All posts by b nice

Semper Doctrina—we are always improving and adapting.
Fun Holidays

Soup Swap Day

Soup Swap Day is a fun, community-focused event where friends, neighbors, or colleagues gather to exchange homemade soups. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the winter months, share your favorite recipes, and stock up on a variety of soups without having to cook them all yourself! Typically, Soup Swap Day happens in mid-January, though people often adapt the idea for any time of year.

How It Works:

  1. Make Soup: Each participant prepares a big batch of their favorite homemade soup.
  2. Package It: Divide the soup into individual containers (usually freezer-safe), often with enough for one meal per container.
  3. Gather Together: Participants meet, usually with their soup and recipe cards or labels describing the soup (including allergens and reheating instructions).
  4. Swap Soups: Everyone takes turns selecting soups to bring home until all soups are swapped.
  5. Enjoy!: You leave with a variety of soups to enjoy over the coming weeks.

 

 
Fun Holidays

Nothing Day

Nothing Day” is an informal or humorous observance that originated as a way to take a break from the endless stream of holidays, special observances, and societal expectations. It is observed on January 16th each year and is meant to celebrate, well, nothing. 😊

The day was proposed in 1973 by journalist Harold Pullman Coffin as a response to the abundance of “official” holidays. It’s a day with no specific activities, no formal celebrations, and no purpose other than to exist and let life happen as it will.

How to Celebrate:

  1. Do Nothing: Quite literally, don’t make any plans. Relax and enjoy a guilt-free day off from celebrations.
  2. Disconnect: Take a break from social media or news, which often bombard you with events or holidays.
  3. Reflect: Spend some quiet time reflecting on the beauty of simplicity and just being.
  4. Be Playful: Make a joke out of the day—tell people you’re celebrating “Nothing Day” when they ask what you’re doing.
Fun Holidays

Strawberry Ice Cream Day

Strawberry Ice Cream Day is celebrated annually on January 15 to honor the sweet, creamy, and fruity dessert that has been a favorite for centuries. This day encourages everyone to indulge in the classic flavor, experiment with creative recipes, or simply enjoy a scoop or two of strawberry ice cream.

Fun Ways to Celebrate:

  1. Enjoy a Classic Scoop: Treat yourself to strawberry ice cream at your favorite ice cream parlor or at home.
  2. Make Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream: Try making your own version with fresh or frozen strawberries for a personalized touch.
  3. Try New Recipes: Create strawberry milkshakes, sundaes, or ice cream cakes for a twist on the traditional dessert.
  4. Share the Love: Surprise friends and family with a strawberry ice cream treat.
  5. Learn the History: Explore the origins of strawberry ice cream and its evolution as one of the top flavors worldwide.

Fun Facts About Strawberry Ice Cream:

  • Strawberry is one of the three original flavors (along with vanilla and chocolate) in Neapolitan ice cream.
  • The vibrant pink color is often achieved using fresh strawberries or natural coloring.
  • It pairs well with various toppings like whipped cream, sprinkles, and chocolate drizzle.

Enjoy celebrating this delicious day with all things strawberry ice cream!

Breaking News

Irving Oil announces company won’t be sold

Irving Oil announces company won’t be sold

Company announced new CEO and decision to remain a private company

This announcement is significant, given that Irving Oil’s potential sale was a major topic of speculation in 2023. By choosing to remain privately held, the company is reinforcing its long-standing approach to maintaining family ownership and control.

Their decision likely reflects confidence in their business model, as well as a commitment to preserving the close ties to their employees, customers, and communities that family ownership often fosters. It’s also possible that the decision signals favorable financial conditions or long-term strategies that make a sale unnecessary.

Irving Oil has recently undertaken several significant initiatives:

  • Annual Fall Turnaround Investment: In September 2024, the company commenced its annual fall turnaround project at the Saint John refinery, investing $80 million to enhance safety and reliability. This project brought an additional 1,200 skilled workers to the facility.
     
  • Leadership Changes: In February 2024, President Ian Whitcomb stepped down amid a strategic review considering options for the company’s future, including a potential sale.
     
  • Passing of Arthur L. Irving: In May 2024, Arthur L. Irving, the company’s Chairman Emeritus, passed away at age 93. His leadership significantly influenced the company’s direction and operations.
     
  • Sustainable Energy Initiatives: In November 2023, Irving Oil launched a sustainable energy product for Irish customers, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility.
     
  • Renewable Natural Gas Agreement: Also in November 2023, the company announced plans to receive carbon-negative renewable natural gas from Alberta-based energy producer GrowTEC, furthering its sustainability efforts.
     
  • Recognition as a Top Employer: In November 2024, Irving Oil was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers for the ninth consecutive year, highlighting its commitment to employee satisfaction and workplace excellence.

These developments underscore Irving Oil’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and community engagement.