World’s Largest Icicle

Big icicles at our Newfoundland resort inn and spa

Ok, so maybe they’re not the biggest icicles in the world. But we get some at The Doctor’s House that are definitely some of the biggest I’ve seen. I thought it was a winter wonderland here ‘around the bay’ before we had this beautiful Inn. Now I know for sure it is one. Winter here, like everywhere, certainly isn’t without it’s challenges.  But when you stop and admire the icicles, it’s actually quite stunning.

Tuesdays with Murphy: Snowy Walk

Two golden retrievers on a walk in NewfoundlandWith limited power comes limited blogging. Although, without opposable thumbs, I don’t see what the big fuss is about (I just love the extra cuddles!), Jerry’s given me limited time to write my weekly post. How rude! Anyway, here’s me and Friday enjoying a snowy walk, for what it’s worth!

And a hint if your power-less first weekend of the new year was less than fun: we’ve got a special, second-night-for-$99 offer running through March at The Doctor’s House – it could be just what the doctor ordered!

Mrs. Roosevelt Doesn’t Need Power

Goat in Newfoundland

… But she’s the only one that doesn’t! If you’re reading this, your power needs are in good shape. I thought a little Rosie – oh, excuse me, I mean Mrs. Roosevelt – would be a fun way to kick off a new year of blogging. Thanks to Newfoundland artist, new friend and former guest Leonard Howlett for the beautiful shot of this beautiful little creature. She’s sweet, too.

Shag Rock Sunday

Shag Rock in NewfoundlandIt’s the first weekend of the New Year, and Shag Rock stands as proud as ever. I know many people will be heading back to work tomorrow after a long break – I hope your holiday was fantastic. I also hope that 2014 will be a great year for us all. And I hope to never lose sight of this beauty, which has brought me so much solace and contemplation these past years since moving to the Wonderful World of Whiteway.

Budding Saturday: Love Birds

Wild Birds in NewfoundlandOK, so I’m not sure if these are actually love birds, or what else they might be. But at least they’re a pair, sticking out the harsh weather together. Quite symbolic! Thanks to Bud Vincent, a brilliant Newfoundland photographer, for sharing – we share lots of his work on this blog, because he does such a fantastic job showcasing this beautiful province of ours.

And if you’d like to warm up with your own lovebird this winter, remember that we’ve extended our Spa and Stay Packages at The Doctor’s House, and we’re also offering a winter special: from January to March, book one night, and get the second for only $99.

Winter in Whiteway ….

Fire in winter in rural Newfoundland

…. is cozy and warm, good for a fire, great for the soul, and, in a word, magical. Thanks to Leonard Howlett, a Newfoundland artist whose work we feature in our gift shop at The Doctor’s House, for capturing the season here so stunningly. We stay open during the winter, because we know a stunning getaway just an hour outside St. John’s is something people need and love all year round. Remember that we’ve extended our spa packages at The Doctor’s House to last all winter, and, also at the Inn, we’re offering buy one night, get the second for $99 for January-March. It’s our way to make your winter a little warmer.

Bring on 2014

Young Man Plays in a Lake in NewfoundlandWe had a great night celebrating at The Doctor’s House last night, and thanks to all who joined us and all who made it a success – you know who you are.

Like many, I’ll be taking today to reflect on hopes and plans for the coming year. If you’re like me, you like being active and welcome new opportunities – and new challenges. Any leaps I take this year, I plan to take as joyfully as the young man, above. The Berry and I work hard here, but we’re also very blessed, and we hope to continue to try and live up to those blessings.

So I hope that you all had a safe and happy New Year’s Eve, and we wish you the very best in 2014. Onward!

And thanks to Newfoundland photographer and friend, Bud Vincent, for the gorgeous shot.

The Fridays

golden retriever in newfoundlandSince Joe Friday took Dog Friday under his wing a few months ago, they’ve become fast friends. With a dog as sweet as Friday, it would be impossible not to fall in love. Thanks to Chef Anna Dohey, who has prepared the menu for our gourmet New Year’s Eve feast, for the great shots. Golden retriever and owner hug in NewfoundlandGolden retriever in NewfoundlandAnd don’t forget, there’s still time to make a reservation for our New Year’s Eve at The Doctor’s House, complete with gourmet fine dining by the fire, champagne, live music and fireworks at midnight. See here for more details.

Joe’s Bar

Bar at a hotel in Newfoundland

Joe brings a lot to the table, so to speak, in his many duties. For example, he was an exceptional bartender for many years before coming to the Wonderful World of Whiteway. So we’ve set up this beautiful bar in our dining room at The Doctor’s House. Now you can sip Joe Friday’s creations by the fire – how sweet is that? And don’t forget, we’ve got a great New Year’s planned, complete with gourmet dining, live music and fireworks at midnight – we hope you’ll join us – and Joe!