Big things are coming for the Motherlove Project in 2023. When I started the Project in 2020, I had no idea what might happen but I knew I was called to start something that allowed me to share my story and others’ as well. I couldn’t have imagined over 80 beautiful souls from around the world would share their stories with the Project. I feel called to push harder and longer for more grief awareness, grief education, connection and community in 2023!

This year, I am hoping to share many more of your stories and provide more connection points in Ottawa and maybe elsewhere! I hope to use every opportunity on social media and in person to raise more grief awareness and educate more people about the impact of grief on our health, families and communities.

The one thing that 2022 taught me was that making connections, in whatever form, with other grief survivors, makes me the happiest and the most fulfilled. I think I have finally found my truest calling, my life’s work, beyond raising my children. It is the work that brings me constant joy and satisfaction. So, dear friends, I am hoping that 2023 is the year that I can lay the groundwork so that in future years, I can dedicate myself full-time to this work.

In 2023, I am planning more Motherlove Meet-Ups, with the next one at the end of April in Ottawa. Date/time to be confirmed, but make sure to sign up for the Motherlove Newsletter if you’re interested in getting all the event details.

I also want to bring a lot more awareness about needing a will, especially for women. Having an updated will is a feminist issue - did you know that women are more likely to leave estate planning to their male partners? Did you know that women are less financially secure after the death of a partner if they have not been involved in financial decision-making during their working years? These are big, thorny issues that need to be taking seriously - financial and estate planning are vitally important for every woman, especially if you have children to protect after you’re gone. If you don’t have an updated will, and you live in Canada, you can complete a simple, low cost will online, through Willful. Learn more about Willful wills here.

I am also really committed to my own self-care in 2023, and ensuring that I don’t burn myself out by trying to do too much all at once, something I have done many times in the past but am trying to learn new, more sustainable habits.

So, my friends, I hope that 2023 is gentler for all of us; the last three years of pandemic living have been rough on everyone. I hope that this year brings us all closer together, with more connection, understanding, healing, empathy, health and wellness overall. Not just for ourselves, but for our families and communities as well. See you soon I hope!

xo Janet