Distant Thunder…

To balance my time indoors during my month-long artist residency I am actively trying to make an effort in spending time outdoors. The weather app tells me that it is raining and I detect a tiny lighting bolt under the cloud. Looking out our living room window I decide that it might be in my best interest to head out of Parrsboro… perhaps I could avoid the rain and thunderstorm?

I set out in the direction of Two Islands up shore and I stop at Glooscap Campground. The campground is closed for the season and few people like bending low to slip under the fence. I don’t mind. I love walking toward the sound of waves traveling up the cliff, beckoning me to hurry. Walking down the generous approach to the beach I notice my breathing slowing down. The salty air fills my lungs and my mind clears. My heart beat slows. A deep inhale and exhale: Ahhhh…

The tide is receding rapidly and, after looking in both directions, I turn left. The closer I get to the water the more intense the sound of crashing waves. It is evident weather is moving in but for the moment I delight in what is right there in front of me!

Looking at these images I can still hear the waves crashing, as the red sand is mixing with the water I am reminded of a painting I once saw titled “The Chocolate Wave”. And it all comes together with the cloudy sky filtering a little sunlight near the horizon.

Daylight begins to fade and I drink in those precious moments. There are no voices, no music nor car motors or heavy machinery. As crashing waves make landfall and roll back the occasional squawk from a gull cuts through the air and then, there it is: distant thunder. At first I try to push the familiar sound aside, then I become acutely aware that I am the tallest figure walking the vast beach. I begin to move faster only to get distracted by the coloured pebbles under my feet…

I examine the cliffs in shadow, searching for the thunder clouds.

…but the source of the rolling thunder eludes me.

Before I turn to ascend the path leading to the campground and the safety of my car I capture one more image of the magical light streaming over Cape Blomidon and bouncing of the waters of the Bay of Fundy. What a sight! What a place to call home! Abundance everywhere!

Before I turn the wheels to return home I check the ditches for cranberries, and I am in luck. The handful I gather will be the last for this year. These few will add some tartness to an apple crumble or some honey and almond muffins. The weekend is here and it’s time for some comfort food.

Enjoy your Saturday! Best wishes, Anna

Evening Impressions…

All is well with the world when you have an opportunity to experience Golden Hour at Two Islands look-off…

…at low tide…

…arrive home at just the right moment…

…and witness the full moon rising as night falls over the Farrells River from our backyard.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend, Anna

Time For Some Beach Love…

Did a mention that a regular dose of beach has become the anti-dote to feeling overwhelmed and stressed? I am sure, I have expressed this sentiment many times here. A spur of the moment decision to head to the beach to chase the tide out confirmed the healing properties the Bay of Fundy landscape holds for me.

My destination was the beach at Diligent River, a 15 minute drive from home. It’s an easy access beach; I just make my way down to the gravel parking area and within ten steps I am connected to my personal meditation space.

A deep breath in and long exhale restored my equilibrium. I knew I was missing my regular beach excursion but the moment I finished the exhale I felt lighter and, without consciously realizing it, I had dropped the stress from the past few weeks by the big rocks near the cliffs.

The far reaching vistas, mysterious light filtering through the clouds and a stiff breeze regenerated my senses within minutes. Once I centred myself I began to actively observe the textures and lines in my immediate surroundings.

A visit to the beach is never complete for me without looking closely at the details on rocks and around pebbles.

There were hearts everywhere… All summer I kept my eye out for heart-shaped rocks to add to my already substantial collection. It took a solitary walk of less than an hour to discover the treasures the fall tides have washed up lately.

I hope you enjoyed joining me on my restorative walk. My timing to get back to the car was impeccable… weather was moving in across the blueberry fields from the west. Sending best wishes to wherever you are, Anna

The Ocean Is Calling…

Diligent River Beach overlooking the Bay of Fundy approaching low tide near sunset.

Some people engage in “forest bathing”. The smell of the forest will trigger a positive response to facilitate a feeling of well-being.

For me these positive responses are triggered when I can spend time at the beach. My schedule was over-flowing with commitments for weeks and I kept pushing my strong urge to explore a beach, any beach, out of reach. Monday afternoon I decided that it was high time to find a beach and just be.

“Nature has neither kernel nor shell; she is everything at once.”
– J. W. von Goethe

I set out for Diligent River, a short drive down shore. I had visited here before with my friend but this time there wasn’t time to organize a joint excursion. The clouds were gathering, the tide rolling out and the call from the Bay of Fundy too strong to ignore. I just had to venture out alone… and it felt good.

