July 31, 2020, Western Head, Nova Scotia. Liverpool Pizza.

The same family owned Liverpool Pizza for over thirty years. Certainly we drove past it whenever we came to town. And we ignored it. Once many years ago we ordered a pizza delivered to us, which was good. So we told ourselves that we should eat at that restaurant. But we did not. Yet they stayed in business. A few years ago, Dave and Irene and Ken and I wanted a late supper after the band concert, which was an ackward time for us. Usually we eat dinner at 7:00 so that year we started to eat cheese and crackers before the concert and stop at the pizza place on the way home. In addition to pizza, they served both Italian and greek food. The first evening we ordered an entree plus a salad. We learned that one serving of salad would have been enough for four. And each entree could work for two so the next time we cut our costs in half yet still had plenty to eat. We enjoyed our late supper that year and in later years we returned with the family, where the food was always good and plentiful. Last summer the owners sold to a couple from Nigeria. The same cook works the kitchen and the owners wife works in the kitchen too. Today Anna and I went for lunch. We parked in their rear parking lot and went in the back door. And we turned the wrong way and walked directly into the kitchen, where we had a pleasant conversation with the wife of the owner. The kitchen smelled delicious. When we finally got into the correct place we ordered our meal. But we noted that no one else was there. A man had arrived with us, who ordered a pizza to go, but when he left, we were the only customers. Our food was delicious. I even ordered a pizza to go, which I ate two pieces tonight. I want them to stay in business but with two customers a day dining there one wonders how. They are at the end of the business part of Main Street and the place has no view. Time will tell. Anna and I both agreed we would return but we are on a mission to eat lunch in every restaurant in the area so it might take a while to return. But today our lunch was delicious. We had no complaints.

July 30, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Computer Troubles.

Much to my great surprise, I have had no difficulty with the computer. Every evening, I turn on the computer and up pops my blog, just as Ken set up for me. Not once since Ken died have I had difficulties. At last until last evening. Google was threatening to change the format for the blogs. Yesterday was the day. Instructions were given for those folks like me who wish to keep the old system. I tried to folloiw their instructions but managed to make a total mess so eventually I could not even get back to either the old or new formal of my litle bvlog. I was struck and unable to do anything. Even though it was 11:00pm, I called to leave a message for Joey, my computer saviour. And I then wrote my blog on my iPad downstairs. For some reason, I prefer to write on the computer, perhaps because I make fewer errors. First thing this morning, my phone rang. Joey would be here to help with my computer woes at 3:00 today. Bless his heart. It took him just a few minutes to set me straighjt. Evidently I had pushed so many buttoms that I had multiple folders open. But he fixed it for me but I am stuck with the new format. But at least I am able to use the new system. I told him today that he should wear a Superman Cape when he arrives to help. He said that I was not the fierst person who has said the same thing. He is an earnest sincere young man who runs his company from Liverpool. With a degree in computer science, he could work anywhere but he was born and raised here and he likes his life here. I am not the only one who am pleased he is here. I paid him $25. today for him to make a house call and fix my problem. "No problem," he said. "I was already working in Western Head." Once again, I got lucky. Now I am back in business but now with a new format.

July 29, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Luncheon Dates.

My friend Fran picked me up on Monday and took me to her home for lunch. I was delighted to see her beautiful garden, which Wendy says is the most beautiful private garden ahe has ever seen. She and her husband turned an ordinary large yard overlooking the ocean into a magnificent flower garden. The task was daunting but vit by bit, it was turned into rocks and flowers and grass. Several years ago, Kelly died suddenly so Fran was left to garden by herself, which is not as much fun, so ahe has asked for help and hires two people to help. The garden still looks lovely. When we finished our lunch of ham, shrimp salad and potatoe salad, Fran drove me home. she is such a good friend. Today i went to lunch with Gill, which was the first time since my arrival. First I was quarantined and then she was quarantined. So finally we went to lunch at Pauls, the german restaurant. Ourlunch was delicious and our conversation lively. Our discussion centered on all the topics we agree and the few we do not. We have agreed that we will not discuss the three items on which we disagree. And neither will we try to educate the other. So all is well. My luncheon dates were the highlight of my week!!

July 28, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Temperature.

The weather has gone crazy. Nova Scotia had a heat advisory. Halifax folks especially were to drink plenty of water, use sun screen and wear a hat. I noticed on my phone weather report that Liverpool was to get to 80 so when I walked outside to get in the truck I was surprised that the breeze was chilly. I was wearing teva sandals and my feet were cold. But by the time we drove to town, our car was hot. The truck has no air-conditioning. Today I needed it. The breeze coming in the window was hot. After I had completed my appointment with the Optician, we started out walking in Privateer Park and decided we were not being smart. The sun was beating down on us. There was no breeze off the river and we had no hate. So we decided to drive to the arena where it was air conditioning. The air temperature when we quit walking outside was 85. I had become a Nova Scotian, where when the temperature reached 82, they tell you that the temperature is impossibly hot. The interesting thing is that Jackson today was 83 while Toronto was in the 90's. Texas this week was over 100 many days. I talked with George, our builder this afternoon and he said that where they were working in Port Medway the temperature in the sun was 100 degrees. And where they were working there was no breeze. This is unheard temperatures in Nova Scotia. My blessing was returning home to the house. The breeze got cooler and cooler and cooler so when we got out of the car both Anna and I were again with cold feet. On the shore today we had no high temperatures. For the summer, this a blessing but I am not sure I would be so pleased in the winter. But today, the temperature at home was perfect. I was grateful that I did not live in town.

