On a Roll: A new skate park in a small town adds up to fun for all

In the October/November 2011 issue of Coastal Life I wrote a feature story about the wonderful skate boarding facility in the new Youth Park in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia. And the fact that so many kids got organized and helped to make this park happen is an amazing and inspiring tale. My son, Max loved using it this summer, over and over again. I was there often talking to some of the avid skateboarders and BMX bikers using the quarter pipe. Such a wonderful resource, not just for the locals but for all the tourists visiting the area with kids.

Simple Summer Pleasures

The most vivid memories of summer that I cherish are of the simplest moments here. Like taking a walk up a trail on the north mountain and discovering a tin cup left at a mountain spring. Perfect for using for  a big refreshing drink.

A cool drink from a mountain brook.

Smores at sunset on sandy Bishop Park beach in Clementsvale.

Dipping feet in a cool forest brook.

Unearthed vines

While weeding by the water's edge a few days ago, I discovered seven grape vines. My romantic nature has me wondering who planted them? And how long ago? The French Acadians farmed here in 1605.
The leaves are a bright chartreuse green and the grapes are clear, and a little golden.

The grapevines were found between the two center clumps of trees.

I have to do some research on how you determine the age of a grapevine, and which varietal this is.