Vol 33 • No 06
$4.99
November 2020
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2021 Calendar Winners Revealed
Cats in Boxes Explained
Looking for Gifts from Home?
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life is better Published monthly in St. John’s by Downhome Publishing Inc. 43 James Lane, St. John’s, NL, A1E 3H3 Tel: 709-726-5113 • Fax: 709-726-2135 • Toll Free: 1-888-588-6353 E-mail: mail@downhomelife.com Website: www.downhomelife.com Editorial Editor-in-Chief Janice Stuckless Art and Production Art Director Vince Marsh Graphic and Web Designer Cory Way Illustrator Mel D’Souza Illustrator Snowden Walters Advertising Sales Senior Account Manager Robert Saunders Account Manager Barbara Young Marketing Director Tiffany Brett Finance and Administration Junior Accountant Marlena Grant Accounting Assistant Sandra Gosse Operations Manager, Twillingate Nicole Mehaney
Warehouse Operations Warehouse / Inventory Manger Carol Howell Warehouse Operator Josephine Collins Distribution Sales & Marketing Amanda Ricks Sr. Customer Service Associate Sharon Muise Inventory Control Clerk Darlene Whiteway Retail Operations Retail Floor Manager, St. John’s Jackie Rice Retail Floor Manager, Twillingate Donna Keefe Retail Sales Associates Crystal Rose, Emma Goodyear, Jonathon Organ, Nicole French, Elizabeth Gleason, Rebecca Ford, Erin McCarthy, Marissa Little, Hayley Fitzgerald, Elizabeth Gauci, Beth Colbert, Kim Tucker, Heather Stuckless, Katrina Hynes, Lynette Ings, Stef Burt
Subscriptions Customer Service Associate Kathleen Murphy Customer Service Associate Nicola Ryan
Founding Editor Ron Young
President & Associate Publisher Todd Goodyear
Chief Executive Officer/Publisher Grant Young
General Manager/Assistant Publisher Tina Bromley
To subscribe, renew or change address use the contact information above. Subscriptions total inc. taxes, postage and handling: for residents in NL, NS, NB, PE $45.99; ON $45.19; QC, SK, MB, AB, BC, NU, NT, YT $41.99. US and International mailing price for a 1-year term is $49.99.
Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40062919 The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the portion of the advertisement in which the error occurred, whether such error is due to the negligence of the servants or otherwise, and there shall be no liability beyond the amount of such advertisement. The Letters to the Editor section is open to all letter writers providing the letters are in good taste, not libelous, and can be verified as true, correct and written by the person signing the letter. Pen names and anonymous letters will not be published. The publisher reserves the right to edit, revise, classify, or reject any advertisement or letter. © Downhome Publishing Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.
Printed in Canada
Official onboard magazine of
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surprising sights
Contents
NOVEMBER 2020
44 Life After Service Three veterans share how the military helped shape their lives and their current career paths. Linda Browne
66 Yarn Bombed!
122 storied breed
Twillingate gets The Rock Vandal’s trademark treatment. Jenn Thornhill Verma
90 Warm Welcomes Fall decorating, inside and out, with interior designer Marie Bishop
122 Newfoundland Legend The special breed of dog that makes headlines around the world. Dale Jarvis
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Contents
NOVEMBER 2020
homefront 10 I Dare Say A note from the editor 12 Letters From Our Readers Honouring those who served, recalling a fairy poem, and recreating Downhome covers
20 Downhome Tours Downhome readers explore China
22 Why is That? What’s the origin of “crocodile tears” and why do cats love boxes? Linda Browne 24 Life’s Funny Making a Stink Angela Christenson
12 cover boy
25 Say What A contest that puts words in someone else’s mouth
26 Lil Charmers Childhood Chores 28 Pets of the Month Special Friends
30 Reviewed Denise Flint interviews Jeanette Winsor about her novel The Apprenticeship of Molly Chant.
32 What Odds Paul Warford’s spin on car shopping
features 34 And the Winners Are… Your first look at our 2021 Calendar photos
52 On the Prowl Meet the coolest cat in town Marie-Beth Wright 4
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calendar worthy
56 Pops’ Legacy The story of a woman and her surprise dream boat Kim Ploughman
explore 60 Salvage & Salvation Ferryland church’s shipwrecked statues and a war memorial rescued from the rubble Dennis Flynn
72 The Secret to Happiness Seeking the reasons why Newfoundlanders are said to be the happiest people on earth Daphne Belbin Tumlin
80 knit knack
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78 Travel Diary Onward Through the Fog Berdina Ford
home and cabin 80 Stuff We Love Wild About Wool Tobias Romaniuk November 2020
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Contents
NOVEMBER 2020
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comfort & charm
84 Venture with a View A young couple in love find their happily ever after in Norris Point Janice Stuckless
94 Todd’s Table Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Todd Goodyear
98 Everyday Recipes 6 recipes with “fancy” cheeses 106 Down to Earth Winterizing Your Garden Sean Dolter
reminiscing 112 Flashbacks Classic photos of people and places 6
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112 wartime
114 Shot Down Over Germany He survived a plane crash, a PoW camp and the dreadful Long March. Bernadette McKelvie
118 Visions & Vignettes Adventures with two young scalawags in an imaginary outport of days gone by Harold N. Walters
128 Beware of Lightning Strikes A reader’s own frightening encounter led to this dire warning. Josephine Murphy
About the cover This is Tillie, owned and often photographed by her human, Nicole Watson. We don’t know if she’s ever rescued anyone, but Tillie is legendary at Downhome for the number of beautiful photos we’ve seen of her over the years!
132 Newfoundlandia When Newfoundland Saved Canada Chad Bennett
Cover Index
138 Puzzles
Shot Down Over Germany • 114 Warm Welcomes • 90 Newfoundland Legend • 122 2021 Calendar Winners Revealed • 34 Cats in Boxes Explained • 22 Looking for Gifts from Home? • 152 www.downhomelife.com
150 Marketplace 152 Mail Order 160 Photo Finish November 2020
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Your first look at the 2021 Downhome Calendar Contest Winners! p. 34
S, FISHER BATS FOXES, S LE & VOthe small A guide to of Labrador mammals
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Why DO cats like boxes so much? We found answers. p. 23
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photo
Inside Labrador Fall 2020:
Puzzles got you stumped?
available online now at Issuu.com. Read it for free!
Sneak a peek at the answers at Downhomelife.com/puzzles.
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Submission Guidelines and Prize Rules
You could WIN $100! Every reader whose PHOTO, STORY, JOKE or POEM appears next to this yellow “from our readers” stamp in a current issue receives $10 and a chance at being drawn for the monthly prize: $100 for one photo submission and $100 for one written submission. Prizes are awarded in Downhome Dollars certificates, which can be spent like cash in our retail stores and online at shopDownhome.com.*
Submit Today! Send your photo, story, joke or poem to
Downhome 43 James Lane St. John’s, NL, A1E 3H3 or submit online at:
www.downhomelife.com *Only 1 prize per submitter per month. To receive their prize, submitters must provide with their submission COMPLETE contact information: full name, mailing address, phone number and email address (if you have one). Mailed submissions will only be returned to those who include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Downhome Inc. reserves the right to publish submissions in future print and/or electronic media campaigns. Downhome Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. www.downhomelife.com
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i dare say
If this is your first issue, welcome to the family. I know, lots of companies call their customers family to make them feel included, to appeal to their loyalty. At Downhome, we’re really a family. We share personal news and vacation photos; we write letters to each other; sure, many of us are actually related to each other. And like when we get called to dinner, when Downhome calls out for anything – stories, poems, photos, recipes etc. – you all show up. I don’t know where this magazine would be, where I’d be, without the support of readers. Your personal contributions to what we publish make this worth doing every month all these years. Your ongoing engagement with us by mail, over the phone, by email and on our website and social media platforms makes us feel like we know you, and some of us have met in person as a result of this magazine. Personally, I’ve found far-flung relatives and heard from long-lost friends through Downhome, and I know from reading your stories that many of you have, too. Again this issue, I’m filled with gratitude as I go over all that you have contributed. Thank you for your calendar photos, wartime flashbacks and travel diaries. Thank you for sharing moments with your pets and your kids; for taking us on vacation, showing us around the province and the world; for inspiring new story ideas, submission challenges and contests. And as always, thanks for reading,
o
Janice Stuckless, Editor-in-chief janice@downhomelife.com
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Still a Good Boy!
I tried to recreate Dexter’s famous picture that appeared on the cover of Downhome magazine [August 2020]. There was a bit of construction around the lighthouse, so this was the best we could do. Six years after this picture was originally taken and he’s still the perfect little model. Thank you for featuring my photo, Downhome magazine, and for the gift certificate for Downhome Shoppe. Tina Learning Conception Bay South, NL
Aw, Dexter’s such a good boy! We love seeing this update and it has inspired this challenge to readers: Has a photo of you ever appeared in Downhome in past years? (You, your family member, your pet etc.) Can you recreate the moment today? Tell us when your photo was in Downhome and show us what it looked like then, and what it looks like now that you’ve tried to recreate it. Email your Then and Now photos to editorial@downhomelife.com or mail them to Downhome, 43 James Lane, St. John’s, NL, A1E 3H3. We’ll share them in a future issue!
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September Cover IRL I got my September copy of Downhome this morning and, living in Bonavista, I decided to go down to Elliston and take a pic that matches the cover. Mark Gray Bonavista, NL
Readers of Downhome and anyone who follows Mark on social media know he’s a talented photographer, especially of scenes around Bonavista. It’s not often we get him in front of the camera! The photo on the September cover that inspired Mark to take a run to Elliston was taken by another terrific photographer, Shane Hiscock.
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find corky sly conner Hidden somewhere in this issue is Corky Sly Conner.
Can you find him? Look carefully at all the photographs and in the text of the stories. If you spot Corky, send us your name, address and phone number, along with a note telling us where he’s located. Your name will be entered in a draw and the winner will receive a coupon worth 25 Downhome Dollars redeemable at our store, or through our website.
Send your replies to: Corky Contest
Congratulations to Daniel Chaffey of St. George’s, NL, who found him on page 90 of the September issue.
43 James Lane St. John’s, NL, A1E 3H3
mail@downhomelife.com www.downhomelife.com *No Phone Calls Please One entry per person
Deadline for replies is the end of each month.
King’s Cove Correction Hi! My mom just received her copy of the Downhome September 2020 issue. On pages 60-61, the spectacular aerial view of the lighthouse is described as King’s Point Lighthouse when it is, in fact, King’s COVE Lighthouse. The same error is made on page 65 under the picture of the exposed bedrock. I know this because King’s Cove is my favourite place in the world. In fact, last year my friend Michelle Carew and I sang the song “Pat Murphy’s Meadow” for the UNESCO team in the actual meadow in King’s Cove while they were touring the area deciding whether it would become a Global Geopark. Pat Murphy was my great-grandfather; my father, Patrick Maloney, was his grandson. We spent many summers in King’s Cove as children. Mary Jane Maloney St. John’s, NL
We regret that error in the captions. Here, once again, are those photos of King’s COVE. 14
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+ applicable taxes
* 1-year Canadian membership. Total inc. taxes: NL, NS, NB, PE $45.99; ON $45.19; QC, SK, MB, AB, BC, NU, NT, YT $41.99. US/International $49.99
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Overseas Forestry Monument
Hi there, have just read your write-up about the Newfoundland lumberjacks who served overseas [“Sailors Who Became Lumberjacks,” July 2020]. We moved to Scotland eight years ago, and upon researching my great-grandfather’s time in the war, we managed to trace him back to serving in the Forestry. He was based near Ballater in the woods, as shown in the pictures. We were well happy to find all this in the woods when we went for a hike here a few years back, and we thought you would like to see the photos from what stands there now. It’s great to be able to visit and read about the history here in Scotland of the Newfoundlanders all those years ago! Renee Macgregor Via facebook
Thank you for sharing these photos, Renee. Approximately 3,600 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians volunteered for the Overseas Forestry Unit during WWII, to harvest timber in the United Kingdom needed to keep the British coal mines operating. There was a shortage of loggers as many able-bodied UK men were fighting the war. The loggers earned $2 a day, with half of that automatically sent directly to their families back home. 16
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In Memory of Dad My father, Willis J. White, was born September 4, 1921. He joined the Royal Navy in January 1940 and was discharged January 22, 1946. His rank was Leading Seaman S.T. He served on HMS Dunnotar Castle and two other ships whose names escape me right now. Dad always considered himself a Newfoundlander first and was looking forward to a letter from the Queen when he turned 100. Sadly we lost him just before his 95th birthday in 2016. Dad’s uncles also served; there was an article written some years ago about a clan of heroes. His uncles Tom, Adolph Nathaniel and Clarence all served. The article had a photo of great-uncles Tom and Adolph Nathaniel (Nattie) that was taken in Chatham, England, in 1915. It also had a photo of great-uncle Clarence John White (Uncle Clar), who was a First World War naval reservist.
In this photo with Dad (left) are Sadie Davis and Ron Butler, in November 2010. I got to know Sadie a little. I’d take her out for walks sometimes and we’d chat. She was a lovely person, one of the nicest people I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. She lived until she was 93. She served her country in the Air Force. She was a teacher and she loved life. Ron used to be a neighbour of ours many years ago, so he and Dad used to chat every now and then. Delphine Ward Via email
Thank you for your letter, Delphine. You’re rightly proud of your dad’s and your great-uncles’ service.
Blast from the Past
We posted a photo of some old equipment and asked social media what this might have been. Some guesses: Grain blower / loader; chum grinder; wood chipper; silo loader for corn; feed chopper; berry leaves stripper After it got passed around, the Coaker Foundation solved the mystery with the following tweet! It was a harvester used on Paradise Farm (between Port Union and Bonavista now a Trailor Park) part of the #fishermensprotectiveunion #historicportunion story coakerfoundation @CoakerFoundn
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Fairy Poem
Stay Home Year
I couldn’t help but quietly smile when I read this story [“Nan’s Fairy Garden,” August 2020] and put my memory to work. Way back in the ’50s when I went to school in Harbour Buffett, Placentia Bay, and was in about the third grade, there was a poem in our “Reader” about fairies and Mab their Queen. I think it went something like this: “Come follow, follow, follow me, all the fairies that there be. Skip lightly on the green, and follow Mab your Queen. Hand in hand we dance around, for this place is fairy ground.” I do not know who the author was.
We live in Vermont and have visited Labrador and Newfoundland many years. This year we have to stay home with our little camper. Carla & Ted Tighe Vermont, USA
Nice new licence plate you have there. When this is all over, someone’s going to have to declare a province-wide Come Home Year to celebrate. Knows there won’t be a crowd!
Wally Collett Quispamsis, NB
Anyone else remember this poem or its author? We did a quick Google search and learned that Shakespeare wrote about a fairy named Queen Mab in Romeo and Juliet; and poet Percy Blysshe Shelley published a poem in nine parts called Queen Mab: A Philosophical Poem, in 1813. But neither had phrases that matched the ones that Wally recalls. It would be interesting to learn the source.
RECIPE CORRECTION In the October issue, there is a direction left out in the cranberry tarts recipe. After it says to preheat the oven to 375°F, you should bake your tart shells according to the package directions, then let them cool before making the cheesecakes. We hope no one made these in uncooked shells!
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Making Dreams Come True 2020 is a year we’ll never forget with all the travel restrictions due to the pandemic. It didn’t stop people from visiting Newfoundland Ponies! The ponies loved the attention and it was the perfect socially distanced activity to help people connect at this difficult time. And if you can’t come to the ponies, in some cases… the ponies may come to you. Above: Jack and Catie Duggan enjoying a visit to the pasture in South River which is run by the Newfoundland Pony Pals. Seven Newfoundland Ponies graze there in the summer. Above Right: Andre is 101 years old and has always wanted to ride a Newfoundland Pony. Thanks to Willow Creek Stables for taking the ponies to his retirement home in Perth, Ontario, to make his dream come true. Right: 72-year-old Diane Campbell enjoying a trail ride on Colby at the Newfoundland Pony Sanctuary on beautiful Change Islands, NL.
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homefront Downhome tours...
China
Great Memories
Agnes and Ron Richard, of Gander, NL, pose at the Badaling section of the Great Wall of China, one of several key stops in their 2014 trip. The Badaling section of the Great Wall of China, built in 1504, is the most visited section of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1957, it became the first section to open to tourists. Some world leaders who’ve famously stopped here and admired the view: Queen Elizabeth II, US President Ronald Reagan, and Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev. 20
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Busy Spot
Scott Thistle of Calgary, AB, and his travelling companion pose at the Beijing airport during a 2012 trip to China. The Beijing Capital International Airport is the second busiest in the world. Open since 1958, it saw more than 100 million passengers arrive and depart in 2018. Its airport code, PEK, is a nod to Peking, the former westernized name for Beijing.
Big Buddha
Deborah Lewis holds up Downhome in a group photo with friends in front of the Big Buddha in Hong Kong. His real name is Tian Tan Buddha, but he’s affectionately known as Big Buddha. The 34 m high bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni is set upon a representation of the Temple of Heaven, Tian Tan. To get to the base of the Buddha, visitors have to climb 268 steps (those with mobility issues can take a vehicle up an access road).
