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
Janice said:
Congratulations to you and your wife on your retirement; a difficult decision I’m sure. I wish you good health and many happy years ahead. Good luck to the new owners.
April 02, 2022
Corinne Lavers-white said:
Really looking forward to the new blog abd keeping up with your future endeavors. You will be missed so much at preserve Co, but you must be so proud if all you’ve accomplished there. Adam and Marsha will continue the legacy I’m sure, big shoes to fill! Love the cabin abd I think Millie does too.
April 02, 2022
Lyndal Joseph said:
Congratulations! I’m sure you and Shirley will be busy with your second chapter of life. As I told my husband when we retired, you can look down and inward or up and outward. I feel confident which one you and Shirley will choose.
All the best! Lyn and Lou
April 02, 2022
Faye Hawes said:
We (so many of us) wish things to stay the same forever, then they don’t! You will have days ahead to pick your path to a true retirement. Perhaps you already know it! A big decision, but here’s hoping you make it some of the best years of your journey together! Take time, it truly is a gift! Wishing you both good health and happiness!
April 02, 2022
Dale Harman said:
Sherrilyn and I have greatly enjoyed the Island Preserve Company. You and Shirley have created so much more than a business, it is a treasure. We have shared wonderful meals together, and with many friends and guests.
I am sure that it is difficult to hand this jem over to someone else to care for. We are delighted for you to be able to step back and enjoy life together at a slower pace.
May God bless you both, the new owners, and all of your wonderful staff as your adventures continue.
Blessings!
Dale and Sherrilyn Harman
April 02, 2022
Ashley Williams said:
Bruce, I must admit, I was initially saddened and somewhat shocked to hear that you and Shirley were passing on the baton to your iconic business. For me, as a frequent visitor to the island, the preserve factory was always my go-to destination, not only for the wonderful food, ambience and natural beauty, but that it it was a piece of the world that resonated deeply with my soul. The fact that these will be preserved (no pun intended) with the new ownership is a relief to me and I’m sure, to many other people from the island and around the world. I somehow hope that won’t be forgotten is the incredible hard work and outstanding business acumen you and your wife displayed in marketing such a beautiful place and experience to the outside world. Everything from the restaurant, to the gardens, the website and your blog. All manicured to perfection. It again proves to me that brilliance is not always rooted in academic achievement. Congratulations to you both on your retirement. I know from my recent experience of retirement that a new and exciting chapter awaits you both. Good luck!
Ashley Williams
April 02, 2022
Bunny Wortman said:
My first reaction on reading about the sale was “oh, no!” Then I realized this will mean a whole new chapter in your lives and the opportunity to explore and enjoy so many more options in life. I’m grateful that you will continue a blog, Bruce, and hope you consider writing a memoir. Congratulations to the new owners. They have big shoes to fill. I look forward to enjoying the Preserve Company again when I’m “home” this summer.
April 02, 2022
Gregory Skala said:
God bless you, your family, and the company’s new owners. Thanks for everything, and all the best to you!
April 02, 2022
Valarie LaBore said:
Congratulations on your retirement plans! I think you’ll find you’re going to be even busier after, as I was after retiring 14 years ago. So much to do!
I’m sorry I won’t be able to visit one more time before you leave.
Best of luck! ~Val
April 02, 2022
Brenda Gionet said:
Congratulations on making your hard decision. Glad you can retire and knowing you both, you will enjoy it. So happy to hear about the new owners (congrats!) And the respite cottage. Thanks for all your years of hard work and excellence. All the best!
April 02, 2022
Mel said:
Congratulations Bruce and Shirley on your retirement! Thank you for the many years of hard work and dedication in serving others. You will be missed. God bless you.
Mel
April 02, 2022
Lynda Landry said:
I was surprised and a little sad to read about the sale of your business; however, I am wishing you a very happy retirement after all your hard work . We’ll deserved.
April 02, 2022
Joan said:
Congratulations on your retirement. A sad time and a happy time. Good luck to the new owners.
April 02, 2022
Betty Doucette said:
s
Sorry you sold PEI preserve Co. Happy Retirement . Bruce Will Miss Our chats about gift boxes and Enjoy visits there years ago.
