Perfect Weather…

…to test some recently acquired gear. It’s been quite wet here in Parrsboro along the Fundy shore. Today the weather wasn’t too sure what to do.

There was a bit of snow first thing but the rain was creating some interesting melt patterns. By the time I had my pack assembled and changed into weather appropriate gear the snow had completely disappeared and the wind was driving the rain sideways. Perfect conditions for testing my wind and waterproof clothing, the gaiters, my new carbon hiking poles and the rain cover for my knapsack.

You guessed it: I headed for Clarke Head, a nearly three hour outing. I found some treasures along the way!

The verdict is in on my gear: Woods brand (from Canadian Tire) carbon telescoping hiking poles are a dream! They are lightweight, easy to adjust and provide extra stability on uneven terrain.

The Baleaf water resistent and windproof fleece-lined pants have kept me warm and dry. I am glad I ordered two pair from Amazon. I have not found anything comparable in the store. I ordered the gaiters from Amazon as well. They were inexpensive and the reviews were mixed… I love them! I think they were around $ 12. I could make them myself but I didn’t have the waterproof nylon or the straps so I broke down and ordered instead.

The Amanda brand knapsack is from Amazon as well. It has hip and chest support belts and holds all the essential gear for guiding my beach and forest hikes. I just discovered the rain cover yesterday which made my decision to brave the weather easier today.

I wear hand-knit wool socks, hat and neck gaiter which really help regulate how warm or cool I want to be.

I am ready for the big winter solstice hike to Clarke Head tomorrow. The weather is supposed to be dry and not so windy. check back tomorrow for an update and images. There are six women taking in this hike. I am so excited!

Enjoy your Tuesday evening, everyone! Best wishes, Anna

A Night of Music and Community Spirit at the Hall in Parrsboro

With four candles lit on the aAdvent wreath Christmas Day us approaching fast. After hosting a group of senior volunteers for tea and home-made goodies yesterday afternoon …

…it was time for the Parrsboro Hall’s Christmas Concert tonight. Various music groups (choir, jazz band and the strummers) treated the community to a special performance. Dr. Paul Aitken, our talented and very accomplished choir director (and Maple Inn host) performed his version of “I Hear the Bells on Christmas Night”. I apologize for the lack of images from tonight’s event. As a member of the choir I left my phone in my bag.

If you are interested in reading more about our inspiring choir director check out https://paulaitkenmusic.com

Wishing everyone a wonderful pre-Christmas week. Take some time to slow down and reflect, brew yourself a cuppa and watch a candle flame…

Good night, Anna

Wet Weather…

It was wet and gloomy outside today. After a rainy walk in the morning it was time for some indoor catch up…

First up: shaping and finishing up the rum balls. They are getting two thumbs up from the chief taster in the house. They should be good, I used a lot of dark rum to make them stick together!

After a game of “attack of the giant Christmas Gnome” I decided it was time to give the pups their monthly bath.

With some mundane chores at home out of the way I am turning my attention to preparing for my guided Solstice Walk next Wednesday. Fingers crossed the predicted mid-week storm will dissolve or change course.

Hope everyone’s Saturday was enjoyable. All the best for a fantastic Sunday, Anna

Maple Leaves Forever…

I was going through my images today and maple leaves through the seasons caught my eye. Maple leaves hold my attention and whether I admire their glowing colour during autumn or a single specimen past it’s prime and half-buried in snow, maple leaves are always worth taking note of.

Wishing you all a wonderful and relaxing weekend! Anna

A Snowy Morning…

The “big” snowstorm passed us by last night! The air was refreshing making for brisk walking conditions for our weekly walk. My “snow maidens” were hesitant at first but after a short review of dressing in layers and keeping our core warm we soon fell into a good pace. Big smiles, sunshine and a blue sky one hour later left us with the sentiment: “We are so glad we went out and braved the chilly air!”

Way to go NSWalks Parrsboro! So proud of my walking group. They make me want to show up for my volunteer commitment!

Happy Wednesday! Stay warm, Anna

Throughout the day…

It was another chilly and breezy morning but the light was truly magical. We set the tone with a brisk walk… and everything falls into place after some fresh morning air.

We experienced a little big of everything and were even treated to blue sky this afternoon. A weather system is on its way but reports are not consistent in their predictions. There may or may not be snow tomorrow morning😂. It’s December in Canada – why should we not expect snow?

Have a lovely evening. I hear that meteor showers will be visible for those enjoying clear skies. If you spot a falling star make sure to wish upon it!

Good night, Anna

Living Tree Christmas Concert in Port Grenville

After a two year hiatus the much loved Living Christmas Tree Choir concert returned. We took in the Sunday night performance. There were few empty seats, masked and smiling faces and such joy among the performers and audience.

