S4 E33: Traveling to Halifax with Michelle Hunter

Welcome to Tea Toast and Trivia.

Thank you for listening in.

Living in the reality of Covid-19, travel has been curtailed, internationally as well as domestically.   While travel is coming back, I have found that virtual travel is possible through the alchemy of technology.

Welcome to Tea Toast & Trivia – “The Virtual Journey” which will explore new horizons through the eyes of a friend.  As Marcel Proust reminds me, “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”

Today, I am traveling back to Halifax to meet up with my friend and colleague, Michelle Hunter. Halifax is located in the Maritime Province of Nova Scotia on the Eastern Coast of Canada. Halifax is also the home of my Alma Mater, Dalhousie University, where Michelle and I first met twenty years ago.

Michelle Hunter is the Acting Director of the Centre for Executive and Graduate Education, Dalhousie University.  She has been a support for hundreds of graduate students over the years offering a compassionate voice, helping students achieve a home-work-study balance.

Welcome to Halifax!

Time to put the kettle on and join the conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. I am your host Rebecca Budd, and I am looking forward to sharing this adventure with you.

Thank you, Michelle, for an amazing travel adventure. I felt I was in Halifax with you, walking in Halifax Public Gardens.

Dear listeners, thank you for joining Michelle and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. You can connect with Michelle on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Until next time we meet, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you.



Music by: Trabant 33 "Dreams of the Brave"  Epidemic Sound

https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/zhMobBG9tX/

S4 E33: Travelling To Halifax With Michelle Hunter

S3 E13: Autumn By Emily Dickinson

Emily Dickinson was a renowned American poet known for her unique and insightful observations about life. Her poem "Autumn" beautifully captures the essence of this transitional season, providing readers with a thought-provoking reflection on the passage of time and the fleeting beauty of nature.


Autumn
by Emily Dickinson
Autumn
by Emily Dickinson
The morns are meeker than they were,
The nuts are getting brown;
The berry's cheek is plumper,
The rose is out of town.
 
The maple wears a gayer scarf,
The field a scarlet gown.
Lest I should be old-fashioned,
I'll put a trinket on.


Emily Dickinson's poem "Autumn" showcases her appreciation for the beauty of this transitional season. Through her vivid imagery and carefully chosen words, she captures the changes that autumn brings to nature. Dickinson acknowledges the transformation that occurs, as the mornings become gentler, the nuts start to turn brown, and the berries become plump. She also notes that the roses have departed from the scene.

Emily Dickinson highlights the visual appeal of autumn by describing how the maple tree adorns itself with a more vibrant scarf, and how the fields don a scarlet gown. These colorful descriptions evoke a sense of liveliness and enchantment that comes with this time of year. At the end of the poem, she playfully addresses her own perception of autumn, suggesting that she doesn't want to be seen as outdated. She mentions putting on a trinket, which might symbolize her desire to embrace the changing times and stay relevant.
 

Photography and recitation by:  Rebecca Budd

Music by Yi Nantiro “At Long Last” Epidemic Sound
https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/g6vGQ4i5YH/

S3 E13: Autumn By Emily Dickinson

S5 E22: Eglund on The Emergence of AI Technology

“Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present.”  Marcus Aurelius

Welcome to Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for listening in.
I am your host, Rebecca Budd, and I look forward to sharing this moment with you.

The future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a hot topic of debate among experts in the field. AI has been around for decades, but recent advances in technology have allowed for rapid development in the field. As AI continues to evolve, it will become increasingly integrated into our lives and businesses.
Should we fear the emergence of AI technology? Will AI control our lives and take away our jobs and careers?  Will AI be used to create malicious software?  Will AI replace human creativity and knowledge?"

To discuss these questions, I am travelling virtually over 7900 kilometers to Berlin, Germany to meet up with my friend, Eglund, journalist and writer. Eglund is an engineer and publicist. He worked as a science journalist and reporter in Africa for several German newspapers.  Since 2005, his focus has been on the environmental initiatives. 

As a specialist journalist for renewable energies, he works within media related to the ecological energy transition, first of all about solar energy.  Eglund has in-depth experience with AI in optimizing the efficiency of solar energy systems.  As a journalist and writer, he has insight into how AI will impact on creative endeavours.

I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation.

Thank you to you, Eglund, for sharing your insights on Artificial Intelligence.  We are living in a complex world that demands our highest participation.  It is heartening to know that we can all make a difference.