July 27, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Baseball.

I watched the Blue Jays win their first game of the season. And I enjoyed every minute especially when they beat the Rays. At the same time, I could switch between three games being shown on TV so I could switch every time there was a commercial. Everything I had always enjoyed about baseball came back to me. It is an interesting game. With every pitch, players must be able to be ready with a different response so even when nothing seems to be happening, you know that every player is trying to figure out what they should be doing. And every so often, the players make spectacular plays, that look automatic, but you know is difficult. I played a lot of softball in my youth so am familier with the plays and technique of the players. And those baseball players are superior athletes. I was certainly impressed all over again. Now they have changed rules. All coaches must wear masks even if they are standing all my themselves. Players wear no mask. Even the National League is now using the designated batter. And they have new rules for the extra innings. The Jays had their first time at their second game. The rule is for the batting team to put a runner on second base, then see if he can score. After three outs, the other team gets to do the same thing. Unfortunately, even though the Jays scored one run, the Rays scored two, so the Jays lost. Interesting way to end the game. And they are increasing the number of teams into the playoffs. These rules are just for this shortened season. But I am delighted to have baseball back in my life. I watched almost the whole game between the Yankees and the Nationals. I went to bed happy. The Nets won.

July 26, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Time.

The passage of time first became important to me when I started selling real estate. On a document signed by sellers and buyers a date was placed on the paper and soon enough, time passed and the date arrived whether or not anything was done. So I kept close track of the passage of time. And I helped sellers and buyers and other agents to keep track of the time line. David and Suzanne are getting ready to sell their house. David was startled to note when he checked the records that thy purchased the back lot 13 years ago. And that the garage/office was completed 10 years ago. "It seemed just a short time ago," he said. The last decade seemed to him quick, which he had never noted before. I note the passage of time whenever I fill my pill boxes. They seem to be empty so quickly. Every time I turn around I need to replenish the little boxes. Actually, I keep 5 boxes ready each time. I do not notice the passing of time very often. I never dwell on my age or the speeding up of time that I hear happens to older people. But I know it happens to me because I always seem to fill my little pill boxes. I was startled this week when my supply of boxes had been exhausted and I needed to fill them again. I knew I came with a full box and now I was empty. It did not seem that I had been in Nova Scotia that long. But I have. Time is speeding by. I have now realized that I will need to fill those pesky little boxes twice before I leave. Every 5 weeks I am reminded that life moves quickly. And evidently time will speed up. So here we go.

July 25, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Masks,

Masks have become controversial over the past few months. At first we were told the use of masks was optional. Then, depending where you lived, mask use became required at all time out of the house. I have read studies that show masks make a big difference and other tests show a different story. But one thing I know for sure and that is that wearing a mask has become a type of security blanket. It seems that the use of a mask will keep you from any harm. Driving in a car all by yourself makes no sense, yet I see folks driving with a mask. Walking outside by yourself should not be necessary but you see people wearing a mask walking all by themselves. Queens County, Nova Scotia has not had a positive test for the virus for weeks and weeks yet people still wear masks. Somehow or other, people feel holy when they are wearing a mask. They seem to think they will go straight to heaven if wearing a mask. A friend sent me the results of a test wearing a mask or not wearing a mask. The story was that the use of masks is essential. But I interpreted the results differently. Two people, three feet apart took a test. Four things happened, with or without a mask, using a special receptical to evaluate the bugs. Fist speaking, then singing, then sneezing and finally coughing. Without the mask, no bacteria ere found on the receptical when speaking or singing. But masses amount when sneezing and coughing but more without the mask. So the test showed little effect with or without when speaking or singing. Interesting I thought. And for the life of me, I could not recall having anyone sneeze or cough directly in front of me. People either turn their hear or grab for a tissue. But for sure, if someone sneezes or coughs directly in front of you, you need a mask or you will gets bugs. But still the controversy goes on. For me, I mostly stay at home, without using a mask, which seems seems good to me.

July 24, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. A Splendid Day.

All morning, while I ate my breakfast sitting in the living room reading, Anna cooked. She roasted a pork loin. And she cooked apple;esauce, lots of it. And she cooked a big pot of mashed potatoes. Now all I need to do for dimmer is to slice some meat, dig out a big spoon of mashed potatoes and heat dinner in the microwave. With a big dollop of apple;esauce, my dinner will be complete. I already have salad goods in the fridge so after I assemble my salad, I will be set for the week. In addition she made oatmeal squares which she bakes and freezes for breakfast. All I need to do for breakfast is take a square from the freezer, heat it, add applesauce, and eat breakfast. The weather was perfect so after cooking was completed, we drove to Summerville Beach to walk. I am not in love with walking on the beach but we have so many beautiful beaches here I decided I could learn to like it. Today was a test. The day was perfect on the beach. Families were there with the children in and out of the water. We drove to the end of the parking lot and walked along the boardwalk to the beach. Unfortunately the tide was high but I had no trouble. We walked to the Quarterdeck and back. By then the sun was out and we had brought no hats so I decided to quit. But walking on the beach was a success. Next up was lunch at the Quarterdeck Restaurant. The food seemed better than last year and we enjoyed our lunch. I ate muscles while Anna ate fish and chips. By the time we got home it was 4:00 so after a bit of a rest, Anna was ready to go home. We had a splendid day doing perfectly ordinary things. Pretty special for both of us.

