Bibs and Bobs

The last few days we have been regrouping for our next adventure in Cumberland County so it's been a great time to reflect back on our impressions of Nova Scotia so far and to think about some of the extraordinary people we've met so far.

All the little Gambles

Wednesday I came upon an incredible cache of old family photos tucked away in a binder at the Bass River Heritage Centre.  It was a veritable treasure trove of images of my Grandma Bragg when she was a young girl; of her sisters; of her father and of various aunts, uncles and inlaw/outlaws.  There is one school picture from 1901 where every child in the school is named Gamble - and the teacher is a Grue (a relation).  The book also contained stories and obituaries - always a great source of information and stories about the residents up on Castlereagh Mountain.

Wednesday evening we were joined for dinner (I'm starting to sound like the old newspaper announcements I've been reading) by my cousin, Charlotte from Edmonton and one of my new found cousins, Fonda (Gamble).  We had a great evening sharing stories and finding out more about the indomitable Gamble Family.  Fonda has been so gracious in sharing her time and information and, I believe, is a true kindred spirit.



Yesterday, we napped!

Tree carving

Today, we spent time in Truro and both Ann and I have been blown away by how friendly people are here.  A couple of minutes after saying "hello" to someone, you know their whole story and they probably know yours.   Folks, on the whole seem happy, optimistic and they drive in an incredibly sane manner - compared to some of those maniacs in Saskatoon.  Such a treat.  But then, I'm sitting on two full propane tanks, a full gas tank and a tank of sewage, so I'm not one to mess with.

In the photo, you will see one of the hundreds of wooden carvings that were created after trees were decimated by Dutch Elm Disease.  They are quite remarkable, including the one of an RCAF Pilot from WWII that stands in front of the Air Force Association Building.

The owner of our campground is related to me through his mother and he brought her for a visit yesterday afternoon.  She's 85 and sharp as a tack.  She is really a keen genealogist and know things about the family, I did not know.  Such a joy to visit with her.

Scotia Pines Campground

Speaking of the campground - If you ever have the pleasure of camping in Nova Scotia, this is one place you do not want to miss.  The place is beautiful with ancient pine trees separating each campsite.  There's a pool and a playground, they have excellent wifi (free) and the place is spotless.  The owners make a point of doing a walking check of the place every hour or so - just to make sure everything is OK.  We're 2 minutes off the TransCanada Highway, 5 minutes in to Truro, an hour from Halifax and about the same from the shores of Northumberland.  That's SCOTIA PINES CAMPGROUND - best camping I've seen yet!

Properly set up campsite

We have created a challenge for ourselves to time how long it takes us to hook up the motor home once we arrive at a location.  So far, our best time is 1 minute, 32 seconds.  That includes hooking up the sewer hose, connecting both ends of the water line, plugging into the power and getting the steps out.  Yesterday, we watched some newbies take almost an hour to accomplish the same thing.  We're pretty proud of ourselves and are shooting for the 1 minute record.

So tomorrow it's back to the cemeteries of Cumberland County and lunch at the Whirligig in Wallace.

To be continued.....