Tea. Toast. & Trivia.

S7 E5: Bruce Arthurs on Storytelling Through ArtWelcome 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.Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with my friend Bruce Arthurs, an extraordinary and innovative artist who has made a remarkable return to the world of creativity after spending over three decades away from his craft. Bruce’s first career led him to the executive levels of financial services, where he honed a keen analytical mind and a strategic approach to problem-solving.  I believe that this experience provided him with a unique perspective on the business of art. His journey back to art has been fueled by a passion for storytelling and a desire to capture the essence of his diverse travel experiences. His artwork is a vibrant representation of the cultures and mythologies he has encountered along the way.Bruce infuses his work with a unique vibrancy that speaks to the heart of human experience. His action figures are more than mere collectibles; they are a celebration of the narratives that shape our understanding of the world. Through his art, Bruce invites viewers to explore the stories behind each piece, encouraging them to connect with the rich tapestry of history and imagination.It is time to put the kettle on and join us in exploring the fascinating world of Bruce’s artistry and the inspirations that drive him.Listeners thank you for joining Bruce to discuss creative journeys.  You can meet up with Bruce on Instagram.  You are only an internet click away from meeting up with remarkable characters and stories.   A very special thank you, Bruce, for sharing your insights and passion with us. Your ability to blend artistry with storytelling encourages us all to reflect on our own narratives. Art is not just about what we see; it’s about the stories we tell and the connections we forge. Until next time, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you.Music by Epidemic SoundSmall Village Talk By Claude Signet https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Yqd78h1ozb/

S7 E4:  Catherine Cavendish Reading “The Stones of Landane”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.Bookstores, libraries, and coffee shops are great places for book readings. There is something extraordinary about hearing the voice of an author reading their stories. Their voice and intonation are nuanced by the many hours of effort putting pen to paper.  They created the characters, structured the plot, and lived every twist and turn that creates bumps in the storyline.  Public libraries and bookstores have expanded their reach into a global community. Book readings have gone virtual.  We are learning to embrace technology in new ways.  Welcome to the podcast series, “Authors Reading their Books”, which brings authors and their books from across the world to your home.  I invite you to put the kettle on and join the conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. I am delighted that Catherine Cavendish has graciously agreed to be our guest author reading from her gothic horror novel,  The Stones of Landane, a mysterious, psychological thriller. Be prepared – you will feel the approaching dread of horror.Thank you for joining Cat and me on Tea Toast & Trivia “Authors reading their Books.”And a very special thank you, Cat, for reading from  The Stones of Landane.  I read this book late into the night with the lights on!Listeners, I invite you to meet up with Cat on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads Amazon, and her website and blog, Catherine Cavendish,. You are only an internet click away from being swept away on a haunting adventure.  Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you.Music by Epidemic SoundTrailed by Horror By Trailer Worx https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/HpbMxhw8n1/It Lurks Below by Trailer Worxhttps://www.epidemicsound.com/track/7g13PevmgD/Behind Closed Doors by Trailer Worxhttps://www.epidemicsound.com/track/OR0blWUJvy/

Season 7 Episode 3: Dr. Derek Bryce on Responsible Travel, Supporting Communities and SustainabilityTravel 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 youMusic by Epidemic SoundSmall Village Talk By Claude Signethttps://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Yqd78h1ozb/Live a Little By Francis Wellshttps://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 graceAs lang’s my arm. The groaning trencher there ye fill,Your hurdies like a distant hill,Your pin wad help to mend a millIn time o’ need,While thro’ your pores the dews distilLike 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 belyveAre bent like drums;The auld Guidman, maist like to rive,‘Bethankit’ hums. Is there that owre his French ragoutOr olio that wad staw a sow,Or fricassee wad make her spewWi’ perfect sconner,Looks down wi’ sneering, scornfu’ viewOn 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 wareThat 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’” “To my Scots and Irish forebears who came to the Tay and the Jute and whose endurance and sacrifice bequeathed the precious gift of an education. To my family for copious love and laughter down the years and especially to my wife Marion, a Dundee girl, and as goes with the territory, a dancer in the rain.” John Quinn, Poet, Writer, Playwright 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. 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 Old Scottish Town by Trabant 33 https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/POZUIxpxOG/ Fountain of Miracles by Trabant 33 https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/hBLXkhqXiS/

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/ Jon Björk "Between the Willows" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/kx4H30KIkZ/

Season 6 Episode 8: Lauren Scott on A Poet’s Voice “rocks and shiny shellsin all shapes and colors makeyoung hearts sing and danceprecious works of artremain forever pricelesstime irrelevantsandy shore offerstroves of tiny treasures forimaginationsfingers hold paintbrushbrows furrow, fully focusedmasterpiece crafted” “Tiny Treasures” from Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poems by Lauren Scott 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 traveling virtually to Northern California to meet writer and poet, Lauren Scott.  Lauren enjoys the tranquil pleasures of small-town living alongside her supportive husband, Matthew, and their beloved lab, Copper. As a dedicated wordsmith, Lauren has explored both fiction and reflections of her own life through her compelling poetry and short stories. Lauren released her latest poetry collection, “Ever So Gently,” in July of 2023. This enchanting anthology artfully communicates the nuances of life, love, and the human spirit. Today, I am delighted that Lauren Scott has joined me to give voice to her poetry. Welcome to the podcast series, “A Poet’s Voice”, which brings words of poetry from across the world to your home. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Lauren and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to reflect on the beauty of poetic words. Thank you, Lauren for sharing your insights on how poetry allows us to describe the world around us in unexpected ways. This has been a wonderful conversation. Listeners you can meet up with Lauren on her website, Baydreamer, (BaydreamerWrites.com) and Amazon.  You are only an internet click away from journeys that enrich the soul. Until next time we meet, dear friends, keep reading and reciting poetry. Safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Epidemic Sound Gavin Luke "Sentient" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/BZeZdCNhcw/ David Celeste "Under Your Wings" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/j3C38gUeUu/ Max Anson "Break of Day" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ygrq37w0oz/ David Celeste "Eternally Yours" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/K8gUW0Gb5B/ David Celeste "Catharsis" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/7Y8Il1GyZs/

S6 E7: Mandy Henderson on the Poetry of Katherine Mansfield The pleasure of all reading is doubled when one lives with another who shares the same books.” Katherine Mansfield 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. Katherine Mansfield (1888-1923) was a highly acclaimed New Zealand writer and poet. Born in Wellington, New Zealand October 14, 1888, she is regarded as one of the most influential modernist short story writers of her time. Mansfield’s poetic sensibility and expert craftsmanship have secured her a lasting place in literary history. Katherine’s writings are known for their vivid imagery, introspective themes, and exploration of the complexities of human emotions. Her remarkable ability to capture the subtle nuances of everyday life and convey them through delicate and lyrical language sets her apart. Despite her untimely death at the age of 34, Mansfield’s legacy as a pioneering writer continues to resonate in the literary world. Today, I am traveling to New Zealand to meet up with my blogger friend, Mandy Henderson to discuss the remarkable life and work of Katherine Mansfield. I invite you to put the kettle on and join the conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you, Mandy, for sharing the life and poetry of Katherine Mansfield. As Katherine wrote many years ago, “The pleasure of all reading is doubled when one lives with another who shares the same books.”  Today we have shared the pleasure of reading her poetry, together. Dear listeners, thank you for joining Mandy and me on Tea Toast & Trivia and celebrating the life and work of Katherine Mansfield. Music by Epidemic Sound: Arthur Benson "Have You Tried the Key" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/VXLAqxSdsg/ Yonder Dale "Benevolent" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/shJ71NyU8V/ Johannes Bornlöf "Our Deepest Secrets (Scaled Down Version)" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/R5ym9z47GU/ Claude Signet "Together Is Better" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/gPLIAeQ0Cj/

