The Sly Cook

The PEI International Shellfish Festival is renowned for its celebration of the province’s rich seafood heritage, and among its many highlights is the Junior Chef Challenge – a vibrant and inspiring competition for young culinary enthusiasts. This event is not only a platform for showcasing the talents of future chefs but also a golden opportunity for children and youth to immerse themselves in the culinary world and learn about the origins of their food.

A Glimpse into the Junior Chef Challenge

The Junior Chef Challenge is a fantastic initiative that invites young cooks to step into the spotlight and present their creative takes on local shellfish dishes. It’s more than just a cooking competition; it’s an educational experience that connects participants with the source of their ingredients. For young chefs, this means learning about local shellfish, understanding its role in their community, and developing a deep appreciation for sustainable food practices.

Annabella’s Culinary Journey

Our daughter Annabella had the pleasure of participating in the Junior Chef Challenge for two consecutive years, in 2018 and 2019. Her journey through these competitions was a testament to the event’s impact on young culinary talents and their understanding of food origins.

In 2018, Annabella wowed the judges with her PEI Clam Spaghetti. This dish was a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and local shellfish, showcasing the versatility and freshness of PEI clams. Her preparation was meticulous, reflecting her respect for the ingredients and the culinary tradition she was representing.

The following year, Annabella returned with a new creation: Thai Inspired Shellfish Noodles. This dish was a testament to her growing culinary skills and creativity, blending the bold, aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine with the delicate taste of local shellfish. Her approach not only highlighted her adaptability but also her enthusiasm for exploring diverse culinary traditions while staying rooted in local ingredients. Thank you to Chef Michelle Matheson and Chef Juan Pedrosa for being the best chef partners at these events. 

The Importance of Culinary Education

Participating in the Junior Chef Challenge offered Annabella and other young chefs a chance to gain invaluable experience in the kitchen. It underscored the importance of understanding where food comes from and how to prepare it with care. Teaching children about the origins of their food helps foster a greater appreciation for sustainable practices and the environment. It also equips them with essential cooking skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

By engaging in such competitions, children learn to respect local ingredients, understand seasonal availability, and appreciate the efforts of those who bring food to their tables. These experiences also nurture creativity and confidence in the kitchen, encouraging young cooks to experiment and innovate.

The Junior Chef Challenge at the PEI International Shellfish Festival is more than just a cooking competition; it is a celebration of local seafood, culinary education, and the exciting potential of young chefs. Annabella’s participation over two years was a wonderful opportunity for her to grow as a cook and a young advocate for sustainable food practices. It’s a reminder of the importance of introducing children to the world of cooking and food sourcing early in life, setting the stage for future culinary adventures and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the art of cooking.

For more information about the festival and the Junior Chef Challenge, visit the PEI International Shellfish Festival website.

Pictures 📸 PEI International Shellfish Festival

 

In narrow rooms with shadows cast,  

Where echoes of the past hold fast,  

The small-minded dwell, their visions tight,  

Confined within their waning light.  

Their thoughts are coins in shallow streams,  

Reflecting only fleeting dreams,  

With walls too high, their world is small,  

In endless corridors, they fall.  

They see the world through cracks so thin,  

Where doubts and fears are woven in,  

Each gaze confined to distant walls,  

Unmoved by the expanse that calls.  

Yet in the dark, a flicker grows,  

A chance to let the small mind grow,  

For stars can shine in every eye,  

When hearts break free and learn to fly.  

So may they find the door ajar,  

And venture out, no matter far,  

To see the vast and boundless skies,  

And let their spirit realise.

R Sly

Nova Scotia, with its rugged coastline and charming seaside towns, offers some of the most picturesque and diverse beaches in Canada. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, an adventure spot, or simply a place to soak up the sun, the province’s beaches have something special for everyone. Here’s a look at seven remarkable Nova Scotia beaches that should be on every traveler’s itinerary.

Hirtles Beach

Nestled in Lunenburg County, Hirtles Beach is renowned for its serene beauty and expansive sandy shores. This beach is part of the beautiful Gaff Point Trail, offering a breathtaking backdrop of rugged cliffs and lush forest. The water here is ideal for a refreshing dip, and the beach’s relative seclusion makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful day out. Don’t forget to bring your camera; the views are spectacular, especially at sunset.

