Sheep, lochs, bagpipes, castles

Ireland and the UK did a fine job charming us Canadians who simply wanted to swim in the ocean and see a castle. We did both and more: hiking in Glencoe, swimming in the Scottish North Sea, fighting wind at Giant's Causeway, exploring castles on the Isle of Skye and getting acquainted with nosy sheep.
We drank more tea than water, willingly ordered haggis (more than once), and got to share it all with good, hearty company.

Aotearoa | New Zealand

The past three weeks I've spent my days in New Zealand. Firstly for a friend's wedding, and secondly for the scenery. The landscape is dramatic and changeable. Here are some photos mostly from the North Island and a small part of the South Island. More photos to come!

Stopped north of Whanganui to peek at the scenery

Audrey exploring our campsite at Mangaweka

The Gaspé Peninsula

This year, Thanksgiving was spent deep in the Chic Choc mountains in a warm chalet lit with propane lanterns and brimming with hearty company.

The next days were an introduction to the spectacular sights of Percé Rock, Gaspé and every view in between. The scenery is quiet a distraction while driving, so it's best to take lots of time in order to stop and wonder (& wander).

Rain on the South Shore

I took a drive along the coast on a grey day last week.

Forward still, to Nova Scotia.

After the trip from Winnipeg to Toronto, I decided to continue east. Three days later, I left Toronto and made my way to Nova Scotia to deliver a friends car. We started in Digby and took our time driving back - always along the shore road, whenever possible. Some highlights: an oceanside campsite at Rissers Beach, well-worn pickle recipes, handmade dories in Lunenburg, the LaHave Bakery, Peggy's Cove in the fog, oat cakes on Cape Breton, soap made by friends in West Arm and SO. MANY. BLUEBERRIES.

6000 kilometers later, I've seen my share of central and eastern Canada.
If I could, I'd keep going...

These images are from Nova Scotia's beautiful south shore; Rissers Beach, Crescent Beach, Queensland and Peggy's Cove.