S6 E6: Mary Lunnen on Your Compass Rose Speaks 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. Join me as I travel virtually to Wadebridge, a town in north Cornwall, England, to meet up with writer, artist and Global Life Coach, Mary Lunnen.  I first met Mary through a mutual friend and frequent guest on TTT, Liz Humphreys. Liz shared three “rediscovery cards” in an Instagram Post.  These rediscovery cards are used by Mary for guided meditation and reflection. Dare to Blossom Life Coaching with Mary is based around the principle of rediscovering our inner wisdom and awakening to a sense of wellbeing.  She has recently published her book, “Your Compass Rose Speaks: Rediscover Your Inner Wisdom”, which is the culmination of her work over the last twenty years since establishing Dare to Blossom Life Coaching in 2003. Thank you for joining Mary and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a very special thank you, Mary, for sharing your insights on coaching, on seeking an inner wisdom, on embracing the unknown and being open to possibilities Listeners,  I invite you to meet up with Mary on her website, Dare to Blossom, Facebook, and Instagram. I know that you will be inspired by the Mary’s story and her dedication to living boldly within a complex, ever-changing world. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your journey leads you. Music by Epidemic Sound David Celeste: "First Resolution" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/BP26BafzZF/ David Celeste: "The Wind in Her Hair" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/GEVInFWSj4/

S6 E5: Elizabeth Gauffreau on the Art of Writing Short Stories "I should have gone to see Mother sooner, I suppose, but her letters had been arriving with the same regularity as always, so I had no inkling that anything might be wrong. Truly, Mother’s letters were cheerful as ever.  She writes such lovely descriptions of the winter birds at the feeder outside the solarium." Elizabeth Gauffreau, A Morbid CravingWelcome 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.  I am delighted and thrilled that my dear friend, writer and poet, Elizabeth Gauffreau, has come back to share her insights on the art of writing a short story.   We are once again bridging the 3897 kilometers, as the crow flies, between New Hampshire and Vancouver.  Liz is a gifted writer who specializes in fiction and poetry that delves into the themes of family and place. With a bachelor’s degree in English/Writing from Old Dominion University and a master’s degree in English/Fiction Writing from the University of New Hampshire, she has honed her skills and crafted a compelling body of work. I have read Liz’s short story “A Morbid Craving”, published by Lamplit Underground, several times over the past weeks. Her ability to capture four points of view within a very complex narrative was riveting.   It is time to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Thank you for joining Liz and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a very special thank you Liz for sharing your insights and reading.  You continue to inspire me. Listeners, you can meet up with Liz on her website  lizgauffreau.com, Substack, Amazon, and Goodreads You are only an internet click away from a place where stories dwell. Until next time we meet, safe travel wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Epidemic Sound: David Celeste "The Heart" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/BNRLqsHty4/ Gavin Luke "Dream Corridor" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/eZm5S0GHOe/

S6 E4:  Celebrating “Up Helly Aa” with Sarah McBurnie January 30, 2024, the Last Tuesday of January. The fire festival of Up Helly Aa is happening. A huge torchlight procession of hundreds of Vikings is marching through the streets of Lerwick, carrying flaming torches and singing traditional Norse skalds. 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 have arrived in Lerwick, Shetland to meet up with my friend, Sarah McBurnie who was our guide on our 2018 Shetland adventure.  Up Hella Aa is happening.  Sarah has invited us to celebrate Shetland’s Norse heritage with her.   I have always wanted to attend Up Helly Aa, so join me for a Viking adventure that promises feasting, music, and dancing! Up Helly Aa or Up Holy [Day] All A Celebration of Norse Heritage! On January 30, 2024, the last Tuesday of January, the fire festival of Up Helly Aa is happening in Lerwick, Shetland. This festival carries a rich tapestry of influences that give it a unique flavor and significance. The first influence stems from the Yuletide celebrations, which traditionally began on the 5th of January, known as Old Yule, and culminated in Up Helly Aa, 24 days later. This final day was marked with fire, feasting, and frolic, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. The second influence is rooted in the old Shetland custom of guizing, where individuals disguised themselves, visited friends’ houses, performed turns, and then revealed their true identities. This tradition added an element of surprise and merriment to the festivities. The celebration of Shetland’s Norse heritage is a central pillar of Up Helly Aa. In the north of Scotland, the Vikings, who were feared in other parts of the world, are celebrated as symbols of strength and resilience. The Norse heritage is embodied in the iconic sight of a burning longship, symbolizing the journey of a deceased Norse Jarl to Valhalla, an evocative and powerful tribute to the Viking legacy. The amalgamation of these influences creates a vibrant and captivating Viking adventure at Up Helly Aa, as participants pay homage to Shetland’s rich and enduring Norse heritage. Northlink Ferries has taken this opportunity to look back at the other years that were significant for Up Helly Aa: Up Helly Aa through the years. Edgar Hopp "Phoenix Rising" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/IKHlHvgHSN/ Kikoru "Clouds Over Mountains" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/EbaDeotpAO/

S6 E3: Norman Orenstein on Composing, Producing and Recording Music 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 travelling virtually to Toronto, Ontario where the music scene is vibrant and diverse, from indie rock to hip-hop, jazz to electronic.  I am thrilled that Canadian musician, composer and producer, Norman Orenstein, has joined me today to discuss music and the creative process. Norman is the President of NORMAN ORENSTEIN MUSIC INC. (NOM Inc.), specializing in music production and publishing. As a member of The Society of Composers and Lyricists (SCL), he brings over 20 years of experience in composing, arranging, and recording live musicians for feature films, television movies, and television series. Norman is the controller of the NOM Music Library, where he negotiates with record companies, writers, and publishers to secure synchronization and master use licenses. His expertise in the industry has led him to be a panelist at prestigious events such as the North By Northeast (NXNE) Music Festival and the Worldwide Short Film Festival Symposium, where he shares his success stories and insights on the director-composer relationship in film and TV music. With an extraordinary background in music composition and production, Norman continues to contribute his talents to the world of film and television, creating captivating music scores that enhance the storytelling experience. Thank you for joining Norman and me on Tea Toast & Trivia.  Norman's music is featured in the podcast. The introduction piece was entitled "Highliner. The piece featured in the closing comments was from Norman's score for the film "Kidnap Capital." And a very special thank you Norman for sharing your insights, knowledge, and experience. It is an honour to showcase your music in our conversation. You have given us a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind your work.   I am inspired by your passion for music and storytelling. Listeners, I invite you to meet up with Norman Orenstein on and his website Norman Orenstein Music to experience his amazing, unforgettable music. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Thank you for joining Norman and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Norman Orenstein- ⁠Norman Orenstein Music⁠ (used with permission) "Highliner" "Kidnap Capital" Norman's Score from the film Kidnap Capital

