Celebrate the S.S. Kyle in Conception Bay North

Old ship the S.S. Kyle in Bay ROberts, Newfoundland and Labrador

We like alerting readers to fun community events, and there’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebrating coming up this weekend in Bay Roberts that is not to be missed. They’re celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the S.S. Kyle, along with the culture and way of life in this beautiful part of the province. With lots of events planned, this is a great opportunity to learn a little and have a little fun.

This beautiful picture of the Kyle was taken by Margaret Ayad. I really recommend following her on Facebook to stay up to date with happenings on the Baccalieu Trail.

And wondering what’s happening this weekend? Events kick off tomorrow, with an evening of songs, music and stories about the Labrador Fishery at the Rorke Store Museum in Carbonear.

Saturday will be the 4th Annual ‘Swim the Kyle,’ when Libby Earle, daughter of late Captain Guy Earle, swimming to touch the bow of the Kyle. There will be poetry readings, author Pat Collins will be signing his book about the Kyle, a new painting will be unveiled, and the Battalion 201 Drum & Gloc Corps will provide music.

That night, enjoy a 3 course meal and entertainment at the Bay Roberts Hotel. Guests are welcome to dress in period costume.

On Sunday, September 15, come to St. George’s Heritage Church at 7:30pm, to enjoy Jim Payne and Fergus O’Byrne, stories of the Kyle and the Labrador Fishery, video interviews, the Vanda Maunder Dancers, and more.

For more information, please see this post, or visit the Town of Bay Roberts on Facebook. I’m sure it will be a fun weekend, and thanks to all the folks involved in organizing this great event.

Shag It Parking

Newfoundland KayakersSo these folks we’re exactly parking, but we’ve had lots of folks paddle up near our shores on boats, kayaks and seadoos. One of the advantages of being right on the water here at the Shag It Cafe and Gift Shop – we see lots of activity, not just Shag Rock! We might have to set up a ‘drive-thru’ down on the beach!

Of course, if you’re coming in more traditional vehicles, we’ve got you covered there, too! Parking at our cafe and gift shop in Newfoundland

Tuesdays with Murphy: Hosting Our End of Season BBQ

Welcoming guests to our newfoundland cottages and restaurant

Our great employees have worked so hard this summer that I convinced Jerry and The Berry that we needed a end-of-season barbecue to celebrate. We accomplished a lot this year, and laid a great foundation for next – and that deserves raising a glass or two.

I have to admit that sometimes hearing how gratefully Jerry and The Berry talk about their great staff, I can get jealous! But I know what they know – that the Shag It Cafe and Gift Shop, The Doctor’s House and our cottages just wouldn’t be what they are without this dedicated team.

And future guests, reading about an end of season barbecue, don’t sweat! We’re not closing down, not by a long shot. Things will be a little quieter like they always are in the fall, but we’ve got some great package deals – both at The Doctor’s House and at our cottages – that are great for couples, families, or friends looking to get away!

Big thanks again, to all our team, those still with us and those continuing on to new projects, and to all who came out help us celebrate this weekend!Party at our Newfoundland cottagesParty at our Newfoundland cottagesParty at our Newfoundland cottages

Loons at the Loon

Loons in the ocean in front of our Newfoundland cottage rentals

Some nights The Berry and I like to take off and hide, like we did at the Loon Cottage the other night. It is amazing what a little time can do for personal rebirth. The next morning I went out with my coffee to discover two loons directly in front of the Loon Cottage. Life is full of poetry, even when you just stumble on it.

Budding Saturday: Leonard Howlett

Newfoundland Lighthouse

We like to feature Newfoundland photographers and artists on Saturdays, to show you a side of Newfoundland that I just don’t have the skills (yet!) to capture. Here’s a new artist to the blog, and, thankfully, one whose carvings are coming to our gift shop at the Shag It. Leonard Howlett is an exceptional artist, and we’re thrilled to have him on board. And thrilled to share this classic Newfoundland scene he captured with you.

Dolphins in Newfoundland!


Here’s a video from Vic Young, former chairman of Nalcor and Fishery products, and a colleague who recently came out and had a tour of The Doctor’s House and lunch at the Shag It Cafe. They then went golfing at the fantastic, nearby Pitcher’s Pond Golf Course, and then got this great video of dolphins nearby. Clearly, these dolphins were racing to make their reservations at the Shag It! We’re very happy that Vic captured the moment and shared!

Remember that Ditch?

Swings at the Shag It!

 

Do you remember that ugly ditch we had on our property last year? Thankfully it was off to the side of our parking, but it was still an eye sore, and I could not let an eye sore stand! So we put in a lot of love and care, some landscaping, and some swing sets we got in Belize last winter. I’m really proud of it! So when John and his son, Matthew, played on the swings after an evening at the Shag It Cafe, I was thrilled to see someone using it just like I had hoped. Doesn’t it look inviting?

Artist in the Garden

Artist in the Garden

I love this photo. It is ‘Bernice in the Garden,’ making beautiful drawings of our beautiful gardens at The Doctor’s House.  Bernice and her daughter Cathy were there for lunch and a spa treatment, and she took advantage of our grounds to make art. She is a sweet lady and and Clifford knows her well. In fact, he came down to say hello.

So if you’re so inclined and coming to The Doctor’s House, don’t forget your sketchbook!

 

 

Tuesdays with Murphy: Me and Daniel

Golden Retriever and Baby at our Newfoundland cottage rentals

Some days are fun at Ocean Delight, and some days at out of this world. This young family came to the Shag It Cafe on what would have been the birthday of their own late, beloved Golden Retriever, Riley. I never got to meet Riley, but after spending time with them I know he must have been very loved! Of course my favourite part of the evening? Playtime with Daniel!Guests at the Shag It Cafe and Gift Shop in Whiteway