On our way down Cape Breton toward Louisbourg, we stopped at several local craft shops. One highlight was meeting Bob Smith of North Shore Woodsmiths, whose craftsmanship and friendliness made the visit memorable. We also came across a glassblowing studio decorated with whimsical Halloween sculptures—Ralph would have loved them!

We settled in at Mira River Provincial Park and the next day visited the Fortress of Louisbourg — a one-quarter reconstruction of the 18th-century French stronghold at Louisbourg. The fortress played a pivotal role in the Anglo-French struggle for control of what is now Canada, with its two sieges — particularly that of 1758 — marking major turning points. We were especially impressed by the remarkably realistic reconstructions, including the kitchen and barracks shown below.

From Louisbourg, we traveled to Sydney for a Fiber Festival, then continued to the Big Pond Community Centre—part of the Big Pond Fire Station—to enjoy a Celtic Colours performance (no photos allowed). The evening featured both local and international performers playing flute, guitar, fiddle, and piano, accompanied by incredible voices. The grand finale brought everyone together in a toe-tapping, knee-slapping celebration that was truly one of the highlights of our trip.

From Mira Provincial Park, we traveled to Dollar Lake Provincial Park—on its final day of the season! Along the way, we stopped at a local quilt show featuring a wonderful array of colorful and creative quilts.

Yesterday was Canadian Thanksgiving, which we celebrated with Melinda’s cousin Jack, his wife Marian, and Jack’s daughter Amy and two of her children—a wonderful day of food, laughter, and connection.