Creator of East Coast Slang Heritage

Fundy Trail Parkway

We started our journey on the Fundy Trail Parkway from Sussex to St. Martins(about a half hour drive) that took us through the country side and the Appalachian Mountain Range. Then on to the parkway where we took our time to stop at all the points on our map.(yes you want the map) We then drove on to explore Alma NB(half hour drive);of course . It was quite a full day of adventures! This route put us on the ride side of the road for the best scenery and oh it was all so breathtaking.

The Fundy Trail Parkway is an adventure you absolutely must put on your list of things to do and experience this summer. This spectacular wilderness hugs the southern coast of New Brunswick; through the Appalachian Mountain range, that extends to the Bay of Fundy. It provides something for everyone! You can view the scenery from the numerous observation decks(easy access) to view the rugged coast lines, the beaches and the vastness of our Bay.

There are various hiking trails(of all levels of expertise) along the way that lead you through both open and winding wooded trails to beaches and points of interest. We hiked the 2km trail(the shortcut) to see Walton’s Gorge/waterfall and that was well worth the visit. You just can’t visit this area and not walk the suspension bridge over the Big Salmon River. Was a first for me and yes it was sturdy and all ok.

St. Martins

St. Martins has a great deal to offer on your adventure; camping, beaches, fine food(lobster),history and culture . The displays at the Quaco Museum tell the story of the earliest settlers, shipbuilding and interesting tidbits about living life there. Ask about the painted murals on the exterior of the building! It’s a whole historical story in itself! Of course; you have to visit the beach and the famous caves but try to get there at low tide, so you can walk out to explore them. We missed the boat on that one; however, we could see the caves in the cliff, walk the shoreline and feel the salty bay air. The beach is a thick layer of small flat rocks(careful as it tends to shift underfoot) and the tides ebb and flow; over these rocks, creates the most unique sound you will ever hear. Don’t forget to stop in to the Sand Piper gift shop and the cafe next door!

Alma

It’s always a pleasure to stop in to Alma and wander around. So much to offer in the gift shops, fine food in the restaurants, the wharf, explore the beach, hiking in the park, camping, swimming and so much more. Of course; ya can’t go and not have some fried clams, fish and chips, sticky buns and of course the lobster. YUM!

Take a drive; you will be so glad you did. We had a great day!

Homemade Biscuit

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Biscuits are/were a regular staple in every home from way back when. I am sure your Mom’s biscuit recipe got handed down through generations in your family. Imagine a big hearty bowl of stew accompanied by a nice warm biscuit with butter! Yum I say! Comfort food!

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 tsp salt
5 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup cold butter(margarine)
1 egg
1/2 cup milk(approx)

Method:

Mix dry ingredients in a bowl
Cut in butter to the dry mixture(will be crumbly)
Mix egg and milk together
Add wet to the dry mixture(stir in gently by hand)
Mix till blended(will be sticky)
Turn out on a floured surface and knead 5-6 times(minimal handling)
Roll or pat out dough to 1 inch thickness . Use a floured round cutter/cut into desired size.
Place on ungreased baking sheet.
Bake at preheated 375 oven until golden brown or 18-20 minutes.
Hint: Minimal handling and mixing is best or biscuits are too tough and won’t raise. Believe me I have done it!

Quick Tips: Add a few extra ingredients.

Herbed Biscuits: Add 2 tsps finely chopped dried herbs such as parsley,rosemary,thyme or oregano.
Cheese Biscuits: Add 1 cup grated old cheddar cheese.
I add a good 1/4 tsp of pepper and sometimes paprika.

Dessert: Biscuit with Molasses

You can top off your biscuit with anything really. Peanut butter and jam is a favourite little snack. Molasses sure makes for a quick and tasty little after dinner dessert. East Coasters have been eating molasses for ages. I know I sure do.

Molasses can be used as a sweetener or as a substitute for sugar. It is a by-product of the sugar beet and sugar cane refinement. It was first produced in and around the warmer countries favourable for growing cane and was used as trade for goods. It comes in light, dark or blackstrap. It is a healthier choice than refined sugar, a good source of energy/carbs and low in fat/fiber. Rich in many minerals(iron and calcium), antioxidants and vitamins like niacin(B3), B6, thiamine and riboflavin. It’s sweet and sure tasty! It’s often used in baking, cookies, breads, beans, candie and even for making rum. It’s thick texture and viscosity gave rise to the saying as someone being…”slow as molasses.”