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Expert answers to common life questions. By Linda Browne
What’s the origin of “crocodile tears”? Have you ever witnessed someone feigning emotion and accused them of crying “crocodile tears”? Are crocodiles really that emotional? Crocodiles do, in fact, produce tears, but they don’t actually cry, says Dr. Adam Britton, a renowned crocodile specialist, senior research associate with Charles Darwin University’s Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods (RIEL), and founder of Crocodilian.com, a crocodilian educational resource. The tears, he explains, are products of the lachrymal glands, which “produce a proteinaceous fluid which is secreted behind the nictitating membrane [third eyelid],” he writes via the Crocodilian Biology Database (part of the Crocodilian.com project). “The fluid helps to clean the eye, lubricate the passage of the nictitating membrane across the eye’s surface, and probably also helps to reduce bacterial growth. Tears are normally only noticeable if the crocodile has been out of the water for a long time and the eyes begin to dry out.” The legend around “crocodile tears” 22
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is that the reptiles produce tears to lure prey, and cry while they chow down on their victims – a sign of their insincere remorse. Britton says while it’s hard to trace the origins of this myth, it’s been around for quite a while. In 13thcentury France, he notes, Franciscan monk Bartholomaeus Anglicus wrote about the phenomenon, as did Sir John Mandeville in his 14th-century travel memoir, which helped propel it to popular culture. “The 16th-century slaver John Hawkins and his crew observed crocodiles in the Caribbean and reported that they would ‘cry and sobbe like a Christian body.’ In doing this, it was claimed, they would lure sympathetic victims into range, before surprising them and devouring them,” Britton adds. In a paper published in the journal BioScience in 2007, researchers David Malcolm Shaner and Kent Vliet describe how they attempted to find out if crocodiles secrete tears during 1-888-588-6353
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meals. They filmed seven crocs while they ate and found that five “developed moisture in their eyes, bubbles, or overflow bubbles within minutes before, during or after eating.” Dr. Britton breaks down the technical lingo: “They suggest it is air being forced from the lungs into the nasal canals, which then forces tear
secretions (from the lachrymal glands) onto the surface of the eye, and this force creates bubbles and/or tears due to mixing with surfactants on the eyeball,” he writes in an email to Downhome. “When not forced, the tears will well up slowly over time, but during activity [e.g. eating, huffing and puffing] the tears are forced out.”
Why do cats love cardboard boxes? Have you ever purchased one of those fancy kitty condos, only to find that your cat’s much more interested in the box that their plush, carpeted palace came in? In fact, any cardboard box will do. And size doesn’t matter. Watch as your cat contorts into all kinds of shapes, expertly illustrating the “If I fits, I sits” principle. There are a few reasons why cats seem to love boxes. One of them harkens back to their dual role as predator and prey, explains Marilyn Krieger, a California-based certified cat behaviour consultant (who operates the website TheCatCoach.com) and author of Naughty No More!, which explains how to change troublesome feline behaviours. “One reason cats like boxes is that they help them feel safe and secure by keeping them hidden from potential dangers, such as predators. Usually cats position themselves so their heads are facing out of the boxes – they can see threats while feeling protected by the back and sides of boxes. Additionally, this position is advantageous if felines need to defend themselves,” she writes in an email to Downhome. “Another plus is that cats can watch prey from boxes while remaining undetected by unsuspecting potential meals.”
In a 2014 study published in the journal Applied Animal Behaviour Science, researchers looked at how a “hiding box” affected the stress levels of cats that had just arrived at a Dutch animal shelter. They provided 10 cats with boxes, while nine did without. Their findings, they note, “suggest that cats provided with a hiding box were able to recover faster in their new environment compared to cats without a hiding box... The hiding box appears to be an important enrichment for the cat to cope effectively with stressors in a new shelter environment the first weeks after arrival.” Another reason why your pet curls up in a cardboard box? Comfort. “Boxes also have the benefit of being warm and retaining the cat’s body heat,” Krieger says. “In outdoor situations, waterproof boxes provide shelter from inclement weather and can also be a source of shade.”
Do you have a burning life question for Linda to investigate? Turn to page 9 for ways to contact us. www.downhomelife.com
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homefront life’s funny
Making a Stink My father and stepmother were on a road trip from Lloydminster to Lethbridge, AB, when he had to make a pitstop at a roadside outhouse – and dropped his wallet down the hole! Panicked, he searched around for something to fish it out with and found a broken, but useable, ladder nearby. He put the ladder down the hole in the outhouse and went down. Just as he got to the bottom, the ladder began sinking into the nastiness, and so did he! He grabbed his wallet and scrambled back out. He stripped down to his underwear, putting all his soiled clothes in a garbage bag and handing it to his wife, then drove the 25 minutes to Lethbridge. At the motel, he put plastic bags on his feet for shoes and marched into the lobby in his underwear. People laughed, the desk clerk sprayed air freshener and everyone held their noses. They wasted no time getting to their room, where he got a hot bath and cleaned his clothes and the contents of his wallet. Angela Christenson Via Downhomelife.com
Do you have any funny or embarrassing true stories? Share them with us. If your story is selected, you’ll win a prize! See page 9 for details.
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p! “Hurry u iting wa Whatya cence?” for? ArnalHiillier-Guy – Ve
Say WHAT? Downhome recently posted this photo (submitted by Pat Tenwolde) on our website and social media platforms and asked folks to imagine what this moose might be saying to the photographer. Verna Hillier-Guy’s response made us chuckle the most, so we’re awarding her 20 Downhome Dollars!
Here are the runners-up: “That’s some strange lookin’ gun you got there, me buddy!” – Sylvia Squires Hall “Wait, I want my kid in this photo.... Mooseburger, where are you?” – Bev Stride Dawe “Take your best shot.” – Miranda Jenkins Puddicombe
Play with us online! www.downhomelife.com/saywhat
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homefront lil charmers
At the Woodpile Jacob lends a hand getting some firewood ready for winter. Lucas Cox Via email
Childhood Chores Landscaping Lass “My niece’s daughter loves to mow the lawn,” the submitter writes. Barbara Critch Mississauga, ON
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Fetching Fresh Eggs Esther enjoys the job of collecting Koosie’s eggs in Holyrood, NL. Beth Pike Sooke, BC
Mopping for Mom One-year-old Jay Menchenton of Grand Prairie, AB, loves to help clean up. (Photo by Pat Menchenton) Gloria Young Botwood, NL
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homefront pets of the month
special friends Feathered Friend This boy has found a buddy in this chicken. Victoria Squires Jamestown, NL
No Kidding Daisy, the Ryan family’s pet goat, loves jumping and quickly took to the backyard trampoline. Kaitlin Ryan Ferryland, NL
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Deerly Beloved The submitter’s great-granddaughter feeds her pet deer. Una Smith Kirkfield, ON
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homefront
reviewed by Denise Flint
The Apprenticeship of Molly Chant Jeanette Winsor $19.58 (Amazon)
At the tender age of 16, Molly Chant, a 19th-century midwife’s apprentice, is forced to flee her native Ireland after a run-in with the law that could see her hanged. She ends up in Newfoundland and starts life anew in a small outport on the Bonavista Peninsula. So begins Jeanette Winsor’s debut novel, the cumbersomely titled The Apprenticeship of Molly Chant: Skilled Healer or Savvy Witch? The rest of the book follows Molly through her life in this isolated community, where she is by turns scorned and regarded as a saviour. The story has a lot of loose ends. There’s the vaguely threatening master of the house where she initially finds work, followed by an equally sinister fisherman in the cove, for example, not to mention the merchant’s agents who come to throw Molly out of her house and recoup some money she apparently owes them. Rather than coming to a climax, problems just dissipate. Winsor does a good job of bringing to life the historical time and place in which Molly lives. Times are certainly difficult – there is a lot of death in this book. But Winsor also portrays the softer side of things: the friendships that develop between women who have no choice but to rely on each other, and the simple pleasures of a job well done. One could have wished for more development; years and years (and pages and pages) go by and Molly’s still being accused of being a witch, as if the discovery is being made for the first time. But all in all, this is a solid work of fiction with an unusual protagonist. 30
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Q&A with the Author Denise Flint: Authors have so many options these days. Why did you choose the self-publishing route and how has that worked out? Jeanette Winsor: Once I had the
Molly Chant novel finished, I had it professionally edited and found an agent right away. She sent it out to a large number of publishers, but it got rejected for various reasons. So, I decided to hire a cover designer and an individual who has been quite successful in self-publishing and strike out on my own. It’s been quite a learning curve. I am told by friends who publish traditionally that they do pretty much the same work to market their books, despite having publishers who take the lion’s share of the profit. I’m aiming for my second novel to come out in November and will go the same route.
DF: How much research did you have to do for this book? JW: A lot of my research went into
looking at witchcraft in Ireland. It was not a stretch to see that a midwife could be considered a witch and brought to trial for trivial matters. There would not have been a death sentence involved, but in Molly’s case being held in prison is what brought about the murder charge. Much of my knowledge of Cable John and Spillar’s Cove – the area I base Silver Cape Cove on – came from studying the history of where my parents and grandparents lived. I did research things like what coastal boats sailed around at the time; what St. John’s
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harbour was like; who were the merchants; what kind of fishing boats and gear would have been used in the 1800s; what surnames existed in the Bonavista area.
DF: How did you hit upon this particular topic and plot line for your first novel? JW: This might sound crazy, but for
about 10 years a character danced through my mind trying to get me to tell her story. At first, I thought she was a teacher in a small community. I tried to get her on paper, but she didn’t appear to be settling there at all. Then one day, I picked up a copy of Barbara Reiti’s Making Witches: Newfoundland Traditions of Spells and Counterspells. One of the communities she writes about sounds much like the community of Bonavista. Right away, I knew who my main character was, how she came to the Bonavista Peninsula and what her life there would be like.
DF: Do you have anything that you’d like to add? JW: When I wrote The Apprenticeship
of Molly Chant, I wanted to share a story about my little corner of the world, mainly with the people who still live there, and I hoped that perhaps others would find it entertaining. This project was fun and enjoyable for me and certainly a labour of love. I continue the series with the same joy, as I write the third novel and delve into research on the history of mental health in Newfoundland in the mid20th century. November 2020
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sold, on the road By Paul Warford
On the other Why did I wear three-piece suits to hand, the bizarre work? To dazzle the eye and confuse the buyer, of course. I sold cars for a while in Nova Scotia: reality of being a Mazdas freshly sailed from Hiroshima to the Newfoundland Halifax harbour. From there, they were rolled the showroom and, ultimately, out the door motorist is into – except for September of that year. In Septemfactoring into ber, I only sold three cars. It was not a great your purchase month. When the owner expects 10 cars a month from you and you’re only selling three, you stay how effectively really quiet during the weekly sales meeting and the vehicle can you spend less time on the Metro’s crossword in run into a moose. the“I morning. wanna talk to that guy,” I’d overhear prospective buyers whisper to one another as they eyeballed my prom-like outfits. Was I a good salesman? Not really. But I wasn’t bad. I remember their smiles the best. Once the ink had dried and the customer’s car was delivered, and they were easing out of the parking lot beaming like fools, that was the best part of the job. It’s exciting getting a new car. Our Sunfire was an old car – they all are now, right? I wandered an automotive shop two years ago to buy new windshield wipers and when he asked the year of our car, I was embarrassed to realize I didn’t know. I said, “Uh, an oh-seven, I think.” Without looking at me, the guy behind the counter replied, “Oh-five.” “You can tell by looking?” “No, they didn’t make them past oh-five.” My wife, Andie, and I got it on-the-cheap from my parents, who had only ever towed it behind their motorhome. The car got us to work, to comedy shows in central; heck, we even took it to Burlington in some of the heaviest Newfoundland rain I’ve ever encountered. The whole time, the car didn’t protest… Well, that’s not entirely true. The back made a persistent squeak/rattle 32
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While driving on the highway, I’d sometimes envision a wheel or an axle suddenly retiring from service to careen me off the road into an embankment. Perhaps it was time to upgrade. noise whenever the car rolled over a bump of any kind, and near the end of its lifespan the steering column would emit a frightful knock whenever I turned the wheel fully left or right. While driving on the highway, I’d sometimes envision a wheel or an axle suddenly retiring from service to careen me off the road into an embankment. Perhaps it was time to upgrade. The Sunfire is done now. Once the knock was investigated, the service guy told me all I needed to hear as he described fault after fault and the rust holding those faults together. Dad took the car after the appraisal and I haven’t seen it since. I assume it’s been crushed into a cube. I suggested to Dad we roll it over a cliff, but I don’t think he realized I was being serious. Now, my wife and I were the prospective customers. Test drives commenced. At first, we dealt with private sellers. This is a tad awkward and the whole experience is a bit like a date. You find the person on the internet, arrange a meeting, get to know one another. While driving one young fellow’s Fiat, I couldn’t help but feel like I was on a first date that wouldn’t require a second. The Fiat was cute and peppy, but Italian carmakers are known for their impeccable designs, not their craftsmanship (sorry, Italy). Replacement parts www.downhomelife.com
would cost more than the car itself, so we decided to pass. We took a Jeep for a spin, though I’d made up my mind before putting the key in the ignition. How much gas would this thing guzzle? On the other hand, the bizarre reality of being a Newfoundland motorist is factoring into your purchase how effectively the vehicle can run into a moose. Still, the Jeep was a pass. Andie suggested we try the lot right next door. This would turn out to be a genius idea because there it was! A bright green 2011 Mazda 2 with 50,000 kilometres sitting in the sun like a pearl on the seabed. Talk about love at first sight! The process wasn’t nearly as intimidating as we’d assumed it would be. And with radio station select and volume control right on my steering wheel, compared to the Sunfire the Mazda feels like something out of the Blade Runner movies. When we drove away in the Mazda, I was the one beaming like a fool. Like I said: it’s exciting, buying a car. Paul Warford began writing for Downhome to impress his mom and her friends. He writes and performs comedy in Eastern Canada. Follow him on Twitter @paulwarford November 2020
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And the Winners are... Aren’t we ready to jump to 2021?
After the year we’ve had, the job of looking at beautiful photographs and choosing the best ones to illustrate each month of a fresh new year was exhilarating. Going through hundreds and hundreds of jaw-dropping images of Newfoundland and Labrador reminded us again why this is the best place to be quarantined. Thank you to everyone who entered the contest, and now it’s time to let you know who won. Each of the 13 winners will receive 10 copies of the calendar and a one-year subscription to Downhome magazine. In addition, a random draw from the 13 winners netted one lucky person the grand prize: a free trip for four adults with our contest sponsor, O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours. Congratulations to the winning entries, which you can preview on the following pages, and to the winner of the O’Brien’s boat tour, Eldred Allen!
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Summer in Little Bay Islands Tanya Northcott, Ottawa, ON
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January Winner Winter Morning in St. John’s Jim Desautels, St. John’s, NL
February Winner A Cold Night in Trinity Ivo Lacle, Bonavista, NL 36
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March Winner Labrador Majesty Larry Jenkins, Labrador City, NL
April Winner The Daily Catch Lester Green, Little Heart’s Ease, NL www.downhomelife.com
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May Winner Dungeon Road Horses Mark Gray, Bonavista, NL
June Winner Meet the Puffins Rowena Holloway, Bloomfield, NL 38
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July Winner New Bonaventure Visitor Bernice Goudie, St. John’s, NL
August Winner Whale of a Time Alisa Smith, Clarenville, NL www.downhomelife.com
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September Winner Ferryland Portal Nicole Bishop, Paradise, NL
October Winner Colours of Manuels River Brenda Voisey, Mount Pearl, NL 40
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November Winner Salvage Sunset Cory Babstock, Clarenville, NL
December Winner A Splash of Colour Eldred Allen, Rigolet, NL www.downhomelife.com
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We’re wasting no time preparing for the next Downhome Calendar, . . . and neither should you! Submit your favourite photos of scenery, activities and icons that best illustrate the down-home lifestyle. We’re looking for a variety of colourful subjects – outports, animals, laundry lines, historic sites, seascapes, hilltop views, and so much more – and photos from all four seasons.
And you could win right away! Downhome staff will select four 2022 Calendar Contest entries submitted November 1-30, 2020 to be put to a public vote at Downhomelife.com. The photo that receives the most votes will be turned into a postcard. The lucky photographer will receive 10 postcards and $50 Downhome Dollars, gift certificates that can be used like cash to purchase products from Downhome Shoppe locations and online at ShopDownhome.com.
What are you waiting for? Submit today, using one of these ways:
by mail: Downhome Calendar Contest 43 James Lane St. John’s, NL A1E 3H3 online: www.downhomelife.com/calendar Must be original photos or high quality copies. Digital photos must be at least 300 dpi, file sizes of about 1MB. We can’t accept photocopies or photos that are blurry, too dark or washed out. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want your photos returned.
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A LIFE IN THE MILITARY
is a life like no other. When one enlists, they miss out on many things, like precious time with family and friends and important milestones, from first steps to last goodbyes. But they also become part of a whole new family that can help them navigate the ups and downs, and the many stresses that come with the job. Just as each person has their own reasons for entering the service, each has their reasons for leaving. The transition isn’t always easy and while some take on new careers that keep them connected to their military roots, others follow a different path. Here are just three veterans’ stories.
FROM COMBAT BOOTS TO BUSINESS Corporal (Ret.) Phillip Guy was 14 years old when he and his family left their home in Belfast, Northern Ireland to start a new life across the pond in Mississauga, ON. “That was during the IRA Troubles… so they left the bombs, basically, to come to Canada,” he says. In 2002, at the age of 25, Phillip made a decision that would forever change his life. He joined the military, becoming a tank driver with Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians), an armoured regiment of the Canadian Army based in Edmonton, AB. On June 8, 2008, he was driving his tank in Afghanistan when it hit an IED. www.downhomelife.com
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CPL (RET.) PHILLIP GUY (RIGHT) DROVE THIS TANK IN AFGHANISTAN (ABOVE). HE WAS INJURED WHEN HIS TANK RAN OVER AN IED.