Port Grenville is a twenty minute drive down shore from Parrsboro. We don’t usually venture out at night but this short excursion was well worth it.

The event set the mood. Once we returned home I unpacked and assembled our Christmas tree. I strung the lights and called it a day at midnight. Late this afternoon I finished the annual challenge…

Each cherished ornament has been carefully placed and we are enjoying the warm glow of the lights for the first time this December.

Enjoy your Monday evening. Time for a cuppa? Warm wishes, Anna

Things to do on a Chilly Sunday Afternoon

Parrsboro Creative recently advertised an introductory memoir writing workshop with visiting author in residence, Fran Zell. I am part of a weekly writing group and was intrigued by the challenge. As a member of Parrsboro Creative the workshop was free.

Following the two Saturday sessions we participated in a literary reading which really meant: sharing our work. The place: Two Islands Brewery on Main Street this afternoon.

We were surprised by the great turn out. Seventeen community members attended our gathering and ideas are circulating about starting an “Art Café” in the new year. The energy was electrifying!

Thanks to all who came out today and a special thank you to Fran Zell for her guidance!

Happy Sunday, everyone! Anna

Visitor on a Snowy Day

The weather turned over night… and we were greeted by fluffy white stuff, otherwise known as snow, covering the yard.

Imagine our delight when we had an unexpected visitor stop by at the bottom of our property during low tide!

The bald eagle has never graced us with his presence this close. It certainly put some great energy into our day!

Happy weekend, everyone! Best wishes, Anna

“Old Man” Sea Stack Up Close and Personal

No matter the time of day or year this impressive landmark on the way to Clarke Head always calls for attention.

Enjoy!

Jeffers Falls

A misty Wednesday, grey and threatening rain off and on for most of the day, perfect for spending some time exploring the woods. I recently found out that a sign at the Jeffers Falls trailhead had been installed. Today we had a chance to check it out.

While the trail was described as easy with a few rocky sections I highly recommend sturdy hiking boots with good tread. The final section of the narrow path leading to a spot from where the falls are visible is not for the faint of heart. Will I include this hike on my list of guided tours? I will not as I feel the terrain is too uneven and narrow.

Instead I would lead interested parties to the view point above the falls. This is the way I experienced them on New Year’s Day 2021. Powerful and invigorating! The approach is manageable without hazards…

…and the photo opportunities without limitations.

Jeffers Falls, a place to listen to falling waters and engage in forest bathing at its finest.

Enjoy the place through my eyes. Thanks for stopping by today, Anna

Crossing the Tantramar Marsh at Sunset

One of the marvellous things when travelling to and from New Brunswick is the marsh landscape. Numerous wind turbines contrast with trees providing strong silhouettes at sunset. Tonight the sky was dappled with mauve clouds while the sun slowly slipped below the horizon providing one more fiery splash.

Magical! I just had to share the moments. Enjoy, Anna

Just One More Beach at Golden Hour

It’s hard to believe that it’s St. Nicholas Eve. The day was filled with an abundance of sunshine. My friend and I ventured out to Phinney Green for an invigorating walk along the cliffs toward Brookville. The tide had not yet turned when we reached the car so on the way back to Parrsboro we made our way to Diligent River beach where we were soon bathed in golden light as we explored vastly different rock formations. My friend had never explored this impressive beach before and I was only too happy to introduce her to this unique stretch between Diligent River and the Ram’s Head River.

The light was spectacular with the sun so close to the western horizon. I couldn’t get enough and turned this way and that trying to make the very best of the few minutes of daylight remaining.

And just as we arrived back at the car the sun painted the sky with its most colourful brush!

Good night fair world. Best wishes, Anna

Santa Came to Town…

The neighbourhood was all decked out tonight!

Main Street was teeming with excited children respectfully staying on the sidewalks…

…until finally the floats moved past!

It was much warmer this year but my personal take away from tonight is that the excitement last year was more intense after missing a year due to Covid.

It’s always great to welcome Santa back to town! Happy weekend everyone! Best wishes, Anna

Special Date and Event

What are YOU doing on December 21st, otherwise known as Winter Solstice? I am planning a special sunset hike to Clarke Head at low tide. Here is the preliminary information:

This information is also found on the tour info page on this website. Contact me for additional details of to register <annahergert@me.com>

Looking forward to hearing from you, Anna

Setting the mood…

I keep forgetting to make an image of this great house and it’s festive light display. The snowman is usually deflated by the time choir practice ends. Tonight I captured the scene on the way to the Bandhall.

Enjoy and delight! Anna