Eating Popcorn, Chopsticks and Happiness.

I write at 5:36 as the sun is cracking the horizon, good morning to all. A new day is dawning, and so many great things are going to happen. 

I was glued to the news this week as I am sure you and the rest of the world were, as rescuers worked tirelessly, methodically and wisely against the clock to find a way to get the young boys and their coach out of the flooded Thai cave.

Our prayers added to the prayers of millions around the world. 

Can you believe they were down there for 18 days, not knowing if they would see daylight again?

The strength of the human spirit never ceases to amaze me.

The kindness and generosity of so many from different parts of the world was an encouraging sign in the time of global stresses.

Kindness and compassion are the birthplaces for joy and happiness and from this new birth comes its siblings of honesty, forgiveness, patience and generosity.

All are foundational to a good heart, and having a good heart is consistent with having a good life.

Being human means being different from the rest of the animal kingdom. We have soul woven into the heart.

This week, I read an interesting article in the Washington Post, "When searching for happiness, try eating popcorn with chopsticks. Read here. 

The gardens are starting to put on a show, and the rose rugosas are particularly alive and filling the air with their heavenly scent. The peonies are calling it a season and are retreating into being stronger and more beautiful next year. Though we didn't manage to get a photo of the roses, I thought you might enjoy this one. 

Shirley and Katherine, our photographer and graphic designer, were in the gardens this week and spontaneously asked this person walking through the garden to model for them.  So sorry we didn't catch your name but thank you for taking the time.

A big thank you goes out to Valerie and Karen our gardeners this year. They are doing a herculean task with no complaints. We do need help with weeding and if you know anyone able to help, let us know. 

“The fragrance always stays in the hand that gives the rose”~ George William Curtis

Things are buzzing in the shop this month. I’ve been greeting many people each day, and it truly warms my heart to see the smiles on all those faces, which seem to be saying, “it’s good to be back” to our favourite place.

Then there is the look of wonder on those who come for the first time and to watch all their senses tickled to the point of causing their eyes to twinkle and face to smile.

We work hard to provide a beautiful and welcoming experience for those who take the time to grace our doors with their presence. It is the most rewarding part of being an entrepreneur.

While I write today, I have been listening to the Anonymous 4. I discovered them a few years back when reading about the medieval chants of 12th-century nun Hildegard von Bingen. 

This female vocal quartet is a respected small vocal group specializing in early music. Sample listen here. 

The Origin of Fire - Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen

Be kind to yourself and others. 

With love from Prince Edward Island,

Bruce