By Susanne Merritt
In my younger years, I was a steadfast urbanite – the bright lights, endless entertainment, and a wide array of education and employment opportunities were too alluring to ignore. Since then, I have been moving more and more rural, so that now, our family is happily nestled in the Eastern Shore.
There are many advantages to rural life in Nova Scotia...the natural, unspoiled beauty, the sense of history, the proud ancestry, some pretty great beaches, and, of course, a terrific sense of community.
That sense of community was alive and well during the 10th Anniversary celebration of the Musquodoboit Harbour Farmers Market, held at the MH Railway Museum. Over 600 people attended the Friday night outdoor event, with vendors offering as assortment of quality, locally made items.
Smiling faces, warm hugs, laughter, and an old fashioned sense of laid back good times permeated the balmy summer evening. From the very young, to the not so young, to the four-legged friends, everyone was having a good time.
These days, while technology is ubiquitous, there was a surprising absence of cell phones, and selfies, and technology, in general. People were too busy talking, and laughing, connecting in real time. It was like a country fair, without the carnies. It was magic.
And then there was the food. Old friends chatting over East Side Burgers and Fish Tacos from The Bandwagon Food Truck. New friendships forged over Belgian waffles or Sweet Heat Caramel Corn from Laughing Crow Foods. Youngsters with wide eyes and giant smiles, digging into Julia Myatt’s handmade cinnamon rolls. Fresh baguettes from Dobbit Bakehouse sitting quietly in bags and baskets, full of delicious promise.
To round out this particular Friday night, Sober Island Brewing Company and Still Fired Distilleries were on site, and busy. Very busy, offering samples of locally made beers and spirits. Full bellies, tasty drinks, designated drivers, perfect weather – what could be better?!
While city living can be exciting and fast paced, rural living is more like a warm hug, or a favourite sweater. That sweater, that despite the fraying cuffs, you just can’t part with. Rural living, and the accompanying strength of community, offers familiarity and connection, builds resilience, and provides a buffer to the mounting challenges of modern life.
Be sure to check out the Food Festival, the final event in the MHFM 10th Anniversary celebration, on Sunday, September 9th, from 9 to 1, 67 Park Rd. For a selection of Potluck Recipes for your next community gathering, go to....
