In and around Charlottetown

Our first few days on the island were cold, cloudy and damp. Finally a day arrived when it was warm enough to take Ben for a walk around the harbour.

Signs of spring were spotted, if not in abundance.

Lobster season opened on the 1st of May. Of course we had to sample this local delicacy. 

Verdict - mouth watering delicious.

City skyline.

We were thrilled for the islanders that sunshine greeted the first cruise ship for the season.

 

We had read that the cruise boats are greeted with local folk dancing and music. Sadly it was still too early in the season for this, but I did get to chat with 'Anne with an E' of Green Gables fame, before the passengers disembarked.

A 30 min drive took us to Georgetown, a small waterfront village, with a huge lobster processing facility. 

Some of you will know of my love of the Ladybird, but I also collect 'Pigs'. Our visit to Georgetown was a must after we found a leaflet advertising 'The Maroon Pig', Art Gallery and Sweet Shop. Their freshly out of the oven cinnamon scroll bun was divine!

Not long after spotting this sign, we saw fresh horse manure on the road and a few k's later, a horse and buggy. The driver had a wind shield up. Incredibly necessary. We later learnt that there are several Ammish communities on the island.

Downtown.

The sunshine lasted all day!

Hiking with a difference.

We are loving our time with our adorable Grandson Ben and his Mum and Dad, but we don't want to disrupt their routine too much, so have a few hours each day to explore local areas.

It is a sheer joy to hike where there is no need to be alert for leeches, snakes and ticks. Supposedly, ticks in summer, but that seems a long way off! I'm delighting in walking in forests so different to home. The birch, firs, luxuriant green mosses, and a splattering of still unmelted snow, are so foreign to me. My joy has no bounds when you add in the chance sighting of a squirrel, chipmunk, woodpecker and the dulcet tones of unseen tiny birds,

1. Bonshaw Provincial Park, 20 mins from our accommodation.

On arrival, we were disappointed to find the trails closed, but thankfully locals assured us to continue on.

Misty moments.

Yes, the ladybirds are also enjoying the mossy undergrowth.

2. Return to the parkland opposite Stuart's unit, where spring is trying to have the upper hand.

The difference 5 days makes.

 

Mussels growing on the low tide shoreline.

3. A portion of the Confederation Trail near Hunter River. The Hunter River trails were the agenda, but alas, our directions were not sufficient to find the trailhead.

Rural views with a most welcome blue sky that was to later change drastically.

 

After 4 kms, we arrived at the site of Bedford Station, and made this our turn around point.

  

First signs of a new rainfront approaching.

Life is good!

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