S6 E2: Celebrating Robert Burns with Address to A Haggis Robert Burns, also known as Rabbie Burns, was a Scottish poet and lyricist. He is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland and is 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 often reflects themes of love, nature, and Scotland’s cultural heritage. Robert Burns’ influence on Scottish literature and culture is profound, and his work continues to be revered and celebrated through events like Burns Suppers, which are held annually around the world to commemorate his life and literary contribution. Haggis holds a significant place at a Burns Supper due to its historical and cultural connections to Robert Burns and Scotland. The traditional Scottish dish, immortalized in Burns’ poem “Address to a Haggis,” is celebrated as a symbol of Scottish heritage and a tribute to the poet’s legacy. Its inclusion in the supper reflects the deep appreciation for Burns’ work and the rich tapestry of Scottish culture and traditions. The ritual of addressing and consuming the haggis is a poignant and festive way to honour the impact of Robert Burns on Scottish literature and identity. 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. Music by Traditional "Auld Lang Syne (Traditional Version" Epidemic Sound ⁠www.epidemicsound.com/track/H9ncuJOolx/

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/

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 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 E21: Paul Andruss on Storytelling, Bards, & Sir Walter Scott’s Lochinvar Welcome to Tea Toast & 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 heading across the ocean to Wales, a beautiful country full of magic, mystery, music, and brilliant writers and poets.  I am excited to reconnect with a great storyteller – Paul Andruss. Paul is the author of the Young Adult magical realism trilogy, the Jack Hughes Books. He has written several short stories and novellas.   Over the past several months, Paul and I have been exploring the evolution of storyteller.   Who were the bards of old?  What stories have come through the centuries?  How do we add our stories to the greater narrative of humanity. This is your invitation to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Listeners, thank you for sharing this moment with Paul and me on Tea Toast and Trivia. I invite your to meet up with Paul on Goodreads and on Amazon.  You are only an internet click away from a daring and exciting adventure. This is your invitation to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Until next time, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures take you. Music by Epidemic Sound Bonnie Grace "Portal" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/p6RFg3iUtu/ Christoffer Moe Ditlevsen "The Fellowship" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/RvoaSQzcbj/ Christoffer Moe Ditlevsen "The Bard's Tale"https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/1mht2puewa/

S5 E20:  Catherine Cavendish Reading “The Haunting of Henderson Close” Welcome to Tea. Toast. and Trivia. Thank you for listening in. Bookstores, libraries, and coffee shops are great places for book readings. There is something extraordinary about hearing the voice of an author reading their stories. Their voice and intonation are nuanced by the many hours of effort putting pen to paper.  They created the characters, structured the plot, and lived every twist and turn that creates bumps in the storyline.  Public libraries and bookstores have expanded their reach into a global community. Book readings have gone virtual.  We are learning to embrace technology in new ways.  Welcome to the podcast series, “Authors Reading their Books”, which brings authors and their books from across the world to your home.  I invite you 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 moment with you. I am delighted that Catherine Cavendish has graciously agreed to be our guest author reading from her novel, The Haunting of Henderson Close.  In the depths of Edinburgh, an evil presence is released. Listen to Cat’s voice take you to Edinburgh with her atmospheric novel. Be prepared – you will feel the approaching dread of horror. Thank you for joining Cat and me on Tea Toast & Trivia “Authors reading their Books.” And a very special thank you, Cat, for reading from The Haunting of Henderson Close.  I read this book late into the night with the lights on! Listeners, I invite you to meet up with Cat on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, Mastodon, Goodreads, Amazon, and her website and blog, Catherine Cavendish. You are only an internet click away from being swept away on a haunting adventure.  Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Epidemic Sound: Music Jon Björk “Colossal Terror” https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/uIztS7Sbkb/ Trailer Worx “Basement Nightmares” https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/gR4dlFGYNQ/ Trailer Worx “Danger Lures” https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/oRcCuDUQej/ Howard Harper-Barnes “Hope and Prayers” https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/OF8HRp9uXx/   Epidemic Sound: SFX Composition Horror https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/uIztS7Sbkb/ Piano Keys https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/BcPE25v5uw/ Swoosh https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/DeeA0Vle4F/ Drone Dark Scary https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/UIwDy30jBc/  

"The very first work of art in the street that I took pictures of was in Winnipeg. It is a Charlie Chaplin mural, with a fab story behind it. I posted it in 2013." Resa McConaghy 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 heading over the Rocky Mountains across the Prairie Provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, to the vibrant city of Toronto, Ontario to meet up with Resa McConaghy, blogger, artist, photographer, and established costume designer in film, television, and digital media.  Resa has worked her costume designer magic on productions for Showtime, ABC, Disney, CBS, CBC, Hallmark, and more.   She brings out personalities with her costume designs and adds dramatic moods to each scene by balancing texture and colours. Resa’s passion for photography and outdoor ephemeral art, is captured in her website, Graffiti Lux Art & More, Today, Resa invited us to walk with her as she explores the vibrant art murals found in the alleys, side streets, and neighbourhoods of Toronto. Thank you for joining Resa and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a very special thank you and shout out to Resa – you live life with compassion, hope, and bold enthusiasm. Listeners, I invite you to meet up with Resa on Graffiti Lux Art & More and her website  Art Gowns and You are only an internet click away from the world art, adventure, glamour and fantasy. Exciting News Update: Resa's 1500th post Gala Celebration is happening Thanksgiving weekend 2023! I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Kikoru "Seeing the Truth" Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/MRrj00qtFC/

S5 E18: Brian on Fear of Missing Out 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. Today,  I’m heading over the Canadian Rockies to St. Albert, Alberta. Brian, my brother, has come back to continue the conversation  on embracing a greater journey. How do we live the fullest in that stage of life that we find ourselves in? How do we embrace the twists and turns that life gives us? How do we gracefully give up the things of youth and embrace the age of active wisdom?   Today, Brian and I will be discussing FOMO, which is the short form of “fear of missing out.” FOMO is that uncomfortable, even anxious, feeling you get when think that other people might be having a good time without you. FOMO can happen at any stage of life “from childhood to old age” Thank you for joining Brian and me on this conversation. Until next time we meet, safe travels wherever your adventures take you. Music by Eric Williams "When I'm Out With You" Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/uHpfYQgRg0/

