Shifting times, indeed.

In the midst of large-picture changes and day to day life events, music can be a way to reflect and to learn, or a method for speaking out in protest.

In these changing times, music can also work to inspire, to connect, to remind of hope.

Australia is more than golden beaches, city streets, and outback horizons. It also has some of the globe's most famous wine regions. From rolling vineyards tucked in coastal valleys to heritage estates among bushland, each pour is a story of place, climate, and craftsmanship. A trip to these destinations can offer a wine tasting tour, as well as a chance to engage with the country's culture and meet the keen winemakers who keep those traditions alive.

Years ago, when watching the Food Network, I quickly found my favourites: the quirky chef, the one who helped us navigate meals in a short span of time, and Ina, who was always a welcome visitor. Whether it was the relevance of the show's location to my world, her empathetic joyful demeanor, or the deliciousness coming out of her kitchen, I don’t know, but I’ve always been a fan of Ina.

If you’ve ever thought about becoming an international teacher (or joining your teaching partner abroad), you’ve no doubt thought about the pros and cons. Things like travel perks, access to different cultures, and giving your kids the chance to gain a more global perspective are all big benefits.

Traveling on a group tour can transform a vacation experience. With travel companions built-in, logistics handled, and expert guides leading the way, group travel offers convenience, camaraderie, and cultural immersion. But with so many group tour companies out there, how do you choose the right one?

One of our favorite authors, Patricia Leavy, delighted us earlier this year with Shooting Stars Above. Now she’s back at it with a sweeping love story I couldn’t put down, Cinematic Destinies. By the time I was done, there were happy tears rolling down my cheeks. This book is that good. 

Expanding your small business to the Caribbean unlocks access to vibrant markets, tax benefits, and consistent customer demand driven by tourism and growing local economies. You can explore new revenue streams, enjoy lifestyle benefits, and tap into global markets. 

This region offers a strategic location, a skilled workforce, and business-friendly policies, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to grow.
Beyond financial gains, the Caribbean provides many additional opportunities, some of which we will look at below.

Today’s high schools—constrained by low expectations for working-class kids, limitations on teachers’ autonomy, and more segregation than 50 years ago—find it challenging to create an environment that cultivates engagement, learning and a sense of belonging. They can learn something from the successes of the past.

Did you ever wonder about the intricacies of cross-cultural families, reasons for immigration, and family history? It’s so interesting…and complex.