July 23, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Lunch at White Point.

White Point is the oldest and the best resort on the South Shore. After the fire of several years ago they have been blossoming. The new lodge is beautiful. My favorite place to eat for lunch is in the lounge overlooking the beach and water. Yesterday when I went for lunch with friend Sandra, that was where we ate. People were sitting on the beach in Adirondack chairs all up the shore and several children wee in the ocean. It was a charming scene. The resort opened after the lockdown just a week before I arrived. They decidied to only allow guests from Atlantic Canada. Much to my surprise, the parking lots were full and I overheard the lady on the phone that they had no water front cottages available for the next two weeks. So clearly Maritimers are filling up the place, which is good. I was pleased to see them flourishing. After the fire, they hired a new executive chef. The food improved and the menu was interesting. I knew that a new chef was hired in January so I expected to see a new menu but that was not the case. The lunch menu was identical to last summer so I was disappointed. Friend Mary Mac. looked up their dinner menu and several items are new. Our lunch was excellent and the service was good too. One odd thing occurred. After we had ordered, a lady came asking us for contact information with at least one of us giving address and phone number. Sandra filled it out and said that she lived in Atlantic Canada but I lived in Mississippi. Shortly, a man came wearing a mask to tell me that as soon as we had lunch, I would need to leave the resort immediately. No walking on the beach, no shopping in the gift store, no sitting by the pool. We both just laughed because we were intending to leave immediately anyway but the seemed to be taking their policy of only Atlantic Canadians allowed seriously. I thought it was interesting. After all, I had quarantined after crossing the border. Next time I will be a resident of Atlantic Canada, which I am. The young man took his task seriously. Perhaps our laughing did not help his speech. We still enjoyed our lunch and I was delighted to see they were so busy.

July 22, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Calm Seas.

Today, when Sandra brought me home from lunch,. we looked out to sea and were both astonished. The bold Atlantic Ocean was perfectly flat. The top of the water looked as it was a pane of glass. Sandra lived by the ocean for many years as had I, and neither of us had ever seen the water so calm and flat. It was almost spooky. No sound came from the water. There were no ripples, no waves. No sound at all coming from the ocean. The sight was unbelievable. Yesterday evening when I went out to the deck I discovered that the air was warm. Even the breeze was warm. That was the first time since my arrival that the air was warm. Up until today, the breeze was always chilly so if I wanted to sit out, I would need a jacket. But not yesterday. It was perfect for sitting watching for whales. Anna and I walked along the river in town. I checked the weather and it told me that Queens County would hit 80 so I wore a light cotton dress yesterday. The breeze by the river kept us cool for walking but everyone in town told us how hot it was. Back at Western Head the temperature was 70. Now I hear the sound of the sea so the waves are once again pouring into the shore which seems to be normal,. The glass water of this afternoon was certainly unusual. So for two days I have experience different weather patterns: first a hot day yesterday and today a totally calm sea. Interesting.

July 21, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Come From Away.

If you were not born in Nova Scotia, local people will say that you have "come from away", which would be absolutely true. The good folks of Liverpool do not use that as derogatory, but merely descriptive. They are welcoming and gracious. Very often, those newcomers try to tell the locals what needs to be done to make things better. If that happens, the locals will object. At the farm in Pennsylvania, we saw that happen all the time. A retired couple bought a house in Artemas. The house had been neglected but the new owners, who had moved from Baltimore, fixed it all uo both inside and out. Just down the street from them was a single wide home whose owners collected metal. The backyard was full of piles of metal, organized by type. When the new owners finally finished the work on their new home, they objected. Their new front porch overlooked an eyesore, according to them. At the next township meeting, they wanted to ban piles of junk. Someone asked them why they did not object to the pile of metal before they bought the house? After all, the locals pointed out, the piles have been there for 20 years. The motion did not pass. Our township had no zoning. An owner could built or run anything they wanted. A young couple bought a house as a country place. They worked hard and enjoyed their place on the weekends. But as they drove around, they noted small houses on small lots. So they started to lobby the local folks to address the issue of zoning. They wanted large lots so at the next meeting they proposed a zoning ordinance. The officials from Bedford county thought it was a good idea. But one old farmer asked if that would mean he could not sell a quarter acre lot to his grandchild? When he was told that was correct, no one in the room agreed and zoning has never been instituted in Mann Township. The good people in that area do not want the government to tell them what to do. Nor do the want the new folks tell them what do do. The problem is that when more and more new people move in, they can out vote the locals. Think of Austin Texas. Those come from away folks have taken over. It will be interesting next election.

July 20, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Jan and Larry.

Timing is everything. Last summer, they told me they were selling their house in Ottawa and moving to their lovely home in Liverpool, which would be their main home. In addition, after getting settled after their move, they had several trips planned for the Spring and Fall of 2020. Larry worked at The Cultural Center in Ottawa so his plan was to work just until they drove away to Liverpool. And things worked out. Their house sold and settled, Larry quit his job and they got organized in Liverpool, where they proceeded to lead an active social life. Fortunately, this was all done last year. The cultural Center has been closed all 2020 so Larry would not be working. And who knows if the house would have sold. They feel grateful for their timing. Now they are safely in Liverpool where there is no virus in sight. Of course, the trips planned for 2020 have been cancelled which they estimate will save them at least $6,000. But of course they are unable to visit family and friends but at least they have a lovely big home to enjoy. And they are busily stacking wood for the winter. They had no fireplace in their home in Ottawa so during the winter, Larry made a fire every day in the living room so they are getting ready for next winter. Larry and Jan came to visit me on Sunday. They came for a second cup of coffee. And they brought a freshly baked apple pie, which we promptly ate with our coffee. It took us three hours to catch up. I had to ask everything going on in Liverpool and they wanted to know about me. Our conversation was lively and fun. I enjoy their company and was delighted to see them. Now I look forward to our next visit.

