Tea. Toast. and Trivia.

Season 7 Episode 3: Dr. Derek Bryce on Responsible Travel, Supporting Communities and Sustainability

Travel has grown exponentially to the point that some tourist destinations are implementing measures to manage over-tourism and protect their local communities and natural resources. This approach aims to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of the destination’s cultural and environmental assets.   We are being told to travel responsibly, but what does that mean?  

Dr. Bryce is joining me today to discuss how to travel responsibly in a world when tourism is in the ascendency.  With February here, it’s the perfect time to discuss how we can plan our travels more thoughtfully this year.

So, put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation.

Thank you, Derek, for sharing your knowledge, experience, and insights.   You reminded us that when we travel responsibly, we preserve the environment by reducing our carbon footprint.  When we support local economies, we contribute to sustainable tourism practices and promote cultural understanding.  When we respect local communities, we enhance our personal growth through new experiences and perspectives gained. 

Responsible travel can lead to meaningful connections with people from different backgrounds, fostering a sense of global citizenship and empathy towards others.

Listeners, thank you for joining Derek and me on Tea Toast and Trivia. 

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

Music by Epidemic Sound

Small Village Talk By Claude Signet

https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Yqd78h1ozb/

Live a Little By Francis Wells

https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/42VVkYLc5S/

S7 E2: Celebrating Robert Burns with Address to A Haggis

In January, Tea Toast & Trivia celebrates the great Scottish poet and lyricist, Robert Burns. Widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland and celebrated worldwide, Burns is best known for his poetry written in the Scots language, with works such as “Auld Lang Syne,” “Address to a Haggis,” and “Tam O’ Shanter.” His poetry reflects themes of love, nature, and Scotland’s cultural heritage.

Haggis holds a special place in Scotland’s culinary and cultural heritage, embodying the spirit of an indomitable nation. This traditional dish, made primarily from sheep’s offal mixed with oats and spices, reflects the resourcefulness and frugality that characterized Scottish life, particularly in rural areas.

The deep connection between haggis and Scotland’s identity is further solidified by its association with Robert Burns and his poem, “Address to a Haggis”. He praises the haggis as the “great chieftain o’ the puddin’ race,” suggesting that it is a dish worthy of honour and respect—much like the Scottish people themselves.

Haggis has become synonymous with the festivities of Burns Suppers held worldwide each year on January 25th, where friends and families gather to commemorate Burns’ life and works. The act of addressing and serving haggis during these events is steeped in tradition and serves as a joyous reminder of Scotland’s vibrant culture. It encourages the sharing of stories, music, and camaraderie.

Come join me to celebrate Robert Burns with his iconic “Address to a Haggis”! The vivid imagery and spirited language invite us to join in the festivities of a Burns Supper and pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Scotland’s beloved national poet.

Address to a Haggis

Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face,
Great chieftain o’ the puddin’-race!
Aboon them a’ ye tak your place,
Painch, tripe, or thairm:
Weel are ye wordy o’ a grace
As lang’s my arm.

The groaning trencher there ye fill,
Your hurdies like a distant hill,
Your pin wad help to mend a mill
In time o’ need,
While thro’ your pores the dews distil
Like amber bead.

His knife see rustic Labour dight,
An’ cut you up wi’ ready slight,
Trenching your gushing entrails bright,
Like onie ditch;
And then, O what a glorious sight,
Warm-reekin’, rich!

Then, horn for horn, they stretch an’ strive:
Deil tak the hindmost, on they drive,
Till a’ their weel-swall’d kytes belyve
Are bent like drums;
The auld Guidman, maist like to rive,
‘Bethankit’ hums.

Is there that owre his French ragout
Or olio that wad staw a sow,
Or fricassee wad make her spew
Wi’ perfect sconner,
Looks down wi’ sneering, scornfu’ view
On sic a dinner?

Poor devil! see him owre his trash,
As feckless as a wither’d rash,
His spindle shank a guid whip-lash,
His nieve a nit;
Thro’ bloody flood or field to dash,
O how unfit!

But mark the Rustic, haggis-fed,
The trembling earth resounds his tread.
Clap in his walie nieve a blade,
He’ll make it whissle;
An’ legs an’ arms, an’ heads will sned,
Like taps o’ thrissle.

