Luxury getaways to the ocean's edge
We’ve instituted a new game at the Shag It .We had one of the neighbours make this game called ‘washer toss,’ which is something like horse shoes except you throw large washers with the hope of getting them in the pipe in the box. We are offering a free lunch to anyone who can actually do it – it’s not so easy, but it’s really fun.
And the good news? We are now licensed – so bring a designated driver, and enjoy a wine or beer with Joe Friday’s famous cod-au-gratin!
Another Saturday, another beautiful Newfoundland scene captured by the brilliant Bud Vincent. This was captured in Rock Harbour near Petite Forte, on the Burin Peninsula. Another classic!
We were happy that Terry French, Minister of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, came to the Shag It Cafe this past Wednesday. He came to try Joe Friday’s famous cod au gratin appetizer, of course, and he wanted to see what we have done with the place, too.
I believe he was impressed with the breathtaking view at the Shag It and all the work we did to convert the apartment into the original Newfoundland café it is now. He was even more impressed with the fact that across all our properties on the Baccalieu Trail, we have gone from 3 ½ employees last year to 23 this year.
We were also proud to show off The Doctor’s House, which he loved as well. We had a wonderful BBQ, saw the ponies, trekked the property, and said hello to the first born on the farm since we acquired it (we now have 4 beautiful baby chicks – stay tuned for pictures!).
We spent the night telling stories of this remarkable province and all the potential we both see in the Baccalieu Trail. We talked about how we are trying to provide the experiences the government is promoting, including in all those beautiful ads we see on tv.
I also learned that Minister French has connections to this Wonderful World of Whiteway – lucky man. He has land here that was given to him by his Aunt Minnie Bishop, who was a resident. He is well known by the locals and related to the Harnums.
We also talked about my late brother, Jack, who I know really liked Terry. Seems like the feeling was mutual. Overall, it was a blessed night, and we were happy to share our work with someone who does so much for this province.
Meet the lovely Hunt family, who, as part of a family reunion, joined us at the Shag It Cafe and Gift Shop. For a new operation, we are just learning how to accommodate large groups. Serving the Hunts was a challenge, but a fun one, and I think we rose to the opportunity! They were a great group of people, we’re thrilled they chose to come, and we wish them well!
Looks like Joe Friday can add another title to his resume – ‘Horse Whisperer!” Well, maybe that’s going a little far – but he is starting to form a relationship with Bridie, this beautiful resident at The Doctor’s House. I see a great friendship in both of their futures!
I try not to promote (too) heavily on the blog, but I think some of our readers might be interested: our realtor Mark Glynn is offering a Facebook contest to win a night at The Doctor’s House. Enter here, and you might get to meet Bridie in person! 
People often tell me I could have been a show dog, and who am I to argue? Alas, it’s a working life for this dog, making sure our guests are happy and taken care of. But if you’re a dog lover, you might be interested in a dog show coming up, alerted to us by Albert Legge, who’s good friends with Jerry and The Berry. Please see below (above is me exploring the some of grounds of The Doctor’s House in early spring, by the way!):
Also if you love dogs and you would enjoy watching dog shows come along on Saturday and/or Sunday (Aug 31 and Sept 1) Admission is $2.00/adults $1.00/children under 12 or $5.00/family. There will be 4 dog shows (morning and afternoon both days) and a Junior Handling Show as well. There will also be a Silent Auction! This event is sponsored by the Conception Bay Kennel Club… Please share this message with anyone who might be interested.
Here’s Lucas, Matthew, Brady and Ethan – thanks to Lisa for getting this great shot on what was clearly a great night. These guys were our first guests at the Shag It, and they remain our best customers. They’re awesome boys, and it’s always a treat when they come into the store. They have their own spot in Jack’s Corner, liking the day bed. We’ll miss them when school starts!
Ocean Delight Sunsets – falling in love with this view is what started us on this journey, with Ocean Delight, The Doctor’s House, now the Shag It Cafe and Gift Shop. How can you see this and not fall in love, not figure out a way to spend more time here?
Last year, Joe Friday was our Screecher. I’ve now taken over, with one Screech In under my belt (a Screech In is a fun, irreverent way for outsiders to become honourary Newfoundlanders – kissing a cod may or may not be included!). Many thanks to Ann and Zofia, and Herb and Linda from Petawawa, for being our guinea pigs!
With thanks to EDMO (Eastern Destination Management Organization), we had a film crew at the cottages from Travel Guy TV (TGTV) from Toronto . It was Frank Greco and his team, who are filming a new show to add to their series called ‘The Travel Guy.” This series is currently being broadcast on Discovery World HD.
They were here over 4 hours. Clifford was our ambassador. He cooked cod tongues and talked about Heart’s Content, Heart’s Delight, Heart’s Desire, Dildo, and other unique community names along the Baccalieu. It was an exciting day, we were excited and grateful for the opportunity to share our story. Stay tuned – we’ll let you know when it airs!