Happy Canada!

Today began with breakfast in the lodge's oceanfront dining room, where we observed a variety of birdlife through the window, including a couple of large Ospreys—the official bird of Nova Scotia—fishing in the cove. We sat next to a kind and informative wildlife photographer who educated us about the local wildlife. Although we are only about 150 miles from Halifax, the route we are cycling—Highway 7, the east coast road—is remote and home to bobcats, bears, moose, bald eagles, Ospreys, great blue herons, and an array of wildflowers, especially lupins in full bloom. Riding through this space on open roads with very little traffic has been an energizing and soulful experience.

Today's ride to Sheet Harbour, NS, was only 35 miles, but because we faced a headwind for most of the way, the distance felt just right. Two things stood out today. The first was another bear sighting. Fortunately, it wasn't a close encounter, as it was a mama bear with her cub. We stopped a good distance from where they crossed the road, waited for a couple of minutes, and then cautiously proceeded. By the time we passed the area, they were long gone.

Black bears

The other standout moment for me was a house draped with a Canadian flag banner that simply said, "Happy Canada." It made me reflect on how happy I have been since starting the Canadian tour. There is something truly authentic about Canadian happiness. People here are genuinely kind and friendly, and I believe those two qualities are sources of Canadian joy. Every day, we have had interactions with people that lift our spirits. Yesterday, we met Peggy while taking a break; she owns a soap company and, after learning about our trip, insisted on giving us several different soap products, wishing us good health and happiness.

Happy Canada

Typical Canada

The other standout moment for me was a house draped with a Canadian flag banner that simply said, "Happy Canada." It made me reflect on how happy I have been since starting the Canadian tour. There is something truly authentic about Canadian happiness. People here are genuinely kind and friendly, and I believe those two qualities are sources of Canadian joy. Every day, we have had interactions with people that lift our spirits. Yesterday, we met Peggy while taking a break; she owns a soap company and, after learning about our trip, insisted on giving us several different soap products, wishing us good health and happiness.

The east coast of Nova Scotia

Drivers are another example of this kindness. We often receive honks and waves of support, encouragement, and a wide berth when they pass us. One driver, on a warm, clear morning, even opened his window and, in a kind and wishful tone, hollered, “I’m so fucking jealous.” That cracked us both up!

A local fishing

I have come to appreciate the unique nature of Canadian happiness. Respect, courtesy, appreciation, caring, compassion, safety, freedom, and a strong sense of community are just some of the many positive qualities that permeate Canadian society. I believe these elements nurture happiness here. Perhaps this could become Canada’s number one export to the United States—something so special that you can’t even put a tariff on it!