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Returning from our tour of India and the ACWW Triennial Conference in Chennai, I had ven/ little time to acclimatize myself before heading out to Area Conventions. Regretfully I had missed several of the early conventions due to the conflicting dates of the ACWW Conference. Traveling across our beautiful province during the autumn and following the many highways through the small towns and villages was a pleasure. But, the greatest delight came from the warm greetings and welcomes everywhere. It was heartwarming to see so many familiar faces and a delight to make new acquaintances. I am indebted to all those who hosted me in their homes. I deeply appreciated your hospitality. Attending Area Conventions was truly an interesting and inspiring experience. The themes and activities were varied and included motivational speakers, laughter therapists, a master gardener, naturopathic doctors, music, storytelling and story writing. Some quotes and bits of wisdom that I noted are: "Never underestimate the wisdom that you have. We have knowledge, experience and skills. Don’t hold back. Share your wisdom. We are a powerhouse to create change. We all have a gift to give back. You don’t keep a gift to yourself; you share it with family and community. Every single day is a gift. Be positive and be visible. Laughter is as good as a vacation. The future is not what it used to be, neither are we! The history of the world is not complete until your story is told. Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” The weather played havoc with our Annual General Meeting. Road closures and unsafe travel conditions greatly reduced attendance. As a result, a motion was passed to change the date of the next AGM to November 2014. As outlined in the Strategic Plan, an ad hoc committee was set upto investigate the Provincial Office relocation and/or alternative. Plans were finalized for the "WI Rocks the World” rally for Stoney l“;;@‘t_mh\£‘l“ ‘ ’ Creek on April 2, 2014. The aim is to inspire, educate and give input into shaping the future of FWIO. At times, inquiries are made to the Provincial Office by Branches that are considering disbandment. A disbandment form has been created. But first, we hope that you have taken time to discuss alternatives. Have you considered downsizing your executive to a ’Contact Person’ and a Secretary/Treasurer? Perhaps you could have less frequent meetings instead of monthly meetings. Maybe biâ€"monthly would be an option for you. If your Branch includes several ’snowbirds’ or your Members are uncomfortable with winter driving, you could skip the winter months and meet in the summer. Another option could be amalgamating with another Branch in your District. If you are unable to join another Branch, then possibly you could become an associate of WI. Office staff and Provincial Board are always available to help find a feasible resolution. "Give yourself solutions. Hold on and take one step at a time.” ' CALIWR' WI Day - 117th Anniversary February 19, 2014 WI Rocks the World Rally April 2, 2014 l l l Board Meeting April 8-10, 2014