July 19, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Phones and Toilets.

Just last week I wondered if anyone ever dropped their cell phone in the toilet. I was thinking about it because my phone slipped out of the pocket of my dress and fell on the bathroom floor, fortunately landing on a thick rug. I was just a foot away from the toilet, which made me think about toilets and phones. Sure enough, yesterday my cell phone slipped out of my pocket and clunked into the commode. I knew immediately what had happened so I retrieved it, washed it off and dried it with a towel. Then I plugged it in to provide some warmth to dry out anything damp. And of course, I called Mary Mac. who I always call with my problems. She told me to put the phone in a bath of rice and keep it there overnight. All the while the phone was working. Walt told me to remove the case, which I did, except I broke a corner of the case when I struggled to get the phone out. This morning the phone was fine so I guess the phone stayed in water such a short time that it was not damaged. The early cell phones would immediately stop working if they got wet. But my phone seems to have come through the trauma unscathed. But it was not the smartest move I ever made. Next time I wear that dress I will use my little phone purse and not use the pocket which is clearly too small. It was just another instance that keeps me humble!!

JULY 18, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Car Accidents. .

Even when you are not at fault, every car accident costs both time and money. Poor Mary Frances was waiting to turn right when a car hit her in the back of her car. He backed up and she thought he was moving over to the curb to check the damage. But he just drove around her and disappeared down the road. She was so startled that she was unable to get his license. She was mad and scared. She was required to give two estimates for the insurance company. She could drive the car but was unable to open the back so the car needed to be repaired. The car was not new to Mary Frances but it was serviceable and safe. And she liked her car. But the insurance company had other ideas. The repairs cost more than the value of the car so the declared the car a total loss. The company gave Christina the cash value. Christina and Mary Frances went shopping for used cars, which takes time and money. They settled on a small SUV Honda, the same style but a newer version of her old car. I asked to name the car but MF had already given the new car a name, Helen. But I was allowed a middle name. Now after considerable amount of both time and money, Mary Frances is sporting a blue Honda with the wonderful name of Helen Harbour. Pretty good result for all their efforts.

JULY 17, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Painting he House.

The house had been painted white many decades ago. When we bought the place, the house had not been painted for many years so the house had that look of a house weathered. Some people like the look. In Washington, some folks paint their brick house and then just let the paint weather off. Ken and I do not like that look. So after the addition was complete, we had the whole house painted. And it looked great, The weather and the ocean breezes are not easy on houses on the shore so after several years we had it painted again. By now we had put up the Guest House, which was a replacement for the Carriage House, which burned down. Ken and I decided to side the new place with cape cod siding blue, which looks great. At the same time, we decided to remove the shingles from the main house and replace them with turquoise siding. The cost changed our mind. Next plan was to paint it the same turquoise color. Again, reality struck. To change the color of the house would double the cost so we decided to stick with white, which pleased our friends. So 5he paint job was finished five years ago and has stood up well...until this year. The wall facing the ocean is the worst. A painter has been out to give me an estimate and I will have it done this summer. Then I will be all prim and proper in my White House by the sea. I hope the paint job will last a decade.

July 16, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Fish and Chips.

Today I ate my first and last meal of Fish and Chips. Ken and I always ate fish and chips at least once every summer. Every restaurant in Nova Scotia serves fish and chips. They are delicious. But Ken and I almost never eat flied food but we make an exception for Nova Scotia fish and chips. The fish is always fresh. Nova Scotians will send the fish back if the fish is not fresh. I of course can not tell the difference. But I was not born and raised in Nova Scotia. Anna and I walked at Privateer Park along the Mersey River. The day was perfect for walling. 63 degrees and overcast. And the park is a wonderful place to walk with sidewalks encompassing a large grassed area with pretty clumps of foliage here and there. Just near the road we discovered the food truck, selling fish and chips so after another circle, we decided to have lunch. We sat at a picnic table facing the river and enjoyed our fish and chips, which were delicious. I ordered two pieces of fish and brought one home along with half the chips. I intended to eat the other piece of fish tomorrow but I could not resist eating the rest for dinner. At least I ate cooked carrots along with my leftover fish and chips. Now I will not eat another meal of fish and chips this summer. But I certainly enjoyed my fish and chips today.

July 15, 2020. Western Head, Nov Scotia. Rules.