Carter’s Beach

Carter’s Beach, located near Port Mouton, is a hidden gem with its pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. Accessible via a short walk through a forested path, this beach offers a tropical feel, surprising given its Nova Scotian location. It’s an excellent spot for beachcombing and enjoying the gentle waves. The tranquil setting and less crowded nature of Carter’s Beach make it an ideal place for relaxation and reflection.

Crescent Beach

Known for its crescent-shaped shoreline, Crescent Beach is a popular destination located in the scenic town of Lockeport. The wide, sandy expanse and the gentle slope into the water make it perfect for families and beachgoers of all ages. The beach is well-known for its stunning views and safe swimming conditions, and its proximity to local amenities ensures a convenient beach outing. Be sure to pop into Ploughman’s Lunch and ride the ferry on the way home!

Meat Cove Beach

For those who love a bit of adventure, Meat Cove Beach, located in the northernmost part of Cape Breton Island, offers a rugged, natural charm. This remote beach is not as accessible as others, but its dramatic cliffs and wild beauty are well worth the effort. It’s an excellent spot for those who enjoy hiking and exploring less-trodden paths, and the dramatic scenery provides a sense of being at the edge of the world. Be aware that the roads to this beach are narrow and not for the faint hearted!

East Berlin Beach

East Berlin Beach, situated in the picturesque village of East Berlin, is a local favorite. The beach’s soft sand and gentle waves make it a great place for a family outing or a relaxing day by the sea. The nearby small-town charm adds to its appeal with bountiful wildlife including rabbits, porcupines and bears. I think I counted around 30 bunnies along the grassy embankments at the side of the road on our last visit.

Harbourville Beach

Harbourville Beach, located in the quaint fishing village of Harbourville, offers a unique coastal experience. The beach is relatively small but provides a charming spot to relax and watch the fishing boats come and go. The surrounding area is rich with maritime history, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood from local vendors, enhancing the beach experience with a taste of local culture. Highly recommend Harbourville Fish Market for fresh Bay of Fundy Lobster.

Sandy Cove Beach

Located in the Bay of Fundy region, Sandy Cove Beach is famous for its dramatic tides and unique geological formations. The beach features a mix of pebbles and sand and is renowned for its excellent tide pools, which offer fantastic opportunities for exploration and discovery. The ever-changing landscape due to the tidal shifts provides a dynamic beach experience that’s perfect for those interested in natural phenomena.

Nova Scotia’s beaches offer a diverse range of experiences, from serene retreats to adventurous explorations. Each beach has its unique character, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your next coastal escape. Whether you’re visiting the tranquil Hirtles Beach, the remote Meat Cove Beach, or any of the other beautiful shores, Nova Scotia’s beaches promise memorable experiences and stunning natural beauty. So pack your beachwear and sunscreen, and get ready to explore these stunning Nova Scotian coastal treasures.

Nestled on the southeastern coast of Nova Scotia, Lunenburg is a picturesque town that encapsulates the charm of Canada’s maritime heritage. With its colorful buildings, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, Lunenburg offers an enchanting escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

A Historical Treasure

Lunenburg’s history is as rich and colorful as its iconic buildings. Founded in 1753, it was one of the earliest British settlements in North America, intended to counter French influence in the region. Its historical significance is highlighted by its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a recognition earned due to its well-preserved colonial architecture and the unique planning of its streets and buildings.

The town’s layout is a visual feast, with its distinctive wooden structures painted in vibrant hues of blue, yellow, and red. The architecture reflects a blend of British and German influences, as many of the early settlers were from these regions. The Lunenburg Historic District is a prime area to wander and admire the charming 18th and 19th-century buildings that line the streets.

Maritime Heritage

Lunenburg’s deep connection to the sea is evident in its bustling waterfront, where you can observe traditional fishing boats and schooners. The town’s maritime history is celebrated at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, which offers insights into the lives of the fishermen who have worked these waters for centuries. The museum’s exhibits include displays of fishing equipment, historical artifacts, and even a restored fishing schooner, providing a window into the region’s seafaring past.