The resulting explosion caused him to smack his head against the metal hatch, the reverberations of which still echo more than a decade later. “You’re literally less than an inch away from the roof of the tank when you’re sitting in the driver’s hole. It crushed discs in my neck, essentially… and I’m 80-90 per cent deaf in my right ear from my rescue. The chopper came in to get me and swooped down, kicked rocks up from the dead riverbed and they burst through my eardrum,” recalls Phillip who, in 2009, became one of the first people to receive a Sacrifice Medal, which recognizes Forces members who’ve been wounded or killed in action. While enduring years of physio46
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therapy and doctors visits, Phillip’s military role shifted from combat to clerical work. During his last five years in the service, he worked in operations, coordinating and tracking the regiment’s activities abroad and at home during events like the Alberta floods. In the spring of 2016, he was medically released from the military (“I can’t wear a helmet. And if you can’t wear your PPE, you cannot be a soldier,” he explains) and moved to Conception Bay South, NL with his wife (a Newfoundlander). Finding a new job with his injuries wasn’t easy, he says, so eventually he decided to try entrepreneurship. Sometime before joining the military, he had worked in a “geek store,” 1-888-588-6353
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or have served can truly “get,” Phillip he says, and in August 2016, he says. “It’s really hard to get out of the opened his own. Noble Miniatures military lingo. We use a lot of and Collectable Card Games is a acronyms... we’re pretty fast, direct... hobby shop in Paradise dedicated to and I see a lot of military guys come tabletop, strategy, role playing and into my store, even if they don’t colcollectible card games. He also hosts lect the games, because they just gaming nights and teaches others want someone to talk to that can how to play. understand what they’re saying.” “I figured it was something else I While he misses the camaraderie of knew, it was easy on the body, and military life, Phillip says he’s been there’s always geeks everywhere,” able to build a new support network he jokes. with the owners of some of the newer While Phillip, 43, admits some days stores in the same line of business as can be rough due to chronic back and his – something especially helpful neck pain, being his own boss allows during the ongoing pandemic. him to control his schedule and take “We’ve all been talking and trytime off for self-care when necessary. ing to help each other out, which is Transitioning to a more erratic civilreally good,” he says. “We’re in a ian life after 14 years in the military, really troubling time, and we all kind which is incredibly regimented and of need to work together to make operates like a well-oiled machine, this work.” also came with its own challenges. In the military, Phillip says, “you always knew what time, where, how to be dressed and what you were doing… so it’s slightly different being my own boss because I know where I have to be, I know what I have to do, but to do it, I also have to do everything else along with it instead of having a crew to work with.” Also, he adds with a laugh, “I go through clothes a lot more. I’m so used to wearing a uniform, I never had to buy clothes before.” Life in the military also comes with its own unique language, which is some- PHILLIP, TODAY, RUNS THIS HOBBY AND GAMING thing only those who serve SHOP IN PARADISE, NL. www.downhomelife.com
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FAMILIAR SURROUNDINGS
Sergeant (Ret.) Myra Cummings (nee Tobin) always knew she wanted to live a life of service. The St. George’s, NL, native, who currently lives in Oromocto, NB, had initially planned to be a police officer, but her aunt inspired her to take a different route. “She had joined [the Forces] a year ahead of me and she said, “Well, you know, the military is like that same kind of line of work,’” Myra recalls. So in 2004, at 18 and about a year after finishing high school, she enlisted with the army in Hamilton, ON, where her parents had moved a few years prior. After completing basic training in Quebec, Myra was posted to CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick in 2005, and worked as a supply technician. She played a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations of the Canadian Armed Forces by ensuring the troops had whatever they needed to get the job done – a role she performed with pride. “When the front line guys or the combat troops would roll in from the desert and needed simple things such as toilet paper, or a ration, or even water... for me to be able to provide that to people on the front line, to be able to get [them] through that day, to get back home to their families, really gave me a sense of pride at a very young age,” she says. “It made me just appreciate things in a whole different light.” The Forces also gave Myra the chance to see some of the world, and participate in things she wouldn’t get to otherwise, like the Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC) in Hawaii, the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise; and 48
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SGT (RET.) MYRA CUMMINGS (TOP) ENJOYING A DAY ON THE LAKE; (MIDDLE) ATOP A MOUNTAIN IN AFGHANISTAN; (ABOVE) STANDING VIGIL FOR REMEMBRANCE DAY 1-888-588-6353
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Operation NANOOK in the Yukon, a northern sovereignty operation. In 2007, she was deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan, for six months. That’s where she met her future husband (a fellow Newfoundlander). “Three years later, we started dating and got married not long after. And we have a son, an eight-year-old boy,” she says. While Myra, 34, says she “absolutely loved” her time in the military, being away from her young son, she says, the emotion evident in her voice, was hard. “It taught him how to be resilient, if anything, for a little boy. But it was difficult. By the time he was three years old, I had already missed a year-and-a-half of his life, between taskings and being on courses,” she says. “I had joined at 18 years old, full of piss and vinegar, didn’t have to worry
about anybody besides myself. But it was definitely a new perspective once we had him. And as he got older, it got harder because then he could really register that Mom wasn’t home as often. So that was challenging.” In the winter of 2018, after 14 years, Myra formally left the service, but she didn’t stray far from the base. She still performs the same job, in the same building, but in a civilian capacity – something that has made her transition smoother. “I also think what has helped me is that being a sergeant in the military, I needed to know how to help troops transition when it was time for them to get out... So being aware of all of that and being educated on that actually helped me in the long run, where a lot of people don’t get that experience, so the struggle will be harder,” she adds. “I’ve been pretty lucky.”
CHARTING A NEW COURSE
Joan (Joanie) Grandy has always had a desire to travel and see the world. A native of Garnish on the Burin Peninsula, she had originally planned to study nautical science at Memorial University’s Marine Institute, but decided to chart a new course instead, joining the Royal Canadian Navy as an ordinary seaman (now known as sailor third class) in 2005 at 19 years old. After completing her training in Esquimalt, BC, Joanie got posted to Halifax, NS, and worked for three years as a naval combat information (NCI) operator. Her job was scanning the seas and tracking ships and aircraft with surveillance radars and intelligence-gathering computers, sailing on HMCS St. John’s and HMCS Charlottetown. www.downhomelife.com
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OS JOAN (JOANIE) GRANDY DURING BASIC TRAINING AT BORDEN, ON, IN 2005 (TOP), AND RECENTLY ON THE WATERFRONT IN VICTORIA, BC. 50
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In 2008, Joanie left the navy and, about five months later, began her studies in Marystown, NL, to become an occupational health and safety (OHS) professional. But the navy didn’t really leave her. “In the military, you would have to sit with your back straight and your legs and feet together... and become silent and face them [officer/instructor], and wait for them to address the room. And the first morning, when our OHS instructor walked into the classroom, I’d done that… and I was kind of like, why am I being so weird right now? Why is everybody else just slowly going back to their seats to sit down, ever so casually, and I’m sitting at attention?” she recalls. With her OHS diploma in hand, Joanie worked on building bomb and bulletproof shelters at Dynamic Air Shelters in Grand Bank before heading to St. John’s for a job with Oceanex as a safety and security coordinator. Eventually, she headed to Alberta and spent six years working in health and safety on large-scale construction projects. While working out West, she also helped with evacuations during the Fort McMurray wildfires. Later, looking for more of a worklife balance, she became an OHS/peace officer for the province of Alberta. Since 1-888-588-6353
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leaving the service, Joanie has also fully embraced her love of travel, visiting more than 20 countries and backpacking all around Europe. These days, Joanie, 34, works as a health and safety advisor with the City of Victoria on Vancouver Island, BC – an area she fell in love with during her early military training. Being able to still help and protect people in some way, she says, is something for which she’s grateful. “Health and safety is so important, and that’s such a big factor in the military, too. And now, to be able to provide that to the workers and be their voice to speak on their behalf to management or to the employer... I love that.” Since leaving the military, it’s sometimes the smallest things that she notices the most at her current work, “weird things like being able to have
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my fingernails painted,” she laughs. “Outside of the military, I think I wore my hair in a bun or back in a ponytail for the first two or three years. And then people actually started saying to me, ‘Why do you always wear your hair up?’... It was such a weird transition for me to be able to wear my hair down during my work day.” Even though she’s been out of the service for just over a decade, Joanie says that sense of camaraderie is always there. “I’ve always connected and remain connected with the veterans and those who served. We always had each other’s back in the military, and the same can still be said when you are no longer a member but work alongside someone else who did,” she says. “Your shipmates or your teammates, they become part of your family.”
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Sid is not
an alley cat, but he is a cat known to roam the alleys of downtown St. John’s and is as much a familiar face as the regular summer buskers. He’s become quite the celebrity, with sightings of him excitedly reported on social media. Amanda Ball was dining downtown when she encountered him. She posted to Facebook, “Sid was at Celtic Hearth the other night. We realized this after our server walked away and then yelled, ‘OMG, there’s a cat in here!’ I didn’t realize it was him at first, until I posted photos on Instagram and a few people messaged me to let me know. I was worried about him when we left (we carried him outside the restaurant). I was glad to find out that he has a home and that he is a downtown icon! Such a sweet little guy!” “I got Sid six years ago. I picked the only male and neutered him to help control the cat population,” says Adam Blackwood. “His dad may have been feral, for Sid sometimes has feral tendencies, like being a great mouser and loving the outdoors.”
Since being adopted six years ago, Sid the cat has become a fixture of downtown St. John’s. All images from “The Adventures of Sid” on Facebook
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Normally found lounging and occasionally trying his luck in the bars downtown (above and left), Sid has spent much of 2020 like most of us – indoors and socially distant (bottom). Sid joins a spectacular group of famous felines: the Tobermory Cat from Scotland; Coal, of Ottawa’s former Parliament Hill Colony; and Feral Fred, who was a dump rescue from Bonavista South. Sid is famous, admirable, adventurous – you decide! To say he has fans is an understatement; there’s a Facebook page dedicated to him, “The Adventures of Sid,” and his Facebook group has more than 2,500 members who follow his escapades. Usually Sid goes into chill mode 54
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during the winter, and fans clamour for his return come spring. This past year, between Snowmageddon and the pandemic, Sid has been indoors a lot and new sightings are in short supply. Darrell Cooper, a member of the Facebook group, opines tonguein-cheek, “While the bars were shut down by COVID, Sid sobered up. He is living the good life as a house cat. He would post pics, but he’s embarrassed by how boring he is now.” Sid’s regular route takes him up and down Water Street. He especially likes visiting restaurants where kind people cannot resist his inquiries about what’s on the menu. Soon tasty treats appear for epicurean Sid. He also has a penchant for the night life. “George Street is like home to him,” says Adam. Sid’s page shows him on a stool at Turkey Joe’s, on the edge of the bar in Sundance or waiting at Shamrock City for the live music to start. If you see Sid, don’t ply him with too much milk, for he’s been known to do pub crawls! Lesser known are his visits to the Murray Premises Hotel lobby and The Heritage Shop, where Sid has occasionally bunked down, especially close to closing time. That nearly led to him getting locked in at the Dildo Brewing Co. shop. Vanessar Blair posted on his page, “He used to visit me at work here, but one evening we were closing and couldn’t find him. He was in the shelf with the shirts and would not come out. I had to turn the vacuum on to get him out after chicken luring did not work. I don’t think he came back since, poor guy.” Poor Sid? This feline needs no pity. He’s the most loved cat in town! www.downhomelife.com
Sid has been spotted in store window displays and tending bar at local watering holes. November 2020
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When Jasmine Paul
was 31 years old, her maternal grandparents in Whiteway gifted her with two model wooden boats: a dory and a schooner. A year later, in July 2020, she received another gift that reflected her love of boats and her connection to the fishery, and it would be the surprise of her lifetime so far. “I was shocked!” Jasmine remarks about a day that started by driving her Nan to Heart’s Delight to attend the birthday party of a family friend, Tom Applegate. There, her nan and her parents urged her to visit Tom’s shed and have a look at a new boat he was building. An apprentice fish harvester with her parents, Jasmine was certainly curious about boats. In fact, she and her father had been on the hunt for a small boat for Jasmine, since Top: Jasmine’s wooden boat under construction last winter. Left: Tom Applegate and Jasmine Paul discussing the boat he built for her as a surprise gift from her parents. www.downhomelife.com
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she was keen on having one of her own. She’d even taken a boatbuilding course in the winter of 2019 at MUN, with master boat builder Jerome Canning. She sized up the flat’s lines and offered a few comments (including laughingly noting that “it was too fancy for me,” she recalls). Then her father unlocked a longheld secret about this boat: “One more thing… that’s yours!” “Well, I just got the surprise of my life,” Jasmine wrote in a Facebook post that day. “My family arranged for their friend Tom to build me a boat. Today is Tom’s birthday and they used it as an excuse to get me down to his place. I can’t even believe this.” Jasmine was euphoric about the magnificent 14.5-foot flat-bottomed, yellow and green rowboat built just for her. Its construction was a family secret kept by Jasmine’s parents, Kathy Welsh Paul and Andre Paul, as well as other family members, including her sister and her grandparents. Kathy says it was her husband who first had the idea of a boat for their daughter, while she wondered how they’d keep her from finding out. Andre kept Jasmine at bay by offering to take her boat shopping this summer. It helped that Jasmine lived in St. John’s at the time and would be unlikely to stumble upon the build over the winter in Heart’s Delight.
Legacy of Love Family friend Tom Applegate secretly worked on this flat-bottomed boat for Jasmine in his Heart’s Delight shed over the past winter. 58
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It has been a challenging year for Jasmine, as she lost both her maternal grandfather (Harvey Welsh) and paternal grandmother (Catherine Paul) less than a week apart in early June. It was a blow to someone so 1-888-588-6353
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close to her grandparents, but she was comforted to learn that her Pop Welsh had been down to see the flat that winter knowing that it would one day be hers. “It was a wonderful and generous gift from my parents, and I’m glad Pop got to see it!” says Jasmine. More than that, she explains, is her parents’ belief in her and their support of her dream of owning her own boat. “They trusted me to take care of the wooden boat and go out on the sea by myself.” Jasmine continues to fish with her parents, and is busy these days with a move to Come By Chance, where her parents live and fish. Jasmine has www.downhomelife.com
moved into her late Nan’s house for now and, no surprise, she’s painting one of the rooms dory yellow. She decided to name her boat Pops’ Legacy, after her two late grandfathers who were also fishermen. Jasmine’s been getting it outfitted with a small outboard motor and planning for its launch. Wooden boats endure as iconic symbols of a proud Newfoundland and Labrador fishing culture. They’ve helped sustain souls, families, communities and heritage, as well as propel many adventures. No doubt, Jasmine and Pops’ Legacy will carry on a longtime provincial and family tradition. November 2020
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Ferryland church’s shipwrecked statues and a war memorial rescued from the rubble STORY & PHOTOS BY DENNIS FLYNN
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HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL
coastal roads wind through historic Ferryland on the Southern Shore of Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula. The shipwreck-scarred seashore and headlands spawn stories of battles and bounty, strife and salvation. In this community, even church statues and altars have fantastic stories of ruination and redemption. Holy Trinity Roman Catholic church, built in the late 1800s, has such a story.
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The Roman Catholic church in Ferryland was constructed using local stone, quarried from islands near Calvert.
“To the best of my knowledge, this is one of the oldest surviving stone Roman Catholic churches in the province,” says Charlie Dunne, longtime member of the church Restoration Foundation, about the Registered Heritage Structure. “It is actually the last of the five similar stone churches built under the leadership of Bishop John Thomas Mullock [1807-1896]. The other four were in Torbay, Killbride, Blackhead and St. Kyran’s, but are unfortunately no longer with us.” By 1989, the church had fallen into disrepair, and a group of area residents banded together to fix it. “Our stone church was very expensive to restore, but if we didn’t act the archdiocese might eventually be forced to close the church,” Charlie says. They obtained government funding and held fundraisers to pay for the work. 62
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Paying for it was one thing; getting the right materials was another. “Visitors think this stone came from somewhere exotic, but if you look across the harbour you can see the source for yourself. The original stone for this church was cut about two kilometres away, over near Calvert on a series of little islands just off the headland called Stone Islands.” Since then, Stone Islands have been declared a protected marine area and is off limits. “We were lucky, older folks over the years gathered up and stored original stone from various renovations should it be needed to fix the church. We used some of that original stone in smaller repairs, which was a nice touch. We still had to obtain new stone from other sources, but it matched in really well.” Before entering the church, I ask 1-888-588-6353
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These statues depicting the Passion were recovered from the shipwreck of the Torhamvan, the wreckage of which can still be seen near Ferryland.
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Charlie about the life-size metal Passion statues near the main entrance. “These three religious figures were salvaged off the October 1926 shipwreck of the vessel Torhamvan, which was bound from St. John’s to Trois Rivières, Quebec,” he says. That year, 1926, “had been a very bad year for the fishery and people were hungry. Legend has it one of the nuns had school children say a Novena to St. Jude Thaddeus [Patron Saint of Hopeless Causes] for something to happen to feed the poor. This is a true story. After the Novena was over, that night the Torhamvan ran aground with all kinds of provisions aboard that fed the poor of Ferryland and area that winter. It was a miracle to these people in those times. Rumour has it the collection of statues was going somewhere else, but was given to the people of the area for saving the lives of all the crew of the Torhamvan in the storm.” Our conversation about the church continues inside, where the blues, greens, golds and reds of the stained-glass windows shine a band of colour down upon a modest-looking altar shrouded in a white cloth. “It might not seem like it, but the altar in this church was pretty special,” says Charlie. “It was a beautiful, tall altar with amazing decorative features and columns, and was really something to see.” Carved out of marble in November 2020
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This block is all that remains of the original circa 1920s altar, featuring the names of the fallen from the First World War.
Italy, it was destined for an American church. But after it was done, it was deemed too small and it went up for sale. Residents of Ferryland and area raised $2,500 to buy it, to serve as a memorial to local soldiers who’d died in the First World War. Their names would be carved into it. “It doesn’t sound like a lot of money today, but you can’t imagine how difficult it was to come up with what was a princely sum in rural Newfoundland in the late 1920s – but they did it. There was an older gentleman who used to visit our house, and he often told of how his family went without sugar for their tea for a long time in order to help buy this altar.” Charlie continues, “Fast forward to the changes in churches around the world brought about by Vatican Council II in the 1960s, when statues were being taken out and beautiful altars were being dismantled. Now I am not saying it was the fault of the 64
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priest whoever was stationed here then because it was the times and he was probably just doing what he was told… but instead of just leaving this altar alone and installing a smaller one out front, it was destroyed. Some say a small blast of dynamite was allegedly used to knock it down, and I can’t say for sure on that, but before anyone knew about it or could intervene it was gone and reduced to rubble.” However, someone had the foresight to save the most poignant pieces of that beautiful altar, and residents did their best to return them to their place. Charlie reverently lifts back the cloth on the side of the altar and there they are: the boys from home. I reach out to touch the cracks zig-zagging across the surface of the marble like deep battle scars and am surprised at the pleasant warmth of the stone. Whether the source of heat is the sun from without, or something subtle from within, I never enquired. 1-888-588-6353
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Twillingate gets The Rock Vandal’s trademark treatment By Jenn Thornhill Verma 66
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and crossing the bridges connecting the islands that make up Twillingate, keep your eyes peeled for the work of The Rock Vandal. Affixed to rugged rocks, hundred-year-old clapboard structures and local businesses along the main thoroughfare, the street artist’s signature yarn bombs and other creative works will catch your eye and make you smile.