S5 E17: D Wallace Peach On A Poet's Voice moonlight stitches lace frosty hems on scarlet leaves glints of fallen stars D. Wallace Peach, Word Weaving # 1: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse 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. The Moons of Autumn: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse, edited by Colleen M. Chesebro and JulesPaige is a profound exploration of Japanese and American syllabic poetry. The theme of this journal was influenced by the Harvest, Hunter’s, and Frost moons, which are the names given to the three full moons that transpire during the autumn months. Within the pages of this poetry collection, the diverse mix of syllabic poetry has ignited my desire to explore a poetic journey. Today, I am delighted that D. Wallace Peach whose poetry is featured in “The Moons of Autumn” has joined me to give voice to her poetry. Welcome to podcast series, “A Poet’s Voice”, which brings words of poetry from across the world to your home. Diana lives on my side of the world, just south of the Canadian Border. She is a best-selling author of fantasy fiction who loves writing poetry. An avid supporter of the arts in her local community, she organizes and publishes annual anthologies of Oregon prose, poetry, and photography. She and her husband live in a log cabin, situated on a mountain. She has found a place of belonging, surrounded by evergreens in the lush, green wilderness of the Oregon rainforest. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Diana and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to reflect on the beauty of poetic words. Thank you, Diana for sharing your insights on how poetry allows us to describe the world around us in unexpected ways. This has been a wonderful conversation. Listeners you can meet up with Diana on her website D. Wallace Peach Books, Amazon and Goodreads. You are only an internet click away from journeys that enrich the soul. Until next time we meet, dear friends, keep reading and reciting poetry. Safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by: Kikoru "Sitting by the Shore"https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/pRliUujadr/ Trevor Kowalski "For What Is Right" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/WzOf5ZyHdy/ Gavin Luke "To the Moon and Beyond" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/H6shp6f3WB/ More Than Family "Choir Hymn" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/zLlZB2Y3zt/ Benjamin Monday "The Secretary's Daughter" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/xtiAcqdEac/ Epidemic Sound

S5 E16: Dr Derek Bryce on Cultural Heritage, Destinations and Tourism "I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” Robert Louis Stevenson, Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes 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 travelling virtually to Glasgow, Scotland, where I am meeting up with Dr. Derek Bryce, Senior Lecturer Marketing, The University of Strathclyde. Derek’s research has been influenced by his extensive involvement in the UK and Canadian travel management sector and his academic studies in tourism and business.  His PhD in Cultural Studies has positioned him to bring a strong historicist and humanities perspectives to teaching and research in the Marketing domain, where his contextual focus is on Cultural Heritage, Destinations and Tourism Why do we travel? Does our heritage influence our choice of destination.  Do we feel a connection with the locations of our ancestors?   These are the questions that will be discussed today. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Thank you, Derek, for sharing your knowledge, experience, and insights. You reminded me that travel offers us a chance to expand our horizons and gain a better understanding of the world around us. Travel opens our minds to new ideas and perspectives, to recognize that our personal stories link to the past, influence the future, and become interwoven within the greater narrative of humanity. Listeners, thank you for joining Derek and me on Tea Toast and Trivia. “See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories. Ask for no guarantees, ask for no security.” Ray Bradbury in Fahrenheit 451 Music by Trailer Worx "Morning Lights" Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/yO0oRrARBw/

S5 E15: Dave Astor on Being a Blogger and a Writer Welcome to Tea, Toast and Trivia. Thank you for listening in. I am your host, Rebecca Budd, and I’m looking forward to sharing this moment with you. Today, Dave Astor and I are once again bridging the 3,923 kilometers between Montclair New Jersey and Vancouver, British Columbia Dave 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.” Dave serves as a National Society of Newspaper Columnists board member and writes the weekly “Montclairvoyant” topical-humor column for Baristanet.com.  Dave’s weekly Sunday morning blog posts on DaveAstorOnLiterature.com generate great conversations, which have prompted me to think, consider and share my thoughts over the past years.  I am delighted that Dave has graciously agreed to join me to discuss what it means to be a blogger and writer.  It’s time to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Listeners, thank you for joining Dave and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a very special thank you Dave for sharing your insights on blogging and writing, sharing ideas, and creating spaces for connections and conversations. In closing, I wanted to share a quote from Dave’s book, Fascinating Facts: “Literature can send our minds to another time and place, allowing us to forget our lives and troubles for a few precious hours.  It can educate us about history, open our minds, increase our empathy, make us think, give us things to converse about, and/or provide plenty of excitement along with the escapism.” Dave Astor I invite you to connect with Dave on Dave Astor on Literature.   You are only an internet click away from meeting up with a great discussion with kindred spirits. Until next time, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by More Than Family "House of Cats and Dogs" Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/r0PqZ90QzU/

S5 E14: Luanne Castle on A Poet’s Voice “Note how the red rose,velvet worn by early frost,clings confidentlyto its own treacherous stem,never accursed by mirrors.” Luanne Castle 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. Today, I am delighted that Luanne Castle poet, writer, blogger and art journalist has joined me to give voice to her poetry. Welcome to the podcast series, “A Poet’s Voice”, which brings words of poetry from across the world to your home. Luanne Castle’s poetry explores the breadth and depth of the human experience. In her book, Kin Types, she speaks of the hopes and challenges of ordinary lives from the past. Her first collection of poetry, Doll God, studies traces of the spirit world in human-made natural objects.  Today, Luanne shares her thoughts and insights on her latest poetry collection “Rooted and Winged.” I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Luanne and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to reflect on the beauty of poetic words. Thank you, Luanne, for sharing your insights on how poetry allows us to describe the world around us in unexpected ways.  This has been an extraordinary conversation. Listeners you can meet up with Luanne Castle on her websites Writersite.org, and  Luanne Castle, Amazon,  Instagram, and Goodreads.  You are only an internet click away from poetry that enriches the soul. Until next time we meet, dear friends, keep reading and reciting poetry. Music By Epidemic Sound Jon Björk "Calcifer" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/VLISBRrfkD/ Johannes Bornlöf "Dancing in the Rain" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/5mSFeLx0wa/ Johannes Bornlöf "As I Dream" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/4cUBo6wPFR/ Trevor Kowalski "The Reunion" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/7jwK8DH0WQ/ Aerian "Endurance" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/GQmo9r7nDO/ Trevor Kowalski "For What Is Right" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/WzOf5ZyHdy/

S5 E13 Julie Riso on A Winter Walk February 2022, Winter: this one so cold, dark, eternal. Outside the window, a moon encased in ice vapor, cradled in the forest’s naked embrace. A languid ascent from the realm of dreams. A gentle command: release to receive. Be open to that which you never considered. J.D. Riso La Vagabonde Vs. The Machine February 26, 2023 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 writer, Julie Riso, from her Substack “Wish I Were Here” blog and I are connecting Vancouver and Northern Michigan for a discussion on A Winter Walk. Julie has created a space that welcomes authentic conversations. She writes that many years ago, she chose to follow an unmarked path – the one filled with detours, dead ends, hitchhikers, kitschy roadside attractions, and unexpected destinations. I knew immediately that I found a kindred spirit. “Wish I Were Here” is Julie’s travel memoir that explores her journeys through place and time. She inspires readers to live their personal stories and to recognize the connection to nature and all creatures who share our world. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Thank you for joining Julie and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you, Julie for sharing your insights on a Winter Walk, of creating space for personal reflection and communion with nature.  You have inspired me, and I know that you have encouraged listeners to recognize the importance of solitude, of seeking an inner journey.  It is where our story begins and becomes interwoven within the fabric of all that has come before and all that will come after. I invite meet up with Julie on  Wish I was Here. It is a place that inspires us to wait, listen to our hearts, discover our dreams, and walk with nature in peace with ourselves and with all who walk this earth. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Johannes Bornlöf "Let's Run Away Together" Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/k2mc9bQtD4/

