Who can resist going to the East coast in the fall? It is always so beautiful. The variety of autumn colours are amazing and go on for days.
We flew to Halifax, Nova Scotia and then drove to Saint John, New Brunswick to spend some time with Steve and Kelly and to enjoy a little holiday in the beauty of nature. Getting there was an adventure of delayed flights and a late night bus ride, but eventually we were in downtown Halifax, enjoying the sea air and looking for a place to eat dinner. The only dining establishment still serving dinner was Boston Pizza. So much for immediately chowing down on some good maritime fish and chips.
The next day we had a bit of time in Halifax and took a stroll along the boardwalk following the harbour shoreline. It was cool and windy. We also took time to explore the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. This pier is where my mother's family landed when they immigrated to Canada. The museum told the immigration story and the challenges faced by newcomers. One line stands out: "Canada is a land flowing with milk and honey, but you have to find the cows and bees."
Then it was off to Saint John. Steve and Kelly live right on the edge of the city, along the coast, overlooking the harbour. What an ideal spot if you love the ocean. We definitely enjoyed a walk along the beach and if we'd had more time would have gone a few more times.
In the bush behind their house are several wild apple trees hanging off the edge of the cliff. It was a challenge to pick the apples! Once picked, Steve set about turning them into apple cider. Hopefully it turns out.
We spent the next couple of days on Grand Manan Island. What beautiful weather for the ferry rides, both there and back. Hardly a ripple in the water.
Grand Manan thrives on lobster fishing and tourism, each in its own season. This was the in between season. Only one or two tourist services were still available (bed and breakfasts/restaurants/gift shops). That didn't bother us much as we had beautiful weather and went for walks and drives all over the island. It is its own unique world. The people were super friendly. We learned a lot about fishing and even landed an invitation for Thanksgiving dinner. What a special treat.
Before returning to Saint John we took a quick ferry trip to Deer Island. Even though it's really small, it's beautiful and I know we'll be back there again some day.
Of course one of the best things about being on the East coast is the food. There are so many options for fish and seafood. It was a wonderful feast.
And the other best thing is the autumn colours. I can't seem to stop taking pictures no matter how often I come here. What a wonderful trip. Never long enough.