The image above was carefully selected to entice… I am preparing a longer post with many more images and a few impressions. Check back tomorrow morning for a real feast for the eyes… Enjoy your day! Best wishes, Anna

Have you ever visited a Sugar Bush?

Large stainless steel vats boiling the maple sap in March 2021 at Ripley’s Maple Sugar Camp in Fenwick, NS near Springhill.

It’s great when the sap flows and just as wonderful when the leaves have turned! You are probably wondering why I would post an archival image from earlier this year. It was a momentous event when our friends introduced us to the Nova Scotia mid-winter tradition of visiting a “sugar camp”. Here are a few more images from that visit. Ripley’s is located on a river with their own water wheel to produce the electricity needed to keep “things running.”

Last week a friend mentioned that she recently walked the sugar bush in Fenwick. She raved about the colours and that was enough to pique my curiosity. Yesterday was the first free day for me and the weather looked promising. The drive was worth it, judge for yourself!

The sun cooperated: Just as I was embarking on my walk the wind pushed the clouds apart and the path was illuminated.

Most of you know me, I can never just focus on the landscape at large… here are a few close up images of eye-catching details you might find interesting.

I hope you have enjoyed the colours as much as I have. May it set the tone for the day. Best wishes, Anna

At the Foot of Economy Mountain…

…is a sharp turn off easily missed.by many. We had not taken the road since last spring and, on a recent return trip from Masstown, we decided to take a quick drive down Soley Road. The tide was steadily rising and I was interested in finding out if the sea stack visible from the road was surrounded by water again.

The light was amazing but the sea stack was in the shadow due to the late hour. It made me realize that despite best intentions I never walked on the ocean floor here all summer. It is such a special place and I must sort through my images to share those gathered during three visits last winter and spring. This time I turned my attention to the surrounding colours.

We were soon homeward bound following the road winding its way up and down through the Cobequid Moutains. At every turn it felt as if someone was switching on the lights ahead.

We had some strong rain and wind over the weekend but I am hopeful that not all the leaves have been knocked off the trees quite yet. Sunshine is in the forecast for today and we plan to take full advantage of another beautiful fall day. Fingers crossed our chosen route today will shine with leaves washed clean by the rain yesterday. Perhaps we can even find a mushroom or two as we stop to explore the woods on short walks.

Best wishes for a great start to the week. Happy Monday, everyone! Anna

The Oak in Our Front Yard…

…is changing colour a little more each day. I observe this tree when I look out the kitchen window. I have now witnessed it through all four seasons, from bare branches to tiny green buds, emerging leaves to the change of colour this fall.

The interplay of colour with the light during Golden Hour last evening was something I could not let pass without capturing a few images.

Few words are necessary to accompany this post. Enjoy the shadows, light and colours. Happy Saturday, everyone. We are celebrating our one year anniversary in Nova Scotia, yeah! Best wishes, Anna

It’s Visceral…

It was a mild, grey day yesterday. We took a drive to the you-pick pumpkin patch just a few minutes out of Parrsboro. On the way it started to drizzle…

…but we had plenty of distractions! The colours, oh those colours! I can’t properly describe my reaction every time I see the vibrant reds and golds and every shade in between. I keep saying: “I have a visceral experience! I can taste these colours.” “What do they taste like?” is the follow up question? I have no definitive answer. I looked up “visceral” and this is what I found:

“A ‘visceral’ response is a physical reaction to a non-physical experience, an emotion. It could be the product of a live experience (i.e., something playing out in front of your eyes). … Point is, it’s guttural and uncontrollable, an innate cue that you’re feeling an extreme emotion.”

Yup, I couldn’t have said it better myself!

Isn’t this just fabulous?

And how about these trees? I can’t decide what I like best? These images are straight from my iPhone XR, no manipulation or colour enhancements. I am at a loss for words. These images speak their own language, can you hear it? Sit back, listen and get lost in the images.

Wishing you a fabulous weekend. Enjoy! Anna

Backyard Tranquility

Sometimes, all it takes is a few minutes and the fog lifts to reveal colour. Yesterday’s foggy impressions didn’t last long. By the time I had made my morning round with the dogs I arrived home to find the backyard fog had dissolved. I walked down to the water’s edge and was delighted to find the colours on the trees across are indeed changing. A little more red, gold and brown is asserting itself with each new day.

