Good Morning from Warren Grove, Prince Edward Island
“A lot of people have their big dreams and get knocked down and don’t have things go their way. And you never give up hope, and you really just hold on to it—Hard work and perseverance. You just keep getting up and getting up, and then you get that breakthrough.” – Robert Kraft.
Shirley and I sold our beloved little company yesterday.
Emotions are all over the place. As I write, I grieve the loss of our “business family” and experience the joy of freedom to come at the same time.
Scott F. Fitzgerald wrote, "Intelligence is measured by a person's ability to see validity within both sides of contradicting arguments."
There has been a pull to change direction for the last few years. After lots of chit-chatting with retirees and talks with Shirley, prayer led my spirit to let me know it was time.
You don’t stop laughing when you age; you age when you stop laughing.
I am channelling a lot of author Scott Fitzgerald's today; many of his quotes seem to resonate.
"I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people with a different point of view. I hope you live a life you're proud of. If you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start all over again."
~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
Our company became a favourite destination for Islanders and visitors alike. We were fortunate to be in New Glasgow, one of the prettiest villages in Canada. The company's popularity grew from the hard work and service of such excellent staff; many have been with us 20 years plus, and Lynn marks number 30 in May.
I wrote about the start in the July 2021 blog number six in a seven blog thread of how I met Shirley and the journey to New Glasgow.
We did not arrive to this point without the support of so many loyal customers. It is a family business, and a large part of our family has been the staff and the customers.
We would like to thank all the operators who make Prince Edward Island one of the best Island destinations in the world. Their hard work and dedication to the industry are the envy of many jurisdictions in Canada. As well, the accommodations’ front-line staff have consistently supported us, and we thank them.
Our company grew from a specialty food manufacturer into a food gift store and online retailer, restaurant, small theatre cafe, Gardens of Hope, and butterfly house.
Shirley and I will continue our ministry of serving others through our non-profit Foundation of Hope Respite Cottage.
"And in the end, we were all just humans...Drunk on the idea that love, only love, could heal our brokenness." ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
We will remain in an advisory capacity to assist the new owners with the transition. And I will continue writing this blog for the company.
We are pleased to have Adam and Marsha Doiron step in and infuse new energy and heart into the company.
Adam & Marsha are no strangers to the tourism industry. They are very familiar with the Preserve Company, having worked for decades in the motor-coach travel industry where they confidently sent thousands of visitors to us.
The purchase brings much nostalgia to the couple; in 2006, they were married in the Gardens of Hope. We are grateful to them for their plans to continue the company support of the Respite Cottage as well.
Marsha and Adam publicly shared yesterday: “We are excited to purchase this truly unique business. And we are excited to work with the dedicated and loyal team at the heart of the company. We appreciate the years of hard work behind creating this icon and continue the legacy.
We look forward to growing the business with this excellent, strong team.”
What's next?
Not knowing how to write, I started this blog in 2014. After reading my blogs, Betty Morgan (90+) and Althea (80+) would write to me. These two ladies of age and beauty reminded me to pay closer attention to my colons, semi-colons and grammar.
Their messages encouraged me to try and learn the craft of writing.
"You have a place in my heart no one else ever could have."
~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
He said it; I mean it.
Writing is one of the essential skills in the world. One of the benefits of improving your writing skill is you become a better thinker.
There are a number of reasons, I did not like school and did well to graduate from high school. My education has come from school of hard knocks.
So my new adventure is to read more, learn more, write more and teach more.
I am starting a daily blog starting real soon. I hope you join me there.
The site is still in the design process, but it is far enough along to accept sign-ups.
Hope you join me on A Bunch of Good Things. Sign Up Here.
To the consistent readers of this blog on Saturdays…
"You are the finest, loveliest, tenderest, and most beautiful person(s) I have ever known—and even that is an understatement." ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald
He said it; I mean it.
Lots of Love from Prince Edward Island. And THANK YOU for being here today.
Bruce, Shirley and Millie
ps. Your Morning Smile
A woman is getting lunch ready when the phone rings.
"This is the middle school calling about your son Johnny. He's been caught telling unbelievable lies."
"I'll say he has," the woman replies, "I don't have a son."
Let's Wiggle, Jiggle, Giggle and Dance
Comments
Kathleen Kovalick said:
Your messages inspire me to begin writing in a more “hard knocks” kind of way.
May 10, 2022
Sharon Hathaway said:
As with other comments, I was startled by the announcement of the sale and your retirement. Then I remembered that my own retirement was the best decision…and you know when it is time, and you control your destiny. So happy for the new adventures that await you. Even happier that Adam and Marsha want to maintain the legacy. I also hope the on-line continues since I love in Southern California. I am signing up for your blog. Take care, celebrate this new chapter. The best thing about retirement…you spend time doing what you enjoy, with only those you want to be around, whenever you want.
