Alice’s Book Club – AUTUMN session of 2026

 The complete briefing will be available soon. Thank you!

October 2026 – Message for THANKSGIVING Day

Today (Monday – October 12, 2026), I’m extending my warmest greetings to everyone who is celebrating the Canadian THANKSGIVING DAY.

As we all gather with our families, friends and loved ones, may this special occasion of the year remind us about the significance of kindness, gratitude and togetherness. Let us appreciate the many amazing blessings we share, the communities that bring us together and the meaningful connections that enrich our lives.

May this Thanksgiving Day bring along warmth, happiness and peace to you and yours!

Each day holds reasons to be thankful for, even if it's just a small moment of peace!

Also, to all my dear friends (old & new, closer or more distant), collaborators (occasional or recurrent) and at large sympathizers of ALICE & Friends Circle™ many thanks for your ongoing loyalty throughout the almost 9 (nine) years of existence of our literary and socio-cultural community, and please do know that your support and presence are truly appreciated!

● My previous greetings on the same theme: THANKSGIVING Day – 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018

September 22, 2026: Happy AUTUMN, dear friends!

Dear friends, on 22^nd September 2026 is the autumnal equinox, marking the first day of a new autumn in Northern Hemisphere. Each year, this season reminds us of the beauty of change, because each autumn invites us to release what no longer serves us, to feel our lungs with clarity and renewal. Just like the equinox balances day and night, may we each find our own equilibrium during this time…between work and rest, between ambition and reflection, between giving and receiving.

May the new season bring us peace, inspiration and a renewed sense of balance!

May we let each leaf that falls whisper a reminder that life, like seasons, is a delicate dance of growth, transformation and harmonious balance!  

● Short scientific briefing on AUTUMNAL EQUINOX:

The Autumnal Equinox is an astronomical event, nearly noticed by everyone, marking the arrival of fall in Northern Hemisphere. During the equinox, the night & day have almost the same length (12 hours) throughout the world. The word "equinox" derives from Latin, meaning “equal night". The equinox happens when the equator passes the center of the sun. This is when the North & South Poles of the Earth are not tilted towards or away from the sun, as at other times, but are aligned so as to give, theoretically, the same amount of daylight in both of the Earth's hemispheres.

● My previous greetings on the same theme: AUTUMNAL EQUINOX – 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018

September 21, 2026: INTERNATIONAL PEACE Day

September 21^st 2026 reminds us that today the entire world unites to celebrate International Peace Day, and the theme for this year is “Invest in Peace - For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day”, reemphasizing that peace is not only the absence of conflict, but also a deliberate investment in relationships, trust and an honest dedication to comprehension. Across many continents and countless communities, ordinary people and large committed peacebuilders demonstrate that a true lasting peace grows from our daily choices and collective persistence, rather than single, monumental acts.

Strictly speaking from a practical perspective, it is important to understand that peace is also the compassion we show to someone who has a different background than ours, it is the kindness we have for our planet and for ourselves, it is a polite and respectful conversation, it is a helping hand, it is the choice of listening instead of arguing, and so on. Just imagine the massive impact of a million tiny acts of peace!

Today and every day, may we each have the wisdom to chose compassion to heal, to replace noise with meaningful dialogue and to create an environment where everyone is treated respectfully, in a peaceful manner!

Peace is not something you wish for; it is something you make, it is something you are, it is something you do and it is something you offer!

● Historical background info:

“The International Day of Peace, also officially known as World Peace Day, is a United Nations-sanctioned holiday observed annually on 21 September. It is dedicated to world peace, and specifically the absence of war and violence, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone for humanitarian aid access. The day was first celebrated in 1981 and is kept by many nations, political groups, military groups and people.” (Source: Encyclopedia)

● My previous acknowledgements on the same theme: PEACE Day – 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021

Alice’s Book Club – SUMMER session of 2026

 The complete briefing will be available very soon. Thank you!

August 31, 2026: ROMANIAN LANGUAGE Day

Each year, August 31^st shines a special spotlight on Romanian culture, as it marks the Romanian Language Day – occasion which offers Romanians (in the country and around the world) a new opportunity to honor their linguistic root, while they illustrate the richness and the importance of their mother tongue.

At this point of my exposé, it is important to emphasize that Romania holds a unique cultural and historical identity, deeply intertwined with its language as this (the official language of the country) is a profound symbol of national unity and heritage.

For many Romanians, the maternal language represents also a strong connection with their ancestors, reflecting long centuries of tradition and resilience, preserving the collective memory, and acting at the same time as a vessel of cultural expression, literature and folklore. The significance of the Romanian language extends way beyond communication…it embodies the spirit and the continuity of the Romanian people throughout history and into the present days.