So Long
Betty
April 02, 2022
Doreen said:
When you announced yesterday that you sold the Preserve Company on April Fools Day I was positive it wasn’t true. Seeing this now I would like to wish you all the best with your new endeavors. Thank you for the happy memories at such a fine place.
April 02, 2022
Doreen said:
When you announced yesterday that you sold the Preserve Company on April Fools Day I was positive it wasn’t true. Seeing this now I would like to wish you all the best with your new endeavors. Thank you for the happy memories at such a fine place.
April 02, 2022
Debbie Wynne said:
Such a simple sentence, “Shirley and I sold our beloved little company yesterday.” caused such a turmoil in my emotions! I can’t begin to imagine how conflicted you must feel. Very pleased that you will continue to blog……you truly have a gift that touches people’s hearts and souls. Always remember Bruce “still round the corner there may wait, a new road or a secret gate”……take good care. Debbie
April 02, 2022
Dave Harper said:
Congratulations Bruce & Shirley. You both deserve a nice retirement after a long journey in your family business. You both created a PEI destination that both tourists and us locals have enjoyed for many years.
I had the pleasure of working for Bruce and Shirley for many years. Not all owners or managers are as well respected as you two are. You truly made working at The Preserve a wonderful experience and a business-family atmosphere.
It is bitter sweet for me to see you sell this Island Beauty. Your presence and compassion will be missed by many. I wish you both the best in your next chapter.
Thank you for being the people you truly are,
Dave Harper
April 02, 2022
Dianne Brander said:
Congratulations Bruce and Shirley on your retirement. It will not be the same without you. Our whole family loved PEI Preserves. It was our halfway point between Charlottetown and New London to our cottage. We loved stopping in for breakfast on the weekends and when family arrived. Our daughter had all intentions of getting married in the gardens( never happened yet). She loves this place and looks forward to it every year she is home from Toronto.
Enjoy your retirement. You both deserve it and you both put your heart and soul into the place. Thanks for the memories! The Branders
April 02, 2022
Dianne Brander said:
Congratulations Bruce and Shirley on your retirement. It will not be the same without you. Our whole family loved PEI Preserves. It was our halfway point between Charlottetown and New London to our cottage. We loved stopping in for breakfast on the weekends and when family arrived. Our daughter had all intentions of getting married in the gardens( never happened yet). She loves this place and looks forward to it every year she is home from Toronto.
Enjoy your retirement. You both deserve it and you both put your heart and soul into the place. Thanks for the memories! The Branders
April 02, 2022
Vicky Wienke said:
Bruce:
We so much enjoyed visiting the PEI Preserve Co. in our travels! You were so welcoming and the perfect host. The luncheon you served us that day was fantastic and I make the potato pie frequently for guests in our home.
Watching how you make your jams, etc was very interesting and of course the tasting quickly put in our minds that your products would make the perfect gifts for years to come!
Thank you, thank you for your delicious products and your hospitality while we visited as well as when you come into our home each Saturday with your blog! It’s been an immense pleasure and we wish you and Shirley much happiness in the next phase of your lives!
God bless you!
Harris & Vicky Wienke
April 02, 2022
Doreen said:
Wishing you and Shirley a well deserved retirement after many years of dedication and hard work. The Preserve Company became very special to us and it always felt like we were with family and friends when we went there. We got to know the staff over the years and they always made us welcome. But it was when you and/or Shirley had a minute or two to chat or have a laugh, share a concern or mention something or someone who needed prayers that made our visits so special. The view from the windows of your dining room brought peace and awe at the beauty of the river and its movement, the variety of birds at your feeders and sometimes a determined squirrel successful in partaking of the smorgasbord of bird seed, and of course the beautiful perennials, herbs, and flowering bushes. And sharing a meal with friends and family only made these times that much better,
Bruce and Shirley, I personally want to thank you for the kindness and care you have shown me over the many years. You have no idea how much you have helped me get through some tough times. Your ever present welcome helped me to seek out special spots within the gardens to sit and think, meditate or read or just to gaze at the beauty and listen to the sound of quiet accompanied by the sounds of nature. May God bless you in the next chapter of life as much as you have blessed the lives of those who have had the good fortune of visiting The Preserve Company and The Gardens of Hope. Best wishes to the new owners for they have big shoes to fill. We look forward to being there to support them in this exciting endeavour. Sending love to you both, Jim and Doreen
April 02, 2022
Lolie Acorn said:
Bruce,
I’m sure there will be good things to come. Good luck to the new owners, but you & your wife – and your insight and running of that business you created and grew – will be missed by many.