In fact, as I sit on my couch this morning composing this post I look across another low tide and discover significant changes in the trees over the last 24 hours. Could the colour intensify this fast? These are the images from this morning. Just take note of the colour!

It is striking how quickly the vista altered. I love standing by the water’s edge listening to the birds all around. Our resident murder of crows cawing high above in the maple, a small paddling of ducks quickly moves away when they take note of my silhouette making sounds one would associate with cats rather than ducks. One of these days, when the garden is established, we plan to have a bench or a couple of chairs near the water. What a delight it will be to observe the activities in our extended backyard.

Wish I could can the natural sounds to accompany today’s images. Alas, you must use your imagination instead. Enjoy your Wednesday! Best wishes, Anna

October Morn’…

Good morning, world!

Autumnal morning fog is one of my favourite special effects in photography, best of all: It is completely natural. I walk this street along the Parrsboro Aboiteau most mornings, and sometimes twice a day. This morning’s offering called out to be captured in pictures and shared. Enjoy these serene scenes.

May they bring you some peace and calm during these turbulent times. Best wishes for a beautiful day, Anna

Fundy GeoPark Tour: Part 2 – Ottawa House Beach and Partridge Island

Welcome back, readers! I will jump right in with Part 2 of my report. After finishing lunch on the front porch of Ottawa House overlooking the glistening waters of the Minas Basin our next guide ushered us down to the beach where the tide was rolling in. The Bay of Fundy tides are legendary and the highest-ever-tide recorded was during the spring in 2019 at 54 feet (well over 16 meters). Why are the tides so high, you ask?

I have found the information I read always somewhat abstract. Thanks to John and his interactive presentation right there on the beach with the tide creeping closer by the minute, with each lapping wave, I think I finally have a good grasp on why the tides are so high in this magnificent region!

For those who were not present last Thursday and missed out on naturalist’s John Brownlie’s well researched information: Here is a link to an often visited site that presents the information in a concise and clear manner.

Sean, the new director of Ottawa House joined us on our tour along the beach carrying his binocular and birding scope, sharing great insights into various shore birds, their habitats, migration patterns and general behaviours. (Apologies, I seem to have missed capturing an image of Sean.)

We walked along the beach, past the legendary Glooscap’s Grandmother’s Cooking Pots toward the foot of Partridge Island.

GeoPark geologist Caleb Grant seamlessly took over the lead once we began the ascent of Partridge Island. An experienced guide he set an easy pace to ensure that nobody was left behind at the onset and steepest part of the trail.

We noticed an immediate drop in temperature which we quickly adjusted to working up a little sweat navigating the steep incline of the narrow path. The trail took us past several benches, perfectly spaced for those who seek a place to rest and catch their breath.

This look off is one of my favourite spots on the trail. It is the perfect place to look back toward Ottawa House while taking in the mesmerizing aquamarine hue of the water below.

A few weeks have passed since my last visit here and the seasonal changes were quite obvious. I love autumnal lighting conditions for photography as they are less harsh and let me capture subtle changes with ease.

The final destination on the trail was the look off tower. This view has to be experienced personally to fully appreciate the amazing vistas. No matter how often I hike up here I always find something rewarding and worthwhile to return to, time after time. Isn’t it just breathtaking?

Caleb allowed plenty of time for everyone to climb the tower, capture some images and walk around the base to study the map of the area. The group gathered to Caleb sharing the geological history. Partridge Island, like all of the islands in the Minas Basin, is of volcanic origin. The hard basalt makes these islands durable as they withstand the twice daily tidal forces.

I never grow tired hearing about the ancient natural history of this area. Pangea has become one of my favourite words over the last year. What is Pangea? Read more here as it would take too long to wordsmith my own story to construct an informative and insightful report.

I had to cut my time with the group short due to another commitment at Ottawa House… I had 20 minutes to head back along a path less traveled. I ran down the path as fast as the terrain allowed to get to the foot of the island… only to encounter the remnants of a super high tide.

Tidal waters were blocking my usual exit path. I waded through it, it reached up to my knees. My water-proof boots weren’t much help as they stop at my ankles. It was a glorious and warm day… shoes and socks dry quickly in the sun. I made it back in time for the appointment.

