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Social-Emotional Learning, Crown Point, and one For My Bald Friends

Social-Emotional Learning, Crown Point, and one For My Bald Friends

Good morning from Prince Edward Island, 

Put the kettle on, get the cup, put the glasses on, and let's chat. 

Not too chilly today at -1C or 30.2 F 

Heading to puppy training a little later this morning, we all can't wait to learn the do and don't of trying to raise our new 10-week old puppy, Millie. 

Good News on Prince Edward Island.  (thank you to CBC) 

Island elementary school teachers will bring new strategies to classrooms next year meant to teach students to be successful, well-balanced members of society.

Maribeth Rogers-Neale, the kindergarten to Grade 12 health and physical education leader with the Department of Education, said social-emotional learning covers a range of topics. Those include teaching kids how to understand and manage their emotions, maintain positive relationships and make responsible decisions. I wish I had this when I was in school.  Read More Here

Island Nature is close but needs our help.

They need to raise funds by February 20, 2020, to acquire Crown Point, which provides a rest stop for thousands of migrating birds in the spring and fall. Because it is close to Stratford's fastest-growing community, it is at risk of development, but that also makes it an exceptional opportunity for Island Nature Trust.

"It's a beautiful salt marsh/freshwater marsh area, has escaped development up to this point and is incredibly important for migratory shorebirds and waterfowl," said trust executive director Megan Harris.

More about Island Nature Trust, here.   More on this Story here.

Great News for folks who love potatoes, fish and sugar! 

Happy Birthday to Arnold Hawkins, the oldest living man in Canada celebrated his 109, this past Thursday and he still lives at home! 

Mr. Hawkins is an inspiration, I love sweets. 

Since the last blog, I managed to finish two books. The writings in both books inspire me. 

Quotes from Stillness is Key

If the quiet moments are the best moments, and if so many wise, virtuous people have sung their praises, why are they so rare? - Ryan Holiday 

In our lives, we face seemingly equal problems and are pulled in countless directions by competing priorities and beliefs. In the way of everything we hope to accomplish, personally and professionally, sit obstacles and enemies. - Ryan Holiday

Even during a quiet evening at home, all we're thinking about is the list of improvements that need to be made. There may be a beautiful sunset, but instead of taking it in, we're taking a picture of it.

We are not present...and so we miss out. On life. On being our best. On seeing what's there.  - Ryan Holiday

Book Clubs at the Big House

What I loved about the book was the story behind the book. How one person's dream was sparked after hearing Jean Vanier (a hero of mine) speak about those who are most marginalized, shamed and forgotten. Psychiatric patients and inmates in prisons. She chose the latter and came up with the idea of book clubs. Creating an opportunity for individuals to experience some community caring. 

Her efforts and those of the volunteers in the 22 Book clubs have changed so many lives for the good. Inmates who participate in the book clubs have a better ability to deal with life once released, and most do not return to prison.

According to the Movement for Canadian Literacy, prison-based education and literacy programs lead to a 50% reduction in recidivism rates. Society owes her organization a big THANK YOU. 

What is more expensive, ignorance or education? 

Contest: I am going to do a draw and give away a copy of this book. Anywho comments on today's blog will have their name in the drum. I will draw and arrange to have a book sent to you from Carol. 

Happy to report that I got a jump on my 20 books in 2020 challenge. I finished three books in January, Atomic Habits by James Clear; Stillness is the Key by Ryan Holiday and Books Clubs at the Big House by Isobel W. Heathcote. And I near completed the book Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl, my second time reading it.  

This morning, I have been listening to and enjoyed watching the musical artistry of, Jean-Michel Blais. 

Listen Here

Watch Here. Mesmerizing.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend and thank you for taking your precious time to spend it with me. 

Take care of each other. 

With love from Prince Edward Island, 

Sincerely, 

Bruce

ps. 

Seeing her friend Marcia wearing a new locket, Ashley asks if there is a memento of some sort inside.

"Yes," says Marcia, "a lock of my husband's hair."

"But Larry's still alive?"

"I know, but his hair is gone."

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Comments

Ruth Teipel - February 5, 2020

I always enjoy your blog. I especially enjoy your book and music suggestions. Watching Jean-Michel Blais reminded me of Trace Bundy playing his guitar. I think you would enjoy his music too.
Watch ""Acoustic Ninja" – Trace Bundy Documentary" on YouTube
https://youtu.be/Dw-XoRvuArM
Hope you have a great week!
Ruth E. Teipel

Wendy DuBois - February 5, 2020

Closing my eyes and listening to this beautiful music. Sat staring at the stars the other night from my window-just looking. Taking time for beauty. Thank you for reminding us it’s all around.

Janice Sinclair - February 2, 2020

Thank you so much for being a visitor to my email box every week. I look forward to those visits and you always leave us with something to ponder and smile about while drinking tea in one of the lovely mugs we have purchased over the years from the shop. Have fun with the wee Millie.

Louise Mac Donald - February 2, 2020

Thanks Bruce.

Diana - February 2, 2020

I have to say the when my family and I visited PEI, we were able to be in the present moment. That was our first priority, actually. To absorb everything we could in whatever moment we found ourselves in that was so beautiful—and there were many on your magical island. Nowadays everyone is too busy. We maje our lives too busy. You need to labor into that rest of being still and present. And while hard to do, is so worth it. It never disappoints!
Also, thank you for how you end off your posts with a joke (loved last week’s twist at the end!).
Have a great week, everyone!

Susan B - February 2, 2020

Bruce, thoroughly enjoy reading your weekly blog !! Love the social-emotional teaching; such a necessary part of being.
Congrats on reading the books and have a great week, Susan B

Barb McGinnis - February 2, 2020

I look forward each week to your blog…always so heartwarming.The music selections,good reads & stories from afar…we even saught out one of your favorite restaurant picks while in Paris.Love to visit your establishment & have shared your beautiful food wares with many.As a former Islander,I am so proud of what you do.Sincerly,Barb

Cathie Sabourin - February 2, 2020

Not that you officially made a challenge, but I too decided to go for 20 in 2020. On book three now and always have a book or two on the go. I also have reread my favourites more than once. Wish I had a ‘Millie’ curled up at my feet. Thanks for your stories. Always inspirational.

Derinda Lyall - February 2, 2020

So enjoyed visiting your beautiful Island and loved how you welcomed our Coach Party by coming onboard and telling your story. Love to read your Blog and listen to your music suggestions. I also am an avid reader. Looking forward to returning. Get compliments on the little teapot silver teaspoons we purchased.

Pat - February 2, 2020

Bruce, I truly look forward to reading your blog. I am so thankful I was able to visit PEI this past year. Millie is adorable! I enjoy reading your quotes and listening to the music along with your wonderful jams.
Pat

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