Day 5 in Nova Scotia

Today we went for a walk around Chester, one of the prettiest and oldest (incorporated in 1759) communities in Nova Scotia.  

Samuel was snuggled up in his Baby Bjorn carrier, complete with hat to ward off the wind,

The village is so picturesque with colorful flowers and  fences dividing the yards.  

The ocean bay nestles in amongst the houses and wharfs are common at the waterfront lots.

The ferry to Tancook Island was moored beside this working boat.  The boats are always painted in bright colors.

This is the Baptist church where Tyler's dad is the minister.  It is a heritage building.

Right in the middle of town, off to the side of one house, this load of split wood had been delivered.  It had rained for about  2 minutes but stopped so we hurried on home. 

I have more pictures that I'll share as the days go by.  It really was a lovely afternoon - and Samuel even enjoyed the bit of shopping that we did.  He's really good that way :))

Ten on Thursday - from Nova Scotia

I could write 10 things about Samuel today but I'm going to share some other bits and pieces too.  Maybe next week the whole post will be about him :))

1.  We tried to get Samuel's passport picture taken today but it didn't work out!  His nap was interrupted and there was no way that he was opening his eyes for any camera.  Whoever makes these decisions about babies and passports has absolutely no idea about little ones!

2.  This is Edward and Linda's beautiful home and garden where I'm staying this week.  It's such a refuge of peace and beauty for Mel and Samuel.  God certainly blessed Mel - and us - when He brought these friends into our lives.

3.  Supper tonight was a combination of Alberta beef, NS haddock, PEI potatoes, local asparagus and mushrooms, and Annapolis Valley strawberry shortcake - delish all around, we decided!!

4.  We went for a walk along the old railroad trail last night and had this beautiful view of the back harbour of Chester.  This trail would be an awesome bike trail!

5.  Edward and Linda showed me  gorgeous pictures of the Belgium / Netherlands cruise that they took in April - and I have a new destination on my wish list.  The windmills, tulips, architecture and Belgian waffles were all calling my name!

6.  We talked to Naomi today and she's doing okay, trying to accomplish a thousand and one things before the baby comes.  She has strict orders to hold on until I'm back home :))

7.  It was another great day with Samuel!  Cuddling, giving him a bottle, singing songs, coaxing smiles - it doesn't get any better for a gramma.

Tonight Mommy was giving him airplane rides, just like Uncle Jonathan does, and he quite liked them.  I can see many more of these in his future!

8.  Shutter Sisters have some great ideas for photographers this week.  Check out:  what's in your back yard?  what's hiding under your nose?  and 365 photo ideas.  

9.  One of the things I love about Nova Scotia is how you can see the ocean around every bend in the road.  It's so, so beautiful here!  

10.  Only 8 more days until Mel and Samuel head back to New York City.  It's going to be one joyful reunion when they meet Daddy!!

Day 2 in Nova Scotia

Samuel and Melinda had a doctor's appointment this morning so we walked just a few blocks and they both had checkups.  Samuel weighs 12 lbs. 3 ozs. already!  The doctor was happy with everything and loved telling him what a handsome boy he was!  She came to Nova Scotia from Poland 25 years ago and Mel and Tyler love her.  They keep their Polish connection strong with her!!

This little guy is a great napper during the day.  He didn't fuss at the doctor's at all and slept while we strolled along.

This evening was bath time and he was very content in the water - for the first time!  Melinda is such a good Mom.  She was talking to him while she washed all the little wrinkles and creases that babies have. 

He definitely knows his Mom and loves to be held by her!

And in other Nova Scotia news  - the lupins are in full bloom along the ditches and paths.

The strawberries are ready in the Annapolis Valley so we bought some from an elderly lady along the roadside.  Apparently she'll be here all summer, sitting on the back of her van, selling berries!  They were delicious!

In Nova Scotia

I am finally here, safe and sound.  And at the airport, my hosts Edward and Linda, Mel and Samuel were waiting to greet me.  I had planned to drive down to Chester by  myself but they surprised me and came to the airport.  

Samuel was fast asleep the whole time but we've had lots of cuddle time already today.  He is a beautiful, precious big boy and I am just delighted to be here!!  

My watch said 3:34 a.m. and the sun was just coming up over Lake Superior when I took this picture.  It was beautiful and you could see for miles.    

I'm off to catch some sleep and then I'll spend tomorrow cuddling our grandson!!