It has been one of the most challenging years of my life and yet I love you more. Your rocky shores and wooded trails have held me while uncontrollable winds have ripped the metaphorical siding, insulation and slats away and tested my being. Bones and blood exposed to the elements, I thank you for reminding me of the granite and salt that have made our stalwart Scotian heritage strong. I will leave again but I will always return. —Loyal Hali Lover
This article appears in Nov 29 – Dec 5, 2012.