Dear listeners, thank you for joining Eglund and me on Tea Toast & Trivia.  Stay tuned for another stimulating conversation with Eglund. 


Music by Howard Harper-Barnes "The Light From Within" Epidemic Sound
https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/OiHw16ODbX/

S5 E22: Eglund on The Emergence of AI Technology

S3 E14 Is there a Santa Claus

Is Santa real? Of course, he is!

There is reliable confirmation that dates to 1897, when eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote her famous letter.

You may recall that it all began when Virginia asked her father, Dr. Philip O’Hanlon, whether there really was a Santa Claus.  Her father’s answer was brilliant.  Instead of responding himself, he suggested that she write direct to The Sun, one of New York’s most prominent newspapers at the time.  He assured her that “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.”

Virginia received a response from veteran newsman, Francis Pharcellus Church, a lead editorial writer for the New York Sun. Francis Church, who had seen great suffering as a war correspondent during the American Civil War, was a known skeptic, hardened cynic who had little tolerance for superstitious beliefs. And yet, he recognized the need for hope and faith in society. Perhaps it is when we see sorrow and grief, we are more able to answer a call for affirmation in the goodness of life. For that is what Virginia looked for when she asked whether there is a Santa Claus.

More than a century later, the article written by Francis Church still maintains it standing as the most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.
While the existence of Santa Claus as a literal being is a matter of belief, Santa Claus holds a special place in the hearts of many. The story of Virginia’s letter to The Sun in 1897 has become a symbol of the enduring spirit of Santa Claus. It reminds us of the joy and wonder that Santa Claus brings during the holiday season. Whether we believe in Santa Claus or not, the idea of Santa Claus continues to inspire generosity, love, and the spirit of giving.

Join me as I read Francis Church’s most famous editorial written in 1897 – Is there a Santa Clause?


Dear friends, may the joy of Christmas Eve surround you and yours, with love, warmth, and wonder.  Together, may we embrace hope and expectation as we enter a new year.  
Rebecca



Music from Epidemic Sound
Howard Harper-Barnes "The Gift of Giving"
https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/c1fLLKeTmH/
John B. Lund "A Christmas Lullaby"
https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Mor63mOsPB/
Niklas Gabrielsson with Martin Landström & His Orchestra "Ding Dong (Instrumental Version)"
https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/UZaZuE6miR/

Is There A Santa Claus

Clement Clarke Moore, born July 15, 1799, was a writer and American Professor of Oriental and Greek Literature, Divinity and Biblical Learning at the General Theological Seminary of the Protestant Episcopal Church, in New York City.  

Clement Moore accomplished a great deal in his lifetime.  He was a writer and a poet, a professor and scholar. He served twice in the position of President of Columbia College (now Columbia University) and served as a board member on the New York Institution for the Blind.

But what he is most known for is how he changed the way we see Christmas.

He called the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas.” It was published anonymously in the Troy Sentinel in 1823.  He had second thoughts in 1837 when eventually he told everyone that he had penned the poem.  Many believe that it is the most well-known and beloved poem written by an American poet.  We read it every Christmas, most generally on Christmas Eve, and then reflect on Christmases past when we were young and heard the familiar words read by our parents and grandparents.  Santa and the tradition of Christmas gift-giving was transformed by this poem

Clement Moore published several academic works, including A Compendious Lexicon of the Hebrew Language (Collins & Perkins, 1809), but “A Visit from St. Nicholas” more commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas” and “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” captured the hearts of children young and old.

Please join me in reading, A Visit form St. Nicholas AKA ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore

Voice by Rebecca Budd
Music by Mike Franklyn “Christmas Snow” Epidemic Sound

T’was The Night Before Christmas

S5 E23: A Child’s Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas

“A Child’s Christmas in Wales” is a delightful prose work by the Welsh poet and writer Dylan Thomas. First published in 1954, the piece is a nostalgic and vivid recollection of the author’s childhood memories of Christmas time in Wales. Thomas takes readers on a journey through the sights, sounds, and experiences associated with the festive season.'

Through rich imagery, Dylan Thomas portrays the joy and excitement felt by children as they anticipate the arrival of Christmas. He reflects on the small yet significant moments that make the holiday special, like gathering with loved ones, enjoying festive meals, and engaging in playful adventures.