Since the beginning of the Covid virus, rules have been put in place for everyone to follow. The rules have been put in place by mayors, governors and presidents. As an outside observer, many of those rules make no sense at all. And some rules were ridiculous. I do not get upset. I just laugh. My observation is that the ability to make a rule has gone to the heads of the officials. It is like a microphone. If you give a mic to most people, they will keep talking. For instance, yesterday Anna and I went to the new fish plant in Liverpool. Last year, friend Mary purchased a bag of frozen scallops for $75. Anna was told that they were unable to sell the scalpels to the public until the end of the virus. We just laughed. We could go to the grocery store and buy the same scallops but the rule will not allow us to buy directly from the fish plant where it is cheaper and fresher. Exercising outdoors we all know is good for us. But several states prohibited people from going to the parks. Who made that rule? A man was fined when having his children play in a totally empty park. I am happy I do not live in New York state. The governor of Minnesota prohibited everyone from going out on a boat, except for sailboats. Of course, she had a sailboat. On the reservoir in Mississippi, all boats were prohibited. Why? I know the need to social distance but it is seldom when I see more than 2 people in a boat on the reservoir. And then the masks. If a person is out for a walk and meets no people, why does a person need to wear a mask. But in some places a person must wear a mask at all times. Of course, the rules for masks keep changing. The presidential democrat candidate and his wife were placing a wreath on Memorial Day. There was not a soul within 40 feet of them but they wore masks. It seemed he wanted to make the point that he was following the rules even though it made no sense. The rules go on and on. The question is when are these rules going to stop coming. In Nova Scotia, there is almost no infections from the virus. My county has not had a positive test for many weeks. Yet the rules are still in place, scaring the people to death. People are still urged to stay at home. And you still see people in town wearing masks. So many rules have been so ridiculous that the American public, especially the young, are ignoring any rules. I will be interested to see where this all ends. But one thing I know for sure: the rule makers have loved making all these rules. I never noticed that this was in their job description.

July 14, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Flying to the US.

Gill e mailed me to tell me that in two weeks she will fly to New Jersey to spend time with Tim and Kate and her grandchildren. Her intention was to spend two weeks with the family at their country place in New Jersey, where they have been for three months. Gill will not go into New York City. I immediately wrote her back to say that the border is closed. But it turns out I was wrong. Tim had invited Gill. And had searched the rules and discovered that there was a loophole. If you try to drive across the border to the US from Canada, you would be sent back. But if you fly to the US, you will be admitted by border patrol. This makes no sense to me, but there it is. The border is closed between the US and Canada...unless you arrive in a plane. But you can not go the other way. You can not get into Canada from the US by airplane. You will be sent back. This is not well known in Canada. If you try to book a flight with an agent, they will tell you that they can not issue a ticket because they know the border is closed. But you can order a ticket on line directly where you are able to get your ticket and fly. The three Canadians I spoke to today about flying to the US were as surprised as me but they had no interest in flying to the US right now. "We are safer at home in Canada", was what they all told me. Gill is anxious about getting across the border. I hope all will go well with her. The real question is how on earth that loophole ever got into the law. I figure that some official in DC had relatives in Canada and wanted them to fly to visit. But I am a bit of a cynic.

July 13, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Friends.

Two decisions were made by the officials that impacted my summer. First the border was closed between the United States and Canada which meant friends from the US could not come to Canada until the border opened. The second decision in Nova Scotia requiring a 14 day quarantine when crossing the border of Nova Scotia from anywhere in Canada. Family and friends from Ontario would be required to stay home for 14 days with no contact made with any locals. That eliminated family and friends from Ontario from visiting me here in Nova Scotia. This would certainly be a different summer than any other but I decided that I have friends in Nova Scotia with whom I enjoy, Then I arrived here. Gill has been here all along but I am quarantines for 1e days and have not seen her since my arrival. She just spent a few days in Toronto so she is now quarantined for 14 days so I will not see her for another 14 days. And a year has changed with my Nova Scotia friends. Karen is awaiting surgery and is seeing no one except her bubble of people, which means husband, brother, gill and Bruce. So I will not see Karen his summer. We e mail only. Loretta is housebound after she broke her hip and two bones in her leg so she is not able to leave her house. Her husband and family help her at home but going out to lunch is impossible. So I will not see Loretta this summer. Mary Mac. is fearful of Walt getting an infection so they are walking around the parking lot across from their home but never leave their house otherwise, other than picking up groceries at the store. I talk to Mary every day on the phone but I likely will not get to see Mary and Walt this summer. But I am in luck. This week I am having coffee with Larry and Jan. Then we will map out a plan for the summer. And fortunately I have a few other friends who will be able to keep me company. Soon I will have lunch or dinner with Sandra. And the same with Kathy and Brian. I knew this summer would be different but I did no know I was going to spend all my time by myself. What a difference a year makes.

July 12, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Legends of the Hall.

In Halifax, there is a Sports Hall of Fame. It is free and open to the public. 79 Nova Scotians have been elected to the Sports Hall of Fame, with information and artifacts about the famous athletes or coaches. Who knew that many athletes have been world class who lived in Nova Scotia? The reason I know anything about the Hall is a half and hour TV show, shown every day on the Eastlink channel. I am always looking for shows on TV that I find informative so I started watching at 6:00 every day. The program is called Legends of the Hall. A gentleman does all the interviews. Friday, I learned all about a young man named Mark who is a world class kayaker. I did not know that Nova Scotia was a hot bed for paddlers, but it is. Mark has won a world championmship three times, and a bronze Olympic medal. He is still training and as the interview occurred in 2019, he was hoping to make the 2020 Olympics. Most of those who are interviewed are older. The basketball coach at Dalhousie was in the Hall because he was a star basketball player, who won the Canadian championship while he was a player at Dal. After his playing days were over, he coached at a local high school, where they won the national championship. Next he was elected to the Sports Hall of Fame. Now he is the head coach at Dal and hopes to win another championship for that team. These folks were famous in their time but to me they are obscure. But it is interesting to discover how these star athletes got to their peak. They all say the same thing about their success: hard work, good support from family and coaches and a bit of luck. I enjoy this little show on the Eastlink channel.