April 24, 2022
Valerie said:
April 23, 2022
Heather Nash said:
We first visited the Preserve Co. in 2012, and then every year since then while on vacation. We moved to PEI in July 2021 and were frequent visitors. I also purchased lots of christmas gifts there in 2021. I’m glad the business will continue. I do wish you the absolute best in whatever you will be doing now. I love that quote: “Don’t simply retire from something; have something to retire to.”~ Harry Emerson Fosdick
May God bless you as you continue to serve Him in other areas.
April 18, 2022
Anonymous said:
Like many others commenting here today, I initially took an intake of breath and said, “Oh no!” when I read the news about the sale of the company today. But then, I too, realized this would be the start of “new adventures” for you and Shirley, Bruce – and for the new owners, Adam and Marsha, too! My very best wishes for the future to all of you. Our family has so many wonderful memories of visiting PEI Preserve Company when on the Island… and I do hope Adam & Marsha will continue with the online business! I’ve already signed up for your new A Bunch of Good Things Blog – and look forward to those Bunches of Good Things arriving in my mailbox. Thank you for all your enterprise over the years, Bruce – and for your thoughtful weekend collages here of music, arts, philosophy and literature. Enjoy whatever comes next for you and Shirley – and Be Happy!
April 13, 2022
Joan Courtney said:
I am reading this a week late! So my message will be just an echo of everyone else’s. But sincere nonetheless! Retirement….has a ring of hope and eagerness about it! Like fingers trembling with excitement when about to open a present! I think I know how you and Shirley are feeling right about now. I, too, just recently retired after teaching piano for fifty-two years. So many blessings and memories in those years! I wouldn’t trade a thing. And music for me, will always be my launchpad for anywhere else my life might take me as this new journey begins. With your love of music Bruce, I know that it will be your companion too on your new adventures with Shirley. We are so lucky, don’t you think? A new beginning… An empty canvas just waiting for us to paint the first colourful strokes to our next extraordinary life’s creation!
I wish you both with all my heart, a retirement journey filled with good health, joy, wonder, awe, silly moments, laughter, and loads of wonderful new memories to add to the ones you carry in your hearts from the Preserve Company. God Bless!
Joan Courtney
Amherstburg, Ontario
April 10, 2022
Denise said:
Just read your message that you are retiring, good for you!!! Wishing you all the best in the years to come, I am just recently retired myself. Enjoy everyday. I will still stop by the restaurant for my favorite raspberry pie this summer…..take care of yourselves and big hug to Millie (so cute).
April 10, 2022
Norma said:
Reading you each week kept alive our fond memories of PEI and our visit many years ago. Happy semi-retirement because we hope to keep on hearing from you and maybe one day we’ll get to return to PEI.
April 09, 2022
Eileen Gelhorn said:
I loved watching the Stevie Wonder song video. It speaks to your future. Congratulations on your retirement. I will continue to follow your Blog. Thanks for keeping it going. The all Canadian PEI PRESERVE CO. will continue to thrive with having been built on such a strong foundation.
All the best in your future endeavours Bruce and Shirley.🌷🙏🏻🇺🇦
April 07, 2022
Kathleen Kovalick said:
As always, Bruce’s Blog delivers.
Just finished off a jar of black current jam with our Sunday brunch. The Black Current Jam from PEI The Preserve Co. delivers.
Happy to hear about the transition period, Bruce & Shirley.
You are a fine example of continuing Education.
All Best to you,
Kathleen
April 07, 2022
Bea Gifford said:
I also said when I read your news, “Oh no” but then I remembered the feeling of moving forward to new adventures. Retirement is not the end of our lives but the beginning of a new phase. Congratulations and wishing you all the best in the upcoming years. Health and happiness always. I have enjoyed your blogs, love the music and inspiring quotes. I wish the new owners success and I am sure they will put their own spin on things. I am glad you will continue your blog. I wish our bus tour had given us more time to have been able to walk around more besides touring your shop. I was there in 2019. That year I visited your beautiful country, first British Columbia then Nova Scotia. Take care and I will look forward to your next blog. Bea
April 05, 2022
Kathy Gorman said:
May you enjoy your retirement! May god bless you and your family as you explore new horizons! Enjoy more books, write more blogs, and enjoy all the world around you has to offer. You are a very special person who brings joy to so many!