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Since 2015, Nina Elliott (a.k.a. The Rock Vandal) has been showcasing her unique fibre-art installations about town. Nina is from Hamilton, ON, but lives with her family in Twillingate. Her work relies on accessible materials used in unexpected ways to create free and temporary public art installations. “I only have access to a hardware store, a dollar store and a yarn store,” says Nina. “So my materials must be accessible, inexpensive, versatile and available.” 68
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Even with limited materials, budget and time (Nina, 36, and her husband have a toddler and another child imminently on the way), this street artist’s creativity is endless. One of her latest yarn bombs, her largest installation yet, featured aliens and a 16-foottall rainbow beam. “Beam ’er up, nebula!” says one flying alien, also giving the peace sign, while two more are in conversation on the ground. “Ooooooh, beautiful Newfoundlanders,” says another alien. 1-888-588-6353
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“Surrender all the Jam-Jams,” says the third alien, making reference to the popular Purity brand cookies. The space-age scene feels all the more futuristic stapled to one of the oldest surviving private residences in the province. The Rock Vandal has often featured her works on the wooden buildings of the Ashbourne Premises, a Registered Heritage Site from the early 19th-century compris-
tapping into an international community of street artists and art enthusiasts on social media. Nina curates a range of street art on her blog (Rockvandal.com) and related social media, especially Instagram (@rock_vandal). Her blog features more than 20 interviews she’s done with street artists from all corners of the world who collectively use a range of materials – fibre, paint, clay,
ing a Mercantile Shop, office and longhouse. The juxtaposition of street art on historical properties cause passersby to do a doubletake. “I want to challenge what people think they’ll find when they visit an outport community,” says Nina. “When visiting new places, it can be a big draw to visit street art. People go and take their photographs with [street art], but it’s not something you’d expect in a small town.” The Rock Vandal has made a name for herself in Twillingate and elsewhere. She’s done it, in part, by
wood and more – to create public art exhibits. “I’m experimenting with street art as the only street artist in Twillingate. St. John’s is five hours away and arguably the hub for art in the province, and I feel distanced from that, so I interview other street artists to feel connected,” she says. As a yarn bomber, Nina is a particularly rare breed of street artist. She figures she’s the only one in the province and one of few in the entire country. But she’s drawn to the medium for its relatability.
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“Yarn bombing is a very accessible medium: it’s warm, fuzzy and temporary, so it softens what can be the hard edges of street art,” Nina says. People generally have a positive association with yarn and that plays to The Rock Vandal’s favour. In the same way, people appreciate the temporary nature of her work; Nina always seeks permission before
Nina stops and smells the roses, another piece of her street art. Nina Elliot photo
exhibiting her work and removes her installations within weeks, if not days, of putting it up. There’s also an immersive and interactive nature to The Rock Vandal’s work. In fact, Nina considers much of her work incomplete until passersby get involved: for example, stepping into the scene for a selfie and posting to social media. What started as a hobby five years ago is now an established practice for Nina, who this year marked a number of noteworthy firsts in her street art career. Not only did The Rock Vandal organize the province’s first 70
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outdoor art gallery showcasing all of her own works, but she was also awarded her first artist grant (from the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council to create the alien invasion yarn bomb) and began experimenting with a new form of street art (using packing tape). She’s been doing all this during the global coronavirus pandemic, while working for the local health authority as an occupational therapist, teaching yoga and preparing to birth her second child. Just when COVID-19 sent the world into lockdown, Nina got to work on the outdoor art gallery in Twillingate. “Street art can’t be closed,” Nina said at the time, adding it’s an artistic avenue that she saw garner more attention globally during the pandemic given it’s a safe way for people to express themselves while practising social distancing. The theme of The Rock Vandal’s COVID-19 collection was “uplifting spirits.” While some of the pieces portrayed a literal take on the theme – such as a bunch of colourful balloons, allowing passersby to pretend to get carried away while holding the bunch – other pieces reimagined favourite characters from Where’s Waldo?, all accustomed to standing in a crowd, but now standing at a safe distance from one another. The gallery made national news. Next Nina tackled her biggest installation yet – the alien invasion. By then seven months pregnant, 1-888-588-6353
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installing the piece proved challenging. But once it was up, she continued to keep it fresh by inviting her social media followers to suggest new content for the scene. “I hear we’re called come from aways here…” says one alien to another in one such reimagined scene. “More like come from a galaxy far far aways,” says the other alien. For The Rock Vandal’s latest project, she’s put down her yarn and picked up tape. Inspired by the work of American street artist Mark Jenkins, who makes sculptural installations, Nina has created a few sculptures and installed them around Twillingate. A piece attached to a building façade on the main road, titled “Stop and Smell the Roses,” features a model of the artist’s hand and forearm, made entirely of tape, holding a bouquet of flowers. Another piece called, “The Meditator,” is a full-body replica of Nina’s own seven-months-pregnant body in a seated lotus pose, hands at heart centre. For Nina, using tape allowed her to further her interests as a street artist, relying on non-traditional, but highly accessible, materials to make free public art. But Nina hadn’t considered the added dimension her pregnancy would bring to this piece. Once The Meditator was seated on a public bench in Twillingate, she was taken with observers’ response to the piece. “It was interesting to hear people saying what it represented to them. [Some took it to mean] body perception or about the body being a shell – that spiritual element of having a body and having a soul. I was struck by its emotional resonance,” says Nina. Although The Meditator was www.downhomelife.com
tied to a bench using fishing wire, a late summer storm toppled it over. However, the piece lives on as part of a virtual exhibit in the annual Unscripted Twillingate Digital Arts Festival (find them on Instagram @unscriptedfestival). Nina created a short film using The Meditator and incorporating lasers, light, fog and music.
“The Meditator” featured in a version that will live forever as part of a digital-art exhibit. The Rock Vandal photo
In the works for the future is a book project for anyone with a creative heart. In a book she’s tentatively (and creatively) titled St.ART, Nina will profile starter tips from street artists. If anyone has lessons to share, it’s Nina Elliott. She’s proven you can create unique art at the farthest-reaching edge of the continent using readily available materials. “I want to be part of creative and artistic space,” says The Rock Vandal. “Street art has allowed me to cultivate that space in Twillingate. Wherever you are, you have to cultivate it for yourself.” November 2020
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Daphne Belbin Tumlin and her grandchildren seek the reasons why Newfoundlanders are said to be the happiest people on earth.
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held a strong personal myth that Newfoundlanders were happier than anyone else on earth. When I told my grandchildren about this, they wanted to know if it was true, and if so, why Newfoundlanders were so happy. In the summers of 2018 and 2019, we went to Newfoundland to look for those answers. Iris was 12 years old, and Felix was nine.
As we travelled around the Avalon Peninsula, we often met someone who knew my family. In St. John’s at Belbin’s Grocery Store, we learned that though we were not related to the owner, his aunt had been a friend of my grandmother, Martha AnnBelbin. In Winterton, the grocery store proprietor said, “I think we might be related.” After exchanging names, places of origin and stories, we realized only that he knew someone who had once lived in New Chelsea where I was born. That was enough to make us feel like friends, if not relatives.
Left: Iris Pritchard uses a stone as her stage. Above: Felix and Iris on various adventures www.downhomelife.com
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“Are Newfoundlanders happier because everyone is related or connected to everyone else?” asked Iris, thinking she had found her first clue. “Could be,” I replied, “but I don’t think that’s where the happiness legend comes from.” As we arrived in New Chelsea, we saw a street sign that bore our family name and a sign for Belbin’s Hill on the property where I was born. Even the cottage where we stayed was named Belbin’s Chalet. “Are you related to the owner of this cabin, too?” Iris asked. “I don’t think so, but I’ll look through some genealogy records,” I said. To my surprise, I learned that my grandfather’s sister had been married to the owner’s great-greatgrandfather. “So, we are related!” Iris exclaimed. “I knew it. We’re related to everybody here.” We visited the local cemeteries and searched church records hoping to find clues to the legend. Iris was still convinced that the key to happiness had something to do with connections and family.
Maybe it’s the fishing?
We spent lots of time those two summers hiking, playing in the brook, kayaking and walking in the forest, but Felix was convinced that it was fishing that had made our ancestors so happy. He was fascinated with all sea creatures, especially big cod fish and humpback whales. Unfortunately, fish do not love Felix. He has both a contact allergy and a food allergy to fish. Still, he wanted to jig a big codfish in Newfoundland like his forefathers had done from 1750 to 1927. Felix got his wish when Captain 74
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Harold Green from Old Perlican invited him to go fishing on his 39foot boat. Harold didn’t know anything about Felix’s fish allergy, yet he said nothing about the waterproof gloves, boots and clothing that Felix wore, or the backpack with the Benadryl and an epinephrine pen that he carried everywhere he went. Harold’s boat was equipped with sonar and, so it seemed, was Harold. It didn’t take long for Felix to land his first big cod. Since he dared not touch the fish, even with his fishing gear covering everything except his face, someone always helped take the fish from the hook. Within an hour, Felix had reached the legal limit, so he asked Captain Harold, “Are there any whales out here?” “Let’s go farther out and look for some,” Harold suggested. Within 10 minutes they had spotted their first humpback whale. Felix had certainly found his happiness. In one day, he had jigged a tub full of cod and watched a whale breach close to him. When the tub of codfish was delivered to our cousin Sandy’s house, Felix learned that there was more to fishing than pulling them out of the water. “Now, you watch, and I’ll show you what to do next,” said Sandy, as he slid the knife along the spine of the fish. Then he carefully cut out the roe, cheeks, tongue and head, explaining the use of each part, before he discarded the guts and the eyeballs. Felix watched intently and then asked, “Will you let me cut just one part of the next cod?” “Only if you’re careful not to splash anything on yourself,” Sandy replied. “I’ll be careful,” promised Felix, 1-888-588-6353
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Does the secret to happiness lie in fishing? Above: Harold Green with Felix Pritchard when he catches his first big fish Left: Sandy Button teaches Felix how to clean a cod
walking up to the cutting table and picking up a big knife. He raised the knife up high and wacked the tail off the cod, shouting “That’s what you get for making me allergic to you!” When Felix couldn’t go out in boat, he fished off the wharf at Hant’s Harbour. He could see the fish through the clear water, and when a sculpin tried to nibble on his line, he would say, “Not you! I want your good-looking friend.” Mostly he caught conners, but when he caught a beautiful flounder, he threw it back with www.downhomelife.com
instructions: “Make some more little ones just like you.” He patiently fished for trout in the Big Brook near our cabin, too, whenever he could. I had told Felix that when I was a child, there were times when the fish were so plentiful that we could catch them in a bucket, but he didn’t believe me. Then 6:30 one morning, my cousin, Billy Button, knocked on the door and said, “Get up! The capelin are rolling.” “Wake up!” I said to Felix, shaking him awake. “Now is the time to catch November 2020
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Felix learns how to catch capelin with his grandmother Daphne Tumlin (left) and Nana Evelyn Schilling (right). fish in a bucket!” Felix pulled on his fishing uniform and grabbed his pharmaceutical bag. Fifteen minutes later we were in Capelin Cove in Hants Harbour, dipping a bucket into the ocean to catch the swarming capelin, while our cousins used a net to scoop up the big cod that had chased the capelin to shore. It was an exciting spectacle!
Mystery solved
Before we left Newfoundland, we hosted a dinner for our new-found extended family members. Harold surprised us with stuffed crab appetizers, and his wife Gloria – sister of our proprietor, Don Belbin, and thus officially related – surprised us with bakeapple cheesecake. But it’s likely we surprised them more by serving Brandade de Morue, which is French for whipped salt cod, as our way of signaling that we belonged to the group. At the end of the evening, we had 76
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still not settled on the reason for the happiness legend. Iris still believed it was family connections and Felix still believed it was fishing. They wanted to invite our guests to visit us in Houston or Los Angeles to learn more. “I don’t think your friend Harold will come,” I told him. “Why not?” Felix asked. “Because he belongs here, where he was born.” That’s when I suddenly realized that people were happier in Newfoundland than anywhere else on earth because they belonged to the place where they were born. I had solved the mystery of the happiness legend! “But what does that mean?” Felix asked. “It means that the people and the geography fit together, just like two jigsaw puzzle pieces. The sea and the land bred people who were rugged, 1-888-588-6353
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resilient, self-reliant and kind to one another. People who were hunters and fishermen. People who lived off the land and the sea. Do you understand?” I asked. “I think it means I don’t belong here,” replied Felix, “because the sea could not breed someone who is allergic to fish. But I still really like Newfoundland,” he quickly added. “Well, I belong here,” declared Iris. “You both belong here,” I said. I knew it when I watched them walk into the cool, green wilderness, where they acted as though their ancestors were still alive and talking to them from the other side.
They carved the names of their great-grandparents, Hedley and Ida Belbin, into a tree trunk and etched their initials into a large boulder. Later they built a shrine of stones and sticks for the spirits to visit after we left. In quarantine away from Newfoundland this summer, we have contented ourselves with memories of our magical Newfoundland experiences. Hopefully, we will be able to go back in 2021. Regardless, Newfoundland will patiently wait for us because we belong to the land that embraces the happiest people on earth.
Iris with grandmother Daphne
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AN UNEXPECTED ADVENTURE TO THE CABIN By Berdina Ford Bonavista, NL
“Great day to head up the bay!”
My brother, Randy, was always excited to get away to the cabin in Ireland’s Eye. On a calm, sunny day with a good forecast, we headed out from Old Bonaventure on the boat trip that usually takes about an hour. Soon we’d be back to the home of our ancestors, the Toopes, Hodders, Coopers and Kelleys. Once outside the harbour we could easily view the islands: Ragged Island, Green Island, Anthony’s Island and Ireland’s Eye. But then, seemingly from out of nowhere, a thick fog descended upon us and we had no visibility. We didn’t worry right away, figuring it would leave as quickly as it came. Not so! Just inside Ragged Island, Randy slowed the boat’s engine. Moving at a snail’s pace, it was soon decided to idle the engine, wait and watch. After a half-hour or so, it seemed the fog was lifting so Randy restarted the engine and steered cautiously towards Ireland’s Eye. Then the fog settled back down on the water again and, unfortunately for us, it stayed. After another hour and the fog again lifting, we spied on our left a stretch of land we believed to be Ireland’s Eye. Happily we 78
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steered close to the land. But then, looming to our right was another stretch of land unrecognizable to us. That’s when we realized that while idling, we must have drifted into Smith Sound. We were on the opposite side of Ireland’s Eye Island and the entrance to the harbour. We would have to continue towards Thoroughfare and navigate through the tickle. We knew darkness would soon settle in and, unsure of the fog, we continued on with much care. My brother had not navigated these waters previously, so this would be a new and uncertain adventure for us all. With their daughter and myself on rock watch at the head of the 22-foot open boat, we guided Randy and the boat through the narrow tickle. One of the biggest challenges facing us that day was looming before us. We both remembered our father and www.downhomelife.com
grandfather telling us of a treacherous shoal rock in the middle of Thoroughfare tickle, and we needed to safely get past that. Somehow we did! Then we were faced with the longer navigation past Ivanhoe and the upper end of Ireland’s Eye Island. By this time the evening sky was closing in. Slowly we made our way past Traytown and finally entered Ireland’s Eye harbour under a shroud of fog. Relieved and thankful, we retired to the coziness of the tiny cabin and the eery stillness in the harbour. The fog settled in and so did we; our twonight stay resulted in almost four. My brother, Randy, joked about TV’s Gilligan and his three-hour tour. In his logbook about this stay, he wrote, “Stories will be told by Berdina.” This is one of them! November 2020
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HOME and Cabin
stuff we love
by Tobias Romaniuk
Wild About Wool KNITS FOR A CAUSE In 1920s Newfoundland and Labrador, public health nurses weren’t paid by the government. They were paid, in part, through the proceeds of knitted goods. By the mid-’30s the government had taken over health care and nurses’ pay, but the knitting organization – Newfoundland Outport Nursing and Industrial Association (NONIA) – continued their work. NONIA still sells locally knit items at their Water Street, St. John’s store and online to raise money for worthy causes. Nonia.com
FELINE FUN Even the thickest knit sweater can’t warm your heart like watching your pet play with a toy. If your furry friend is a cat, you’ll want the catnip-filled seal, squid and capelin made by Spindrift. Don’t have a cat? They also make great gifts for the cat lover in your life. Spindriftknits.com
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HEEL TO TOE Thick, handknit wool socks keep your feet warm in your boots on wet winter days and double as slippers (vamps!) for comfort at home. We’re particularly fond of buying socks at local markets, like Some Good Market, but NONIA, Spindrift, the NL Craft Council and the Port Union Women’s Institute are also good sources. Facebook.com/SomeGoodMarket
OLD-FASHIONED COMFORT A new generation of knitters have embraced the classic patterns of the past and used their social media savvy to build creative businesses. For instance, Logymade is a one-woman company run by Julie, who makes oldfashioned granny square blankets and cushions with a contemporary approach to colour and pattern. Logymade does custom order requests, which is great for when you want a couch blanket to match your existing décor, or something made in your favourite person’s favourite colour. Instagram @logymade
DO IT YOURSELF Trigger mitts, a Newfoundland and Labrador winter wardrobe staple, have been getting rounds of applause in the knitting world, in large part because knitters like Christine LeGrow and Shirley Scott have been making, selling and writing about the mittens. The two have co-authored three books in a “Saltwater” series, beginning with Saltwater Mittens, a collection of heritage patterns together with some background on the mittens. ShopDownhome.com www.downhomelife.com
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HOME and Cabin
venture with a view
A young couple in love find their happily ever after in Norris Point Story by Janice Stuckless | Photos by Candace Kennedy
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From their new home
in Norris Point, Peter Thurlow and Meigan Aspin can look out over the bluff where they were married in 2015. They can also watch the days begin and end over beautiful Bonne Bay and the seasons sweep over the Tablelands. The landscape was love at first sight for them, and they designed their home to be part of it.