The Monument Lefebvre

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Exploring off the beaten path! We came across this spectacular building set up on a hill in the center of Memramcook NB. So we pulled up to check it out and discovered that yes we could go in and found ourselves in a beautiful museum. The Monument Lefebvre is dedicated to the history, culture and journey of the Acadians.

The MONUMENT LEFEBVRE is a National Historic Building that was built in 1898.  It is located in the heart of Memramcook which is just a short car ride from Moncton, NB. This building was the new home for the Saint Joseph's College (est:1864)that was the first to offer post secondary education in the French language; in Atlantic Canada. It stands as the symbol of the Acadian Renaissance which began with the first Acadian National Convention held in Memramcook in 1881. The building was dedicated in honour of Father Lefebvre.  Today it serves as a museum depicting his life and the remarkable history of the Acadians. It is definitely a must see in your travels.

Camille Lefebvre(1831-1895)

Father Lefebvre came to Memramcook from Quebec in 1864 to help establish a College with the Congregation of the Holy Cross. He was the superior to the college(1864), educator and the local parish priest. He was appointed the Provincial Superior of the Congregation of the Holy Cross in 1872 and the apostolic missionary in 1876. He was devoted to and concerned about Acadian rights and was instrumental in organizing the Acadian National Convention in 1881. Acadians numbered 5000 strong on these grounds that year. Delegates at the convention declared August 15 as the celebration of National Acadian Day. He was very remarkable man who made a strong impact in the lives of so many.

Monument in the entrance of The Monument Lefebvre.

So take a side road and explore! The information documented in the museum will transform you to the earliest days of Acadian history, the culture, the hardships and their journey during the tragic Expulsion in 1755.

The Bay Chaleur Phantom

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The Bay Chaleur Phantom is a story about a mysterious “Firey Ship” that appears on it’s waters. Maritimers have shared many a tale about this Phantom Ship for generations now and swear by their actual sightings! Is it a story made up by the locals years ago about an apparition to scare the timid, a natural phenomenon or truely a Ghost Ship? Many have tried to explain its existance but it remains a mystery to all; even today! Is it your imagination or is it real!

Phantom Ship

The Bay Chaleur extends from the mouth of the Restigouche River down along the Northern Shores of the Province of New Brunswick and borders the Gaspe Coast of Quebec. It’s in this vast area that this Ghost Ship has been sighted. Legend has it that the best time to see it is on a still, clear moonlit night. Most viewings are in the summer months but it’s known to appear throughout the year. So; out of the blue, a firey ship suddenly appears and then will very slowly dissipate. It has been witnessed as a still form of a burning ship, as a huge ball of fire, a sailing ship with its masts ablaze and as a lantern shining bright. Some have even recanted they have seen men scurring about on it and even jumping overboard. Whatever it is; remains unexplained. To a non believer it is some sort of natural phenomenon but to a local who has witnessed it; it’s an actual Ghost Ship.

The Bay Chaleur

Many ships have sailed up the arm of the St Lawrence River to the Bay of Chaleur; in the past. The Phantom Ship is a legend about a sailing ship that met a horrible disaster in her waters. Many have said it was a Pirate Ship seeking refuge in the calm waters of The Bay. The John Craig sunk in the early 1800;s off the Coast of Shippegan. The Marquis de Malauze was a French frigate sunk by the British in these waters; in the late 1700’s. Whichever ship met its demise in these waters; returns frequently over time to display itself; in all its glory, and keeps the legend alive. Who are they! What is it! Who knows! But… to the eye witness… it certainly is true to life.

So; in your travels, be sure to roam the shoreline along the North Shore. If you so dare; settle in on the shore of The Bay one night and wait! Keep your senses heightened and be on the look out for this mysterious Ghost Ship. Who knows…you may become a believer. Being from the North Shore; its a story I grew up knowing, kept an eye out for but never did actually see. Maybe I was afraid too!

Seafood Casserole

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A favourite recipe you are all sure to enjoy. I did tweak this one a bit. Added 1 red pepper, 1 yellow pepper, mushrooms, a seafood chowder mix, used lobster and skipped the crab, 1 can of baby clams, cayenne and parsley. I did not add the chicken haddie but added 3 good sized pieces of salmon. I also used gluten free flour for the sauce and it was perfect. Lots of cheese! Makes a good large casserole(serves 8-10). I served it on a bed of rice with a garden salad and garlic bread on the side. Yum… and loved by all!

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