Boats, Buds & Booms

No, it's not Scotland or a guard in England.

Over the past week, we have been into Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia. Our first trip was to the waterfront and harbor area. We walked along the boardwalk, enjoyed the different waterfront areas, and took a "sail" on a tall ship around the harbor.

It's a nice area for sightseeing and walking, plenty of shopping and eating. The harbor was interesting too. It is the second largest natural harbor in the world, next to Sydney, and was heavily fortified in the late 1700's-1800's. Remnants of cannons and forts can be seen on harbor islands and shores.

And the granddaddy of all forts in Nova Scotia is the Citadel, sitting atop a large hill overlooking the harbor. The Citadel is Canada's prized national historic site, well maintained and very interesting. We toured it today and arrived in plenty of time to wander the fort before the daily ceremonial cannon firing to mark noon. The 78th Scottish Highlander regiment was part of the fort complement back then and today people are in period costume, giving tours, explains life at the fort, playing pipes and drums.

Then we walked over to the Public Garden and strolled through a park with various flower gardens, streams, lakes and fountains throughout. It was a very nice day and many people were enjoying the park, gardens and weather.