Cultural and Culinary Delights

The town is also a hub of cultural activity, with numerous festivals and events held throughout the year. The Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival, for instance, showcases local and international folk music, attracting performers and visitors from around the globe. Additionally, the Lunenburg Academy of Music Performance offers concerts and music education opportunities, further enriching the town’s cultural landscape.

Food enthusiasts will find plenty to savor in Lunenburg. The town’s culinary scene features fresh seafood caught right from the Atlantic. Local restaurants serve up dishes like lobster rolls, scallops, and chowder, offering a taste of the region’s maritime bounty. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the town’s bakeries or cafes, where you can enjoy freshly baked goods and a cup of locally roasted coffee. Our personal favourite is Laughing Whale. 

Outdoor Adventures

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Lunenburg provides ample opportunities. The surrounding area boasts scenic hiking trails and beautiful beaches. The nearby Iron Works Distillery, located in a historic building, offers tours and tastings of their handcrafted spirits. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline or simply strolling through the town’s picturesque streets, Lunenburg’s natural beauty is bound to captivate.

Christmas in Lunenburg

In Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Christmas is celebrated with a charming blend of tradition and maritime spirit. The town’s festive atmosphere is enhanced by the unique lobster trap tree, a striking and creative centerpiece constructed from local lobster traps adorned with twinkling lights and ornaments. This iconic tree not only captures the essence of Lunenburg’s fishing heritage but also serves as a popular filming location for Hallmark Christmas movies, adding a touch of cinematic magic to the holiday season. Visitors are drawn to the picturesque setting, where the lobster trap tree stands as a symbol of both community pride and seasonal cheer.

In summary, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, is a destination that offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its vibrant architecture, rich maritime heritage, and friendly community make it a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Canada’s eastern shores. 

Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, enjoying its culinary offerings, or simply taking in the scenic views, Lunenburg promises a memorable experience that captures the essence of Nova Scotia’s charm.

Yorkshire pudding is a beloved staple of British cuisine, known for its crispy edges and soft, airy center. This humble dish has a rich history that stretches back centuries, evolving from a simple batter into the classic accompaniment to a Sunday roast.

The origins of Yorkshire pudding can be traced back to the 18th century. Initially called “dripping pudding,” it was designed to make use of the fat drippings from roast meat. This practical dish was served before the main meat course to fill up diners, allowing families to economize on the more expensive cuts of meat.

The name “Yorkshire pudding” came into popular use in the 19th century. The term “Yorkshire” was a nod to the county in northern England, known for its hearty fare and traditional recipes. Over time, Yorkshire pudding became an integral part of the traditional Sunday roast dinner, complementing the roast beef and gravy that characterize this quintessentially British meal.

Despite its straightforward ingredients, Yorkshire pudding can sometimes be tricky to perfect. I am often asked for a solid recipe, for those who seek a foolproof recipe, here’s my simple guide to making six perfectly puffed Yorkshire puddings.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose or plain flour

1 cup (240ml) whole milk

1 cup of eggs whisked (around 3 medium eggs)

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Method

1. Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 6-cup muffin tin or Yorkshire pudding tray in the oven to heat up.

2. Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture, whisking until you have a smooth batter. Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This rest period allows the gluten to relax, which helps the puddings rise better.

3. Heat the Oil

Carefully remove the hot muffin tin from the oven. Add 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable oil to each cup of the tin. Return the tin to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the oil is smoking hot.

4. Bake the Puddings

Carefully remove the hot tin from the oven. Pour the batter evenly into the cups, filling each about halfway. Return the tin to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Yorkshire puddings have risen and are golden brown. Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the puddings to collapse.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, serve the Yorkshire puddings immediately with your roast beef, gravy, and any other accompaniments of your choice.

This foolproof recipe should yield fluffy, golden Yorkshire puddings every time. By preheating the tin and using hot oil, you create the perfect conditions for the batter to rise and crisp up beautifully.

Whether you’re hosting a Sunday roast or simply craving a classic British dish, Yorkshire pudding remains a timeless favorite. With this easy recipe, you can ensure that your puddings are as perfect as tradition demands. Enjoy!

During my recent work trip to the Northwest Territories, I had the opportunity to experience the region in winter for the first time. Landing in bone-chilling -38-degree weather was a novel experience, but the dry cold, layered up, felt surprisingly refreshing.