April 05, 2022
Stephanie Vargas said:
Congratulations on this new part of your life! PEI Preserve will always live in my memories as one of my favorite places that my family and I went to during our Caravan tour some years ago. My mother is no longer with us (my grandmother thankfully is) and we all loved your gardens and that delicious raspberry pie! Thank you for these wonderful moments that will always live in my heart. Good Luck!!!
April 05, 2022
Ellen Fisher said:
Bruce, Shirley & Millie
When the whisper becomes a shoulder tap, you know that you are being led to take steps toward new & exciting discoveries, gifts for your life & future.
My first reaction to your news was: ‘Oh no’. because each week anticipation grew as the week wound down. I looked forward to your inspiring words, books, & music. It has been a great pleasure to absorb the kindness, gentleness & powerful uplifting words from your blogs; so often absent in today’s world.
May blessings & joy surround you both & of course, Millie.
Ellen Fisher
April 04, 2022
Jack and Susie Mull said:
In 2019 our trip to Nova Scotia was interrupted by Hurricane Dorian. As a result, several of our planned excursions were cancelled due to the weather, lack of electricity and/or damage. We were on Prince Edward Island at the time and our tour guide, Max reached out to you and boy did you deliver! You and your crew treated our group to a delicious meal from appetizer to dessert. Your hospitality remains one of my favorite memories of our trip. Thank you again for your generosity and kindness to strangers. Enjoy your retirement! Jack and Susie Mull
April 04, 2022
Laura Latour said:
Congratulations and good fortune in all your future endeavours!
Laughter and happiness always.
I’m happy you will be continuing this blog. I look forward to it every week.
April 03, 2022
Betty A. Plucinski said:
The ride has been enjoyable with THE PRESERVE CO. – wishing you ALL the best in the years to come. And thank you for your weekly BLOG looking forward to many more years of reading it. Best to you and your family.
ps – And hopefully the jokes still come too!
April 03, 2022
Julie MacKenzie said:
Wishing you all the best, in starting this new chapter in your life journey. All the best to the new owners. Good to know that I will still be able to enjoy your blog.
April 03, 2022
Mollie Kelly said:
Congratulations. Wishing you and Shirley health and happiness in your retirement. I love reading your blog and look forward to your new one. All the best to the new owners . Sincerely, Mollie
April 03, 2022
Angela Canales said:
All the best to you Bruce and Shirley as you begin the next chapter of your lives. So happy that I got the chance to visit your shop in 2018. I have so enjoyed your blog as well as enjoying the goodies you had to offer. Looking forward to what you will be blogging about in the future. Still hoping to make it back to PEI someday. God bless you both.
April 03, 2022
Ms. Gale Haskell said:
Dear Bruce, I visited your establishment before covid on a bus trip, and have very fond memories of your gracious and welcoming manner. Sampling there was the highlight of the trip, and I love receiving your Blog. I wish you every happiness during this transitional time for you, and long afterward.
April 03, 2022
Margaret Gordon said:
Best wishes going forward! Sure hope the new owners know they have big shoes to fill if they are going to be successful going forward.
April 03, 2022
Cheryl Gingras said:
Hi Bruce and Shirley, just hearing your news about the Preserve Company, I had the privilege of having a few tour bus visits with you through Ambassatours. I also have personally been a frequent customer there also. Wishing you two all the best in your future endeavors. I welcome Adam and Marsha and wish them much sucess in their future also. Hoping to hear from you soon with your new Blog All the best. 💕
Cheryl
April 03, 2022
Murdock Morrison said:
Wow that is a shock of course but a good shock as you and Shirley have devoted a great deal of your life to making the Preserve Company one that many, many love . You , Bruce, were the cornerstone of the company and we have all been blessed with Bruce the Kilt guy standing and greeting everyone one near or far. Yes you picked a great author , Fitzgerald , to give the inspiration that you always had Bruce and we all thank you and Shirley for giving us so many wonderful memories . We are so happy to learn that you and Shirley will be caring for and building the wonderful reputation of the Hope Respite Cottage. All the best and I am sure that we will see you this summer. Murdock and Connie Morrison
April 03, 2022
Mary Kelly said:
All best wishes as you start this new journey.
April 03, 2022
Cherie said:
Wishing you both lots of love… laughter and learning 🧡
April 03, 2022
Beth said:
Bruce and Shirley, wishing you new successes, time to enjoy the family’s company and many healthy and comfy things to do, with thanks for your ongoing commitment to a fabulous venture.
April 03, 2022
Jennifer Cash said:
Sad news for us but new journey ahead of you. Glad we’ll still hear from you. Thanks for making PEI one of our best experiences ever at your establishment.