“You feel at one with the landscape from every main room in the house,” says Meigan. “It really lends to an immersive feel of being connected to the environment and the landscape outside.” Meigan is from Prince Edward Island. Peter is a Newfoundlander from Buchans who grew up in Corner Brook. They met years ago at university in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In 2014, they decided to sell Meigan’s restored Victorian home in Halifax and find a new home in a new place, one with plenty of open space, “wilderness, www.downhomelife.com
adventure, community, activities and huge potential,” Meigan says. They spent that summer casually touring around Newfoundland and found themselves in Norris Point. They were out for a bike ride, admiring the view of the Tablelands, when they stumbled upon Pierces Lane. Peter said, “I’m related to the Pierces from Norris Point. Maybe it’s named after them.” And it was! Surely, this was their first sign. Then the view at the end of the road, and the For Sale sign on a property there, sealed it. This would be their new home. November 2020
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They lived happily in that singlestorey saltbox house, operating a loft-style rental next door called The Little Wild, for several years. In 2018, after their daughter Sophia was born, they started working on their bigger dream. Their friend, Jon Thorne, a house plan and landscape designer, helped them create the concept for their new property, located just 100 feet down the shore from their old home. First on the list was positioning the house to make the most of the incredible views. “We were also adamant to make it an energy efficient home, which is why we went with ICF construction, high heat output/efficiency wood stove, MYSA smart thermostats and triple-pane glass windows,” Meigan says. And because Meigan, a registered massage therapist, would be working from home, they designed a beautiful, professional space in the basement for her office and treatment room with a separate entrance. They hired Bob Chubbs, a local builder who’d worked on The Little Wild, to help carry out the scope of the project. And they turned to local interior designer Holly Costello to complete the look and feel of their new home.
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“We first worked through the colours and materials that would clad the outside of the house and then moved inside to the really fun stuff,” Holly says. A key element that inspired much of the rest of the interior design was a funky flower wallpaper designed by New York artist Wayne Pate. “I fell in love with the idea of a feature wall. The colours and personality [of the wallpaper] just seemed to fit so well and helped to anchor other decisions we made for the house. The images and colour of this paper were pivotal when I really think about it,” Meigan says. “The ‘Particles Pendant’ dining room light fixture, which we sourced through the help of Helen Champion at Modern Komfort, was a perfect fit for the paper, with the round shapes and whimsy of the piece. The colours in the paper also paired so well with the colour we selected for the island and the textured leather detail of the stools at the island, and the walnut stain of the floating shelves. The paper is, by far, my most loved feature in the entire home. It just helped to make the decision of every88
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thing else flow that much smoother because it became our sort of theme.” “We sort of ran with that as the main inspiration for the colours that would go into the kitchen and throughout the main spaces,” Holly agrees. “The reddish-orange island colour, of course, is front and centre and a pretty obvious connection to the print; the colour of the granite top with the blue and terra cotta tones, the dark blue paint colour in the mudroom/entry off the kitchen, the black dining room chairs and hits of black in the light fixture and in the staircase area” can all be traced back to the wallpaper. “It’s this phase of the build that I think I can honestly say I loved the most,” Meigan says. And that’s in large part because she made the wise decision not to try to hang the paper herself, but let the pros do it. “I considered hanging it myself, and am I
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ever glad I didn’t go there. Holly put me in touch with Jeff Cunning, who is her go-to for a lot of jobs… so I watched him and another of his guys go through the painstaking precision of gluing and hanging the paper themselves. I’m eternally glad to have saved myself from the tedium of it. Some jobs are just really worth hiring out for, and that was sure one of them!” Now settled nicely into their dream home, Meigan and Peter’s former saltbox home has become their second short-term rental property, called Exposure. Thinking back on that day when they first rode their bikes down Pierces Lane and saw that For Sale sign, Meigan recalls she and Peter looking at each other and shrugging, “Why not?” “Nothing ventured, nothing gained, they say,” Meigan comments. “Thank goodness we ventured.”
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warm welcomes HOME and Cabin
Fall decorating with interior designer Marie Bishop
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It’s fall and it’s fabulous! Grateful as we are for the fantastic summer weather we had, it’s a welcome shift to move into the warm and cozy. And like the switch in our wardrobe, it’s refreshing to switch out a few accessories in our living space to reflect the season. The best place to start is the entrance – inside and out. It’s the introduction to your home, welcoming all who come through your door. What’s the feel for this time of year? Christmas is still weeks away, but there’s a lot to be festive about in fall. The colours, textures and spicy fall scents help create a warm and cheerful atmosphere at your front door. Your décor doesn’t have to be a big investment: natural elements from your garden, farmer’s market finds, craft shop purchases, even deals from the dollar store can help you create a stylish space.
As visitors approach
For exterior design, the first consideration is the weather. You’ll want to make sure whatever you’re displaying is secured in place and can withstand high winds and driving rain – fairly common fall weather. Second, for the most interesting and visual appeal, vary the height and texture of your items. For instance, you could start with an outdoor rug, then add a small table or chair where you can set up a few pots of flowers, baskets or crates on top as www.downhomelife.com
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well as at the feet. If the area is fairly protected, you could add a throw or cushion to the chair. Thread some mini lights throughout and hang a floral or natural vine wreath on your door. For a touch of rustic, add a few junks of firewood or a garden planter filled with alder or dogberry branches. Then for the final layer, why not add a dozen cinnamon scented pinecones to the mix‌ and if you like a touch of whimsy, add a crow or a fairy!
Once inside
Next, a few ideas for the inside space. It helps to have a horizontal surface for lamps, floral arrangements or other interesting accessories. The same principals apply using colour, texture and layering to create an interesting but not overwhelming entrance. Keep in mind how busy this space can be with people coming and going; you don’t want to create congestion in this high traffic area. A 92
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always more effective than a lot of smaller ones. A comfy chair with a fuzzy, autumn-coloured throw, next to a small table and accent lamp, highlighting a fresh floral arrangement, can have more impact than a number of smaller items that make the space look busy and crowded. Don’t forget about the vertical space: seasonal wall art is a perfect visual to enhance your theme. A hall bench that has a shelf at the top is the ideal place to create a seasonal vignette. Just remember cozy textures, rich autumn colours, spicy scents with candles and pinecones, soft lighting – all the elements you will need to create a cozy space to welcome you at the end of the day, and invite family and friends into your home.
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HOME and Cabin
Todd’s table
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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Todd’s Table By Todd Goodyear
When he’s not dreaming up or cooking up great food, Todd Goodyear is president and associate publisher of Downhome. todd@downhomelife.com
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I call this “comfort cabbage”
because it makes a satisfying cold-weather meal served with traditional mashed potatoes. They are even better when prepared two or three days in advance, and they can be frozen for up to a month. Historically, cabbage rolls have roots in ancient Middle East, and the recipe was carried to Eastern Europe as trade routes developed and people migrated. Some Jewish historians have found indications that stuffed cabbage rolls were part of Jewish food tradition as far back as 1,500 years ago. The next time you see some big cabbage leaves at the market, grab some for cabbage rolls. I like to use a few of the dark green ones from the outside of the cabbage, then work my way to the lighter leaves nearer the core of the cabbage.
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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls 1 cabbage
Stuffing 1 lb ground beef, chicken or turkey (I mix 50-50 beef and pork) 1 large egg 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (season them yourself with pepper, dried rosemary, dried sage, dried oregano or dried basil, or a combination of all, whatever suits your taste)
1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice 1/2 cup water 1 large carrot, grated 1 onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp ground pepper
Combine all stuffing ingredients in a large bowl. Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil and prepare the cabbage leaves. A great way to peel the leaves off the cabbage is to cut out much of the core with a sharp paring knife. Place the cabbage core side down in a large pot of boiling water; add 1 1/2 tablespoons of salt and boil the cabbage for 5-10 minutes. Carefully remove the softened outer leaves and return the cabbage to the pot so the inner ones will soften. Trim off some of the centre rib of the leaves to make them easier to roll. Roll a portion of the meat mixture into each leaf, folding the sides first and keeping it a little loose to allow for the expanding rice. You can tie the cabbage rolls with a string or place them seam side down to cook. Please note: the size of the meat mixture will depend on the cabbage leaf. Don’t worry if they are all different sizes. Continue until all the meat is used. Chop enough of the remaining cabbage to make 1-2 cups. 96
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For the sauce, add to a large, wide, lidded pot (I use a dutch oven):
3 tbsp vegetable oil 1-2 cups chopped cabbage 1 medium onion, chopped Cook, stirring, until golden brown. Add:
1/2 cup dry white wine Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in:
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes 1 cup water 1/2 cup raisins (optional) 1/4 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar Juice of a large lemon 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce Bring sauce to a boil. Place cabbage rolls seam side down in the sauce; if the sauce does not cover the rolls, add a little water. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, shaking the pot every 30 minutes to prevent sticking. Enjoy this wonderful dish that has become a tradition in our home and could be in yours as well. I love getting feedback on my recipes and would enjoy receiving your cooking tips and photos of your food. Maybe you’d like me to try a recipe of yours to feature in my column sometime. You can reach me by email: todd@downhomelife.com.
Flavour tipan: Id likadedto1/2kictspk up
the heat a little xture red chili flakes to the meat mi and 1/2 tsp to the sauce.
Got a Recipe for Todd to Try? Email him at todd@downhomelife.com.
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HOME and Cabin
everyday recipes
say cheese! Ever find yourself admiring the “fancy” cheeses at your supermarket deli and not buying any because you didn’t know what to do with them? This month, we’re moving beyond everyday marble and cheddar to taste something new.
Parmesan Chips 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated 1/4 tsp smoked paprika 1/4 tsp cumin 1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ancho pepper 1/4 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp olive oil
Preheat oven to 300°F. Mix all ingredients together well. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Place 12 equal mounds of the cheese on the sheet pan, pushing them out into disc shapes. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden, crispy and bubbling a little. Remove from the pan after 10 minutes of cooling, and lay on paper towel to soak up any excess grease before serving. Yield: 12 large chips
All of our recipes are brought to you by the fantastic foodies in Academy Canada’s Culinary Arts program, led by instructor Bernie-Ann Ezekiel.
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Mushrooms & Blue Cheese 1/4 cup butter 1/2 cup onion, small dice 1/2 tsp dry thyme leaves (double for fresh) 1/4 tsp dry rosemary leaves (double for fresh) 4 cups button mushrooms, quartered
2 tsp garlic, minced 2 tbsp capers 1/2 cup red wine Pinch salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/3 cup blue cheese, crumbled
Preheat broiler to “high.” Sauté onion and herbs (only if using dry herbs) in butter over medium heat until onions are translucent. Add garlic and capers; cook one minute. Add mushrooms and cook until they have shrunken by about a quarter of their original size (about 5-8 minutes) – add the fresh herbs now, if you’re using them – and then turn heat to high. When most of the moisture has cooked off and the pan is sizzling, add red wine to deglaze, add salt & pepper, cook until nearly dry again, then remove to a heat-safe oven dish. Top mushrooms with blue cheese and place about 4" under the broiler until the cheese is melted and starting to bubble (about 3-5 minutes). Yield: 2 servings
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Walnut-Pomegranate Baked Brie 1 lb wheel of brie, cut into 16 wedges 2 tbsp olive oil 1 cup leeks (green parts), sliced thin 1/3 cup walnuts, minced 2 tsp garlic, minced 1/2 pkg phyllo 1/2 cup butter, melted 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs 16 tsp pomegranate molasses
Preheat oven to 325°F. Stack the brie together in twos, in opposite directions to create rectangular blocks of cheese. Sauté the leeks in olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the leeks soften, add garlic and nuts. Cook until the garlic starts to slightly brown. Remove from heat and set aside in a bowl with a small spoon. Spread out one sheet of phyllo and, working quickly (because phyllo dries easily), spread with melted butter, sprinkle lightly with panko, and lay another sheet of pastry on top. Press layers together firmly. Butter and add bread crumbs once more. Place the pastry in front of you running the length from left to right. Cut it in half from top to bottom, and arrange a cheese block on each half at the bottom. Spread 1/8 of the leek mixture over each cheese block, and drizzle 2 tsp of pomegranate molasses over the leeks. Roll each cheese block in the pastry, folding in the ends as you go to create a neat little “package.” Place the phyllo packet on a parchment-lined sheet pan, brush with more butter and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Repeat steps 7 more times. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Yield: 8 servings
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Pineapple Cheesecake Cheesecake 375 g goat cheese 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 1 tsp cornstarch 1/4 tsp salt 3/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 tsp pure vanilla 2 eggs
Crust 1 cup graham crumbs 1/4 cup white sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix crust ingredients together, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners and divide the mixture equally between them. Press down firmly. Adjust if necessary to have the layer no thicker than 1/4" or so. In a food processor fitted with an “S” blade, blend the cheese, sugar, cornstarch, salt and vanilla. Scrape down the sides, blend again and add the pineapple. Blend, stopping and scraping as necessary to ensure a smooth mixture. Add eggs and blend thoroughly. Fill each muffin tin equally with cheese batter and bake for about 20 minutes. When done, the cheesecakes will start to puff, just a little, and not have any jiggle when poked gently. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then remove to a rack and cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to ensure they are entirely set up. Serve with whipped cream or your favourite topping. Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
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Halloumi Fries 1 lb halloumi cheese, cut into “fries” 3/4 cup flour 1/2 tsp cumin 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp ancho pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika 1 egg, beaten 1/2 cup milk 2 cups panko, ground fine 1/2 cup sour cream 1 tsp chipotle paste
Set deep fryer to 350°F. Mix sour cream and chipotle together, and set aside at room temperature while you make the fries. Sift flour, cumin, peppers and paprika together in a bowl. Whisk egg and milk together in a separate bowl. In a third bowl, place panko. Dredge cheese fries in flour, shake off excess, dip in egg wash and roll in panko. Deep-fry until the fries are golden brown. Serve hot with chipotle sour cream. Yield: 4 servings
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Spanakopita 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp garlic, minced 1/2 cup onion, minced 1/4 tsp black pepper 1 cup spinach, chopped & packed 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup red wine 1/2 cup feta, drained & crumbled 1/2 cup butter, melted 1/2 cup panko 1/2 pkg phyllo
Preheat oven to 350°F. SautÊ onion, garlic and pepper in oil over medium heat until onions are translucent. Add spinach and parsley; cook until wilted. Turn heat to high, and once it starts to sizzle, deglaze with wine. Cook until the liquid is gone, remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes before mixing in feta. Set aside in a bowl with a small spoon. Spread out one sheet of phyllo and, working quickly (because phyllo dries easily), spread with melted butter, sprinkle lightly with panko, and lay another sheet of pastry on top. Press layers together firmly. Butter and add panko once more. Place the pastry in front of you running the length from left to right. Cut it from top to bottom in four equal pieces, and arrange 1/12 of the filling on each quarter at the bottom. Fold each strip of pastry as a triangle: bottom right corner gets folded to the left, so the bottom edge lines up with the left side. Then the point at the bottom is folded straight up along the left side. Bottom left corner is folded up to the right, and so on and so forth, until you have worked along the entire strip of pastry and have a triangular packet. Place the phyllo packet on a parchmentlined sheet pan, brush with more butter and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and crispy. Yield: 6 servings of 2 each 104
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down to earth
Winterizing your
Garden by Sean Dolter
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OK… it’s been quite
a growing season, and you are bushed and need some time away from weeding, harvesting and fighting insects. Well, don’t store your garden tools yet – not before you put your garden to bed for winter. With all the investment you put into having that beautiful garden, there are a few housekeeping chores to help ease the burden of waking up your garden next spring and to encourage a healthy, vigorous growing season for 2021. As a landscaping contractor, time is money; so in the fall, I clean up the site just once, by starting from the top and working downward. That means prune the trees and shrubs; clean up and divide perennials; weed and remove annuals; edge the beds; rake the land clean; plant bulbs, shrubs and/or divided perennials; amend soil; stake, tie, wrap, mulch and install tree guards to prevent pest damage to the trunk; and finally, water the garden until the ground freezes. Let’s go briefly through each one.
Step 1: Prune your trees and shrubs. Depending on your tree and shrub inventory, most can be cut back to shape in the fall. Exception: watch out for shrubs such as rhododendrons and azaleas that set their buds in the summer and fall; these should be pruned immediately after flowering in spring and summer. Sterilize your pruning shears, pruners and hedge trimmers after you sharpen and after you prune. Lots of nasty stuff can be transferred from plant to plant by sloppy hygiene practices. I also make a habit of pruning back 12" from building exteriors to allow for air circulation around the plants. (Proper pruning techniques can fill an article on their own.) www.downhomelife.com
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Step 2: Scan through your perennials for oversized summer and spring bloomers, like hostas, astilbe, daylilies, bearded irises and phlox. (Save the pruning of late fall bloomers until spring.) Make sure your perennial’s leaves and stems have naturally died back and returned the plant’s energy into the root stock. A sharp, sterilized blade or shovel will make your task less daunting. I divide in halves, thirds and quarters, and try to keep an even root balance. Make sure the leaf litter is removed and the perennials are cleared of diseased parts.
Step 3:
Time to weed and remove the spent annuals! You can wait for spring, but you may be helping insects and diseases survive the winter by lying dormant in rotting biomass. Remove all annuals waste to the compost. Weed deeply with a manual weeder or loosen the soil with a fork. Try not to disturb the soil fungi too much with excessive tilling. If the weed has seeds yet to be dispersed, do not compost them: discard them in a garbage bag. Likewise, send your invasive species – such as goutweed, horsetail, colt’s foot and Japanese knotweed – to the landfill instead of your compost.
Step 4:
Edge the beds. Ahhh… a dream come true for us tidy people. I love to reapply beautiful curved or straight edges to all the beds using a Lee Valley sod lifter that’s been repurposed as an edger. Best tool ever! Razor sharp with a 4 1/2" grinding disk. Have no eye for curves or lines? Fill a garden hose with water and use it as a ruler. Or tie a 108
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string to the bottom of your edger at the radius of your curve, use a spike or shovel as the centre and edge the circumference – perfect lines! Make sure there is a 3" deep trough between your bed and the lawn to help air-prune the grass and hold the mulch in place.
