Early Autumn Colours

I was very relieved today: we were out running some everyday errands when I decided to check on a place where the fall colours took my breath away last year. I am happy to report: There is colour among the trees! The prediction that Fiona’s “visit” last week would curtail the annual colour show we have looked forward to all year was incorrect. It appears that we will get a lovely display very soon.

The ol’ oak tree outside our kitchen window and the setting sun put on a display close to home just as I was preparing dinner!

Stay tuned for gorgeous colours soon to be shared here! Have a great rest of the day, Anna

Sparkles and Clouds…

It’s a glorious and sunny day here in Parrsboro. I just took my bike out for a spin around town. A brief stop near the pier across from the lighthouse was well timed to capture the sparkle on the water and impressive cloud formations above Blomidon.

Happy Wednesday! Enjoy and best wishes, Anna

Quick Check In

Power was restored for most homes in Parrsboro late last night. We were so surprised and extremely grateful to the Nova Scotia Power restoration teams. Power means that freezers will keep the food supply safe for now.

Cell service is still quite spotty for us. I drove down to the pier to update this blog. Internet is down again after a brief reprieve last night.

Thanks to everyone for continuing to check in. We are grateful for the positive energy flowing to the Atlantic Provinces. Anna

Fiona has moved on from Parrsboro…

…Thanks for checking in today. I received numerous messages inquiring about our well-being.

Here is the short version of the situation in Parrsboro: We have had no power since midnight and no cell phone service in town. I finally found connectivity with my cell phone near the pier.

We weathered the storm without damage to us or our property. Overall there is a fair amount of damage throughout Parrsboro.

We were able to start our generator to keep the freezer cold and prevent food from spoiling. we are grateful the storm has moved on and we pray for everyone still in its path. There is sunshine in the forecast for tomorrow. Let the clean up begin after a good night’s sleep.

Stay safe, everyone! Anna

Walking the beach while waiting…

…for Fiona.

I swung by the beach this afternoon expecting some wave action but the Bay was calm. The tide was on its way out and my attention was drawn to the well weathered driftwood near the protective berm. The lines and textures never disappoint and the grey of the sky appeared to be mirrored in the wood.

Let’s all hope that the weather is less forceful than what has been predicted. Batten down the hatches and take cover my fellow Atlantic Canadian friends! Best wishes, Anna

Memories of Grand Manan

We had a busy morning stowing away yard ornaments and furniture in anticipation of hurricane Fiona. This meant that a walk on the beach was not on the agenda. Instead I scrolled through some pictures I captured while visiting Grand Manan two weeks ago and in search of a beach to explore.

I loved making my way down to the parking lot passing through the converted buildings in the old fishing harbour. The beach was littered with glass, both aged and jagged, sharp bottle remnants. It was a glorious day with plenty of sunshine… but not much glass to bring home.

The sunshine I will dream about till the sky clears after the storm. Stay safe, Anna

The Bay Beckons…

Afternoon tea at Ottawa House to honour the Queen’s memory behind me I met up with my friend and headed to the beach.

Soothing sounds of waves and gulls soaring overhead provided the perfect backdrop to restore equilibrium.

May your Monday evening offer an opportunity to relax and reset, Anna

Even in the rain…

…a hike to Clarke Head with first time visitors to Parrsboro is the perfect Sunday morning excursion.

My friend and local B&B host sent a text first thing this morning to see if I had my day booked already. I was free. I checked the tide times and headed over to meet with visitors from Vancouver Island. We were soon on our way to Clarke Head, a Parrsboro destination that never disappoints!

Thanks for checking in today! Happy Sunday, everyone.

And suddenly it is autumn…

I know, I know… there are still a few days of summer left according to the calendar and yet, the light has definitely changed. Sunsets tend to bathe the forest across the river in rich gold tones and burgundies push greens from creeping vines. The apples are ripening and the days are much shorter.

All these facts moved onto focus today as I was leading a Contemplative Photography course at Ottawa House-by-the-Sea. There was great energy among the group and plans for this group that meets regularly were make.

All in all it was a wonderful day with likeminded people! Enjoy the rest of the weekend wherever you are. All the best, Anna

On the way to Cape Enrage, New Brunswick

I love surprises! On our way home from Grand Manan Island last week we travelled along the Fundy Coastline from Alma Beach to Moncton. We last visited Cape Enrage in 2008. And things have changed…

The beach prior to heading up to the lighthouse called to us to stop and explore. It was definitely worth taking this little side trip. Reviewing the images today evoke pleasant memories to ring in the weekend.

All the best for a relaxing weekend, wherever you are. Best wishes, Anna

The Heron

During my walk along Ottawa House Beach earlier this week I met the resident heron. It’s been some time since I sorted him. This time he wasn’t nearly as skidding as before.

I was able to approach to within fifty feet. It added joy to my day!

Wishing you all a happy Thursday. Best wishes, Anna

Slowly and very quietly…

…reminders that autumn is on its way are more visible with each day.

Hope your Tuesday is filled with colour! Best wishes, Anna

Contemplative Moments

In Contemplative Miksang photography we respond to the Flash of Perception, that moment where our attention is drawn to a particular composition in nature or the ordinary world.

These are, in some way, mini meditations: moments that drown out distractions like noise, or even the stunning landscape surrounding the “flash”.

Give it a try sometime! Walk quietly, alone, without anyone demanding attention and be ready to fill the frame of your camera with the subject matter that calls to be captured.

Happy Monday! May your week be filled with countless flashes of perception, Anna