Author: oceandelight

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Getting Ready

Dining Room at our Newfoundland inn and spaChristmas was joyful this year, but now that it’s behind us, our focus in on New Year’s Eve. We’re making sure we have everything in line for the experience we’re offering at The Doctor’s House. It’s our first time celebrating New Year’s there, and we’re doing it right, with fine dining by the fire compliments of our fantastic Chef Anna Dohey, live music from local kind of country singer and guitarist Charlie Crocker, and champagne, noisemakers and fireworks at midnight. It should be a really fun, memorable night – so we’re doing the prep work now to make sure it all goes well. Welcome sign at our Newfoundland resort and hotel

Thanks to Leonard Howlett for the great photos. He’s a great Newfoundland artist whose work we now feature in our gift shop at The Doctor’s House – please check it out the next time you visit!

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A Wise Man Indeed

Newfoundlander dressed up as a Wise Man at ChristmasI recently found this old picture sent to us last year by our good friend, Clifford George. He’s one of Newfoundland’s most respected artists, and as you can see, he doesn’t take himself too seriously, instead contributing to nearly every possibly community event with gusto. Last year, apparently, he donned the garb of a Shepherd (or is that a Wise Man?) and looked quite dapper doing so.

Those in the St. John’s area, please note that you can see an exhibit of Cliff’s work, plus that of many equally talented artists, at the Christina Parker Gallery in St. John’s from now until New Year’s. It’s sure to be a show-stopper. Learn more here.

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Relax this Boxing Day

Golden retriever enjoys our newfoundland resort and spa

It’s Boxing Day, and Friday is encouraging us all to relax (like he is) and smell the Christmas dinner leftovers. We’re spending Christmas with our family – and many animals – at The Doctor’s House. One word describes it – divine. Here’s our most sincere wishes that yours is, too. And since it’s not too late to consider New Year’s plans, we’d love it if you considered spending it with us.

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Tuesday with Murphy: Merry Christmas Eve!

relaxing in Newfoundland at ChrismtasMy humans seem to think that Christmas is a time of extra indulgence, plenty of rest and extra time for loved ones. Friday and I won’t argue with that! We love our ‘couch time’ with The Berry (or Jerry, of Joe, or pretty much any warm body that wants to snuggle up). So as you wait for Santa tonight (we’re excited for the 8 exotic four leggeds that should be flying by!), I hope you have someone to cuddle with, too.

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Tibb’s Eve, a truly Newfoundland Holiday

Santa comes to rural Newfoundland

Happy Tibb’s Eve! If you celebrate tonight by dipping into your holiday rations, then you, my friend, are partaking in the very Newfoundland tradition of Tibb’s Eve.

The tradition of Tibb’s Eve originates on the South Coast of Newfoundland after World War II. At the time, small outport communities were very religious and observed the Advent period as strictly and soberly as they did Lent – ie, no libations, shall we say. Tibb’s Eve, in some places appropriately also called Tipsy Eve, was a loosening of the restraint.

So it became a tradition for men to go to each others’ houses the night before Christmas Eve, where they could ‘sample’ all the goodies planned for Christmas. Lighthearted and humourous, it was a way to extend the season and tip a glass with your neighbours.

So if you have a glass of wine tonight, know that you’re taking part of a time-honoured Newfoundland tradition! Hear hear! And read more about the origins of Tibb’s Eve here.

And of course, we’re all excited for Santa to come tomorrow. This photo was captured by Allison George, who happens to know Santa quite intimately. Lucky girl! And warms wishes to all for a bright holiday.

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Sunset Sunday: Before and After

Shag Rock in rural Newfoundland

These pictures are like life: all the same, all different, all wonderful, and totally beautiful. Shag Rock, before, during and after a sunset – reminding us why we love the Wonderful World of Whiteway.

Thanks to guests, Shag It artist and friend Leonard Howlett for the gorgeous shots. What an eye, or should I say three?

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Pretty Ponies

Newfoundland ponies at a Newfoundland resortThere is one thing for certain – The Doctor’s House, an animal sanctuary, has some beautiful residents. I never thought I’d be responsible for ponies, but then again, I never thought I’d be doing so much that we do out here in our new lives as Innkeepers and Restauranteurs. I wouldn’t trade it – or them – for anything.

Thanks to our genius chef, Anna Dohey, for capturing such great photos and passing them along. You can see more on our Facebook page. Anna is also behind our New Year’s Eve menu, which we’re excited about. Clearly she is a woman of many talents!

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Now THESE Are Some Christmas Lights

Christmas Lights in VirginiaWow. My daughter lives in Virginia and she recently sent me this picture of one of her neighbours. Talk about the Christmas spirit! I didn’t think it was possible to outdo Clark Griswold, but these folks might take the cake. There was a time when I put up lots and lots of lights (not as much as this, mind you). What are you thoughts: too much and tacky, or just the right amount of holiday spirit?