And as our focus switches to swatches and the Scary One’s mission to redesign our new-build news just in… Nova Scotia.
The power couple of Scottish interior decorating (no, not me and Mrs M, but Justin and Colin) are empire building across the water.
Just as many crofters and explorers and innovators did before in Nova Scotia (or New Scotland to the non-Latin speakers) in Canada.
Making their merk
Sir William Alexander, the 1st Earl of Stirling anybody?
Well the peer was at the forefront of the Scottish Empire (no, really) when he wrested a charter from King James to set up a Scottish colony in the lands lying between New England and Newfoundland.
And in order to draw in Scots investors they lured purchasers in with the offer to wear the arms of Nova Scotia, be addressed as Sir and buy the land for 1000 merks (or £20).
Not sure how much Colin and Justin laid out for Louisbourg Hotel in Cape Breton, which they might have considered a doer-upper and which they relaunched as the North Star.
The charming Luisa regaled us how they have made their mark on the other Scotia.
And how the first Scottish colony is replete with innovative holiday accommodations which highlight its breadth and scenery.
With domes and glamping popular and beach-side tree houses.
Celtic colours
Of course the Celtic footprint is still prominent to this day with Cape Breton Island the place to be in mid-October for the Celtic Colours International Festival.
Where, of course, there will be ceilidhs and craic enough for all.
And you know we love a Celtic bash, whether it be Caribbean or Canadian or Caledonian.
Luisa, helpfully filled in our gaps and reminded us that the first Scottish immigrants came to Pictou (the ancient Highlanders were Picts).
This year is a special one for the Scots-Canada alliance with the first Caledonians landing in Nova Scotia 244 years ago this September 15.
And the Nova Scotians have only gone and rebuilt the ship Hector which took those 200 Scots settlers.
Pictou of the bunch
Of course this being a port then the town reverberates to the sounds and flow of the water.
And the Pictou Lobster Festival in the summer comes highly recommended and a ferry goes out to Prince Edward Island.
For Scots and those of Scots descent then the water of life is the uisce beatha, the water of whisky.
The Nova Scotians broadened their palates and have a Good Cheer Trail to keep you sated.
And as with the best treks there are stamps to collect along the way.
All of which appeals to this Old Scotsman which is why I understand why you might want to empire-build in New Scotland.
We’ll keep you updated, now wait a minute just in… Nova Scotia. Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan have the tartan carpet out.
MEET YOU ON THE ROAD