Step 5:
Rake clean. Get on your knees and use your fingers around the base of your plants. Zero damage is your goal when cleaning up surface litter. In open areas, use a garden rake and smoothly contour the surface so it’s clean and flat or evenly sloped.
Step 6:
Plant bulbs for next year. Make one last trip to the garden nursery for that shrub you’ve been eyeing all summer (but don’t waste your money on an unhealthy or neglected shrub the store wants to dump), or use this time to redistribute all your surplus perennials that you divided. To avoid crowding when positioning the shrub, use my hula hoop method that Kim mentioned in a previous article. Imagine a hula hoop the diameter of your plant at maturity; now place the hoop so it’s just touching the next mature plant, and plant in the centre of that circle.
Step 7:
Now that everything is looking tidy, let’s take care of the soil. For Newfoundland and Labrador, a fall lime amendment will never go astray. It’s a great help for keeping low pH weeds at bay and helping existing plants access nutrients. Layer the soil surface with compost, well-rotted manure or even a top dressing of kelp. You’ll be digging this into the soil come springtime. 1-888-588-6353
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Step 8: Stake your trees and shrubs. In a perfect world, the snow would
lightly fall on your tree or shrub like a Christmas card, giving it thermal protection and support. In the real world, shovelling, snow blowing, street plowing and ice accumulation from high winds offer a range of projectiles, crushing chucks and towering banks right on top of your prized plant. These are the conditions I consider when I stake a shrub or tree. The stakes should take weight off the trunk of the tree. a) For tall trees over 5' in the snow blower zone, either use a pyramid or upright frame of 2" x 2" lumber. I tie the branches as close to the trunk as possible before I stake. If it is a tender tree, like a Japanese maple, I wrap the frame with burlap (more on burlap wrapping below). b) For shrubs in snow loading areas, I use a pyramid, quad or box frame, or a single stake depending on the branch flexibility. If you can’t tie it due to rigidity, box it! Spirea and potentilla can be tied as a pigtail and attached to a single stake.
Step 9:
Tie your plants. Personally, I use a thicker marine polyester rope – the orange type. It’s soft and slippery, so it won’t cause abrasions on bark and I can see it in the spring. I start at the bottom of the shrub with a loose slip knot and move up the shrub, tying every 6" – 10" of vertical height.
Step 10: When it comes to winterizing shrubs and trees, the question is often to wrap or not to wrap? Here are some tips on preventing moisture loss: a) Broadleaf evergreens and tender evergreens: Winter burn or browning is mostly caused by the drying effects of wind and sun. Prevent the need to wrap by buying shrubs that are zoned for your area. But if you took the risk, cover your cedars, dwarf Alberta spruces and newly planted evergreens with immature root balls. Next to roads where salt is used, I double wrap with burlap and staple the seams – the staples will last the winter. If you know the wind www.downhomelife.com
direction, you could simply build a windbreak for species such as rhododendron – they are difficult to wrap once they get large. b) Flowering deciduous shrubs: Don’t go crazy with wrapping, but if outside of your zone, wrap.
Step 11:
Mulch to prevent moisture loss of the root zone. Apply at least 3" – 4" thick, but do not have the mulch touch the trunk of the plant.
Step 12: Install plastic trunk protection if you have rabbits or mice visiting your garden. Step 13: Water until the ground freezes. This is extremely important if we do not have a wet fall. Sean Dolter designs, supplies and installs beautiful landscapes on the west coast of Newfoundland. He co-owns The Greenhouse with his wife, Kim Thistle. November 2020
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life is better Sunrise over Fort Amherst, St. John’s, NL Jim Desautels, St. John’s, NL
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reminiscing flashbacks
Air Force Days
Annie Evelyn Dean of Botwood (third from left) beside an Air Force plane in Rostrup, Germany, in 1946. She moved to Ontario in 1941 and joined the Canadian Army in 1942. After she was discharged in 1946, she married Samuel Russell and they had two sons. Annie died in 2010 and is buried with her husband in Botwood. Gloria Young, Botwood, NL
Preparing for Battle
“This is a photo of my Uncle George Radford (centre) from St. George’s, NL. He fought in North Africa and Italy as a member of “E” Troop, “R” Battery, 166th (Nfld.) Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, Larkhill, Salisbury Plain, England in WWII,” writes the submitter. Ross Radford, Gander, NL 112
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Postcard to Home
In 1941, Maxwell Hutchings sent this postcard from Scotland, where he was serving in the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit, to his family back in Newfoundland. His little brother Rex was 10 years old then, and 70 years later he was still fondly talking of Max and the thrill of getting this postcard. Paul O’Leary, Cow Head, NL
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reminiscing
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It was a peaceful sunny day
in late September 1943, and the raging war in Europe was far from the mind of this nine-year-old playing hopscotch with a friend on our quiet street. Parish priest, Father Finn, was hardly noticed as he rang the doorbell and entered the house. Shortly after, as he was leaving, he suggested that I go inside because my mother needed me. That’s when I was told my brother, Bill, was missing in action and presumed dead, having been brought down somewhere over Germany. On November 18, 1943, there was another message from the War Department officially reporting that he’d been killed in active service as a result of air operations on September 23. A few weeks later, new information came from the Red Cross confirming that Bill had been captured and was a prisoner of war in Germany. Later in 1944, the family was advised by the War Ministry that Bill had been promoted to Flight Lieutenant as of October 9, 1944, and entitled to the pay and privileges of his rank. 1-888-588-6353
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For King and country Bill, the second eldest of 10 children, was born April 18, 1918, in Grand Falls, NL, to Joseph and Sarah Hennessey. He was working in meteorology at Gander Airport when he enlisted with the 125th Nfld. division of the Air Force. Following training with the RCAF in Winnipeg, MB, where he earned his wings, and a short furlough home, he travelled to Britain to join RAF Halifax Bomber Group 158 Squadron, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. On September 23, 1943, while on air operations over Germany, his HR776 was brought down by a German night fighter and crashed near the village of Hupede. Onboard were
Australian pilot Bede Neville Allsop, Newfoundland navigator William Pius (Bill) Hennessey, Canadian gunner John George Marcel Aubin, British gunner Richard Philip Dean, British flight engineer Alfred Girdler, British wireless operator David William Jones and British air bomber William Spooner. The two gunners, Aubin and Dean, went down with the plane. Five others survived, but flight engineer Girdler died just after bailing from the plane. Bill wandered the countryside alone for days, heading for France. At night he slept in culverts, where he heard what he thought were German soldiers marching and assumed they were looking for him. He eventually learned that what he’d actually heard was an army of rats! Another night he heard someone walk over the culvert. Again he thought it might be a German soldier, but later learned it was pilot Allsopp. Bill was eventually captured in a German village where he’d been searching for food. Peasants identified him as British and he was turned over to German soldiers. He was taken to Heldershein Camp near Frankfurt, then to Stalag Luft 3 in lower Silesia, near the Polish border, where most air force officers were imprisoned and where his three remaining crewmates were being held. Treatment in camp was grim. Without Red Cross parcels, survival would have been very difficult. Guards were trigger minded, particularly during heavy raids on Berlin. During the closing stages of the
Above: Flight Lieutenant William Pius (Bill) Hennessey getting his wings 116
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war, with the approaching Red Army, the Germans faced a major problem – how to deal with the PoWs. Hitler issued orders to evacuate PoW camps in the eastern territories and move them to Saxony, Lubeck and Hamburg. This set in motion the events of “The Long March” in the winter months of 1944-45. In February 1944, prisoners were forced to march for six days in freezing temperatures as low as -22°C. They trudged through snow, mud and slush, scantily dressed, with very little food and often sleeping in abandoned barns, before reaching Luckenwalde. There they remained until released by the Russians in 1945. Later, prisoners were handed over to the Americans and flown to England. Bill returned home later that year.
After the war
Like many returning veterans, particularly former PoWs, Bill didn’t speak of his experience. In 1946, he moved to Downsview, ON, and married his longtime girlfriend, Jean Squibb. They had three children: Sandra, Marie and Brian. However, on one of his last visits home he spoke quite freely, and sometimes with a little humour, about his time as a PoW. When my husband, Ron, and I visited him in Downsview, about a year before he passed away, he spoke of the many enjoyable reunions he’d attended over the years. He also proudly showed us an invitation he and his wife had received from Buckingham Palace to attend the Queen’s annual tea party, celebrating the 50th 1-888-588-6353
anniversary of D-Day, which they both attended. All British subjects who’d been prisoners of war, and their spouses, had been invited. It was well known in our family that Bill had kept his log while imprisoned, which was hidden from guards during inspections by passing it along the lines. His intentions were to eventually donate it to the local Royal Canadian Legion. When I asked about it, he seemed a little irritated about something and told me he had torn it up a few years before. I was surprised and disappointed, but didn’t question it further. Bill passed away on November 1, 2001, from colon cancer at his home in Downsview, under the care of his loving wife. Jean passed away on June 6, 2005. I think it’s worthy to mention I had two other brothers who also enlisted for WWII service. Bill’s older brother John joined in 1939 and served with the RAF, stationed in Aldergrove, Northern Ireland and North Africa. A younger brother, Arthur, enlisted with the Fleet Air Arm of the Royal Navy in 1941. His first choice had been the RAF, but he was disqualified for his colour blindness. He served in England and was on a ship heading to North Africa when the war ended. Other service veterans in the Hennessy family include Cyril, who enrolled in the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry in 1951, and was deployed to Korea in 1952-1953; and Raymond, who enrolled with RCEME in Kingston in 1952, and was deployed with the Peace Keepers protecting the Suez Canal. November 2020
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Gnat, do you mind…
Jelly Moulds? By Harold N. Walters
Harry forgot everything when he heard Aunt Hood say, “Sissy Hatt ’lows she’ll make a jelly mould for the centrepiece of the Jubilee supper table.” Aunt Sissy Hatt, the Brookwater witch, sat in an ancient rocking chair near the stove in Uncle Pell’s shop, smiling as mysteriously as that Mona woman in buddy’s painting. Mention of Aunt Sissy’s renown jelly moulds erased a whole season of strife from Harry’s noggin and replaced it with visions of a delectable dessert more desirable than a bushel of Christmas sugarplums. He forgot the savagery of hurricane Ione ripping across Brookwater on the first day of fall, swamping every boat moored in the cove and heaving 118
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Uncle Sim’s green punt ashore above the landwash; snapping off half the trees in Charlie’s Droke; skinning the roof off Wince Cody’s house and smashing it against the Crow Cliffs. He forgot Brookwater’s failed potato harvest and the cellars left empty because a blight rotted most of the crops in the ground, an infestation of grubs gnawed cabbages to their 1-888-588-6353
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stumps and maggots munched the roots off the turnips. Despite the possibility of Christian guilt causing him remorse in the future, Harry even forgot the influenza epidemic that had stricken Brookwater and claimed the life of Otto Cook’s grandmother who lived over in the Bogs. Uncle Pell was summing up when Gnat shuffed Harry against the woodbox to get his attention. “All in all,” Uncle Pell said, “it’s a good thing to have the Jubilee. We all knows it’ll help us get over the hurricane, and the flu and poor ol’ Missus Cook, God love ’er soul.” “Worse than the old woman dying,” said Old Man Farley, “don’t forget our miserable Thanksgiving because the crops perished, and we’ll be scraping the bottoms of the barrels time spring.” Making the best of it, Wince Cody said, “Buck up, b’ys. I got me wrecked roof hauled home from the Crow Cliffs and I’ll make a bonfire out of it for the Jubilee.” Heedless of a second poke from Gnat, Harry was still focused on Aunt Sissy’s proposed jelly mould. Oh, Harry understood the importance of the approaching Jubilee, a big time to make up for the terrible fall, to lift folks’ spirits before autumn knuckled under to winter. Nevertheless, his noggin was stogged with jelly mould, not civic concern. “Harry,” said Gnat with a “hey b’y!” punch to the shoulder. As Harry shook his head and tried to focus, Uncle Pell said, “Let’s get ready for Saturday night, for the Jubilee, for Thanksgiving and Halloween and Wince’s bonfire balled into one.” Wince grinned and chaffed his 1-888-588-6353
hands, winked at Harry and Gnat, and said, “Want to help me build the bonfire?” Gnat nodded. Fleetingly, Harry substituted mesmerizing jelly mould images with tantalizing fancies of smoke and flames, and he followed Gnat behind Wince. On Jubilee Eve, Brookwater’s ladies prepared for the feast. Boilers danced on red-hot dampers, soups and stews simmered, roasting chicken and beef made for aromatic ovens. In the schoolhouse, Miss Britt’s students decorated windows and walls with a kaleidoscope of posters and cutouts – a cornucopia for Thanksgiving, goblins and ghosts for Halloween, and Guy Fawkes strung up on a gibbet for Bonfire Night. Although none were privy to the particulars, inside her cottage Aunt Sissy fashioned her jelly mould. Surely unique culinary craft was employed. Perhaps witchcraft was involved. Harry and Gnat helped Wince Cody construct a bonfire pyre outside the schoolhouse windows. “She’ll be a dandy,” Wince said, admiring the structure. The broken sections of his Ione-splintered roof capped the top like … well, like a shattered roof. “She will,” the boys agreed. Saturday morning, when Brookwater folks scrubbed sleepy-dogs from their eyes – all hands eager to get on with the final preparations for that evening’s Jubilee – Harry lay flat on his back, a weight no heavier than a whizzle pinning him to the mattress. Beasley Bob, ol’ biblical Beelzebub’s favourite son, stood on Harry’s chest grinning like a demented leprechaun. Harry quaked as if hag-ridden. November 2020
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Beasley Bob cat-hissed, extended a gnomish paw and tapped Harry’s forehead with a talon as sharp as a gargoyle’s toenail. A jelly mould the size and shape of a humongous pumpkin appeared in Harry’s skull. Perhaps – had anyone been there to witness the like – twin images of the puncheon-sized dessert glittered in Harry’s eyes like foxfire. All day Beasley Bob steered Harry’s course, sometime hidden beneath Harry’s cap, sometimes tucked inside his coat collar. Gnat realized Harry was behaving strangely, even for Harry, whose mind habitually migrated to foreign lands. “What’s wrong with you, b’y?” Gnat wondered a dozen times during the day when Harry stumbled over … nothing; when Harry pasted a maple leaf cut-out to the schoolhouse stovepipe rather than the wall; when Harry stared vacantly into space. As far as Gnat could tell Harry was seeing nothing, since Gnat had nary a notion about the giant orange jelly mould stogging Harry’s cranium. Come the banquet hour, when the Man-in-the-Moon’s pale face peeked over the top of Wince Cody’s bonfire stack and peeped in through the schoolhouse windows, its cheeks soon glowed merrily. Inside, jammed elbow to elbow, people sat at double rows of tables laden with so much grub they resembled medieval groaning boards. Placed smack dab in the centre of the middle table was an orange jelly mould the size of a galvanized wash tub. Nobody doubted sorcery had been required to sculpt mere gelatin into such a stupendous dessert. Pumpkin-shaped in honour of a Halloween recently wrecked because of an 120
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unseasonal sleet storm, the mould flickered in the reflected light of the kerosene lamps hanging in wall brackets. Suspended within the jelly mould, like exotic edibles in amber, were apple slices, patch-a-berries and mysterious chunks and slivers of … witch-wrought sweetmeats? Commanded to sit opposite Harry, Gnat marvelled at his spellbound chum. Harry clutched a spoon as big as a ladle – a spoon purloined from who knows where – and gawked at the jelly mould like a boy gobsmacked. Harry thumped the spoon’s heel on the table, like a feudal lord’s offspring demanding sustenance. The knocking drew all eyes to Harry, whose glassy stare bewildered the supper guests and caused Mammy to question her darling boy’s sanity. Of course Beasley Bob, athwart Harry’s shoulders and holding Harry’s ears like twin-mounted tillers, was invisible to ordinary eyes. The mad temptations Beasley Bob whispered into Harry’s head were inaudible to ordinary ears. Aunt Sissy Hatt, sensitive to unnatural things, realized Harry was acting unduly bemused. Her eyes twinkled when she saw images of her jelly mould spinning like pinwheels in his bedeviled orbs. Out in the schoolyard, Wince Cody lit the kindling at the base of his bonfire pyre. The Man-in-the-Moon scrinched his eyes against the smoke and flames that crackled sky-high. Only Harry heard Beasley Bob screech “Gitty-up!” Harry felt a talon pierce his neck, causing him to lurch from his chair and clamber atop the table, brandishing his spoon like a maddened Don Quixote. 1-888-588-6353
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Mammy snatched at Harry’s shirt tail as he scrambled to his knees and scravelled towards the jelly mould, blubbering sounds that in any language meant, “Gobble, gobble.” Neither mortal eyes, nor mortal ears, saw or heard Beasley Bob yee-hawing or lashing Harry’s shoulders as if jockeying a hellhound. The blaze from the bonfire loomed in the windowpanes and appeared to lick the glass like famished hell’s flames. Flankers spewing from the fire spiralled into the night, causing the Man-in-the-Moon to turn his face aside. Harry hunched in a sprinter’s crouch. Perceptive of elusive shades, Aunt Sissy Hatt spied Beasley Bob’s wraith-like silhouette and subtly drew incantations in the air, albeit a moment too late. Harry was airborne. He flowsed face and eyes into the magnificent jelly mould, and floundered like a clumsy swimmer in 1-888-588-6353
a turgid sunset-orange sea. Wielding his spoon like a capsized sailor plying a broken oar, Harry slid through the jelly mould. He rolled on his back, his chops agog and his eyes bolted, as Aunt Sissy’s jelly mould collapsed on his thrashing carcass. Across the table, Gnat glutched down a guffaw. He pictured Harry as foolish ol’ Peter Pumpkin Eater flopping on the floor as the walls of his pumpkin shell abode caved in and foundered upon him. Mind that Jubilee supper, Gnat? Maybe Harry’s madness broke Brookwater’s autumnal curse because when it came, Christmas was a wonderful time. Harold Walters – albeit becoming more forgetful daily – lives in Dunville, NL, doing his damnedest to live Happily Ever After. Reach him at ghwalters663@gmail.com November 2020
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For generations,
one of the best ambassadors for the island of Newfoundland has been the iconic Newfoundland dog. With its giant size, intelligence, sweet disposition and loyalty, the breed is world-famous. Tales of heroic water rescues have made the dog legendary, one of the most well-known being the story of how Ann Harvey of Isle aux Morts, her father, her brother and a Newfoundland dog named Hairyman saved more than 160 Irish immigrants from the wreck of the brig Despatch in 1828.
