Celebrating the local

More than thirty years after leaving Massachusetts for Canada, Sue and I still miss the ocean. We fill that need by enjoying the hundreds of kilometers of Great Lakes shoreline. From Cherry Beach and Harbourfront just down the street to the near shores of Huron and Erie, whenever possible, we take a break, explore, picnic, watch the sunset.

Recently we enjoyed a brief visit to Huron County. Internet searching led us to the Port Albert Inn, a genuine 1800's coach house and pub. Highway 21 straightened out in the mid 50's. The bridge over the adjacent Nine Mile River now serve pedestrians only. The only reasons to go there are to relax, to enjoy the hospitality and conversations with innkeeper Mark MacAuley, and to walk the endless shore. And a breakfast that exceeds expectations.

Next time, we will try to time our visit to enjoy one of the musical nights in the downstairs pub. It oozes the welcome and friendliness one might expect at a house party.

We enjoyed Bayfield, Goderich and Grand Bend during our stay. Each town offers unique experiences. Bayfield is a bit like Niagara on the Lake before it became 'wine country'. Goderich is justifiably proud of its town square (eight sides), parks, flowers, and harbour park. The life long resident in front of me at Culbert's Bakery recommended the donuts and hamburger buns -- I can second that. 'They've been making them the same for 50 years.' She cautioned that this is the third generation operating the bakery and rumour is they are selling. Our dinner was the fresh perch and chips special at the Lake House Fish n Chip Truck at the town harbour. My only regret is that we didn't stay long enough to try the pickerel and whitefish. Need a t-shirt or a reminder of summer silliness? Don't miss Grand Bend. Like Wasaga Beach, condos are threatening. Once gone, summer places like these won't be back.

From the Port Albert Inn to each community visited, the best treat was the warmth, the friendliness, and the unhurried conversations -- with and without purchases. These are communities where local farms, towns, industries, and visitors blend easily. Looking through a 'Buy Local, buy fresh' guide, I noticed food producers who come regularly to the St. Lawrence North Market and downtown shops.

Sure their goods get here, but visit the source to get the full experience.

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