April 03, 2022
Brynhilde Roth said:
Bruce, when you hopped on our tour bus all those many years ago, resplendent in your Scottish kilt, and told us about your preserve company, I knew I had found a little bit of heaven on earth! We’ve eaten your jams for a very long time and enjoy sharing them with friends and family members. We wish you a wonderful retirement and we also wish the new company owners, Adam and Marsha, much success in the future! Hopefully I’ll get back to your lovely land in the not too distant future!
April 03, 2022
Louise Lowther said:
Change comes to us all. We will really miss you at the Preserves but I’m sure the time is right. We read your blogs faithfully and enjoy them so much.All the best to you and Shirley in your future endeavors.
Harry and Louise
April 03, 2022
Dorothy Michalek said:
Congratulations on your retirement, I write through tears. I first visited either in 1994 and 1995 and made yearly visits through 2006. I still have T-shirts, tote bags, a tea set (still used), egg cups, tea making paraphernalia, cassette tapes (yes), and who knows what else I purchased over the years. Did you ever sell Christmas tree ornaments? The teas, jams, jellies I brought home with me, and shared. Hopefully I will make it back to PEI one year, and will visit again. I’ll just know not to look for you walking around in your kilt. May you and Shirley enjoy your retirement and travels; relax. Keep reading.
April 03, 2022
Bryce And Karen Schnare said:
Bruce and Shirley…….You are a “CLASS ACT”.
This beautiful spot in New Glasgow, you both have developed, through hard work, perseverance, and Love, has helped make Prince Edward Island the special place
It is today.
Karen and I look forward to seeing you both this summer.
Please except our invitation for lunch in Clinton.
Love you both
Bryce
April 03, 2022
Jack & Lillian Paul said:
I agree with Harry Fosdick Bruce… Don’t retire from something …Retire to something.
We wish you & Shirley & yes Millie a very Happy Retirement. It is a new adventure for you. Please wish Adam & Marsha all the very best in their new adventure. I look forward to seeing your new writings. Take care …Stay safe and enjoy!!!
Jack & Lillian
April 03, 2022
Linda Shukri said:
WOW! I can’t believe you are selling! How can you let go of such a wonderful business! But so glad the new couple will take good care of your “baby.” :-)
The Preserve Company has been my favorite restaurant for many years. Bill and I have enjoyed eating there and purchasing your wonderful products. Such delicious food and you “do” tea right! So glad your beautiful company will still be in existence.
As we have been back in the US/South Carolina for almost 4 years now, I miss being able to eat at your place as we were only a few miles away in Fredericton.
Many blessings to you and Shirley as you retire and do whatever you want to do! :-)
Best regards,
Linda Shukri
April 03, 2022
judy Donovan Whitty said:
Dear Bruce: so many have expressed my thinking above – my gasp of surprise but relief that you will remain connected as you have quite a fan club; you are a wonderful writer.
It is commendable that you and Shirley will continue your work with the Cottage of Hope – very special! Tks so very much for all you’ve done and continue to do…one thing i hope does NOT change is access to the best Raspberry pie anywhere in the world! being gluten free i just don’t touch the crust…love to you both and unlimited hugs,
judy Donovan Whitty Charlottetown PE (formerly Ingonish Cape Breton, NS)
April 03, 2022
Gail Smith said:
So surprised to hear your news but very happy for you and Shirley. I truly wish you the very best and am grateful for all of your wonderful talents and earnest labor that you have so generously shared with all of us. I know that the two of you will find many rewards in the next chapter of your lives but am glad that you will still be able to share a bit of yourselves through your blog and wisdom filled advice. Best of luck to Marsha & Adam!
April 02, 2022
Kathleen said:
I too am completely shocked reading your message. However, I have to say retirement is a gift which I love and I am certain you will love too. All my best wishes to you both. And it is great that you still will be able to let us all know how you are doing with your new blog. Thank you for all the wonderful blogs you have sent in the past…I have enjoyed every one…Love from summer PEI resident Kathleen
April 02, 2022
Robyn & Jim Johnston said:
Bruce & Shirley,
A great time in life. You have both sacrificed precious time with each other and family to operate your wonderful business. The only complaint we have with our retirement is that time is going too fast.
Enjoy this new adventure together. Wishing you many years of health and happiness!
April 02, 2022
Melanie T said:
Oh, Bruce and Shirley! I’m emotional with you. I nearly cried. But I’m so happy for you. Congratulations! I’m also delighted that the business will continue and that we’ll still be hearing from you, Bruce. And a new daily blog to boot! I’ll be signing up momentarily.