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From the 1700s onwards, Newfoundlands have been sought-after dogs, not just in the province, but around the world. Wherever they went, heroic deeds were sure to follow. In the summer of 1852, a little boy of about 10 years old was playing near the water at Hoboken, New Jersey. According to the New York Express, he lost his balance and fell in at a point where the tide swept along the shore. In minutes, he was carried beyond human reach. Just as it seemed his strength was failing, a Newfoundland dog named Rolla dashed through the crowd, leaped into the water and in a minute had the boy’s collar firmly between his teeth. Owing to the current, it was impossible for the dog to return to the spot where the boy had fallen in. Rolla’s only hope was to swim to a point of land two miles distant: “On went the noble animal, bravely buffeting the tide, and careless of the shouts of applause, all the while keeping the boy’s face out of water. He reached the goal at length with his precious burden, safe and sound, but a little faint and frightened; and no sooner had he laid him down than the noble animal sunk exhausted on the sand. He was instantly surrounded by a numerous crowd of people who had been eye-witnesses of the scene.” Not all rescues were quite so dramatic. Take, for example, the case of a young Irish serving girl in Maine, reported in the Morning Republican of March 29, 1873: “After a heavy fall of snow, a young Belfast girl was endeavoring to make her way along the street to the house at which she was employed, when a 124
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strange dog, a large Newfoundland, came to her aid. He kept ahead of her, breaking a path, until he saw her turn in at her destination, when with a satisfied wag of the tail he trotted back.” Stories of impressive Newfoundland dogs were something of a hot topic in the popular newspapers of the 19th century. Even a dog’s death could make headlines. For example, when “a most remarkable dog” died at Glenwood Springs, California in 1888, he was eulogized by the Daily Picayune. The deceased was a Newfoundland-St. Bernard cross, weighing in at 175 pounds, and 18 years and three months old when he died. The reporter noted: “He used to carry his master his dinner a distance of two miles, and his mistress vouches for the fact that for three years before he died, he kept the wood box filled with wood all the time. He had great faith in the 1-888-588-6353
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hot spring, and would daily go for a drink of hot mineral water.” Another legendary Newfoundland dog was Victor, named after his former owner, French politician Victor Hugues. Victor (the dog not the politician) became the mascot of HMS Bellona, a 74-gun Royal Navy ship. During the Battle of Copenhagen of 1801, Victor remained on deck throughout the fray, running backward and forward with “so brave an anger, that he became a greater favourite with the men than ever.” Following the battle, the Treaty of Amiens temporarily ended hostilities between France and Great Britain, and when the Bellona was decommissioned, the sailors had a parting dinner on shore. Victor, the sailors’ hero, was placed in a chair at the head of the table and fed with roast beef and plum pudding. When the meal was over, the bill was made out in Victor’s name. 1-888-588-6353
Not all sailors were so lucky to have such a disciplined dog on deck. In 1890, the Marget arrived in the Irish port of Sligo from Norway. While en route, a sailor named Ole Oleson had been playing on deck with a Newfoundland dog. The dog jumped against Oleson at the same time the ship gave a lurch, and the sailor was knocked into the waves. A buoy was thrown in after him, but he suddenly disappeared. “It is supposed he was bitten by a shark,” claimed the Irish Times, “as a number of them were seen following the ship for days afterwards.” While the shark may have come out on top in that situation, it was lucky Prince was not there to step in. Prince was a Newfoundland dog owned by Captain McNeil, keeper of the lighthouse at Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1894. Prince was said to be very fond of fish. One day while perched on the November 2020
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breakwater, he spotted a large black object floundering in a tide pool: a shark left by the outgoing tide in a foot of water. Prince swam out to the imprisoned shark, hoping for the biggest dinner of seafood ever. The shark, obviously, had other ideas, and a battle commenced. Back and forth they went, the dog trying to drag the shark from the pool, the angry shark biting and slapping the dog with its powerful tail. The seawater was stained red with blood from the struggle. When Captain McNeil saw what was happening, he grabbed an axe and rowed to the scene. Later, he recounted the epic battle: “A swing of the tail and Prince picks himself up several feet away. Prince rushes. An uppercut by the shark lands Prince again. Prince feints and the shark’s tail fans the wind. Prince clinches his teeth in the shark’s tail, and when they break loose Prince is in the air. Several lively passes follow in which the fish loses much skin and Prince makes several tours in the air. The round ended with both combatants bleeding and badly winded,” he described to The Milwaukee Sentinel at the time. The arrival of the captain with his axe marked the end of the shark, and the beginning of Prince’s supper hour. The shark, when measured, was nearly six feet long. Newfoundland dogs have been the companions to notables such as Lord Byron, Emily Dickinson and Robert F. Kennedy. When J.M. Barrie needed inspiration for the character of Nana, the Darling children’s nurse in Peter Pan, he needed to look no 126
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further than his own Landseer, Luath. With the popularity of the breed assured, we are guaranteed more stories of rescues and epic adventures well into the future. Dale Jarvis is the author of “On This Day: 365 Tales of History, Mystery and More!,” celebrating the strange and shining a light on the halfforgotten headlines of Newfoundland and Labrador’s past. 1-888-588-6353
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I’ve been subscribing to Downhome for many years and was quite intrigued with your September issue, with Dale Jarvis’s stories on “Frightening Lightning.” It brought back many vivid memories of my own personal experience with lightning, which I kept bottled up in my memory for 58 years. I would like to share my experience with your readers and let them know how dangerous lightening can be. I grew up on Bell Island in the 1950s. My parents were Martin and Gertrude Cahill. We lived out at the front of the island. It was during the summer of 1962, when I was 10 years old. A big thunderstorm approached. My brother, Francis, and I were stood in the kitchen leaning up against our big floor cupboard, when all of a sudden an extremely loud bang left us “dead in our tracks.”
Above: This photo was taken in the Cahills’ kitchen in 1962, the same year lightning struck their house. Front (l-r): Josephine and Francis; back (l-r): Theresa and their mother, Gertrude.
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A drawing of the house back in the late ‘80s before it was torn down.
My brother saw a ball of lightning pass right in front of him in the kitchen. For a few split seconds, I felt like I was in a trance as I watched an extremely bright golden light in the shape of a straight sword with hundreds of sparks coming straight down from it pass just above my eyes. I saw it bend itself and go around the corner into the living room, where it apparently changed its form back into ball lightning as was seen by my sister, Catherine. It made its way through the telephone wires and the fuse box, landing all the fuses onto the floor. It then went to our neighbours’ place and damaged their phone. My other sister, Marie, who was also in our kitchen at the time of the strike, had seen the lightning as I had – in straight edge sword form. The lightning lifted the chimney off our roof and landed it down in our potato garden. When it entered our 130
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house, it lifted the dampers on our coal stove high in the air, landing them on the floor and throwing up soot everywhere in the house. After the storm, the most beautiful rainbow appeared across the sky. There were no shadows over the rainbow, just beautiful clear colours. I guess it was God’s way of saying, “The storm has passed.” The sparks from the lightning had landed on my arms, but never burnt them at all. Afterwards, it looked like my arms had the measles, but the spots were in the shape of a hundred little stars. My brother had similar marks on his chest. The bang of the lightning left us deaf; it was almost two days later before our full hearing returned. Some of the old timers back then told us that paint attracts lightning. We did have our chimney painted the day before; probably it was the chemicals in the oil paints back then. 1-888-588-6353
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Others have mentioned that the iron ore in the soil could account for so many lightning strikes on Bell Island. Bell Island’s main industry back in the ’50s and ’60s was the iron ore mines, which ran under the ocean. The mines closed down in 1966, when Joey Smallwood was premier. One more final story of interest happened back in the mid-’70s when I was living at home. It was a Sunday morning and I was preparing Jiggs dinner. As I was taking my roast out of the oven, I heard a huge bang and almost let my roast drop on the floor. Lightning had struck a section of Bell Island called Lance Cove, which was about a half-mile from my house. The strike left a huge hole in someone’s backyard, killing some of their chickens. We had scientists from the US visit our little island to investigate the hole, thinking it might have been a meteorite landing. In the end, they determined it was ball lightning. Basil Jamieson, a radio talk show host for VOCM, said on the radio the next day that he witnessed that ball lightning pass right in front of his vehicle as he drove alongside Conception Bay on that Sunday. It came in a little snow storm as he watched the lightning go across Conception Bay over towards Bell Island, where it struck in Lance Cove. I could relate more stories of lightning strikes on Bell Island, which my mother told me when I was young. I guess it would take a whole magazine to tell you all of them. Know the dangers of lightning and what to do when you know lightning will soon be approaching. Stay safe and God bless. 1-888-588-6353
Cahill family photo, 1960. Back (l-r): Francis, Theresa, Marie and Josephine. In front: Catherine and their father, Martin.
The author Josephine, then 8, in front of her home on Bell Island (1960) November 2020
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When Newfoundland Saved Canada by Chad Bennett
“My name is George Wells.
I was born in St. John’s in 1761, and lived the first half of my life below Military Road and above water. Mine was a simple life, quiet and restrained. I knew all my neighbours and they knew me. Our forests were the corner trees; our great torrents, the seven sweet trickling streams; and our daily needs were seen to by the farms of Quidi Vidi or those of Boncloddy, and, of course, the sea. But sometimes a quiet life is disturbed by the tremors of distant shores, and it becomes hard not to look past your walls and wonder.” George coughs into a pocket square. The leather of his chair creaks as he reaches for a glass of something dark. He rakes the coals and carefully adds wood to the fire. The room brightens. 132
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“Pay no mind to the cough,” he says with a half-smile. “My lungs haven’t been the same since the fighting.” He returns to his story. “The rumbles in Europe reached us in May of 1803, when Britain declared war on France and Napoleon Bonaparte. That June, Brigadier-General John Skerrett received orders to raise a Fencible Regiment in Newfoundland: ten companies capable of defending British interests anywhere in North America. A good many men were readily available from the recently disbanded Newfoundland Regiment. Experienced officers included Captain Tremlett and Lieutenants Skinner and Walsh. The many fresh faces included privates James Lovett, Daniel Kearney, Patrick Doyle, Thomas Bray, Andrew Bulger and me. “At the ripe age of 42, I became Private George Wells. What on Earth possessed me? I see the question in your eyes. I’m not sure myself. Most of the lads felt we’d be posted in St. John’s, that we’d strut around town in our red coats and feel 10 feet tall. It would last a year, two at the most, we thought, and we’d all be paid in sterling silver – ready cash in our pockets. Besides, Napoleon had sold all French territory in North America to the Americans in the Louisiana Purchase. This meant, to me, that the French had no interest in North America and therefore no fighting on our side of the Atlantic.” A coughing fit brings George to his 1-888-588-6353
feet, blood on the handkerchief. He shuffles over to the window, prizing open the curtain with a finger. “We were right about the French, but that’s about all.” He continues, staring out into the night, “No sooner had our unit been formed than we were ordered to protect Halifax; garrison duty would be our lot. We were an impressive fighting force. By 1806, our unit was honoured and renamed The Royal Newfoundland Regiment of Fencible Infantry.” He carried on, “Eighteen-oh-seven saw us ordered to assume garrison duties in Quebec. It was here we saw how critical the situation was. Less than 1,000 British Regulars were guarding the whole of Upper Canada, even fewer in Lower Canada. The Royal Newfoundland Regiment numbered nearly 700, making us one of the largest fighting forces on the British side, and with war raging in Europe there would be no reinforcements coming. We were indispensable; we would not be going home. “Over the next few years it became increasingly clear that the threat wasn’t France, but our neighbours to the south. Americans had been turning a greedy eye our way, amassing troops, warships and artillery at our borders. British forces were occupied in Europe and the Americans saw an opportunity to take the whole continent for themselves. Feeling the mounting pressure, and because of the extensive experience of our units as both sailors and soldiers, it was decided to take half the Royal November 2020
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Most importantly, taking Fort Mackinac cemented the alliance between British forces and Tecumseh, the brilliant strategist and leader of a powerful Native American Confederacy. The loss of Fort Mackinac and the waterways it secured, which were vital to Tecumseh’s people, would almost certainly have broken the alliance. Newfoundland Regiment and assign them to the other fighting forces at Kingston, Quebec, Prescott, Fort George and Fort York. “In May 1812, only weeks before the Americans declared war, MajorGeneral Sir Isaac Brock again divided the Royal Newfoundland, sending the remaining five companies to defensive positions from Prescott to Amherstburg at the mouth of the Detroit River. Members of the Royal Newfoundland were also deployed as marines patrolling the Great Lakes. Every engagement would have a Newfoundlander at its back. If we fell, so too would Canada. At the age of 51, I was going to war,” George says. “The Americans moved quickly into Canadian territory. Thankfully, we didn’t hesitate and attacked several strategic positions at once, including Fort Mackinac. Located at the connection between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, whoever had control of Fort Mackinac controlled the entirety of the Northwest. Most 134
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importantly, taking Fort Mackinac cemented the alliance between British forces and Tecumseh, the brilliant strategist and leader of a powerful Native American Confederacy. The loss of Fort Mackinac and the waterways it secured, which were vital to Tecumseh’s people, would almost certainly have broken the alliance. “After the Fort was secured, it needed to be held. Two of the five remaining Royal Newfoundland Regiment companies at Kingston were sent to Fort Mackinac, a distance of some 600 miles over water and through wilderness, all the while dodging and fighting American forces. We needed to reach Fort Mackinac before the Americans could organize a counter attack.” George breaks away from the window and returns to the fire. “You know, cold is just a word for most people. I can’t hear the word without feeling pain in my back teeth, without having the very core of me, my bones, grind to dust a little. We set 1-888-588-6353
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out from Kingston in late winter and arrived at Fort Mackinac on May 18, 1814, and, yes, we raced the Americans who appeared off Mackinac Island on June 28. “The Americans arrived in six warships, each towing a gunboat. They circled the island slowly and methodically, like sharks, waiting for weakness, cutting off our supplies and depriving us of sleep. Finally, on August 4, they made their move. After unleashing an unceasing barrage of heavy fire from their warships, the Americans landed a force greater than 1,000 men and six artillery guns. “Our commanding officer, Lieutenant-Colonel McDouall, ordered the bulk of us out of the fort to meet the enemy in the field. We had a force of 170 from the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, 300 of Tecumseh’s men and two artillery guns. We were out-manned and out-gunned two-to-one and three-to-one respectively. But we had to hold. Somehow we had to hold. The loss of Fort Mackinac would mean the loss of Canada. The Americans began their attack at 3 p.m., and by 6 p.m. it would be all over. The men of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment met the American line up front, with Tecumseh’s men defending our flanks. The Americans opened fire and charged our line, bayonets fixed for close combat. They sent a portion of their forces to flank our position; they would meet Tecumseh’s men. “For all outwardly show of order and control, war quickly devolves into chaos and confusion. It’s most 1-888-588-6353
often won by those most able to do the simple tasks efficiently amid the thunder, smoke, powder-flashes (which burn your lungs), and despite the blood and screams. “Tecumseh’s men stopped the American flanking manoeuvre in its tracks, sending them reeling, bloodied and scattered. Our line held. American casualties were 19 killed and 45 wounded. Our side suffered not a single loss. “You can almost see fear, you know. It becomes like a solid thing, moving through a body of men, making this one hesitate, that one stumble: one, then three, then 15, until they all broke ranks. We didn’t just defeat the Americans that day, we broke them. “The Americans retreated to their ships. They couldn’t beat us off the field of battle, so they decided to starve us off the island by cutting off our supplies. We sent our raiding parties – men hand-picked from the Royal Newfoundland – in the dead of night to board and seize their ships, taking all on board as prisoners. “From that engagement onward, the American forces were locked into near constant confusion and continuous retreat, with British forces attacking deeper and deeper into American territory, until finally the Americans sued for peace and the war was over. The Royal Newfoundland Regiment was ordered back home to St. John’s, and after the defeat of Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, we soldiers were once again civilians, allowed to look into ourselves and wonder.” November 2020
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Now more than ever a Downhome membership is a great value. Not only do you save over $20 off the cover price, you receive: 1 Year (12 issues) OF DOWNHOME
Free WALL CALENDAR Free EXPLORE TRAVEL GUIDE 2 Issues INSIDE LABRADOR †
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All for just
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Save up to $90 when you sign up for 3 years! Delivered with December’s issue. ††Delivered with June’s issue. Canadian mailing only. ††† Delivered with a spring and fall issue. *Plus applicable taxes
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Sign me up for a Downhome membership Name:____________________________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________________ Prov/State: ____ Country: _______________ Postal Code: ____________________
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* Valid in Canada on a 1-year term. Total inc. taxes, postage and handling: for residents in NL, NS, NB, PE $45.99; ON $45.19; QC, SK, MB, AB, BC, NU, NT, YT $41.99. US/International $49.99. ** Valid in Canada on a 3-year term. Total inc. taxes, postage and handling: for residents in NL, NS, NB, PE $114.99; ON $112.99; QC, SK, MB, AB, BC, NU, NT, YT $104.99; US/International $140.99.
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2011a_Puzzles_1701-puzzles 9/30/20 7:35 PM Page 138
puzzles
The Beaten Path
Francina Alley photo
By Ron Young
Block out all the letters that are like other letters in every way, including shape and size. The letters that are left over will spell out the name of the above community in letters that get smaller in size.
M M K E H
T p
n
S
S
H V
T
m
J L R
U
x
Q
J R
V
H
S
U
S
Q
M
I
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L
m M
S
T
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K
E
J R S L m R K
M
A
U
S p
H V
x
T
H
M S
E
C
S
H
T
E
L
p T p
S
x
n
L
L
H
R J
M
K S
n
Y
n
M E T m V
T
Last Month’s Community: Bauline 138
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Sudoku
from websudoku.com
Skill level: Medium Last month’s answers
?