All is well that ends well! Happy Thanksgiving Sunday, everyone! Best wishes, Anna

Another Fundy GeoPark Tour: Part 1 – Ottawa House Museum

This special tour was a joint venture between Ottawa House Museum and the Fundy GeoPark during this week’s Ten Days in October event. What a busy time it has been so far but I was not going to let this special opportunity slip by. Fourteen eager participants gathered in front of the covered porch of the historic site to be welcomed by committed volunteer guide Ed Gilbert. Separated into two groups we enjoyed an in depth tour diving deep into the past exploring both floors of the former store turned to hotel transformed into a museum in present time.

The diorama of the former Partridge Island settlement shows in detail the prosperous and lively community that established itself in the 18th century and continued to flourish for many years.

These days the main floor is used as an event centre. From weekly story time gatherings during the summer, the double room has hosted countless blueberry tea events, Christmas Teas, bake sales, dinner theatres and more.

“Marie’s Room” is most informative as it displays large boards sharing historic events in story form covering both fact and legend. The original kitchen turned into a cafe, a fully functioning event kitchen and the genealogical research office complete the main floor.

The deep dive into history continued upstairs with each room featuring a person or group.

I loved the little school room! Just have a look at the advertising on the map… and we thought advertising in school is a recent phenomena!

As a former early childhood educator I was delighted to discover the hexagonal crayons that will not roll off the desk… another invention that is older than we realize!

Our special treat of the tour was the opportunity to step out on the balcony. The balcony is not open to the public at the moment. There are plans underway to change this in the foreseeable future with the installation of history and landscape boards. For now we felt privileged as we enjoyed the magnificent view over the Minas Basin and Partridge Island.

We were off to a great start of the day. The time was closing in on high noon and we congregated on the lovely benches on the porch for a short lunch break.

Tune in tomorrow for the conclusion of the tour. We moved on to the beach and climbed Partridge Island for a wonderful excursion.

Have a relaxing Saturday. May the sun shine brightly wherever you are. Best wishes, Anna

Busy Times

I have had a few busy weeks here but life will soon calm down a little. Parrsboro is nearing the end of its “Ten Days in October” Festival. One of the last events this weekend includes the Ottawa-House-by-the-Sea fundraiser dinner theatre.

We were worried that with rising Covid numbers this event might have to be cancelled but,s so far we still have the green light to move ahead. Yesterday was dress rehearsal time… Here are a few images as some members of the cast are preparing for their cue…

When the sun slips behind Cape Sharp tonight we will be nervously anticipating the delivery of our lines…

Hope to see some of you tonight and tomorrow in the audience. The smells from the kitchen during dress rehearsal yesterday were very distracting and promise a fabulous spread!

Happy Friday to all! Best wishes, Anna

That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm, Home to The Dragon’s Breath…

One of the first local places along the Fundy Shore we acquainted ourselves with in November 2020 shortly after arriving in Nova Scotia was That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm in Economy. The day of our first visit was wet and grey….

Fast forward to yesterday: We were on our way to Masstown Market, our favourite place for quality meats, vegetables and dairy, when we decided to return to That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm. The sun was shining and the time was perfect for a quick stop along the way.

Each time I step out of the car in the parking area I feel transported back to the “old country”. The farm and cheese shop are located high on the mountain and the views over the Bay of Fundy are breathtaking! The picnic area is a wonderful addition to this destination spot.

The Cheese Farm also boasts a petting zoo. We have not yet visited that part as the Cheese Shop continues to be our main focus. Once the grand-kids come and visit we will explore the animals.

Opening the door into the shop visitors enter a world of gourmet treats. The gift shop centers around many Dutch traditions with their ubiquitous clogs, ceramic tiles, dishes and home decor strongly favouring a blue and white theme. Further into the shop one finds a section with greeting cards created by local artists for those keen to take advantage of a one-stop-shop for that last minute gift.

Eventually one winds around to the food section. Besides the famous Smeerkaas (spreadable Gouda cheese) and Original Dragon’s Breath Cheese created right here on site, one finds a variety of aged cheeses satisfying every taste. Imported Dutch licorice, the popular Ginger & Honey Cake, chocolate sprinkles and shavings used as sandwich toppings by the Dutch people I know I also found a selection of additive-free mini-salami sticks made in Ontario (yeah!). A great discovery indeed!

The ambience is so calming and nobody rushes customers to the till. One is encouraged to browse while the cheese maker is safely attending to the newest batch of Gouda cheese behind the glass wall.