S5 E12: Julianna Wagar on the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion and the Lyon in Mourning Project Sing me a song of a lad that is gone, Say, could that lad be I? Merry of soul he sailed on a day Over the sea to Skye.   Billow and breeze, islands and seas, Mountains of rain and sun, All that was good, all that was fair, All that was me is gone. Sing me a Song of a Lad that is Gone By Robert Louis Stevenson Vocals and music by Julianna WagerWelcome 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 1745 Jacobite rebellion has been romanticized in literature and media.  However, this was a difficult and complex period.  The stories of those who lived during this time have been captured in “The Lyon in Mourning” manuscript, which was compiled by Rev Robert Forbes.  The tragic Battle of Culloden shattered the hopes of restoring the Stuarts to the throne.  The communities and social structure of the Scottish Highlands were changed forever.   Dr. Leith Davis, Professor of English at Simon Fraser University and Director of Simon Fraser University’s Centre for Scottish Studies, is currently investigating and creating a Digital Humanities project on “The Lyon in Mourning”.   This project is a collaboration with the National Library of Scotland and SFU’s Digital Humanities Innovation Lab.  Today, I am joined by Julianna Wagar, Dr. Davis’s research assistant, to share her thoughts on the Lyon in Mourning project. Julianna recently completed her BA at Simon Fraser University in English, Gender, and Women’s Studies. She is currently working towards her MA in English at SFU. Her research interests include eighteenth-century Scottish literature, women’s literature, and Scottish women’s travel writing. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting dialogue on Tea Toast & Trivia. I invite you to meet up with Julianna and Dr. Leith Davis at the Centre for Scottish Studies at Simon Fraser University. The Centre, located at Simon Fraser University, Burnaby campus, provides a focal point for faculty, students, and all who are interested in exploring Scottish history and culture and the connections between Scotland and Canada in the contemporary global landscape.  It is a place where the past reaches out to our time and reminds us to live boldly, with courage and hope. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Trabant 33 "Dreams of the Brave" Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/zhMobBG9tX/

S5 E11: Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene on Dead of Winter and Creating Epic Stories “As the moon cast its light on simple grave markers, the air was split by a sliver of pale gray light. It shimmered like the giant star sapphires of ancient Tiglath. Thunder pealed. The splinter of light seemed to bulge forward and retract, again and again, until it shattered as if lightning had struck. The sound reverberated through the ground. Gravestones toppled.” Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene, Prologue, Journey 1 Forlorn Peak Welcome to Tea, Toast and Trivia. Thank you for listening in. I am thrilled that Teagan Geneviene has joined me on Tea Toast & Trivia to discuss her epic narrative, ⁠Dead of Winter⁠. The adventure is presented in a series of 14 Journeys that begin in the Flowing Lands at Forlorn Peak. The heroine, Emlyn, is a 12-year-old girl who sees and hears spirits. She receives a supernatural warning that she knows is not about the weather: “Winter is coming!” Teagan makes brilliant use of serialization to enhance a reader’s experience, encouraging us to savour the narrative and to reflect with expectation to what comes next. I finished Dead of Winter during a horrendous snowstorm which added atmospheric energy as the storyline moved into the final scene.  I marvel at Teagan’s ability to bring together a magnificent epic with elegance, humour, and compassion.  I laughed and cried, worried, and fretted over what was to become of Emlyn, Zasha, Osabide and all the characters that she brought to life.    Thank you for joining Teagan and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you, Teagan for sharing your insights and experiences in creating “Winter Is Coming.” I invite you to meet up with Teagan at Teagan’s Books . You are only an internet click away from meeting up with Emlyn, her teacher Osabide, and The Watcher.  You will  be swept away on an exciting adventure. It is time to put the kettle on and add to this exciting discussion. Until next time we meet, safe travels wherever your journey leads you. Music by Deskant "As Loch Awe Weeps https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/6PagpxgiQC/ Music by Edgar Hopp "Guarded Skies" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ibxNuh7UM4/ Epidemic Sound

S5 E10: Brian on Transitions Welcome to Tea Toast & Trivia! Thank you for listening in! Life is full of transitions, from the small daily changes to the major life-altering events. Navigating these transitions can be challenging and overwhelming, but it’s a necessary part of growth and progress. Whether it’s starting a new job, moving to a new city, or experiencing a personal loss, transitions can be difficult to navigate.  Perhaps when we experience uncertainty and ambiguity, that is when we do our best work. Embracing new stages in life is recognizing that change is inevitable. It is our opportunity to experience a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world in which we live and engage. Brian, my brother, came back to continue the discussion on embracing a greater journey.  Today, we are looking at transitions and life cycles. How to navigate the stages of life. (This podcast was recorded during the months of a Canadian Winter. Brian lives in Alberta known for cold weather and sunny skies. I live in Vancouver rainforest.) So put the kettle on and add to the conversation on TeaToastTrivia.com. I am your host and I am looking forward to sharing this moment with you I will be taking a short break from blogging and podcasting to head out into an adventure.  I and will be back soon and look forward connecting over the blogosphere. During this time, comments will be closed. Thank you for your understanding. Music by Eric Williams "When I'm Out With You" Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/uHpfYQgRg0/

S5 E9: Macbeth’s Witches Chant with Shehanne Moore and Catherine Cavendish 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. The 400th anniversary of the first folio of Macbeth is set to take place in 2023. Published in 1623, the first folio is considered one of the most important works of William Shakespeare. It is a collection of 36 of his plays, including Macbeth, and is an important part of the literary canon. The anniversary of this folio will be celebrated around the world, with events taking place to commemorate the work of William Shakespeare and the impact the folio has had on literature and culture. Catherine Cavendish, writer of Gothic horror and Shehanne Moore, writer of exhilarating historical romances, have joined me to commemorate this momentous milestone.  With the magic of WIFI, we have brought Dundee Scotland, Southport England, and Vancouver, Canada together to whisk you back four hundred years to meet the Three Witches of Macbeth, the trio of supernatural beings often referred to as the “Weird Sisters.” They are believed to be the embodiments of fate and destiny. Are you ready???? And a very special thank you, Cat and Shey, for conjuring the drama and force of the Three Witches and celebrating the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s first folio. Listeners,  I invite you to meet up with Cat on her website, Catherine Cavendish, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Amazon and  Goodreads, I invite your to meet up with Shey on her website, Shehanne Moore, Twitter, Amazon and Goodreads. Thank you for joining Cat, Shey and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. Until next time we meet, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music and Foley by Epidemic Sound Trevor Kowalski "You're Not Hiding Very Well" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/o6WvffFGpS/ Christoffer Moe Ditlevsen "Path to the Abyss" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/qZi97YkZ2X/ Cobby Costa "Pressure Put" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/OO15NJCT41/ Traditional "Sarabandes Version 2" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/wMyNWRkrNC/