Driving the Dettah Ice Road to the community I was visiting was a remarkable adventure. Despite initial nervousness, the whole experience proved exhilarating. This year, due to unprecedented delays in opening the road caused by challenging weather conditions, the Northwest Territories’ Department of Infrastructure announced the commencement of construction on the Dettah ice road after completing ice profiling.

The six-kilometre road, crossing Yellowknife Bay from School Draw Avenue to Dettah, provides a scenic journey. Various modes of winter transportation utilize this road, including charter buses, snowmobiles, and even cross-country skiers. Visitors are cautioned to drive slowly and stick to the road, although there are ample opportunities to pull over and explore the ice. In Dettah, visitors can explore the Yellowknives Dene Artisan Shop at the Chief Drygeese Centre.

I also had the chance to visit and climb the stairs to the Bush Pilots Monument. Perched high above Old Town, the monument offers stunning views of Great Slave Lake and Back Bay. It honors the bush pilots and engineers who played vital roles in the region’s history while serving as a warning system for nearby aerial activity.

On my final day, I ventured to Behchokǫ̀, the largest Dene community in the Northwest Territories. Formerly known as Rae-Edzo, Behchokǫ̀ is a bustling hub of Tłı̨chǫ culture and government headquarters. The community hosts various events and festivities throughout the year, drawing travelers from across the NWT. The community’s name change in 2005 reflects its significance in Tłı̨chǫ history and the landmark Tłı̨chǫ land claim agreement signed in 2003. Accessible year-round by road and winter roads, Behchokǫ̀ offers a warm welcome to visitors eager to explore its rich heritage.

Unfortunately, on this occasion, I didn’t have the opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis during my visit to the Northwest Territories. However, it’s widely acclaimed that the NWT boasts some of the best views of this natural phenomenon in the world. The region’s vast expanses and minimal light pollution make it an ideal location for observing the dancing lights of the Aurora. Visitors often flock to popular spots like Yellowknife and surrounding areas for the chance to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle firsthand.

Happy Pancake Day! Tonight, we’ll be whipping up these traditional British pancakes, honoring the Pancake Day/Shrove Tuesday tradition. I’ve savored these thin crepe-style pancakes every Pancake Day/Shrove Tuesday since I was a little girl in England, traditionally served with a sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon.

I fondly remember making pancakes for the children at the school where I worked back in England—they were always a hit. Join me in celebrating this delightful tradition, embracing the joy of sharing delicious pancakes and creating cherished memories with loved ones.

Pancake Day, a cherished tradition steeped in centuries of history, synonymous with indulgence and festivity. Known as Shrove Tuesday, it marks the eve of Lent, a period of reflection and fasting leading up to Easter.

Dating back to Anglo-Saxon times, Shrove Tuesday was a day of absolution, where Christians confessed their sins and were “shriven” before the solemn season of Lent began. This day held particular significance as it provided an opportunity to use up indulgent ingredients like eggs and fats before the fasting period commenced.

At the heart of the celebration are pancakes—thin, golden delights cooked in frying pans. With a recipe dating as far back as 1439, these simple yet delectable treats symbolize the culmination of indulgence before the austerity of Lent. Ingredients like eggs, flour, salt, and milk carry symbolic significance, representing creation, the staff of life, wholesomeness, and purity, respectively.

But Pancake Day is not just about culinary delights; it’s a day filled with quirky and lively traditions. In the UK, pancake races are a common sight, with participants donning fancy dress and racing down streets while flipping pancakes in their frying pans. The Olney Pancake Race, originating in 1445, remains one of the most famous, with competitors racing to the church, pancake in hand, to be kissed by the bellringer.

Other traditions include the Pancake Grease at Westminster School, where students vie for the largest slice of a tossed pancake, and communal skipping on Scarborough’s promenade. Towns like Ashbourne in Derbyshire keep alive the medieval tradition of Shrove Tuesday football, adding a spirited element to the festivities.

While some customs have faded with time, Pancake Day continues to unite communities across the UK, blending history, culinary delights, and spirited competition. It’s a day to savor the simple joys of life before embarking on the reflective journey of Lent—a delicious reminder of tradition and togetherness in a fast-paced world!