We loved how well stocked this unique store is and we have already decided to return and check out the import section at Christmas time…

There is so much to explore and discover between Parrsboro and Truro. And if shopping isn’t high on the list of priorities one can just enjoy the vast beauty of the Bay of Fundy and the ever-changing light reflecting off the water.

Hope you enjoyed this little side trip to That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm! Wishing you a fabulous day with sunshine and warm breezes. Anna

Simplicity: Driftwood Examinations…

Driftwood – a poem by Robin Muir-Miller

The wood stands white,
Sea-washed,
Sea-sacrificed,
And stark in its abandon
To the shaping of the tide.

Bear me, like the passive branch
On the breast of the ocean:
But show me the deeper places,
And cover me there
With a darker silence.

Driftwood is present at most of the beaches and it provides me with a plethora of opportunities to capture line, shape and texture. Depending on the lighting each washed up log or branch displays silvery white, gray and golden layers. I can lose myself for hours in the examination of these gifts of the ocean.

As my first year of living along the shores of the Bay of Fundy draws to a close I feel fortunate to have experienced all four seasons and their varied weather and lighting conditions. I never grow tired of revisiting the shore line of the Fundy GeoPark.

I sincerely hope that today’s offering provides you, the reader, with inspiration as you click on this image or that to discover the subtle nuances these old pieces of weathered wood, gifted to us by the sea, reveal.

Enjoy! Best wishes, Anna

The Pleasant Street Inn

I recently met the owner of The Pleasant Street Inn. Heidi invited me over to tour the Inn and I gladly accepted as this house is one of several we viewed when we were looking for a home in late October 2020. What an amazing transformation this former Odd Fellows Hall, whose members rented the upstairs to the local Free Masons Lodge, has undergone! Heidi was the woman with the clear vision this place needed. The house has been completely renovated to a very high standard.

I walked over to The Pleasant Street Inn one afternoon last week anticipating a beautiful place after viewing the ads on FaceBook during the time of the grand opening in July. Entering through the garden gate and leaving the spacious parking space behind Heidi greeted me at the guest entrance ushering me into the heart of the Inn…

The kitchen is bright, well equipped, the spacious island offers plenty of space for those special breakfasts and the comfy couch invites visitors to lounge while waiting to be served or just enjoy a coffee or tea. I wanted to move into this tranquil and sparkling clean space permanently.

Heidi guided me up the wide original staircase that will make it easy to carry visitors’ luggage to the rooms. The landing at the top provides space for brochures and general information about special destinations the area has to offer.

Turning left one enters the hallway through the original Free Masons Lodge door complete with peep hole. I did not take a picture as I hope anyone reading this post will be so intrigued that they will book The Pleasant Street Inn for their next visit to Parrsboro! The hall way leading to the three unique guest rooms is well lit and provides more creature comforts such as a coffee station and a kettle for tea.

Room 1 is the most spacious complete with ensuite. The soothing colour scheme provides a calming vibe and promises a luxurious stay.

Room 1 with ensuite

Room 2 is located at the end of the hall. It boasts private access to the balcony with a fabulous view over the inner harbour with its tidal river. I am told that it is the choice room for guests who love to watch the sunrise.

Room 2 with direct balcony access

Room 3 is akin to entering a cloud. Upon opening the door one is immediately enveloped by the soft colour scheme and comfortable furnishings.

Room 3 with its soft light and comfortable furnishings

Rooms 2 and 3 share a bathroom at the end of the hall just a few steps away.

The shared bathroom with spacious tub and rain shower head

The fully fenced back yard (this is a pet friendly inn) provides shelter from rain, wind and sun. Imagine spending time in here with a pre-dinner drink before heading out to one of the nearby restaurants…

The Pleasant Street Inn is centrally located. Once you park your car it’s only a few steps to Main Street with its restaurants or to the Ships Company Theatre. I know I will be encouraging friends and family who visit to book a room for their stay at The Pleasant Street Inn. I was ready to head home, pack a suitcase and return to get spoiled by Heidi. I hear her breakfasts are already legendary!

I hope you enjoyed this little tour of The Pleasant Street Inn this morning. I know Heidi’s Pleasant Street Inn will be the choice place to stay here in Parrsboro. Please visit her website for more images, information, booking availability and pricing. And let me know if you are coming to town so we can meet up!

Best wishes, Anna