S5 E8: Rachel McAlpine A Poet’s Voice on Aging What is your job? "What is your job when you no longer have a job? What is your work when you don’t go to work any more? When you retire you gain such a lot—like freedom and time and multiple choice. You left with relief so why this incongruity of grief? Work gave you friends, a schedule, a label a space and a fable a reason to get out of bed a dress code and your daily bread and at your very core a sense of who you are and what you’re for." © Rachel McAlpine 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 traveling virtually to Christchurch, New Zealand, to meet with Rachel McAlpine, a digital content pioneer, eminent New Zealand poet and author of 30+ books.  She joins me today to discuss her poetry and embracing our evolving journey with joyful anticipation. Rachel became obsessed with the ageing process from a personal point of view. At 75, when she discovered that her life expectancy was 99, she devised a boot camp for her bonus years. The outcome of this initiative was realistic optimism and a sense of control.  Now at 82, Rachel is helping others to confront the mixed blessing of longevity.  She inspires confidence that we can shape our old age.  I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Rachel and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to discuss how to be old. Thank you, Rachel for sharing your profound insights on how the gift of longevity. This has been a wonderful conversation. Listeners you can meet up with Rachel on her website, Write Into Life, Amazon and Goodreads.  You are only an internet click away from journeys that enrich the soul. Music by Epidemic Sound S.A. Karl "Castor" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/BUaOZZJ5UG/ Claude Signet "Together Is Better" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/gPLIAeQ0Cj/ More Than Family "This Way My Dear" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/qMY1hUHSLT/

S5 E7: Mary Lunnen on Embracing our Inner Wisdom “I cannot know, none of us can, what the year ahead will bring.  I can make plans and hope that they will become reality. And they may well change through my choice or through circumstances outside my control. My ‘word of the year’ for 2023 is ‘Presence’…To be in the moment as much as possible.” Mary Lunnen, Dare to Blossom January 2023 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. Join me as I travel virtually to Wadebridge, a town in north Cornwall, England, to meet up with writer, artist and Global Life Coach, Mary Lunnen.  I first met Mary through a mutual friend and frequent guest on TTT, Liz Humphreys. Liz shared three “rediscovery cards” in an Instagram Post.  These rediscovery cards are used by Mary for guided meditation and reflection. I was intrigued!  Dare to Blossom Life Coaching with Mary is based around the principle of rediscovering our inner wisdom and awakening to a sense of wellbeing. It is time to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Thank you for joining Mary and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a very special thank you, Mary, for sharing your insights on coaching, on seeking an inner wisdom, on embracing the unknown and being open to possibilities. Listeners,  I invite you to meet up with Mary on her website, Dare to Blossom, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I know that you will be inspired by the Mary’s story and her dedication to living boldly within a complex, ever changing world. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your journey leads you. Mary’s latest book: Your Compass Rose Speaks “The culmination of all my work over the last twenty years since establishing Dare to Blossom Life Coaching in 2003, this book offers you a way to explore the tools and processes that I have developed over this time, along with insights of my journey along the way, and stories from those who have joined me.” Mary Lunnen Music by David Celeste "April in Detroit" Epidemic Sound  https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Y3IFt1ExKU/

S5 E6:  Ken Gierke on A Poet’s Voice warmth of a pale light found as clouds part rewarded while seeking the moon on a cool autumn night Ken Gierke, The Moons of Autumn, Word Weaving # 1: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse 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. The Moons of Autumn: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse, edited by Colleen M. Chesebro and JulesPaige is a profound exploration of Japanese and American syllabic poetry.  The theme of this journal was influenced by the Harvest, Hunter’s, and Frost moons, which are the names given to the three full moons that transpire during the autumn months.   Within the pages of this poetry collection, the diverse mix of syllabic poetry has ignited my desire to explore a poetic journey. Today, I am delighted that Ken Gierke, whose poetry is featured in “The Moons of Autumn,” has joined me to give voice to his poetry. Welcome to podcast series, “A Poet’s Voice”, which brings words of poetry from across the world to your home. Ken Gierke retired and moved from Western New York to Missouri.  Time spent on or near the water has always been important to Ken. In a past life, that meant boating and scuba diving. Today, it means kayaking or walking along a river or stream. It may even mean sitting on a shoreline, writing poetry. Ken finds threefold reward in poetry – reading, writing, and the acceptance of his readers. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Ken and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to reflect on the beauty of poetic words. Thank you, Ken for sharing your insights on how poetry allows us to describe the world around us in unexpected ways.  This has been a wonderful conversation. Listeners you can meet up with Ken on his website rivrylogr.com and on Amazon. You are only an internet click away from journeys that enrich the soul. Until next time we meet, dear friends, keep reading and reciting poetry. Safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by  1) Yonder Dale "To All a Good Night" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/PqpBEBUUhI/ 2) Johannes Bornlöf "Burned Letters" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Vchv0ZhyC4/ 3) Bonn Fields "Love at First Glance" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/Vchv0ZhyC4/ 4) Megan Wofford "Starlight Wonder" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/CO9LsVYIWT/

S5 E5:  John Quinn on The Dundee Connection with Mary Shelley “I lived principally in the country as a girl and passed a considerable time in Scotland. I made occasional visits to the more picturesque parts; but my habitual residence was on the blank and dreary northern shores of the Tay, near Dundee. Blank and dreary on retrospection I call them; they were not so to me then. They were the eyry of freedom, and the pleasant region where unheeded I could commune with the creatures of my fancy. Mary Shelly, In the introduction to the 1831 edition, Frankenstein 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. Who was Mary Shelley?  What is her connection to Dundee?  What influence did Dundee have on her writing of Frankenstein? I am delighted that I am travelling virtually to Dundee, Scotland where I am meeting up with John Quinn, writer, poet, and lyricist to discuss these questions. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting dialogue on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining John and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you, John for sharing your insights and your commitment to the city of Dundee and the memory of a young teenager who would give the gift of her book, Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus to the world. I leave you with this quote, “Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be his world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow.” Mary Shelley, Frankenstein Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Trabant 33 "Fountain of Miracles" #EpidemicSound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/hBLXkhqXiS/

S5 E4: Celebrating Up Helly Aa with Sarah McBurnie January 31, 2023, the last Tuesday of January, the fire festival of Up Helly Aa is happening. A huge torchlight procession of hundreds of Vikings is marching through the streets of Lerwick, carrying flaming torches and singing traditional Norse skalds. 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 have arrived virtually in Lerwick, Shetland to meet up with my friend, Sarah McBurnie who was our intrepid guide on our 2018 Shetland adventure. Up Helly Aa is happening tonight. Sarah has invited us to celebrate Shetland’s Norse heritage with her.   I have always wanted to attend Up Helly Aa, so join me for a Viking adventure that promises feasting, music, and dancing! Listeners, thank you for joining Sarah and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you Sarah for sharing the excitement of Up Helly Aa.   You were an excellent guide on our visit to Shetland and I’m looking forward to meeting up with you again on Tea Toast Trivia. Listeners, I invite you to connect with Sarah on her website, See Shetland. Sarah conducts exclusive guided tours with personalized itineraries for visitors to Shetland from all over the world. We came as visitors to experience this amazing place and left as friends, thanks to Sarah and the many people we met along the journey through the Shetland Islands. You are only an internet click away from a remarkable adventure that will take you from birdwatching, archaeology to the celebration of Up Helly Aa Until next time we meet dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Kikoru  "Clouds Over Mountains" #EpidemicSound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/EbaDeotpAO/