Traditional British Pancakes Recipe

Ingredients

100g plain / ap flour

2 large eggs

300ml milk

1 tbsp oil, plus a little extra for frying

lemon wedges

caster sugar

Method

• In a bowl or large jug, combine 100g of plain flour, 2 large eggs, 300ml of milk, 1 tablespoon of oil, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until you have a smooth batter.

• Allow the batter to rest for 30 minutes if time permits, or proceed to cooking immediately.

• Heat a medium frying pan or crêpe pan over medium heat and lightly oil it using kitchen paper.

• Once the pan is hot, pour in the batter to make pancakes. Cook for about 1 minute on each side until golden brown, and keep them warm in a low oven as you cook the remaining batter.

Serve the pancakes with lemon wedges and caster sugar, or your preferred filling.

Celebrate the season with a delightful creation – Festive Mulled Wine Trifles!

I personally love a good old boozy trifle at Christmas! Creating these Mulled Wine Trifles for the Cabinet Christmas Lunch at Government House in 2019 holds a special place in my heart.

The art of crafting festive recipes and menus has been a cherished journey for me. Embrace the holiday spirit with these scrumptious layers of joy.

Ingredients

Poached Winter Berries

• 400ml of water

• 130g of caster sugar

• 2 tsp lemon juice

• 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped

• 48 blackberries, halved

Wine Jelly

• 350g of blackberry purée

• 350ml of mulled wine

• 18g of gelatine leaves

Citrus-infused Savoie Sponge

• 250g of eggs (approx. 4–5 medium eggs)

• Zest of 2 lemons

• 195g of caster sugar

• 185g of soft flour, sieved

• 20g of melted unsalted butter

Vanilla Winter Cream

• 350 mo of whipping cream/double cream

• 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped

• 7g of caster sugar

Festive Trifle Anglaise

• 300ml of double cream

• 75ml of whole milk

• 200g of egg yolks (approx. 10 yolks)

• 60g of caster sugar

• Zest of 2 oranges

To Serve

• Dusting of grated chocolate or good quality cocoa, orange zest and pomegranate jewels.

Let the Festivities Begin!

Begin by making the savoie sponge. Preheat an oven to 210°C/190°C fan/gas mark 7. Beat together the eggs, lemon zest and caster sugar in a heatproof bowl, then place over a pan of simmering water (ensuring the base of the bowl does not touch the water). Continue to whisk until the mixture reaches 40°C and thickens

Gently fold in the flour, then add a little of the mixture to the melted butter and stir to combine. Add this butter mixture back into the bowl, then fold in gently

Pour the cake mixture into a 24x33x1.5cm baking tray lined with baking paper and bake for 20 minutes or until light golden. Remove the cake from the tray and leave to cool, then place in the fridge or freezer for 30 minutes to firm up

Cut the sponge into 6 discs approximately 6cm in diameter – they should be no more than 1cm thick

To poach the blackberries, place all the ingredients (except the blackberries) into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Place the blackberries in a heatproof bowl and pour the poaching liquor over them. Leave to cool

To make the mulled wine jelly, soak the gelatine leaves in cold water while you bring the mulled wine to the boil. Once boiling, remove from the heat and squeeze the gelatine leaves to remove any excess moisture, then whisk the gelatine into the mulled wine. Add the blackberry puree, stir, then pass through a fine sieve into a suitable container. Lower the container into a bowl of iced water to chill quickly – once the mixture begins to thicken, set aside

To make the vanilla cream, place all the ingredients (reserve the vanilla pod for another recipe) into a round-bottomed bowl and whisk until the cream reaches stiff peaks. Set aside in the fridge until ready to serve

Once all these elements of the trifle have been made, start to assemble the trifles. Take 6 straight-sided glasses, measuring 10cm high and 6.5cm in diameter, and place 16 poached blackberry halves into the base of each. Top with 75g of the mulled wine jelly

Place a sponge disc on top of the jelly in each glass, ensuring it is flat and completely covering the jelly. Make sure they have all cooled and set before making the trifle anglaise

For the trifle anglaise, pour the double cream and milk into a pan and add the orange peel. Gently bring to the boil. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg yolks and caster sugar until smooth. Once the cream is boiling, pour half of it over the egg yolks and whisk vigorously to temper the eggs. Lower the heat, then pour the egg mixture back into the pan to combine. Use a spatula and move it in a figure of eight motion constantly, until the mixture reaches 86°C

Remove the custard from the heat and pass through a fine sieve.