Ye Pow’rs, wha mak mankind your care,
And dish them out their bill o’ fare,
Auld Scotland wants nae skinking ware
That jaups in luggies;
But, if ye wish her gratefu’ prayer,
Gie her a Haggis

Music by Epidemic Sound

Auld Lang Syne (Traditional Version) by Traditional

S7 E1: Diana Giovinazzo on the Woman in Red

“Destiny toys with us with both hands. For my sins, I will pay as all of us must. More I think. But I still rejoice in the family she has brought me.” Anita Garibaldi

Welcome to Tea Toast & Trivia.

Thank you for listening in. 

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

I am delighted and thrilled that Diana Giovinazzo has joined me on Tea Toast & Trivia to discuss her book, “Woman in Red, a Novel.”

From her early days crafting a compelling tale for a second-grade project on the Oregon Trail, Diana has transformed her love for storytelling into a remarkable career. Join us as we discuss her book, “The Woman in Red,” and uncover the rich narratives that inspire her writing.

Thank you for joining Diana and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to explore the complexities of Anita Garibaldi’s life and the multifaceted roles she played as a revolutionary, a partner, and a symbol of empowerment.

And a very special thank you, Diana, for sharing the profound and life-affirming story of Anita Garibaldi.  Woman in Red is a remarkable story on how Anita navigated the tumultuous political landscapes of her time, defying societal expectations and carving out a legacy that continues to resonate.

Listeners, I invite you to meet up with Diana on her website, Diana Giovinazzo , Instagram,  Wine Women Words Podcast and on Goodreads.  

I invite you to put the kettle and an add to this profound conversation. 

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

Music by Epidemic Sound

Fire Dance By Andrés Cantú https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ng79MfHwfQ/

Among the Clouds By Helmut Schenker https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/UUxB6msPB3/

Cloud City By Andrés Cantú https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/R0wAHJlVQx/

S6 E15: Marian Beaman on the Power of Memoirs

Welcome to Tea Toast and Trivia.

Thank you for listening in. 

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

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Marian Beaman, an award-winning teacher who has transitioned into a compelling storyteller. In her memoir, “Mennonite Daughter: The Story of a Plain Girl,” Marian shares her journey growing up in mid-twentieth century Pennsylvania, revealing both the charms and challenges of her upbringing. She reflects on her transformation from a sheltered provincial girl to a woman who embraces her authentic self, all while navigating the complexities of childhood abuse and the importance of forgiveness. 

Listeners – you can connect with Marian on her website, MarianBeaman.com,  Amazon, and Goodreads.  You are only an internet click away from a journey that will enrich your soul.  

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

Music by Epidemic Sound

"Together Is Better" By Claude Signet https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/gPLIAeQ0Cj/

S6 E14 Kim Mooney on “In an Instant”

I stood quietly, looking out the window on a Thursday morning in May 2018. The sky was clear and bright, that crystal-clear blue we so rarely get on the West Coast. Not a cloud in the sky. As I took a sip of my tea, the air filled with the scream of sirens. The shrill sound of the fire trucks and ambulance drew closer and closer. Suddenly the vehicles were in front of my house. They stopped, lights flashing. Men were jumping from the vehicles before they completely stopped, running toward the house directly across the street. I froze in my spot and watched, fascinated in the moment by these running action figures. Within minutes they were back on the sidewalk. In that instant I knew something bad had happened. I ran.

Kim Mooney “In An Instant: Stories of Resilience and Courage”

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

I am delighted and thrilled that my long-time friend, Kim Mooney has joined me on Tea Toast & Trivia to discuss her new book, “In an Instant – Stories of Resilience and Courage.”

Kim’s career has been an eclectic one, moving between teaching and hospital administration and back to teaching. With Kim’s first published story in 1970 came a prize – a typewriter. A few short stories and a series of poems were written on that typewriter and then it was set aside in a drawer. Her first book, Hidden Daughter Secret Sister; A Story of Adoption, was published in 2020. 

Thank you for joining Kim and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. 