For many Romanians, the Romanian Language Day becomes more than just a holiday;

it is an annual testament of the resilience and vibrancy of one of Europe’s oldest & distinctive Romance tongues.

La  mulţi ani tuturor vorbitorilor de limbă română!

Omagiu Limbii Române – simbol al identității și demnității noastre, patrimoniu spiritual care ne unește din generație în generație.

Limba română este puntea dintre trecut și viitor, dintre oameni și comunități, dintre cei de aici și românii de pretutindeni.

Este comoara ce poartă în ea istorie, cultură și sperață.

”Începând din anul 2011, în ultima zi a lui Gustar, sărbătorim Ziua Limbii Române, una dintre cele 24 de limbi oficiale ale Uniunii Europene. Este o zi în care nu sărbătorim doar un mijloc de comunicare, ci identitatea, memoria și sufletul unui popor.

Cântată de poeți din vremuri diferite, limba română a străbătut istoria cu demnitate, purtând în ea dorul, doina, rugăciunea, cântecul, bucuriile și durerile noastre.

Nichita Stănescu o numea ’patria mea’, Emil Cioran spunea că ’nu locuiești într-o țară, ci într-o limbă’, iar Mihai Eminescu îi vedea bogăția ca pe o ’adevărată împărăție’. Grigore Vieru mergea și mai departe, spunând că întreaga natură a ostenit la zidirea ei.

Lucian Blaga, îndrăgostit de puterea creatoare a cuvântului românesc, ne-a lăsat o metaforă care spune aproape totul: ’limba este întâiul mare poem al unui popor.’

Și poate că acesta este marele nostru privilegiu: să rostim în fiecare zi un poem milenar, moștenit de la cei de dinaintea noastră. Avem datoria să-l păstrăm viu pentru cei ce vor veni. Cât de simplu și cât de adânc poate fi spus un adevăr: limba ne leagă de cei care au fost, ne definește pe cei care suntem și ne încredințează o moștenire pe care trebuie să o ducem mai departe.”

● Historic background info (extracts):

Romanian Language is mother tongue of around 30 million individuals, taught as a foreign language in universities, in 45 countries.

Ø  Romanian Language Day is “celebrated nationally on August 31, starting from the year 2013 when the law establishing this holiday was enacted. The programs and cultural-educational events, with evocative or scientific characteristics, dedicated to this day emphasize the importance of the Romanian language not only as a means of communication but also as a repository of history, culture, and national identity”.

     (Source: Business Reviews News)

Ø  Romanian Language Day (Romanian: “Ziua Limbii Române”) is celebrated annually on August 31 to honor the Romanian language, its culture and heritage. It was first officially proposed in Romania in 2011, and the law establishing it was promulgated in 2013.

     The holiday celebrates Romanian as a Romance language, related to French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese.

      Romanian Language Day (each year, on August 31) is marked with public and cultural events, promotes linguistic heritage and fosters international recognition of the Romanian language and culture.

      Extra officially, Romanian communities worldwide celebrate the holiday to maintain cultural ties, preserve national identity through language, and engage diaspora population in literary and educational projects.  The holiday encourages linguistic pride and promotes intergenerational connection through shared cultural practices.

      (Source: Agerpress)

● My previous greetings on the same theme: ROMANIAN LANGUAGE Day – 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021

Traditional Romanian embroidery class (part 3 of 3)

~ A multifaceted event: an educational activity of our Circle, with an ART emphasis ~

ART oriented activity – MEMBERS ONLY EVENT (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members); part 3 of 3

Dear friends of our Circle,

I’m glad to share with you that on Thursday (August 27’26) I managed to organize the third part (which is also the last) of our hands-on workshop, dedicated to the ancient art of the traditional Romanian embroidery (especially customized for the traditional Romanian blouse), craft being taught by artisan Lucreția Cioată. 

As I’ve mentioned before in several different circumstances, for me it was truly enjoyable and rewarding in many ways to witness the genuine enthusiasm, the engagement and the many thoughtful questions posed by participants along the way (during the 3 sessions of our seminar)! 
The experience in itself allowed us to explore the rich history, the ancient artistry and the cultural significance of the Romanian embroidery, while learning lots of techniques that our ancestors used for centuries, before us. In many ways it felt like travelling back in time! Definitively, something rare, authentic and precious!  