Good luck in future endeavours.
April 02, 2022
Marylou Sinnott said:
You will be deeply missed Bruce
I enjoy reading your blog every week
April 02, 2022
Suzi said:
Walking through a New Door for Bruce and his beloved. God’s richest blessings on you two! I’m glad you are still involved with your Hope Respite Cottage. What a blessing you, Bruce, have been to many.
Thank you dear Sir,
Susan Mayo
April 02, 2022
Michele Sparling said:
When I first read the headlines that you sold the business, I thought, “Wait! What? No!”. But my second thought instantly went to, “Congratulations, how awesome for you both.”
As someone who woke up one morning a few months back and thought, “it’s time”, and made the choice to retire come this May (leaving my own business & 33 years in my field), I applaud your decision. I look forward to celebrating your next journey through your ongoing Saturday morning blog featured on this site, your new blog, and the wonderful moments, reflections, and stories you share with us. All the best on this new path.
And, congratulations and all the best to the new owners; also exciting times for them.
April 02, 2022
Belinda said:
Congratulations to you both on the sale of your business! It was quite a shock to read the news, but life is about change and nothing remains the same forever.
I’m sure making these hard decisions, that will change your daily lives to suit this new chapter, was not easy. When you are tempted in quiet moments to grieve the loss of the familiar routine, try replacing it with gratitude instead for this amazing journey: the people, the memories, the laughter. And the best is yet to come. We look forward to hearing about it in future blogs. :)
April 02, 2022
Wendell said:
Good morning Bruce
You truly shocked me this morning and it reminded me of a church service 35 years ago in Scarborough when a much loved Anglican priest began the service with the announcement from the back of the church just before the processional hymn that he was moving on to another parish. I thought he would be there forever and forgot that he had dreams and wishes too.
Preserve sounds like it will continue in good hands as the new owners have a solid connection. Preserve, like that Anglican Church in Scarborough will still be there and continue to be a favorite spot to visit on the Island.
God speed to you and Shirley as you enter a new phase of your lives.
Warm regards
Wendell Hennan
April 02, 2022
Sue Skeffington said:
Best of luck Bruce ( and Shirley) I know I’ll continue to support PEI Preserve Co and think of you while enjoying a summer breakfast there!
April 02, 2022
Gordon Walker said:
Thanks Bruce – wishing you well in whatever new adventures you embark on. God bless.
April 02, 2022
Penny Wright said:
We will miss your Sunday visits to our table, always a great conversation and laughs. We are so happy for you and Shirley and glad you have left your “baby” in such capable hands.
Looking forward to A Bunch of Good Things.. special thanks to Betty and Althea …..
Sending love, Penny and Larry
April 02, 2022
Mary-Julie Adamowicz said:
I wish you the very best but I hate to see you stepping down. My husband and I married in 1981 and discovered the Preserve Company soon after. We would visit every year that we could and felt it was part of our vacation. Bob passed away in 2002 but I try to continue the tradition as much as possible. To me visiting PEI always means visiting the Preserve Company. I will continue to visit but it j;ust won’t be the same. You are responsible for many good memories. Thank you.
April 02, 2022
Laura said:
I wish you a retirement filled with all the dreams your heart desires. Thank you and take care.
April 02, 2022
Jolande said:
Enjoy your new road in life. Glad to know that the new owners already care about Island Preserve Co. one of our favourite destinations inPEI.
April 02, 2022
Mary Anne Hodgman said:
Bruce & Shirley,
I want to wish you the best on your new adventure. My husband and I have traveled to Prince Edward Island three time, visiting your Preserve Company each time. We watched it grow over the years into the beautiful business you have created. We are hoping to visit there once again someday. Wishing you all the best.
Anne & Brian
April 02, 2022
Michelyn said:
Wishing you all the best. You were always so kind to my mom when you would deliver her beautiful gift baskets to her in North Rustico. Thank you for your care.
April 02, 2022