And a special thank you, Kim, for sharing the profound and life-affirming stories of nine ordinary people who chose to live extraordinary lives with courage and determination.   As always, Kim, your candour and compassion come together to encourage a deeper appreciation and recognition that life is precious and worth living.  

“In An Instant” is available on The FriesenPress Book Store and Amazon.

Music by Epidemic Sound

"Serene" By Johannes Bornlöf https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/vFlIclgNCs/

"The Bloom of Her Skin" By David Celeste https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/8KN2JKoLoG/

S6 E13 Frances Remembering a One Room School House

Welcome to Tea Toast and Trivia!

Thank you for listening in.

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

Welcome to this special episode of our podcast, where I share a heartfelt conversation with my 93-year-old mother. In this episode, we journey back to the 1930s, as she reminisces about her experiences attending a one-room schoolhouse on the prairies. Her vivid memories paint a picture of a simpler time, filled with laughter, learning, and the bonds of childhood friendships.

As we delve into her stories, we also reflect on the present moment, as my mother now receives 24/7 care. This conversation holds a special place in my heart, as it was one of the last meaningful exchanges we had before she transitioned into this new phase of her life. Despite the challenges she faces, her spirit remains unbroken, and she continues to express her gratitude for each day that unfolds.

Join me as we celebrate my mother’s incredible journey and the wisdom she has gained over the years. Her stories are not just a glimpse into the past; they are a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of cherishing every moment. Tune in to hear her voice and the lessons that resonate through generations.

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

Rebecca

Music by Epidemic Sound

"Lots of Love, Judy" by David Celeste

https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/0vjuoCfgAn/

S6 E12: Misty the Cat . . . Unleashed: The Spirited Adventures and Amusing Antics of an Asthmatic Feline on the Loose

“A little voice inside my head tells me that I’m joking too much and should get more serious for at least one chapter. Okay. 

Sometimes, I let out a small moan when walking around the apartment.  I’m not unhappy – I’m loved, well-fed, and sheltered – but there are still things a cat thinks about.

Such as, who were my mom and dad? Where are they? Are they still alive? Do I have siblings somewhere?  Why am I an “only cat”?  Chapter 27 “I Get Serious, Not Sirius Radio” Misty the Cat…Unleashed” by Misty and Dave Astor

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

Today, we are on an extraordinary virtual journey, bridging the 3,923 kilometers between Montclair, New Jersey, and Vancouver, British Columbia, to meet up with Dave Astor and our special guest, Misty. Misty has just published his first book, which I believe has the potential to evolve into a stimulating series of adventures co-authored with his companion (aka servant), Dave Astor.  I have waited over a year for this conversation to happen.  It has been worth the wait.

It is time to put the kettle on and join in as we delve into Misty’s world of thrilling tales and embark on an unforgettable literary expedition.  I am pleased that Dave has graciously agreed to act as translator during our conversation.  I have not had the opportunity to learn “meow” or feline language, but thankfully, Dave is an expert.

Thank you, Misty and Dave, for this remarkable conversation. Misty – your book is brilliant.  I appreciated your discussions on the intricacies of furballs, rubbing up against legs, and why cats make the best pets! 

Dave, thank you for the 2024 feline memoir “Misty the Cat…Unleashed.” Your friendship with Misty inspires us.  I love tagging along with you and Misty on your daily walks – and now I have experienced Misty’s blockbuster adventure.

Listeners – Thank you for joining Misty, Dave and me on Tea Toast & Trivia.  Dave Astor is the author of the 2017 literary-trivia book “Fascinating Facts About Famous Fiction Authors and the Greatest Novels of All Time,” and the 2012 memoir “Comic (and Column) Confessional.”

You can connect with Dave on Amazon and his blog, Dave Astor On Literature, his YouTube Channel, and read his award-winning weekly Montclairvoyant humor column for Montclair Local.  He was a longtime National Society of Newspaper Columnists board member who still copy-edits the organization’s newsletter. Dave is a former magazine writer/editor, newspaper reporter, and freelance cartoonist; a graduate of Rutgers and Northwestern universities; the husband of French professor Laurel Cummins; the father of Maggie and Maria; and (happily) the servant of Misty the Cat.

