Feed a Duck and Smile for Louisa

January 17, 2015 marks the 1st anniversary of the death of Louise Fauteux, my sister (aka Louisa).  She was a wonderful gift to the world.  As a nurse she was compassionate.  As a kidney dialysis sales consultant she was a consummate professional.  As a friend she was loyal.  As an aunt and sister in-law she was inspirational.  As a sister she was everything.  She was an all round great human being.  I miss her immensely.

In the end Louise died from Lewy Body disease.  Throughout her life she was, in a good way, crazy!  She laughed, she loved, and she lived a full life.  Louisa loved to feed the ducks.  They would gather around her as she fed them cracked corn, and she would smile.

So, for Louisa, and for all the crazy people who change the world in their own unique way I invite you to feed the ducks.  As they quack, you might smile.  Louisa will be smiling with you.  I love you sister, always!

Thank You Viola Desmond!

I came across this video in preparation for a student discussion.  It’s a very powerful portrayal of a sad chapter in the history of Nova Scotia.  The story is also an inspiring account of how one person changed the world.  Social justice is something many of us take for granted.  We sometimes cheer for social justice as we watch it emerge, often on television or in movies.  That’s OK, and this video may be just that for some viewers but hopefully this story will continue to do much more especially as Nova Scotia Heritage Day approaches.   Social justice is worth fighting for.  Viola Desmond is a great example of someone who stood up for what she knew was right.  She fought for social justice and she changed the world.  Watch her story and follow her example.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yI00i9BtsQ8

Je Suis Charlie

Go Canada Go!

I think a good way to start blogging in my new blended personal web site is with a family oriented entry.  Each year over the holidays my wife obsesses with The World Junior Hockey Tournament.  I go along for the ride.  Its fun and a great application for big screen TV!  Watching 17 year old boys battle for their country (and their emerging career) is a fantastic glimpse of dreams come true.  Its hard to imagine the pride felt by their families.  Its even more difficult to imagine what it would feel like to be in your first world sports tournament.  I guess the exposure would be gradual with many smaller tournaments leading up to this one but it would have to be a pretty powerful experience nonetheless.  I’ve had many firsts in my life but sadly most of them slipped by without much fanfare. I’m not sure I noticed.  Maybe I should start paying more attention!