Pour 55g of the hot fresh custard on top of the sponge, then place in the fridge to set for at least 1.5 hours.

Finish the trifles with approx. 15g of the Chantilly, then sprinkle with graded chocolate or cocoa, orange zest and pomegranate jewels.

Celebrate the holidays with each delightful spoonful of this Festive Mulled Wine Trifle, a symphony of winter flavours!

I arrived home after a long week of work travel last night to be greeted by Annabella with some delicious Michaelmas bread.

Yesterday her school celebrated a reimagined ceremony for Michaelmas. As part of their process of self development they reimagined what the festival means for us, here in Nova Scotia. The timing of Michaelmas and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation carry significance for us, and they reimagined our festival in this light.

This year, in the festival they set up a series of gentle “trials” for students. These activities provided them with opportunities to explore their bravery, leadership, grace, inner strength, trust and deeds of goodness.

I took a trip back home this summer for three and a half weeks in an attempt to reconnect with what I thought was lost. We arrived in London early July from Halifax Nova Scotia. The first thing that struck me was the lack of air conditioning in public spaces in comparison to Canada. We sat waiting for our train at Euston Station absolutely sweltering. I met a nice chap and his son from Liverpool and we chatted about life post Brexit. I mentioned that we left the UK for Canada six years ago and his words to me were “It’s the same but a bit shitter”. Which I guess pretty much sums it all up and what with the pandemic added into the mix, it’s been a rough period for Old Blighty. A serendipitous encounter with Eddie Redmayne livened up our train journey when Annabella accidentally rolled her suitcase into the back of his legs and had to apologise. She said “Mum don’t look, but it’s the man from Les Misérables”. Of course I looked and to my amazement it actually was! He appeared to be traveling on the same train as us with his family heading north. No one else seemed to notice him and I felt happy that he and his family were left alone to go about their journey without the being pestered due to the burden of his stardom.

We spent our first week with family in and around Staffordshire. We stayed a few days at a sweet mill cottage in the peaks with my sister. It was nice to connect with my family, in particular my sister and nieces. We had a jolly good old time filling out boots with scrumptious goodies from Marks and Spencer’s at the cottage, we drank lovely wine and chatted for hours. We took a trip out one day to Moorland Pottery in Burslem. They produce designs that celebrate, reflect and enrich Great British culture and its diversity. I absolutely love their Stokie Ware collection and already have a couple of pieces at home.

Next stop was Bedfordshire for a few days to see my father and brother in law. I love spending time with Colin’s Dad he is a gentle and intellectual soul whom I could listen to for hours. It was lovely to reconnect and I didn’t want to leave. I feel that as family gets older, each time you leave them knowing that you are heading back to a different country it breaks your heart a little bit wondering about how many more times you will see them again. The mood was a little low as we left for Devon that morning.

We arrived in Buckfastleigh a picturesque market town located in the South Hams district of Devon. The town has a rich history, dating back to the Saxon era, and there are many fascinating landmarks and attractions to explore such as the South Devon Railway, a heritage steam railway that runs between the town and the nearby town of Totnes. The railway is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Buckfastleigh and to experience the nostalgia of steam travel. Along the way, you can take in the stunning views of the River Dart and the rolling hills of the South Hams.

We spent a few days pottering around the steam railway and took a ride on the train to Totnes, we also visited the otter and butterfly sanctuary there which was a sweet family owned business. Annabella got her first haircut in Buckfastleigh. I had been her stylist since she was a little girl and this was her first trip to a professional hairdresser. It was a bit of an emotional moment for me and a part of her journey as a teen to pursue her own identity without Mum doing everything for her. The haircut was a success.

On the Wednesday evening back at the little cottage we were staying at we were watching a bit of TV on the bed when we heard a humming noise from the corner of the bedroom. To our horror there was a swarm of flying ants coming up from underneath the floorboards and covering the walls and the window. We called the owners and they gave us instructions and said they would come around the next day. I managed to get rid of most of the ants but Annabella insisted on sleeping downstairs this evening as she said the thought of them was making her itch. Never a dull moment!