Music by Epidemic Sound

"Careful Now" By Arthur Benson https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/g0TQCCspnE/

"No One but Yourself" By Claude Signet https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/l89C9VoigE/

"Sneaky Fingers" By T. Morri https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/8sZv9s0Kgi/

S6 E11:  John Quinn on the Play, “O Halflins an Hecklers an Weavers an Weemin’”

What does “O Halflins an Hecklers an Weavers an Weemin’ mean, you may ask?   Come travel virtually with me to Dundee Scotland to meet up with John Quinn who wrote and produced the play that we will be discussing on this episode of Tea Toast and Trivia.

I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting dialogue!

‘One of the things that I think a lot of people overlook is that the story of Dundee and jute is actually a worldwide story… Although it’s a story about Dundee, it’s also a story about the wider world.’ John Quinn, Poet, Writer, Playwright

Listeners, thank you for joining John and me on Tea Toast and Trivia. You can find information on John’s work with the Dundee Heritage Trust in a recent ⁠interview⁠.

A very special thank you, John for sharing your insights and your commitment to the city of Dundee and the memory of all those who came to the Tay and the Jute.

Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you!

Music by Epidemic Sound

S6 E10: Cheryl Jamieson, Fused Glass Artist

Welcome to Tea, Toast and Trivia.

Thank you for listening in. 

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

I am travelling virtually 6,700 kilometers to Unst, Shetland, to meet up with artist Cheryl Jamieson, whose expertise lies in the intricate art of fused glass. Cheryl’s deep-rooted pride in her Shetland heritage resonates through her remarkable artwork, which draws inspiration from the dramatic landscapes of Shetland. Her fused glass pieces exquisitely depict the stunning scenery, from the lively ponies gracing the hills to the diverse birdlife flourishing on the rugged cliffs.

Cheryl’s creativity is profoundly influenced by the rich Viking heritage evident in the renowned Up Helly Aa events and the numerous archaeological sites scattered across Shetland. It’s truly an honour to delve into Cheryl Jamieson’s world of fused glass art, intricately woven with the essence of Shetland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting dialogue on Tea Toast & Trivia.

A very special thank you, Cheryl, for sharing your creative journey with us. We connected when the wind was high in Unst, but the internet connection held strong and our tea kept us warm.

Music by Epidemic Sound

Claude Signet “Together is Better” https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/gPLIAeQ0Cj/

S6 E9: Emily Carter on Nature and Wildlife Photograph

“Nature as Art is something that is felt deep within one’s spirit. Hard to express in words, the connection felt when observing and being part of nature brings unity and a sense of peacefulness in this world of chaos. It is this connection that as a nature and wildlife photographer that I am in continuous search for. Capturing wildlife and nature in its natural state is a challenging task. As a photographer, I recognize that I am an intruder, and as such I must show respect as they have allowed me into their world.”  Emily Carter, Artist Statement

Welcome to Tea, Toast and Trivia.

Thank you for listening in. 

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

I am delighted that I am travelling virtually to Annapolis, Maryland, to meet up with Emily Carter, an award-winning nature and wildlife photographer.  Emily believes that art is found in nature through careful observation of the scenery, lighting, and the subject. Through photography, she captures the emotion felt when experiencing a fleeting moment.

Emily and I have known each other ever since she welcomed me to an on-line photography group.  I confess being intimidated by the calibre of photographers, but soon felt a kinship and camaraderie within this group. Emily has a passion for nature and her enthusiasm inspired me to take a leap of faith into the world of photography.

How can photography be a way to engage with nature and the environment?  How can we preserve, through photography, what was once, but is no more?  How can nature photography bring a sense of calm and wellness to our lives? These are the questions that will be discussed today.

I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting dialogue !

Thank you, Emily, for sharing your knowledge, experience, and insights.  You have been a source of encouragement to me over the years.  You remind me that photography is personal because it tells our story and documents, along with all the other photos that circulate in our virtual world, the greater narrative of our generation.

Listeners, I invite you to connect with Emily on her website, Nature is Art, Flickr, Instagram and Facebook. You are only an internet click away from experiencing the beauty of Nature captured within photography.

Until next time we meet dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you.Music by Epidemic Sound

Gavin Luke "Dream Corridor" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/eZm5S0GHOe/