From me, once again, many thanks to all for answering my call and especially to Ms. Lucreția for sharing with all of us her extensive background in this field!
Without any doubt, the Romanian embroidery (perceived as “manual art”) remains a living testament to cultural resilience, illustrating how art, tradition and symbolism could harmoniously intertwine in order to preserve and celebrate the essence of our people and their stories across generations.

Wrapping up my briefing on this, I would like to say that this very specific Romanian traditional embroidery shouldn’t be necessarily perceived as something nostalgic, but rather as an informed action in response to the homogenizing pressure of consumerism because it cultivates literacy, sustainability and human creativity in an era of mechanized and impersonal production.

In a society driven by speed, instant gratification and visual overstimulation, the traditional Romanian embroidery represents slowness, intention and presence.

This is was a MEMBERS ONLY EVENT (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members).

NOTES:

● For your convenience, here is the related social media posting.

● To facilitate additional reference, here are the previous reviews of our series – part 1 of 3 & part 2 of 3. 

Philosophers’ Café with ALICE & Friends: Summer 2026

 The complete briefing will be available soon. Thank you!

Traditional Romanian embroidery class (part 2 of 3)

~ A multifaceted event: an educational activity of our Circle, with an ART emphasis ~

ART oriented activity – MEMBERS ONLY EVENT (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members); part  2 of 3

Dear friends of our Circle,

With much delight I’m sharing that on Thursday (August 20’26) I organized the second part of our hands-on workshop, dedicated to the ancient art of the traditional Romanian embroidery (especially customized for the traditional Romanian blouse), craft being taught by artisan Lucreția Cioată. 
This time we all were pleased to be invited at Ms. Cioată’s private residence, where surrounded by nature and warm Romanian hospitality we could continue with much passion our work. Discussing patterns, analysing traditional symbols, exploring complex ancient motifs, comparing stiches techniques and thread types (from a practical perspective), brought even more breath and depth to our seminar.

While at this point, I would like to emphasize that this very specific Romanian embroidery (perceived as “manual art”) it is far more than a simple decorative art; it is a vivid testament of our homeland history, cultural identity and social narrative because it is deeply rooted in our folklore and rural traditions. The beauty of this old craft is that each stitch, each motif and each color choice convey a symbolic meaning by narrating special stories of life, nature and spirituality.

Regarding our time together during this session: it goes without saying that we all truly cherished the pleasing ambiance, being captivated by special moments of creativity and artistry in a such cozy and inspiring setting.
With much joy, both Ms. Lucreția and I will be looking forward to the next part of this series (which is also the last session)!

Until next time, dear ones, from me, only the best

Alice

In essence, this type of Romanian traditional embroidery (especially customized for the traditional Romanian blouse) reminds society that value is not solely measured by efficiency or mass appeal, but also by skill and intentionality; threads of memory woven across generations, contained within each simple stitch!

This is was a MEMBERS ONLY EVENT (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members).

NOTES:

● For your convenience, here is the related social media posting.

● To facilitate additional reference, here is the previous review – part 1 of 3 of our series. 

Traditional Romanian embroidery class (part 1 of 3)

~ A multifaceted event: an educational activity of our Circle, with an ART emphasis ~

ART oriented activity – MEMBERS ONLY EVENT (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members); part 1 of 3

Dear friends of our Circle,

Following up on the artisanal Romanian mini-workshop I initiated during “Ziua Iei 2026” celebration (aka: “The Universal Day of the Romanian Blouse 2026”) and responding to the interest expressed directly to me by several friends of our socio-cultural community, I am delighted to share that on Thursday (August 13’26), on a very beautiful and peaceful summer day around here, I organized for the friends of our Circle the first part (part 1 of 3) of a hands-on workshop, dedicated to the ancient art of the traditional Romanian embroidery (especially customized for the traditional Romanian blouse), craft being taught by artisan Lucreția Cioată. 
This class was offered exclusively to the friends of our literary and socio-cultural Circle (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members), and each participant was offered a starter kit, as a base to commence the learning process.

This traditional Romanian embroidery of a recognizable value, perceived as a distinct “manual art”, it is a centuries-old hand-made artistry, 
gracefully encompassing our ancient cultural heritage and a skillful handcraft. Truly beautiful! 

Needless to say that we all enjoyed wonderful moments of art and creativity in a warm atmosphere, where every thread came to life, telling us timeless stories. 
Both, Ms. Lucreția and I had a blast weaving beautiful memories together with our friends, and with much anticipation we are looking forward to the next session (part 2 of 3) of this workshop, which belongs to the educational serries of events of our Circle. 

Until then, from me, only the best!

Alice

Hand-sewing traditional Romanian embroideries promote cultural literacy, informed sustainable practices, intergenerational memory and reflective engagement – all embedded in a simple and humble stitch!