July 11, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Rain.

As I sit at the computer, rain is falling, enough so I can hear it, but not so much so it is noisy. Just a short time ago, the rain fell so hard you could not hear your own voice. But now the rain is gentle, just the way I .like the rain to do. This evening, when talking to friend Mary Mac. we both agreed that we prefer the rain to fall at night when we are sleeping. But Mary does not like high wind along with the rain at night. That makes her nervous. I always think that we either want more rain or we want the rain the stop. We are never happy with the amount of rain we are getting., I have been here in Nova Scotia for eleven days. Until today, I have not seen a bit of rain. Everyone I have spoken on the phone tells me we are short of rain. George told me that the ground is hard because they have had no rain for two months. This afternoon when I went to walk on my property, I could not tell if I was getting wet due to the heavy fog or that it was actually raining. But as I was getting wet, I went inside. And soon it poured down rain. Now everyone would be happy. Unfortunately it rained only 30 minutes but when I came upstairs to read, the rain started. And it has continued a steady gentle rain which I hope will continue all night. Nothing better than being lulled to sleep by the rain. Some night you just get lucky.

July 10, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. The bedroom.

Without even lifting my head I can see the ocean right out the bench doors. If I sit up, I look out the two dormer windows with views of the sea. And of course, the sea can be heard any time whether the windows are open or not. This bedroom is special. In addition to the bed, both Ken and I had good comfortable chairs where we could read. My chair has the best light in the house so I often read at night. A large ottoman sits infront of me so I keep all my belongings close at hand. Right now I am reading Lark Rise by Flora Thompson, a book referred to me by friend Susan K. I keep the book in the bedroom and never take it down to the living room. After I take my last meds I always read a bit in my comfortable chair. It is a special reading spot. The last aspect of the bedroom that makes it special is the art. Over the bed is a large painting called By The Sea, done by Kate Holmes, friend Denise's sister. Two big pigs are on the beach along with some balls. And with a little lighthouse on the horizon. In addition to the pig painting is a Roger Savage of a water color of Sable Island. Roger lives just down the road. Several paintings of Maurel are hanging on the wall. We knew him for years at his studio in Lunenburg but unfortunately he has died. In addition to the ones mentioned, we have in total 20 pieces or art both large and small in the bedroom. This is a lovely. comfortable bedroom. I feel fortunate that I sleep here.

July 9, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. This lovely place.

Today was a perfect day at Western Head. The temperature was 70. There was full sun all day. There was a bit of a light breeze, just enough to keep you cool in the sun and the sea was calm. The weather does not get any better than today, not only here but anywhere in the world. Anna and I walked up and down the driveway this morning. The roses Ken planted are in bloom so as you walk past the various plots of plantings you smell the roses. Then we sat by the pond. Ken started from nothing. Now it is beautiful with different colored flowers all around the pond. I am always interest as to how such a small pond can be so entertaining. Anna has already trained the fish when she feeds them. The whole pond area is charming, just as Ken knew it would be. Sitting on the deck overlooking the ocean is even more spectacular. I am only saddened because my friends are not able to join me in their homes along the shore. Christina and the girls are supposed to be here. And friends were to move into the Guest House next week. But no more. I am the only one who gets to enjoy the beauty of our place in Nova Scotia. I can not think of a better place for me to be when quarantined. Ken and I did a good thing when we bought this old place and fixed it. Ken spotted the coast on a flight home from Scotland. By a fluke, we got to know our realtor friends Mary and Walt. That was 1999. Now it is 2020. The place gets more beautiful every year. This home in Western Head on Gull Bay is lovely.

July 8, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Water and Exercise.

All my life I have given the same advice: Drink more water and get more exercise. A receptionist at work was complaining about something with her health. I told her to drink more water and get more exercise. I gave the same information to everyone when there was something the matter. It was ridiculous and we all laughed, But sometimes I was correct. During a hot day on the soccer field, Andrew collapsed. We took him to Suburban Hospital who promptly sent him to Children's Hospital in DC, where Andrew met with a Pediatric Neurologist. Many many tests were run on Andrew's head. Ken was afraid that Andrew had a brain tumor because just before he keeled over he had a terrible headache. My solution was that Andrew had not had enough water. After all the tests, the good doctor could not find anything the matter with Andrew's head. He suggested that Andrew was dehydrated. I did not say a word. The doctor wanted Andrew to be kept quiet for a long weekend and drink lots of water. Ken and I decided that keeping Andrew quiet would be impossible so we took a car trip to see the beautiful leaves in New Hampshire. The boys thought we were nuts but we did not tell them that we were doing it to keep Andrew quiet. Fortunately, Andrew had no recurrence, On the way home from the hospital, Ken said to Andrew that if anyone asked him whether he needed his head examined, Andrew should tell them that he already had that done and his head was fine. This morning I spoke with my friends Doreen. I was asking for the report from the Nephrologist on Don who was spilling creatine. Don is now feeling much better after he followed the advice from the doctor, which was to drink 2 liters of water every day. And of course, every doctor tells Don to get more exercise. So there you go, Sometimes my advice is correct. Drink more water and get more exercise is my solution to everything in life.

July 7, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Happy Birthday Mary.