The narrative is imbued with a sense of warmth, whimsy, and the universal nostalgia that accompanies the holiday season. Thomas's prose captures the essence of childhood innocence and the timeless magic of Christmas, creating a lyrical and enchanting atmosphere that resonates with readers of all ages.
"A Child's Christmas in Wales" celebrates the beauty and wonder of the holiday season.

This year, I chose "⁠A Child's Christmas in Wales⁠" to celebrate the joy and laughter of the festive season. As I read Dylan Thomas's remembrance of long ago Christmases, I recalled my childhood memories of family and friends, dinners and singing, hugs and laughter.  

May this festive season bring you warmth, laughter and cherished moments with your loved ones. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Rebecca

Music from Epidemic Sound: 
Megan Wofford "Deck the Halls" (piano Version) https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Erq5jycgqC/
Home for the Holidays "Home for Christmas" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/sdKFLVmayx/
Howard Harper-Barnes "Christmas Wonders" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Jb1FWEg88c/
Howard Harper-Barnes "The Gift of Giving" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/UzvWf4Pq8E/
Johannes Bornlöf "The First Fall of Snow" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/UzvWf4Pq8E/
John B. Lund "A Christmas Lullaby" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Mor63mOsPB/

"A Child's Christmas in Wales" is in the Canadian public domain.

S5 E23: A Child’s Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas

S4 E1: Welcome to 2024 and Season 4 of Rebecca's Reading Room Podcast!

I am thrilled to embark on this new year of possibilities and opportunities for reading. Thank you for joining me on this exciting journey! Get ready for a season filled with book discussions, poetry readings, and literary inspiration. Stay tuned for my upcoming episodes that explore a diverse range of genres and delve into the fascinating world of literature. Whether you're a bookworm, bibliophile, or simply love a good story, there's something for everyone in Season 4 of Rebecca's Reading Room Podcast. 

My grand project for 2024 is reading Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Faust is a timeless classic that offers a rich tapestry of philosophical and literary themes. The depth and complexity of Goethe's masterpiece make it a compelling choice for a year-long exploration. I look forward to hearing about your insights and reflections as you progress through your 2024 literary journey. 

Many thanks for your company on Rebecca's Reading Room!

Happy reading!

Rebecca


Music by David Celeste “Wake Up With Me” Epidemic Sound
⁠https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/lNvPapTBle/

S4 E1: Welcome to 2024 and Season 4 of Rebecca's Reading Room Podcast!

S6 E1: D.G. Kaye on her podcast “Grief - The Real Talk”

Welcome to Tea, Toast and Trivia.

Thank you for listening in.

I am your host Rebecca Budd, and I look forward to sharing this moment with you. 

I am delighted that blogger, non-fiction writer, memoir author and podcaster, Debby Gies and I are connecting Toronto and Vancouver, Canada.

Debby is a Canadian author, writing under the pen name of D.G. Kaye. She writes about real life and the events that she has had to navigate through and overcome.  Her intent is to inspire others by sharing her stories and the lessons that have come along with them.

In her podcast “⁠Grief – The Real Talk⁠”, Debbie speaks from the heart and from personal experience.   She takes listeners through the painful journey of her grief after losing the love of her life, sharing her observations about the changes that occur during the grieving process.

I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this profound and moving conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia.

Thank you for joining Debby and me on Tea Toast & Trivia.
And a special thank you, Debby, for sharing your insights on grieving. Losing a loved one is an inevitable part of life. It is a deeply emotional and challenging experience that requires careful consideration.

I invite you to meet up with Debby on her blog, ⁠D.G. Kaye Writer.com⁠ , on her podcast– ⁠Grief, The Real Talk⁠, her ⁠Amazon Page⁠ and on ⁠Goodreads⁠.  It is a place that welcomes profound conversations that reminds us to Live, Love, Laugh and Breathe. 
Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you.

Music by David Celeste "The Bloom of Her Skin". Epidemic Sound
https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/8KN2JKoLoG/

S6 E1: D.G.Kaye On Her Podcast “Grief The Real Talk”

Ach Nein Nine Gnari En La Casa

My first cover song of David Allen Coe's "Longhaired Redneck"

Longhaired Redneck

My cover of Billy Joel's "Captain Jack" from his 1973 Piano Man album.

Captian Jack

Blogger, Visual Storyteller, Podcaster, Traveler and Life-long Learner 
Commercial Licence under #EpidemicSound

S4 E33: Travelling To Halifax With Michelle Hunter

Rebecca Budd aka Clanmother

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