This is was a MEMBERS ONLY EVENT (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members).

● NOTE: For your convenience, here is the related social media posting.

● A nice acknowledgement...

Summer vibes of 2026

This year, the ongoing summer in our part of the world brought along a large variety of experiences, nicely harmonized with an interesting mix of sights, sounds and emotions. The beautiful weather and the long sunny days are allowing to deeply enjoy the amazing beaches of our beautiful city, Vancouver – a place which feels, at times, like a huge canvas painted with warmth, hints of the ocean breeze and vibrant energy. At large, the surrounding nature generously keeps spoiling us with its splendid abundance of greenery, rejuvenating fragrances of the countless flours, grace, elegance and above all, with a profound sense of peace!

Without any doubt, each summer day is worth savoring!

Socializing: Picnic 2026 & Our Chamber Choir Launch

With much delight I’m sharing here that on Friday (July 24’26) I organized the annual summer picnic of my Circle, event which brought together a nice group of dear friends (Circle’s friends = Circle’s members) for an engaging evening of music, dance, shared memories, enjoyment and community spirit.

The highlight of this social event was the launching of VOCAL ART – The Chamber Choir of ALICE & Friends Circle™.

On this occasion, it was profoundly significant for each of us to have our chamber choir’s inaugural performance taking place at an event I organized for my Circle.

Bringing together emerging talents, amateur artists and music professionals, our choir aims to present inspirational choral music across the realm, to create a cultural experience that resonates with audiences of all ages, and to explore a wide repertoire, ranging from timeless classical masterpieces, Byzantine and Baroque florilegia to contemporary choral works.

Our first mini-concert was featuring pieces by Romanian composers. In the foreseeable future, we will deliver both public concerts and bespoke performances to special events, while featuring the beauty and the extensive versatility of choral music. Beyond artistic performance, our choir’s launch signals a clear emphasis on musical art and cultural dialogue. 

Over the last 8 years of existence of our socio-cultural Circle, amongst other events of our Circle, the annual summer picnic of ALICE & Friends Circle™ has become a truly cherished tradition, each time providing excellent opportunities to strengthen community ties, while enjoying the fantastic scenic outdoors of our beautiful Vancouver – this time featuring, the one and the only, Granville Island.

Additionally, invited by Alice to offer a dancing demonstration as part of the event, our old friend Sandu Oprea presented several (dancing) styles for everybody to join. Needless to say how much fun the engaging experience it was for all guests! 

This complimentary event was open to the public, expressing interest proactively – enthusiasts were asked to RSVP via email before the specified due date.

The purpose of this gathering was to create an inclusivist ambiance, meant to strengthen culture, diversity and shared experiences.

Overall, this summer picnic of our Circle was a successful combination of cultural appreciation, leisure and fine gastronomy, leaving all participants with lasting memories of a nice sunny day well spent!

Until our paths will meet again on the same wavelength, from me only the best!

Alice

● For your convenience here is the Press Release  for the launching of  VOCAL ART – The Chamber Choir of ALICE & Friends Circle™

● For your convenience here is the Press Release  for this event – the annual summer picnic of ALICE & Friends Circle™

Reflections on MUSIC

     Music is one of the most important forms of human expressions because it brings together countless emotions, creativity and communication in ways that go beyond any language and or cultural differences. Throughout history, music has been part of everyday life, helping people express their feelings, helping them celebrate important events and to connect with others. From the simple rhythms created by early civilizations to the advanced digital music produced today, music has continued to evolve while maintaining its significance in society.

At its most basic level, music is a combination of sounds organized through rhythm, melody and harmony. Although this seems simple, music can have a powerful effect on the human mind.

Extensive research has shown that listening to music activates different parts of the brain that are responsible for emotions, memory and movement. For instance, this is a reason why a particular song can remind someone of a special moment or change their mood almost immediately. Whether people feel happiness, sadness, excitement or comfort, music often allows them to experience emotions in a way that words cannot fully express.

     Music also has an important social role. Across different cultures and historical periods, it has brought people together during religious ceremonies, celebrations, festivals and other community events. Singing and performing music as a group helps create a sense of belonging and strengthens relationships between people. Even today, concerts, cultural festivals and community performances continue to show how music can unite individuals from different backgrounds through a shared experience.

     Another reason music is important is because it helps preserve culture and history. Many traditional songs tell stories about historical events, beliefs and customs that have been passed down from one generation to another.

Before written records became common, music was one of the main ways people remembered and shared important knowledge. Even in modern society, music continues to reflect social issues, personal experiences and cultural values, making it an important way of understanding both the past and the present.