Last year we celebrated Mary's birthday by dining on lobster here at Western Head. Mary, Cliff, Gill and I ate our festive meal at their house. It was delightful. Today Mary is celebrating her birthday in Ocean View, De. where the temperature was 95 which means it is too hot to walk on the boardwalk. Her day was pleasant but muted. She wished she was here where the temperature was 57. When I called to wish her happy birthday, Mary asked about the weather. I could not lie. The weather has been gorgeous. Today we had full sun all day with little breeze. As we had a high of 57 today the day was perfect. The four Maritime provinces have made a bigger bubble. Now a person can for from one province to the other without a 14 day quarantine. Jn order to cross the provincial border you must take a temperature reading, which has made for long lines. Evidently people are ready and willing to take a road trip. My brother, who lives in Ontario, said that no one is hinting that the folks from Ontario will be admitted without the 14 days. And he thinks it will be a long time before the border between Canada and the US will open. Which means that the whole summer tourist season will be wiped out in Nova Scotia. For the last several weeks, the whole of Nova Scotia has had 3 positive Covid tests and they were in Halifax. But people are still staying home. And many folks in our county are wearing masks. Gill tells me that people in Liverpool are paranoid about the virus. Even though there has been no infection in our county for many weeks, the restaurants just opened last week. The same for the resort, White Point. My question is what will they wait for before they open up the whole economy? The answer is of course that they do not know. It is bizarre, at least from my standpoint. But I do not say that out loud. I might be lynched. I only wish that my friends the Ely's and Mitchell's were able to come to their lovely homes at Western Head instead of frying at home in Delaware and Maryland. I miss them.

July 6, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. BLT.

There is nothing better for breakfast than to eat a BLT. It is nourishing as well as delicious. One valuable part of being quarantined is that no one will ever visit you. And as I live by myself, I can do whatever I want to do whenever I wish to do it. Last evening I read late. When I awoke, I never even looked at the clock but after my medications, I went straight back to my book, one recommended by friend Susan K. I did not even dress. Eventually I showered but returned to my book. I was wishing the house had room service because I wanted a cup of tea. Eventually I put on a house dress and went down for breakfast. But by then, I discovered the clock said 12:15 so instead of eating an English muffin and fruit for breakfast I ate a BLT and called it lunch although technically it was breakfast. When I was still in bed, I heard someone walking on my deck but I did not even go downstairs. I just stayed in bed. No one can come in while I am here so why bother. I knew the Culligan man was coming to service the guest house so I assumed it was him, but he came at 3:00. Next I thought it might be Gill but I was wrong. It remains a mystery. Maybe I dreamt it. For dinner, while watching Antiques Roadshow I ate a big salad: lots of greens, cold cooked chicken, cooked vegetables cold left over from last year and last of all half a can of cut up hearts of palm I found in the pantry. I ate every bit but it took a long time, a least the whole hour of the TV show. So there are advantages to being quarantined. Eating a BLT for breakfast at 12:15 is one of those advantages.

July 5, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. The Coffee Table.

I like the coffee table in the living room, here in Nova Scotia. The wood is made of tiger maple and cherry. David Nickerson made the table for us, using as his guide a picture we found in a book of antiques of eastern Canada. He cut it down to make it into a coffee table. The sides at the top and the strapping at the bottom are tiger maple so you can see the lovely grain. It was his last piece of that wood so was unable to use it as accents but not the whole table. But the cherry wood is lovely too so I am happy with the look. In addition he made four stools, all of cherry who fit under the table, so the little girls could sit to play games or eat., I never store the stools under the coffee table because they occlude the maple wood so I use them as little tables by the couches. David also made a bed for our Carriage House, again a copy of a 17th C. bed I found in a book. It was a beautiful spool bed made of ash but unfortunately it burned down in the fire. He also build a drop leaf table for the Carriage House. It was badly scorched in the fire but David took the whole table apart. Now it is perfect and looks lovely and useful in the Guest House. When we bought this house, we purchased some furniture from the previous owner. The end tables and coffee table we bought were sturdy but ugly so we soon replaced them with the new coffee table built by David. Those tables are still useful in the garage. But they are still ugly. As Ken and I both enjoy lovely objects, we were pleased that David was willing to make us our coffee table, which I enjoy every day. Looking at it makes me smile.

July 4, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. This Old House.

The first part of this house was built in the mid 19th Century by the White Family. Ever since, that home I live in has been called "The White House". When we moved in and people told us we lived in the White House, I thought it was because it had been painted white. But I was wrong. The White family owned the property until the 1980's. The first home was small. The original home is now the kitchen and TV room. The loft second floor is our children's room. It is not clear there was an inside stair. Then in 1901 a two story addition was built with an interior stairs. The new addition had two bedrooms, giving he family three. The main floor housed the entrance hall, living room and dining room. We call it a mud room, but that small room was added to be the Western Head post office. And that is how the old house remained. In the mid 1980's, the house was purchased and renovated by our friends Walt and Mary. They added a laundry room and a full bath addition on the main floor. And they refurbished the whole house. They sold in 1990. Those folks did not make any changes to the house. The final stage of the home occurred when we bought in 1999 and added the addition of a two car garage and a second floor master bedroom and bath. We worked hard with the builder and engineer to build the addition to fit with the old house. Now when you look at the house from outside you can not tell that the home was built in pieces. But if you look carefully inside the house, you can see where one part was added bit by bit. This is an old house but it has stood the test of time and storms. And the home is still charming, both inside and out.

July 3, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. Anna.

