Farewell to Nova Scotia, the seabound coast...

I cannot help but feel sad, each time I leave Nova Scotia. It is SUCH a beautiful province. Don't get me wrong, I do love my home province. But Nova Scotia holds a very special place in my heart, for sure. Each time I cross the Missaguash River at the border and see those Nova Scotia flags snapping in the breeze, and the lighthouse at the Tourist Bureau, my heart does a little flippy flop. I spent last weekend in one of the most beautiful spots on the south shore. I have not been to Lunenburg for a number of years, and what a pleasant surprise - it was even more beautiful than I remember. Or perhaps I just appreciate it more now?
Before I tell you about the fun we had in Lunenburg with quilter extraordinaire Laurie Swim, you might like to come with me on a visit to Suttles and Seawinds of Mahone Bay. One must pass through scenic Mahone Bay to get to Lunenburg, and..well, if you're passing through, you may as well stop in, right? After our long drive, we were ready to stretch our legs anyway.. wink wink***
It's been quite a while since I visited the South Shore, but I had no trouble remembering that one must stop at The Teazer. It's a wonderful gift shop- well worth the visit. And then, we made

 our way to Suttles and Seawinds. If you are not familiar with this name, let me acquaint you:  Suttles and Seawinds began as a cottage industry of sorts, when Nova Scotia designer (and fellow Acadia grad) Vicki Lynn Bardon returned home after studying design in New York City and founded this business to employ rural women. Initially the products were quilts and home decor items such as pillows, placemats, runners, etc. Gradually the line expanded to include clothing items which were pieced, appliqued and quilted. The business grew, and eventually moved from the small village of New Germany to the charming seaside town of Mahone Bay.

 Today's offerings include beautifully crafted quilts, clothing, nighties, placemats, tea cosies, cosmetic bags and more, all still made by local women. Also one can find a wide selection of fashion, jewelry, accessories, home decor items, gifts and hooked rugs selected from  the best suppliers across Canada and global markets. I have been a fan of Suttles and Seawinds since the 70's (okay, I'm dating myself here, aren't I?) and I still love her quilts. Now of course, you can purchase fabrics as well, so what were three gals to do- we HAD to go in... The fashionwear and
accessories are found in a large pink Victorian mansion on Main Street (above, left) and the quilts, rugs and fabrics are next door in the charming barn (above, right).. you KNOW where I headed... The photos here will give you a little taste of Suttles.... "Suttles", by the way, is the local name for fabric scraps used for making quilts and Seawinds refers to the link between generations of Nova Scotians and the sea. We could have spent much longer, but as it was, we kept the gal past their usual closing time. Just cause for another visit, I'd say...
Next I'll take you to Lunenburg...

Piece,
Linda

So farewell, farewell to Nova Scotia's charms
For it's early in the morning and I'm far, far away...