     In recent years, researchers have also recognized the benefits of music for health and well-being. Music therapy is now used in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and mental health programs to support patients in different ways.

Studies suggest that music can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and help people recover after neurological injuries such as strokes. It can also influence physical responses like heart rate and hormone levels, showing that music has effects on both the mind and the body.

     One of the most unique qualities of music is that it is understood almost everywhere in the world. Even when people do not speak the same language, they can still appreciate rhythm, melody and emotions through music. The internet and streaming platforms have made it easier than ever for people to discover music from different countries and cultures. This has encouraged the cultural exchange and helped people develop a greater appreciation for traditions that may be very different from their own.

     At the same time, music continues to change as new technologies and styles emerge. Many artists combine traditional musical elements with modern techniques to create new sounds while still respecting the influence of earlier generations. This balance between tradition and innovation allows music to remain relevant and meaningful in a constantly changing world.

      In conclusion, music is much more than a form of entertainment. It plays an important role in expressing emotions, bringing people together, preserving culture and even improving health and well-being. Its ability to connect people across different backgrounds and communicate feelings that words cannot always express makes it an essential part of human life. As society continues to change, music will likely remain one of the most powerful and meaningful ways people understand themselves and connect with others.

"Music can change the world, because it can change people."

Socializing: CANADA Day 2026 – Morning Coffee Talks

 A briefing will be available soon on this website, meanwhile, here is the Press Release.

July 1, 2026: CANADA Day

Today (July 1, 2026), all Canadians across the realm take the time to celebrate the beauty and the diversity of this incredible country we all call it home now.

It is important to realize that Canada Day is not just a simple holiday; it is a great opportunity to honor the generations who build this country and to appreciate those who will carry it forward; it is the perfect time to deeply reflect on the shared history, to honor the land we live on and to embrace the values that make Canada so special: the kindness, the inclusivity and the resilience. Here is to the pride, to the promise and to the enduring wonders of Canada!

To all those who consider Canada their home, a very HAPPY CANADA DAY, dear fellow Canadians!

Here are few interesting facts about Canada:

1. Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area.

2. Canada has the longest coastline in the world, with over 243,000 kilometers of shoreline.

3. Canada has more lakes than any other country, with over 2 million lakes covering about 8% of its land area.

4. The country's name comes from the St. Lawrence Iroquoian word "kanata," meaning "village" or "settlement."

5. Canada is home to the world's oldest known rock, the Acasta Gneiss, which is approximately 4.01 billion years old.

6. The country has six time zones: Pacific, Mountain, Central, Eastern, Atlantic, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

7. Canada is home to the world's longest street, the Trans-Canada Highway, which spans over 7,800 kilometers.

8. The country has a vast array of wildlife, including bears, moose, wolves, and beavers.

9. Canada is the world's largest producer of maple syrup, accounting for over 70% of global production.

10. The country has a diverse population, with over 20% of Canadians being foreign-born.

11. Canada has two official languages: English and French.

12. The country is home to the world's largest freshwater island, Manitoulin Island, located in Lake Huron.

13. Canada has a strong reputation for its natural beauty, with many famous attractions like Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and the Canadian Rockies.

14. The country has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals.

15. Canada is known for its friendly and welcoming people, with a high standard of living and a strong social safety net.

(Source: Love Canada)

● My previous greetings on the same theme: CANADA Day – 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019

June 24, 2026 – Universal Day of the ROMANIAN BLOUSE

Each year, on June 24 (during the Ro “Sânziene” feast), Romanians in the country and around the world celebrate The Universal Day of the Romanian Blouse.

The traditional Romanian blouse is not just a piece of clothing; it is a form of collective memory, a textile manuscript in which the stories of village women, the values ​​of a community and the aesthetic vision passed down from generation to generation were written with needle and thread.

Long live our Romanian traditional blouse – a bearer of memory, culture and identity!

24 iunie 2026: : Ziua Universală a Iei Românești

Pe 24 iunie (de Sânziene), românii din ţară şi de pretutindeni sărbătoresc Ziua Universală a Iei Românești.

IA nu este doar o piesă vestimentară; este o formă de memorie colectivă, un manuscris textil în care s-au scris cu ac și ață poveștile femeilor din sate, valorile unei comunități și viziunea estetică transmisă din generație în generație. 

Să ne trăiasca IA – purtătoare de memorie, cultură și identitate!IA – purtătoare de memorie, cultură și identitate!

● My previous greetings on the same theme:
The Universal Day of the ROMANIAN BLOUSE – 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020