I am fortunate with my helper Anna. She is energetic, competent and smart. And she enjoys working with me. She is also pleasant. Before I came this summer, a friend in Mississippi asked me what my helper does for me in Nova Scotia. I laughingly commented that she does everything I ask her to do, which was a correct answer. Today was an example of how helpful Anna is to me. On her way to work she stopped at the grocery store to shop for me. We had made a list on Tuesday and I gave her money. When she arrived, the first thing she did was take out the trash. This is not easy because the driveway is long. After putting away the groceries, she cooked two pounds of bacon. Last summer she spotted bacon in the fridge and asked me if I wanted it cooked, which I did. She cooks bacon in the over using a cookie sheet. When it is cooked, she puts it into the fridge for me to use. I use the bacon to make myself a BLT or I use a couple of slices with breakfast. Last summer, Anna brought me lunch. One day it was a small container of her home made soup. Another day it was beef stew. Both were delicious. So on Tuesday, I asker her if she would like to cook a pot of something once a week. I have no house guests or caterer so I will be on my own. Anna laughed and asked me if I knew she was a good cook. I reminded her that I sampled two of her dishes. She thought it was a great idea so the next thing she did was to cook a pot of chili, which is now in the fridge for me to enjoy this weekend. Next she put in the laundry and emptied the dishwasher. Then we walked to the workshop to see the new floor. Gloria is coming to turn it into a bedroom but as the border is closed, she can not come. But the floor looks great. Anna accompanied me as I walked up and down our driveway. We must keep our distance but she wanted to be sure I was safe walking by myself. When we got to the road, we discovered that the ravens had opened one of the trash bags so papers and trash was strewn on the side of the road. Of course, Anna ran to get another bag to clear up the mess. After my walk we sat beside the pond admiring the 6 fishes, who survived the winter. She turned on the hose to fill up the pond. At 2:00 we ate lunch. For dessert we ate a muffin her daughter baked. And Anna made a cup of tea. While I put up my legs, Anna fed the fish and turned off the water...and puttered. The day was beautiful so we sat on the deck in the sunshine and watched for whales and we talked. At 5:00 she clocked out and headed home. No wonder I enjoy having her as my helper. She really helps. And she is good company too. While I am quarantined, we stay in separate rooms and Anna has a gown and mask. I am indeed fortunate with my helper Anna.

July 2, 2020. Western Head, Nova Scotia. . Traveling to Nova Scotia.

When we first moved part time to Nova Scotia, we had several options for getting here. We were living in Maryland so one method was to drive. Then we had another choice of either driving all the way through New Brunswick and then on home to our south shore home or take one of the two ferries in Maine. One ferry left Portland and took all night. We liked that ferry. You boarded at 7:00. We would eat dinner in a lovely dining room where we sat by the window to watch the departure and the sea. Next we retreated to our stateroom to read and sleep. First thing in the morning we retreated to our vehicle to debark in Yarmouth. On the 2 hour drive to home we would stop for breakfast. The whole scene was very civilized. But the boat was slow and old. Eventually that ferry stopped their service. For several years, there was a direct flight from Dulles airport to Halifax. That service was canceled ten years ago so to fly here requires two flights. Another ferry option was the Cat, the fast boat from Bar Harbour. The trip was somewhere between three or four hours, depending on the weather and the tides. When the slow boat stopped running, the Cat left from Portland three days a week and from Bar Harbour the other days. But at lest we had a ferry although I never really enjoyed the Cat. It was noisy, crowded and subject to weather. In other words, people got sick. But several years ago, the provincial government stopped subsidizing the ferry so we had no service at all. Then the ferry ran for one year before it had engines troubles so again we had no ferry. Of course, today you can not even drive to Nova Scotia because the border is closed from the US. And other Canadians must isolate for 14 days when crossing the provincial border. And the ferry is closed for the season. Now you can not get here at all. Twenty two years ago life seemed simple but not any more. It somehow does not seem like progress.

July 1, 2020. Western Head, Noca Scotia. Quarantined.

The rules were for me to drive directly to one place and stay there for 14 days. I was to have a supply of food in the house to last the two weeks. I should not drive in a car with any local person and when driving home from the airport in a private car I am to sit in the back seat. I can walk outside around my house but not in town or on town streets. So I am here at home in Nova Scotia for the next 14 days. Except my helper Anna will be coming twice a week. We just must stay distant. I do not remember ever being in a state of quarantine. I recall as a child seeing homes with a quarantine sign hanging on the front door. Infectious diseases were treated seriously. And I recall people with TB sent away to a sanatorium to be isolated. I just read an article about polio in Canada. I do not remember myself but the article said that people with polio were isolated. Now I am staying at home. And I will enjoy myself. Soon the 14 days will be over so I can return taking friends to lunch. Until then, I will be alone. I expect to do the same as I do at home in Mississippi. I will make a structure with every day. I will get my exercises done and I will walk, even if only on my own driveway. I will read every morning and I will attend to my e mails. And I will make my meals. Yesterday Anna took containers from the freezer full of meals. Last evening for supper I ate curry beef stew, made by last years caterer. It was delicious. I ate the rest of it for lunch today. This evening I will eat a big salad with lettuce from the garden of Steve and Sue. Anna returned jars to Sue this afternoon and she brought home fresh garden lettuce which I will enjoy. And I will eat chicken cooked at the grocery store. I will celebrate Canada Day all by myself and listen to the sounds of the sea. Pretty nice.