Bamidele Bajowa’s current community development projects include: -Yoruba House project in supporting and bringing awareness to the Yoruba heritage in the diaspora and in Africa. -Club10society in support of women farmers and traders  - FutureBrite play and learn centre in support of children’s education focused on technology, science and the arts.    We are truly honoured to host Prince Bamidele, a wisdom keeper, who is traveling from Nigeria and staying at the SpiralGate of Art and Wellbeing for our summer Frog Hollow experience. He will is our guest at the Storytelling Tipi, sharing the traditional Yoruba teachings and leading a spiritual ceremony.  While at his stay, Prince Bamidele will be also available to the community for a private spiritual consultations and readings. Sessions coast: $100 All funds raised at this gatherings and private sessions will go towards his travels and in support to his community projects in Okitipupa, Nigeria.  Scheduled upcoming visit and sessions with Bamidele: August 4th & 5th, 2024to book your sessions contact: Biljana at: birthingstar@gmail.com    For all other upcoming events and sessions with the “wisdom keepers” visit News on Home page or “Contact Us” to book your private or group sessions~   SpiralGate of Art and Wellbeing 18378 Highway 118, Tory Hill, ON   E-mail your attendance: birthingstar@gmail.com  www.froghollowartexperience.com    SPOTLIGHT GUESTS: Frog Hollow is proud to feature Kristin Groulx the Author of “Sir Can’t A Lot” the newly published book and collaboration with Biljana Banchotova Webb as illustrator. Bio: Kristin is the author of several children’s books including Humphrey the Humpback Whale- illustrated with Biljana Banchotova Webb, the same artist as Kristin’s newest book, Sir Can’t-A-Lot. She has published a 7-book YA series for older teens “the mis-adventures of Alyson Bell” and a 1920’s biography of her well-known writer great-grandmother, Josephine Van De Grift Demi-Tasse and Mrs. Grundy. She currently spends time between near the ocean in British Columbia with her husband, three children and a myriad of pets, and Perth, Ontario, Canada, the small Canadian town with European charm so sweet which launched her latest children’s book My Day in Perth. In addition to writing, she also has worked as a Professional Genealogist and researcher for over 30 years. Her books and interesting tidbits may be found at www.kristingroulx.com. Author Kristin (Carter) Groulx writes YA magical realism and paranormal romance, biographies, poetry, and children's books related to those with different abilities and needs. With a flare for the mysterious, a fascination with magic, and a passion for discovering love in its many forms, Kristin knew it was only natural to write fiction. She is also no stranger to travelling, having lived and explored the United States, Asia and Canada.  Additionally, a talented genealogist and historian, her books delve deep into the roots of a family, exploring epigenetic imprints, memories, and a connection to ancestors that is shown throughout her fiction and non-fiction books.    She lives with her husband and three children in the beautiful country of Canada. The near arctic winter temperatures allow for an insane amount of time spent indoors, diligently writing, editing and undertaking hours of caffeine-induced, sleep-deprived historical research for her novels.  Links: www.kristingroulx.com Facebook @kristingroulx Instagram @skylarkartsy Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/867770.Kristin_Groulx        Mark Jenkins at the Storytelling Tipi    Mark has developed and implemented experiential learning programs for organizations worldwide. However, when his mother, Betty, began showing symptoms of Alzheimer's dementia, he took a break to spend quality time with her. Their time together became the start of a caregiving journey, which Mark calls "accompaniment." Their days were filled with "outings" where Mark and his Mother explored nature's beauty, its flora and fauna, always ending up at a picnic spot. Despite his mother’s cognitive function loss, they choose the path of awe and wonder. Playfulness, imagination, beauty, and love were their guiding principles. However, the journey was not without its challenges. Midway, Mark found himself at his limits in caring for his mother. He had to advocate fiercely to secure the support he needed to see her through to the end of her life. This experience has fueled Mark's dedication to helping others navigate the complexities of caregiving and find the support they need.  Visit Mark’s home site: www.aboutcaring.ca   “To Care or Not to Long-Term Care” Summary:  “Facing complex choices regarding care for ourselves or loved ones is common. By tuning into our emotions, we can make sustainable decisions aligned with our feelings, avoiding unrealistic narratives. Embracing our caring journey without regret or burnout is key. The session encourages sharing experiences to gain wisdom and new perspectives.“   Invitation: Many of us are currently grappling with this question, either for ourselves or our loved ones. Even if it's not a current concern, most of us will eventually confront these intricate and perplexing decisions. There is a more effective process and direction available. By tuning into our emotions and innermost thoughts, we can adjust our decisions to match the level of care and empathy that is sustainable for us. We can also shape our narrative to resonate with our emotions, providing us with clarity and purpose. It's about not forcing our emotions into an overly altruistic or unrealistic narrative, nor crafting a tale that solely serves ourselves. There's no need for duty, obligation, or sheer willpower. We can embark on our paths of caregiving in a manner that won't leave us with regrets. We have the ability to represent the divine and be absolved from our past, or mend our boundaries, fulfilling our destiny and aspirations. Attempting to straddle these two paths is painful and leads to burnout. This session is designed to help you discover the unique path meant for you. Throughout this session, everyone will have the opportunity to share what they are comfortable and motivated to share. We will leverage the collective wisdom of each individual's life experiences and use brief stories to open our hearts and minds to fresh perspectives on the familiar.  E-mail your attendance by Friday afternoon: birthingstar@gmail.com  SpiralGate of Art and Wellbeing  18378 Highway 118, Tory Hill, ON   www.froghollowartexperience.com