29.12.14

A TRIP TO ST. GEORGE


The Town of St. George became the first permanent English settlement in Bermuda in 1612, and it is also claim to the first English settlement in the New World.

Bermuda was founded by accident in 1609 after the Sea Venture, a Royal Navy ship heading for Jamestown, Virginia, was severely damaged by a hurricane and wrecked on the reefs around the island. Admiral Sir George Somers led his crew to safety and remained here for 10 months, building a church and houses in what is now St. George's.

Today, St. George's is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with interesting architecture and a storied past, including roles in the American War of Independence and the American Civil War. Over the holidays, we spent a morning in the historic town,  exploring the Unfinished Church, the State House (built in 1620 and the oldest building on the island) and the tiny cobblestone streets. Here are just a few snapshots ...

The Unfinished Church, Bermuda

St. George, Bermuda

St. George, Bermuda

St. George, Bermuda


 


23.12.14

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!


I wish you an amazing festive time of year and hope that you're able to celebrate with those near and dear to you. 

This is the first Christmas that I'll be away from my family, but thankfully the kids and I went to Canada at the beginning of December for a lovely wintry visit. My husband's mother and sister will be joining us in Bermuda this year, and we're figuring out the traditions that we will establish for our little family. One new tradition will be to head to Elbow Beach on Christmas morning, along with the island's ex-pat community, to raise a glass of champagne with new friends. Monkey is already excited to splash in the ocean! 

However you celebrate, happy holidays to you!

5.12.14

REUSE IT: TREE STUMPS


Hurricanes Gonzalo and Fay uprooted trees all over the island, leaving small mountains of debris at every turn. A large Royal Poinciana tree (also known as Delonix regia, Flame tree and Flamboyant tree) came down in our friends' yard, which was an unfortunate sight because with its vivid red flowers and bright green foliage, it was an incredibly beautiful tree.

The tree stumps that Monkey is climbing on here came from this grand old tree. The kids love using them for climbing, jumping, rolling or just sitting and having a chat. It makes for a natural and creative outdoor play area.

Thank you to Glen and Valerie for sharing with us!

1.12.14

'TIS THE FESTIVE SEASON

Christmas in Bermuda

 The festive season is here! The streets of Hamilton are decorated with holiday colour, sparkle and lights, and last night was the Santa Claus Parade in town. It felt like every islander -- big and small -- came out to celebrate the season. We perched on the balcony of my husband's office building with new family friends for a bird's eye view of the parade that started at dusk ...

Bermuda Santa Claus Parade

Bermuda Santa Claus Parade

Bermuda Santa Claus Parade

Bermuda Santa Claus Parade

Yesterday, we also decorated our tree and Monkey helped, making sure to hang each ornament in just the right spot. Today was our first activity from our Advent Calendar -- it was read Finding Christmas, a favourite of ours. Yes, it really is beginning to feel like the festive season in Bermuda despite its warm sun, palm trees and beautiful beaches.

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