The Cafe was an absolute highlight of my first and only, beloved trip to PEI in 2008. My heart has always assumed that one day I would return and eat in the beautiful light of the Cafe again. I’m still holding that hope.
Very best to you in your newfound freedom and ventures. May many delightful surprises and joys await you.
April 02, 2022
Annie said:
Oh, Bruce! Talk about a mix of emotions- change always brings a touch of fear and sadness, but also renewal, excitement, and anticipation. I am grateful that you will continue to write this blog, and I am signing up for your daily blog, too. Your words and your company have been among my most cherished of blessings for several years, now. It sounds like you have found just the right buyers for your family business, and I look forward to seeing how they continue your legacy. Sending much love, hopes, and prayers for all of you!
April 02, 2022
Derinda said:
Hi Bruce Shirley and Millie
I was in shock when I read you were retiring but upon reading further I am so happy for you all. You have worked hard at a job you loved and it will be passed on to people who have the same passion as you, I am sure. Your fun personality and good conversation will be missed by the many people who have visited The Preserve Co over the years. Hopefully Millie will still have lots of land to run and play in. Looking forward to hearing of your future plans. I am signing up for your new Blog. Stay Happy. There is a new adventure awaiting you.
Derinda Lysll
April 02, 2022
Sharon said:
Like others, there was a small gasp when I read about the sale of your business. Fondly remember the little jam cottage nugget discovered when we stayed at the New Glasgow campground nearby. Like many of us who retire, you will grieve the loss for a while as it is part of who we are for so long. So glad to hear you are keeping the paddle in the water so to speak in the transition. Best wishes to you, Shirley and Millie in this new phase of your lives.
April 02, 2022
Judy Clark said:
What a joy it has been to be a part of the Preserve Company for the past 20 years. Bruce, you and Shirley truly have hearts of gold and it has been amazing to witness the many ways you have helped people over the years. The Preserve Company is a beautiful and wonderfully unique place, but the true heritage you leave is the kindness and love you have poured into so many lives. You will be greatly missed but I know you will be blessed with many more years of love and laughter and new adventures.
April 02, 2022
Kay said:
Congratulations on yours & Shirley’s retirement, I’m glad I can still look forward to your blogs. Thanks for today’s blog & music. I wish you both happiness in your new adventure.
April 02, 2022
Anonymous said:
Like many others commenting here today I initially took an intake of breath and said, “Oh no!” when I read the news about the sale of the company today. But then, I too, realized this would be the start of “new adventures” for you and Shirley, Bruce – and for the new owners, Adam and Marsha, too! My very best wishes for the future to all of you. Our family have so many wonderful memories of visiting PEI Preserve Company when on the Island… and I do hope Adam & Marsha will continue with the on-line business! I’ve already signed up for your new Blog – and look forward to those Bunches of Good Things arriving in my mailbox. Thank you for all your enterprise over the years, Bruce – and for your thoughtful weekend collages here of music, arts, philosophy and literature. Enjoy whatever comes next for you and Shirley – and Be Happy!
April 02, 2022
Sarah said:
I am a relative newbie compared to the many regulars who have visited PEI and your store over the years. I have never been to PEI and was introduced to your store by my sister and niece who gave me some of your delicious jam and wonderful bourbon vanilla tea. Now I am a regular, albeit remote, customer. I look forward to your heart-centered and thought-provoking blog each weekend and am very happy to hear that the blog and the store will continue. Thank you Bruce and Shirley for modeling grace and compassion for so many. I wish you all the best as you transition to retirement.
April 02, 2022
Kathy said:
All the best in the future for you and Shirley, Bruce! A rest well deserved and you won’t regret it! You will find yourself still busy every day and say, I wonder how I had the time to do everything when I was working, lol
April 02, 2022
Kay Duren said:
Go well. You’ve made a difference in the world. Well, my world. I admire your dedication to learning and sharing. As a retired hospice chaplain I admire your dedication to hospice. Thank you for being you. We are richer because of you.
April 02, 2022
Gayle Forrester said:
Hi Bruce & Shirley,
Wow, what a beautiful legacy you are passing forward. You both are very inspiring and by continuing with the Respite Cottage is a gift you so generously give to others, is beautiful. Yes, I hear of the saddness in your writings but you will flourish in other ways. All the best on your new adventure. I know Adam & Marsha will give their best to run The Preserve Company, in a very special way.
Love & prayers.
April 02, 2022
Georgie Ann Wilkins said:
You will be missed believe me! However it’s good to know you have left the Preserve Co. in good hands. Best of luck to you, Shirley & Millie in all your future endeavours.
April 02, 2022