Celebrating Canada!

 Happy Canada Day from Nova Scotia!

Justin and I had the unique opportunity to go to the Royal Nova Scotia Interntionl Tatoo.

A Nova Scotian, and Canadian Experience to the MAX!!!

We thought it was truly the perfect way to celebrate our last Canada day in this beautiful and gracious country, that we have been priviledged to be apart of for these past years.

Canada has become near and dear.

We`ll take with us two Canadian children from our experience here, along with lessons and memories we will never forget.

 Because of these blessings, observing Canada Day is a tradition we hope to form and always treasure in our family.

The Tatoo was truly a once in a life time event. Many countries were represented- each putting on an amazing performance. When it was America`s turn to take the floor I was amazed at how moved I was and reverenced with pride to be honoring my country. At the front of the Arena, incredible pictures from all across America  flashed across a big screen while the U.S. Millitary Band Marched and performed our country`s favorites. It`s not hard for my soul to fill with love for our Country, but in this moment I was also filled with a deep longing to be home, and I relalized just how much I miss living in America. It was a powerful and moving performance. Afterwhich, I leaned over to Justin and told him I couldn`t make it through that one without a tissue.... He instantly agreed, and I could see in his face he was feeling the same inside. When the image of the American and Canadian flag came on the screen, we wrapped our arms around eachother. I wasn`t very good at holding my tears back at this point...! :)

I know there will not be another Independence Day that I do not cry honoring my country.

God Bless the U.S.A.!!

We loved the bagpipes! They continue to add special meaning into my life and family. Our other favorites from the night were the celtic music and dancers, and of course America`s moment to shine!
Canada Day is a fun holiday to celebrate with the friends we have made here, and with our community. It is our  `adopted` counrty, and we are very grateful to have many countries to celebrate this time of year!

In Church today our bishop rose in Elder`s Quorum and suggested they sing  `The Star Spangled Banner` out of respect to the American members of the ward, which I have to say, I greatly appreciate hearing.

Justin and I also love the words to the Canadian National Anthem. They will always be special to us.

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada! Where pines and maples grow.
Great prairies spread and lordly rivers flow.
How dear to us thy broad domain,
From East to Western Sea,
Thou land of hope for all who toil!
Thou True North, strong and free!
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada! Beneath thy shining skies
May stalwart sons and gentle maidens rise,
To keep thee steadfast through the years
From East to Western Sea,
Our own beloved native land!
Our True North, strong and free!
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Ruler supreme, who hearest humble prayer,
Hold our dominion within thy loving care;
Help us to find, O God, in thee
A lasting, rich reward,
As waiting for the Better Day,
We ever stand on guard.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.


If there is one thing I know, it is that Heavenly Father created a beauitful world for us to enjoy.
Where ever we are participating in that beauty, we are blessed, and feeling His great love for us- His children. I have felt it many times in this beautiful land. Where ever we are in this world, He is watching over us, and we are not forgotten.

-God Keep Our Land Glorious and Free!-