Onwards to St Ives next. We had the pleasure of staying in a sweet fisherman’s loft right by the harbour with beautiful views of the beach and ocean. I loved watching the boats bobbing about from the kitchen window and chatting with the seagulls who appeared at the window each morning when I was making coffee.

Once a sleepy fishing community, St Ives came to life in the late 1880’s and has thrived ever since, helped by its unique micro-climate and quality of light. Art aside, there’s plenty on offer here to guarantee an interesting and invigorating visit. We took great delight in visiting Tate St Ives and got to see the Casablanca Art School Exhibition. Tate St Ives is the first museum in the UK to explore the intense period of artistic rebirth that followed Morocco’s independence, forged by the experimental teaching methods of the Casablanca Art School in the 1960s and 1970s.

Of course when you are in Cornwall you must do as the Cornish do. That being eat at least one Cornish pasty. My very favourite was the shortcrust traditional from St Ives Bakery. So densely filled with traditional ingredients and absolutely delicious.

On departure from St Ives we caught the early morning train to London, changing in St Erth. If you ever have the pleasure of traveling to this beautiful part of the world. The train journey from St Erth to St Ives really is a must. It is such a scenic coastal journey and only costs a few quid.

On arrival to London we hoped on the tube to our hotel which was a traditional pub in Waterloo called The Wellington Hotel. The hotel actually featured on Most Haunted and was said to be haunted by the ghost of a proud old soldier. The building has had a colourful history serving as an infirmary in the past and also a live music venue for bands such as the Rolling Stones and The Who. The accommodation had many winding stairs and no lift but the authentic London feel of the place accommodates for the inconvenience of lugging your suitcases up many flights of stairs. Breakfast was also included and the menu is extensive.

The next morning we filled up with a full English and ventured off on foot to see a glorious exhibition and I actually got a bit tearful. Andy Warhol: The Textiles. Dating from his early career as a commercial designer and illustrator in the 1950s and early 1960s, Warhol’s textiles are now considered an important part of his body of work. These designs added considerably to his ability as an artist, which was then almost entirely devoted to realising the demands and deadlines of professional clients, leaving limited room for fantasy and vision.

After refuelling with afternoon tea we set off on the tube to the Victoria and Albert Museum to see another exhibition to support our fashion fanatic daughter Annabella’s personal project at school this coming year. Diva! It was absolutely magnificent! The headset and music throughout took it to another level. Celebrating the power and creativity of iconic performers, exploring and redefining the role of ‘diva’ and how this has been subverted or embraced over time across opera, stage, popular music, and film.

After a busy day we concluded with a cocktail and a smoothie at Harvey Nics and dinner at Harrods pasta bar. We arrived back to the hotel full as bed ticks with tea, jam, biscuits and souvenirs from Harrods food hall. It was a wonderful day in one of my favourite cities.

The next morning we ventured off to see Yayoi Kusama’s sold out Infinity Mirror Rooms exhibition at the Tate Modern. I was glad we got tickets months ago or I would have been sad to miss this one. Infinity Mirrored Room – Filled with the Brilliance of Life is one of Kusama’s largest installations to date and was made for her 2012 retrospective at Tate Modern. It is shown alongside Chandelier of Grief, a room which creates the illusion of a boundless universe of rotating crystal chandeliers.

We spent our last day in London with my sister and my eldest niece. We had fun visiting the National Portrait Gallery, enjoyed a picnic in Green Park and took the girls to see the new Barbie movie. I even borrowed some herbs from the moat at the Tower of London to bring back home to Nova Scotia with me. I made cracking roast potatoes with these the following weekend on my return.

Sadly what should have been one last day out on the Sunday turned out to be a washout due to us feeling unwell. A few days on our return this turned out to be COVID, and we were worse for wear for a good few weeks over August.

On reflection of this trip now back home here in Nova Scotia. I feel that I can finally appreciate the life that we have built for ourselves in Canada but also at the same time a part of me still mourns the life that we left behind in England and all of its vibrancy. Both countries have much to offer but I feel at this point in our life Canada has nurtured and cared for us as a family. Life feels wholesome here. Don’t get me wrong the past six years have been incredibly challenging but this has helped us to grow both as a family and on individual levels. No one knows what the future holds but for the foreseeable future Canada is home and I look forward to becoming a Canadian citizen next year.