It's Thanksgiving here in Canada. In the winter we had decided that we would go to the Berkshires for the long weekend but when mom had heart surgery this spring we decided to stay closer to home (especially given her fears about something happening while in the US and her fears of American healthcare). Paul came up with the idea of heading to an area we used to visit fairly regularly - Prince Edward County.
We last visited 'the county' together back in 2005 - although I have been a number of times for work activities since then.
We decided to rent a cottage and use it as our base for exploring the county.
This morning, after the house sitter showed up, we headed to pick up mom (who was ready on time for the first time in history).
Mom and her pumpkin pie stowed in the car, we headed east to the county.
About two hours from home, the county is a unique island community, a place of tranquility, creativity, hospitality and fun. Lots of fun. As you tour the rural routes you can see the United Empire Loyalist roots everywehere. Traditional agriculture is the backbone of the area although this has been enhanced by a growing wine industry. A growing and multifaceted arts community contributes to the unique ‘County’ culture.
The wine industry is young. 10 years ago there was 1 winery, today there are close to 30. When we last tasted the wines in 2005 they were not the sort of thing I was racing out to purchase. No, not at all. Yesterday we bought 2 cases - oh, how thinsg have improved. The county is best known for its Pinot and its white wines.
Our day in the county consisted of wine tastings (5 wineries), a great lunch at the Milford Bistro, two cheese makers, the County Cider Company, and a return to the cottage to get settled in for the night.
We're trying to figure out a place to go for our Thanksgiving but yours looks perfect. Have fun and enjoy pumpkin pie.
Posted by: Jane | October 08, 2010 at 07:58 PM
Happy thanksgiving. Have fun and don't eat too much :D
Posted by: Ewok | October 08, 2010 at 08:06 PM
Jane - so far we have spent Thanksgiving at a cottage quite a few times, in Venice, and in Greece. I do believe that last weekend was the best. There is somehting about celebrating nature's bounty in the country . . .
Thanks Ewok - we followed ONE of your two directives. *smile*
Posted by: JDeQ | October 16, 2010 at 07:07 AM