S5 E3: Celebrating Robert Burns & Address to the Haggis Some hae meat and canna eat, And some wad eat that want it, But we hae meat and we can eat, And sae the Lord be thankit.” Robert Burns is one of the most important figures in Scottish culture and history. Every year, Scots and people around the world come together to celebrate the life and works of the beloved poet. There are many reasons why we should celebrate Robert Burns and his contributions to Scotland. Regarded as the national poet of Scotland, Robert Burns writings celebrate Scottish culture and identity. He wrote extensively about the history of Scotland, and his works are often seen as a representation of the struggles and triumphs of the Scottish people. He was a great advocate for social justice. His poetry and narratives are often used to inspire people to strive for a more just and equitable society. Robert Burns’ poetry is varied in its themes and styles, and his writings have been adapted to numerous musical genres. His best-known works include “Auld Lang Syne,” “To a Mouse,” “Comin’ Thro’ the Rye,” and “A Red, Red Rose.” These poems are beloved for their romanticism, their humor, and their insight into the human experience. Come and join the celebration! Music by Traditional "Auld Lang Syne (Traditional Version" #EpidemicSound www.epidemicsound.com/track/H9ncuJOolx/

S5 E2: On the Road with Bryan Davis and Cary Hubbard “Cars are almost part of my physiology. I grew up playing amongst the dusty shelves of my family’s auto parts store. In my reckless youth pushing our delivery trucks to the point of mechanical failure was the best way I could find to learn about cars and how they worked. As a responsible adult I channel that interest into connecting with fellow enthusiasts through events, writing and social media.” Bryan Davis, Esoteric Automotive Antiquarian 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 travelling virtually to Albuquerque to meet up with Cary Hubbard of Cary’s Garage, who you know from the Project Z Car Revival podcast series at Tea Toast & Trivia.  From Albuquerque, Cary and I are winging our way across to New York to connect with Bryan Davis, Automotive Writer, and Social Media Manager.  Bryan is known as an Esoteric Automotive Antiquarian who is dedicated to the history, design, manufacture, and “roadability” of the unloved cars of the Malaise Era. Cary and Bryan are the podcast hosts of Motors and Martinis that take us on amazing road adventures. What is an Automotive Antiquarian?  What is the “Malaise Era?”  And how can there be unloved cars?  These are the questions that will be answered today. This is going to be a great discussion so put the kettle and join the conversation. Thank you for joining Cary, Bryan, and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you, Cary and Bryan for a brilliant discussion on memorable cars and memorable moments. I invite you to meet up with Cary and Bryan on their podcast Motors and Martinis where you will find them talking about cars and all things esoteric.  Bryan’s website, Bryan Raab Davis will link you to Malaise Motors, the Little Facebook Group the Could.  Join Cary on his YouTube Channel, Cary’s Garage, which is dedicated to his love of Vehicles. Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles. His cars come from all corners of the globe! Cary and Bryan have promised to come back for another road trip adventure. Until next time we meet, safe travel wherever your adventures lead you Music by Plain Stroll "Leave the Lights On." #EpidemicSound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/9oOwDuHvGF/

S5 E1: Catherine Cavendish on Writing Gothic Horror “1941. In the dark days of war-torn London, Violet works in Churchill’s subterranean top secret Cabinet War Rooms, where key decisions that will dictate Britain’s conduct of the war are made. Above, the people of London go about their daily business as best they can, unaware of the life that teems beneath their feet. Night after night the bombs rain down, yet Violet has far more to fear than air raids. A mysterious man, a room only she can see, memories she can no longer trust, and a best friend who denies their shared past… Something or someone – is targeting her.” Catherine Cavendish, Dark Observation 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. Join me as I travel virtually to the sea in Southport, England, to meet up with writer, Catherine Cavendish, who has given us paranormal, ghostly, and Gothic horror novels and novellas. Her novels include Dark Observation, In Darkness, Shadows Breathe, The Garden of Bewitchment. The Haunting of Henderson Close, The Devil’s Serenade, The Pendle Curse, and Saving Grace Devine. Time to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. As many of you know, Edinburgh feels like my second home.  I just purchased Cat Cavendish’s “The Haunting of Henderson Close.”  This is the blurb: In the depths of Edinburgh, an evil presence is released. Hannah and her colleagues are tour guides who lead their visitors along the spooky, derelict Henderson Close, thrilling them with tales of spectres and murder. For Hannah it is her dream job, but not for long. Who is the mysterious figure that disappears around a corner? What is happening in the old print shop? And who is the little girl with no face? This is going to be an amazing read.  I will keep the lights on. Thank you for joining Cat and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a very special thank you, Cat, for sharing your insights on writing, embracing the unknown and being open to possibilities. Listeners, I invite you to meet up with Cat on her website, Catherine Cavendish, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Goodreads. You are only an internet click away from being swept away on a haunting adventure. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your journey leads you. Music by #EpidemicSound Spectacles Wallet & Watch "Ghouls" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/i9zCHFRdAJ/ Howard Harper-Barnes "Mysterious Forest" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/jR4dVTZ5wr/

S4 E46: Season‘s Greetings from Ottawa, Ontario Wishing You The Joy Of Family The Warmth Of Friends & The Gifts Of Laughter, Peace & Love! Rebecca A special thank you to my brother, Brian R Brodhead, who provided the music accompaniment of Silent Night.

Season 4 Episode 45: Merril D Smith on A Poet’s Voice "frost-specked the grass glistens  in October moonlight, silvered pale…a scurry of mice, ghost-like."  Merril D. Smith, The Moons of Autumn: Word Weaving # 1: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse 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. The Moons of Autumn: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse, edited by Colleen M. Chesebro and JulesPaige is a profound exploration of Japanese and American syllabic poetry.  The theme of this journal was influenced by the Harvest, Hunter’s, and Frost moons, which are the names given to the three full moons that transpire during the autumn months.   Within the pages of this poetry collection, the diverse mix of syllabic poetry has ignited my desire to explore a poetic journey. Today, I am delighted that Merril D Smith whose poetry is featured in “The Moons of Autumn” has joined me to give voice to her poetry. Welcome to the series, “A Poet’s Voice”, which brings words of poetry from across the world to your home. Merril D. Smith is a writer, editor, independent scholar, and poet. She is the author and editor of several books. Merril’s poetry is often inspired by the natural world around her. Her poetry has been published by several presses, and she is working on a full-length poetry collection, as well as some smaller collections. In April 2022, Nightingale & Sparrow Press published her first full-length collection, River Ghosts. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Merril and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to reflect on the beauty of poetic words. Thank you, Merril for sharing your insights on how poetry allows us to describe the world around us in unexpected ways.  I have enjoyed traveling virtually to New Jersey to walk along the Delaware River with you. Listeners, you can meet up with Merril D. Smith on her website Merril D Smith, Amazon and Goodreads.  You are only an internet click away from poetry that enriches the soul. Until next time we meet, dear friends, keep reading and reciting poetry. Safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by:  Claude Signet "No One But Yourself"  https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/l89C9VoigE/ David Celeste "Everyday People" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/T32oSvAWoI/ Emily Rubye "Remember" https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/KSh4jHCiBF/ #EpidemicSound

S4 E44: Emma Trotter on Lyon in Mourning and the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion "The Lyon in Mourning is a collection of Journals, Narratives, and Memoranda relating to the life of Prince Charles Edward Stuart at and subsequent to the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745.The formation of this collection was to a great extent the life-work of the Rev. Robert Forbes, M.A., Bishop of Ross and Caithness.” From the Preface, Lyon in Mourning 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. Dr. Leith Davis, Professor of English at Simon Fraser University is a co-founder of the Department of English’s Master of Arts program with Specialization in Print Culture. She is the Director of Simon Fraser University’s Centre for Scottish Studies.  Her current project, which she discussed in a previous TTT podcast, is on The Lyon in Mourning, Memoirs of The Rebellion of 1745. It is a collaboration with the National Library of Scotland and SFU’s Digital Humanities Innovation Lab. Today, I am joined by Emma Trotter, Dr. Davis’s research assistant, to share her thoughts on the Lyon in Mourning project.  Emma is currently finishing up her Undergraduate BA at Simon Fraser University in English and completing her Certificate in Writing & Rhetoric. Her research interests include 17th-century American and Puritan literature, as well as late 18th-century feminist literary criticism. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting dialogue on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Emma and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you, Emma, for opening the doors of the past and demonstrating the power of story to influence our lives today. I invite you to meet up with Emma and Dr. Leith Davis at the Centre for Scottish Studies at Simon Fraser University. The Centre, located at Simon Fraser University, Burnaby campus, provides a focal point for faculty, students, and all who are interested in exploring Scottish history and culture and the connections between Scotland and Canada in the contemporary global landscape.  It is a place where the past reaches out to our time and reminds us to live boldly, with courage and hope. Until next time we meet, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Trabant33 "Dreams of the Brave" #EpidemicSound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/zhMobBG9tX/

S4 E43: Timothy Price on Music and Creative Endeavour Reflections dive deep Into swift waters stilled Winter’s magic ethereal light Walks on water, river sprites Tiptoe under thin light gleaming Watchful sliver moon alone Slips between shadows, darkness Chimeric light leads me home Excerpt from a Walk in Winter by Timothy Price @TimothyPrice 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 traveling virtually to Albuquerque, New Mexico to meet up with my blogger friend, writer, poet, musician, and photographer, Timothy Price. He joins me today for a discussion on music and creative endeavour. I have been following Tim’s blog since my first introduction to him on Resa McConaghy’s blog,  Art Gowns, The Art of Glamorous Fantasy. Tim has a marvelous sense of humour and a love of photography and music.  What I especially appreciated about Tim is that he provides sustained support and encouragement for artistic pursuits. Tim reminds me that creativity opens us to experience a deeper understanding of who we are and how we relate to the world around us. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining Tim and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you, Tim, for a brilliant discussion on music and creative endeavours. I invite meet up with Tim and his friends on his blog Off Centre Not Even.   It is a great place to hang out and listen to music, Until next time, dear friends, safe travels wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Martin Landstrom "(Why are you) Telling Me No."  #EpidemicSound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/lHsD0R61l1/

S4 42 The Trio on Living the Dream 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. Today, I am joined by my mother, Frances, and my sister, Sarah, for a discussion on what does it mean to live the dream life. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation. Frances, Sarah and I look forward to your thoughts on Tea Toast & Trivia! Until next time we meet, safe travels wherever your adventures take you. Music by Howard Harper-Barnes "Memories of Marigold"  #EpidemicSound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/YldSXDgo21/

S4 E41:  D.L. Finn on A Poet’s Voice blood red trees autumn’s forest glows hunter moon D.L Finn, Word Weaving # 1: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse 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. The Moons of Autumn: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse, edited by Colleen M. Chesebro and JulesPaige is a profound exploration of Japanese and American syllabic poetry.  The theme of this journal was influenced by the Harvest, Hunter’s, and Frost moons, which are the names given to the three full moons that transpire during the autumn months.   Within the pages of this poetry collection, the diverse mix of syllabic poetry has ignited my desire to explore a poetic journey.  Today, I am delighted that D.L. Finn whose poetry is featured in “The Moons of Autumn” has joined me to give voice to her poetry. Welcome to the first podcast in the series, “A Poet’s Voice”, which brings words of poetry from across the world to your home. D. L. Finn is an independent California local who encourages everyone to embrace their inner child. She was born and raised in the foggy Bay Area, but in 1990 she relocated with her husband, kids, dogs, and cats to Nevada City, in the Sierra foothills. She immersed herself in reading all types of books but especially loved romance, horror, and fantasy. She always treasured creating her own reality on paper. Finally, surrounded by towering pines, oaks, and cedars, her creativity was nurtured until it bloomed. Her creations include children’s books, adult fiction, a unique autobiography, and poetry. She continues on her adventure with an open invitation to all readers to join her. I invite you to put the kettle on and add to this exciting conversation on Tea Toast & Trivia. Thank you for joining D.L. Finn and me on Tea Toast & Trivia to share the beauty of poetic words. Thank you, D.L. Finn for sharing your insights on how poetry allows us to describe the world around us in unexpected ways. Music by David Celeste "Wake Up with Me"  https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/lNvPapTBle/ Music By Rannar Sillard "Worlds Apart"  https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/DfrxaRrTVW/ #EpidemicSound

S4 E40: Tristan Price and Cary Hubbard on the Project Z Car Revival 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. A few weeks ago, I attended a family wedding in Squamish, British Columbia, the town famous for mountain biking and hiking in summer and snowmobiling and back-country skiing in winter. When we arrived in the parking area of our hotel, we were surprised to find a Red 1993 Suzuki Sidekick JL parked in a nearby parking space.   Even more amazing, when we looked closer, we realized that this was the car that we purchased in 1993.  When we met up with the current owner, we were told that she was the fourth owner of our car. Cars have personal histories, too! Today I am excited that I will be heading back Cary’s Garage for an update on the Project Z Car Revival project.   You will recall that Tim Price from Off Center & Not Even  introduced me to Cary Hubbard from Cary’s Garage a few months ago. Cary picked up a 1980 Datsun 280ZX that he was going to get back on the road.    Today, a special guest is joining Cary and me on TTT.  Tristan Price, the owner of the 1980 Datsun 280ZX, has come to tell the history behind this special car. This is going to be a great discussion so put the kettle on, stop by and add to the conversation. Thank you for joining Tristan, Cary, and me on Tea Toast & Trivia. And a special thank you, Tristan and Cary for the history and update on the legendary 1980 Datsun 280ZX. I have enjoyed this conversation. I invite you to meet up with Cary on his YouTube Channel, Cary’s Garage. This channel is dedicated to Cary’s love of Vehicles. Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles. His cars come from all corners of the globe!  You are only an internet click away from being on an extraordinary road adventure with the Project Z Car Revival. Until next time we meet, safe travel wherever your adventures lead you. Music by Plain Strolls "Leave the Lights On." Epidemic Sound https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/9oOwDuHvGF/