Need Help
Visit DownhomeLife.com/puzzles for step-by-step logic for solving this puzzle
www.downhomelife.com
November 2020
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Downhomer Detective Needs You After more than two decades on the Urban City Police Force, Downhomer Detective has come home to rid Newfoundland and Labrador of a new threat – cunning thief Ragged Rick. A real braggart, the slimy criminal sends DD a blurry photo of his surroundings plus clues to his whereabouts just to prove he’s always a step ahead. DD needs your help to identify where in Newfoundland and Labrador Ragged Rick is hiding out this month.
Use these 5 clues to identify where Ragged Rick is now: • Located offshore from Mary’s Harbour • Once hailed as the Capital of Labrador • An Historic District National Historic Site of Canada • British settlement founded on salt fish trade in 1700s • Largely destroyed by fire in 1930
Last Month’s Answer: Lumsden
Picturesque Place NameS of Newfoundland and Labrador
by Mel D’Souza Last Month’s Answer: Greenspond 140
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In Other Words Guess the well-known expression written here in other words.
Last Month’s Clue: Refrain from precipitating upon the man’s procession In Other Words: Don’t rain on his parade This Month’s Clue: Overlook the pachyderm inside the space In Other Words: _____ __ ________ __ ___ ____
A Way With Words ABAKEDPIE
Rhyme Time A rhyming word game by Ron Young
Last Month’s Answer: Baked in a pie
1. Humpty Dumpty did a _____ ____ 2. A putt-putt in NL is a ____ and _____
This Month’s Clue
NEVER TIME Answer: _____ __ ____
Scrambled Sayings
3. An identical smile is a ____ ____ Last Month’s Answers 1. eat a treat, 2. book crook, 3. free tea
by Ron Young
Place each of the letters in the rectangular box below into one of the white square boxes above them to discover a quotation. Incomplete words that begin on the right side of the diagram continue one line down on the left. The letters may or may not go in the box in the same order that they are in the column. Once a letter is used, cross it off and do not use it again.
’ C I N W
H O D E D G B E E F E E I S L O E E E O K N G L W N O M T H T W S O O O S T W T
N E D G A H D E E K O O I H E N H T O V R N S T T T W O W T
Last month’s answer: It is better to risk starving to death than surrender. If you give up on your dreams, what's left? www.downhomelife.com
November 2020
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Rhymes 5 Times Each answer rhymes with the other four
1. sorcerer 2. sew 3. gutter 4. problem 5. tie
____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ ____________
STUCK? Don’t get your knickers in a knot! Puzzle answers can be found online at DownhomeLife.com/puzzles
Last Month’s Answers: 1. pot, 2. spot, 3. trot, 4. got, 5. knot
Tangled Towns by Lolene Young Condon and Ron Young
Sound out the groups of words below to get a familiar expression. For best results sound the clue words out loud!
Ade Are Course _ ____ _____ Eight Hock Sick Way Stump _ _____ _____ ____ Last Month’s 1st Clue: Annie Merchant Sea Answer: An emergency Last Month’s 2nd Clue: Owe Limb Picky Vents Answer: Olympic events
Unscramble each of the five groups of letters below to get 5 Newfoundland and Labrador place names.
1. CONKLOST 2. TOURYT 3. ESEMLOR 4. RTOP INNOU 5. ACANALIT Last Month’s Answers: 1. Barachois Brook, 2. Heatherton, 3. Thompkins, 4. Robinsons, 5. Highlands
A nalogical A nagrams Unscramble the capitalized words to get one word that matches the subtle clue. 1. IRATE ERR FROG ~ Clue: if the light’s off, no one’s home 2. ACNE LARD ~ Clue: always on a date 3. YELP NET MOM ~ Clue: the space between hired and fired 4. SIN TIMER ~ Clue: always plays by the Book 5. ICE LENS ~ Clue: never makes a sound Last Month’s Answers: 1. helicopter, 2. accident, 3. triplicate, 4. telephone, 5. traveller 142
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Four-Way Crossword F o re Wo rd s • B a c k Wo rd s • U p Wo rd s • D o w n Wo rd s By Ron Young
Unlike regular crosswords, in Four-Way Crossword each letter is not necessarily related to the letter in the adjacent row or column, but is part of one or more words in some direction.
1-10: charitable 1-91: cosmetician 7-4: passion 7-10: fasting time 7-97: makes into law 10-100: extrasensory 12-14: offspring 12-42: shortly 14-11: proboscis 14-18: belly button 23-3: 2,200 pounds 24-26: exist 25-23: rodent 30-10: allow 30-25: boarder 30-26: inn 32-34: night bird 34-38: flower 34-4: by-road 36-38: fasten 36-66: social equal 42-2: rope snare 44-4: 747 44-41: confined 44-94: planned 47-41: snake 48-46: utilize 50-80: course 53-3: gravity discoverer 53-33: novice 50-46: hesitate 56-54: auricle 57-53: gain knowledge 57-59: portion 59-19: claw 59-56: enamelled metal 66-96: lease 67-61: poison www.downhomelife.com
1
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68-66: equal 69-66: mast 70-50: faucet 71-91: writer Flemming 74-72: place 77-73: taunt 77-75: hot beverage 80-76: rushing 80-78: posesses 83-85: quill 83-88: wrote 88-86: lair 89-87: poem 92-42: alternative 94-97: weaves 97-91: platform 99-59: bake
99-96: corrosion 100-96: insolence Last Month’s Answer
C OM P E T I O S A F EUD MO D E L B E P L I MP BA R E KAMY R E I S L AME HLA E S OP EGDOLOA N WA F A R E DE L I B ER
TOR OP E WO V E PO R EM ATH E S T NER I NA AT E
November 2020
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The Bayman’s
Crossword Puzzle 1
3
2
by Ron Young
4
5
6
7
8
9 17
21 25
10
22
23
14
15
16
20 24
27
28
30
32
33 37 38 43
44
48
144
13 19
26
36
51
12
18
29 31
11
34 39
45
46 49
52
November 2020
40
35 41
42
47 50
53
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ACROSS 1. several 3. ___ West – WWII-era life preserver 5. cure leather 6. “Go to grass and let the cows ___ you” 8. stuff (colloq) 10. club 13. overhead 17. cod’s backbone (colloq) 20. “How’s ye gettin’ __?” 21. rig __ – outfit (colloq) 22. boy 23. vengeful (colloq) 25. Coal Bin’s friend 27. short for Margaret 28. “___ to Newfoundland” 29. battery size 30. pub crawl 31. old ___ – sailor 33. lies 34. for example (abbrev) 36. Ontario (abbrev) 37. Pa’s mate 39. compass point 41. Great Big Sea 1995 album 43. raise (esp. sails) 46. teem 48. immature harp seal 50. father 51. “Oh __ nerves” 52. Dept. of Environmental Protection (abbrev) 53. “Praise the weather when you’re ______” DOWN 1. “When the little boats go out to sea ____ ___ ______ __ Newfoundland” (4 words) 2. “We never went to steal the sheep, __ ____ __ _____ ___ calf” (5 words) 4. Alcoholics Anonymous (abbrev) 7. “Whaddaya __?” 9. “I’ll __ bait for that” www.downhomelife.com
10. British North America (abbrev) 11. opposite of subtract 12. tuberculosis (abbrev) 13. nears 14. wager 15. emptiness 16. concluded 18. arm bone 19. forcefully overcomes 24. lasso 26. snitch 27. principal 30. boyfriend (abbrev) 32. “Don’t mistake __ old goat’s beard for a stallion’s tail” 35. rifle 37. Ten ____ Pond 38. as soon as possible (abbrev) 40. extinct bird 42. public display of affection (abbrev) 44. “Foolish as ___ socks” 45. trademark (abbrev) 47. United Arab Republic (abbrev) 48. “I’ll __ there rackley” 49. each (abbrev)
H O R S E S T I N G E R M E E T
ANSWERS TO LAST MONTH’S CROSSWORD
B A R I I N B E A A G T B A L M A N R A N D L G E O W B O A N E N D A L L O L D A S Y A N T S M
L E A S T
I C A T T N E M Y K E I M S K N A A R G U B R A N N A R N D R I G S S V A T O K E M O November 2020
E L E V E N E R
R A T E E B B
R E 145
2011a_Puzzles_1701-puzzles 9/30/20 7:35 PM Page 146
DIAL-A-SMILE © 2020 Ron Young
Pick the right letters from the old style phone to match the numbers grouped below and uncover a quote which will bring a smile to your face.
_ _ _ ___ ____ 3 8 3 798 4464 ____ 5664 __ 86
__ 27
_____ 38669
__ 47
’
__ _ 48 7
’
__ 27
__ __ _ ___ _ 42 77 3 646 4
____ _ ___ 7663 2 639
____ 3573
Last Month’s Answer: Do not worry about avoiding temptation. As you grow older it will avoid you.
©2020 Ron Young
CRACK THE CODE
b
Each symbol represents a letter of the alphabet, for instance =P Try to guess the smaller, more obvious words to come up with the letters for the longer ones. The code changes each month.
P _ _ _
_ _ Rp
P _ P _ _ bLbR;
_ _ _
bhhZ
JOh
_ _ _ QO 0 _ _ _ _
ih0p
_ _ _ l hQ
_ _ _ P _ _ _
pL ZbXpp
_ _ _ ORp
_ _ _ _ _ _ XpQ0 Z
L
Last Month’s Answer: Education's purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one. 146
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© 2020 Ron Young
Food For Thought
Each food symbol represents a letter of the alphabet. Find the meanings to the words then match the letters with the food symbols below to get a little “food for thought.”
dorsal =
create =
_ _ _
psychotic belief =
l p[ hc sI
_ _ _ _ _
_ _ _
_ _ _ _ _ _
lVtVxI _ _
V
b
_ _
V
b
_ _ _ _
hc sI
_ _ _
[k i
_ _ _ _
hc sI
wVhhpI b
fatal =
i kx bt
` It
_ _ _ _ _ _ _
idiots =
_ _ _ _
most evil =
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
wI` V b pk[
’b
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
kVx
c [w
_ _ _
_ _
_ _ _
_ _ _
’
kVx
tkhkxxk i
_ _ _ _
wI c w `o
_ _ _
` It
_ _ __ _ _
wxIc h b
_ _ _ _ _ _ _
xI c` pto
Last Month’s Answer: Most of us have far more courage than we ever dreamed we possessed. www.downhomelife.com
November 2020
147
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Different Strokes
Our artist’s pen made the two seemingly identical pictures below different in 12 places. See if you can find all 12.
ERN GIVES A FRIEND A HAIRCUT
Last Month’s Answers: 1. Jacket; 2. Coal Bin; 3. Bottle; 4. Cliff; 5. Beer Carton; 6. Guitar; 7. Legs; 8. Fish; 9. Shirt; 10. Cooler; 11. Outboard motor; 12. Headland. “Differences by the Dozen”- A compilation of Different Strokes from 2002 to 2014 (autographed by Mel) can be ordered by sending $9.95 (postage incl.; $13.98 for U.S. mailing) to Mel D’Souza, 21 Brentwood Dr., Brampton, ON, L6T 1P8.
148
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HIDE & SEEK VEGETABLES
The words can be across, up, down, backward or at an angle, but always in a line.
ASPARAGUS BEAN BEET BROCCOLI CABBAGE CARROT CAULIFLOWER CELERY CHIVE CORN CUCUMBER FIDDLEHEAD GARLIC KALE LETTUCE ONION A Y C E N A E B G L Y L C F C P L W
J P A U O P M N C L E U C X Y Z F V
N M B Q H U N D C I C T A W I F G Y
K V B H Q G L M D U L B T Q K E Y F
Z S A A Q T B U M Z F R M U U E S G
Z N G P O P R B Q Z N P A J C O F M
S C E R I F E H A F G D D G Z E F T
www.downhomelife.com
SPINACH SQUASH TOMATO TURNIP
PEA PEPPER POTATO RADISH R E N G G I X G B K G M C Z K O T M
Last Month’s Answers
F H R N O R N W I R E P P E P V S G
W A R M S P I N A C H U A Z C S U M
C U H F G I A N J S K D X B U P I P
T C I B H H V L S S I G E I O X B D
U V S C N N O U O A Y X D T J E H K
C A U L I F L O W E R E X T Y W P D
G T M S V I I H A L D G U V N I G R
B S B W O D D I A I F M L N W C P V
T O M A T O A A Y R T U A R C P A J
Y L E B L R X R K O Z Z I W N Z O L
C P U H L L C C A S V S E N W J P T
V D W S L U P R R C Z T S I L E E V
W K Q A E R A A X O L G R U T C V D
K S W B Q V L N E R O G P G H I V W
G C F Q Y C T L L L B G A B A O P A
O Q I I B B C C A A C W W I C G N L
P A U M A U U M L E P M N E B O I Y
T I U C A O K B O R S I O O M C N O
W T S D L U E A I O U H G N A O V Q
I P L G I Z A D E T R G L O M Q H P
S T W V L S T C C P R C N N S E T Y
F T V O A I K A L N F W I S I M G T
I T P E A A V S C A A D I A I J C Q
E S C B B E L R B B I W C Y W Y B U
P O L O T V D I V I N G A C M I S X
P E A C R R J Y H W D A Y F G N Y I
U K S J O A S O D V G B R N G C U R
Z W A C N B A W W I I C Q X Z Z O Z
N K M M O Q R J J Z E B A T X U W E
Z D L M F U V B S I L S O M S Z E U
S G H J C A Z P F J S P V C S R N F
L L A B T E K S A B T H D X C A D I
I A F N J W Y K E I Y A P O I S O K
L S D C H S V X S Z H C W V R I R N
B M N T V E R E C C O S I U U N S J
R L H O K I Z N P A C F Y G P M I P
R I R P K R P S B A Z M Z J V G G L
W B E C Z G N I M M I W S Y I X G X
J C T R I L O C C O R B O T T M G Q
November 2020
W J O M W R E S T L I N G N H M L K
D H B V X H E Y Y A Z L S K L X M K
T A X N T S G A A T X P B W H C J D 149
2011Mktplace_0609 Marketplace.qxd 10/1/20 9:35 AM Page 150
Minutes from Northern Bay Sands & Salmon Cove Sands 3/4 of an acre. Upgrades from paint, deck, bathroom, some windows Call Edwina Baldwin
709-685-5070
MLS# 1217748
Book Today 709-726-5113 1-888-588-6353 advertising@downhomelife.com
Movers & Shippers SAMSON’S MOVING
A&K Moving
Let our Family Move Your Family Home
Newfoundland, Ontario, Alberta and All Points In Between Newfoundland Owned & Operated Fully Insured, Free Estimates Sales Reps. in Ontario and Alberta
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Call Jim or Carolyn - Peterview, NL 709-257-4223 709-486-2249 - Cell samsonsmovers@yahoo.ca www.samsonsmovers.ca
Andy: 416-247-0639 Out West: 403-471-5313
aandkmoving@gmail.com
Moving you from Ontario and Newfoundland... or any STOP along the way!
DOWNEAST CONNECTION 709-248-4089 905-965-4813
Hawke’s Bay, NL (collect calls accepted) downeastconnection@yahoo.ca
FIVE STAR SERVICE Without The Five Star Price! ★ Local & Long Distance Moves ★ Packing
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A Family Moving Families Professionally and economically
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MOVING INC. 709-834-0070 866-834-0070 fivestarmoving@outlook.com www.fivestarmoving.ca
Over 25 Years Experience in the Moving Industry 150
November 2020
Coast to Coast in Canada Fully Insured Newfoundland Owned & Operated
Contact: Gary or Sharon King
Toll Free: 1-866-586-2341 www.downhomemovers.com 1-888-588-6353
2011Mktplace_0609 Marketplace.qxd 10/1/20 2:03 PM Page 151
Marketplace DISCOUNT STORAGE 8' x 20' unheated storage units St. John's, NL
709-726-6800
Announcements
Book Your Announcement Today Wedding Anniversaries 50 years and up Milestone Birthdays Starting at age 40 Memorials Celebrate a life
1-888-588-6353
www.downhomelife.com
November 2020
151
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR CHRISTMAS! Mummer Christmas Stockings $10.99 each
Mummer Pillow Covers $10.99 each
Elliston Mummers #79544
Elliston Mummers #79554
Mummers on Signal Hill #79545
Mummers on Signal Hill #79555
Mummering in Dildo #79546
Mummering in Dildo #79556
Mummer Indoor Floor Mats 18” x 30” $14.99 each
Elliston Mummers #79540
Mummers on Signal Hill #79542
Mummering in Dildo #79541
NL Christmas Cards
Tree Skirt
Lightup LED Bulb
Elliston Mummers #79543 | $21.99
NL Sayings #79532 | $5.99
5 assorted designs, 25pk
#79533 | $6.99
Assorted Mummer Candles (3pk) NL Mummers Wine Glasses $21.99 each Ugly Stick #73793 Violin #73794
#77688 | $9.99
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com Clarenville Christmas 2020 Pewter Ornament
Wooden Cutting Board
NL Mummers Flat Wrap
#75789 | $14.99
3 Assorted #79536 | $1.99
Mummers Peel and Stick Gift Tags
NL Mummers Window Clings
48pc #79534 | $1.99
#79535 | $2.99
front
Plastic Placemat and Coaster Sets (8pc) $4.99 each
gift box back
Christmas in the Cove by Kelly McEntegart Sheppard
#79452 | $18.99
Mummering in Dildo
Mummers on Signal Hill
Elliston Mummers
#79539
#79538
#79537
Mini Bulb w/Box Iceberg and Puffin
Indigena Beauty Products Bath Soak 80g $6.99 each Partridgeberry
#60044 Blueberry
#60043
Lip Balm $4.99 each Partridgeberry
#60041 Labrador Tea Smooch
#61255
#43337 | $9.99
Dark Tickle Soap $6.99 each
Rowhouses of NL Ornament #60204 $9.99
Bakeapple
Blueberry
Partridgeberry
#79381
#79383
#79382
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-588-6353
GIFTS Hand Painted Row House Shot Glasses A
B
Hand Painted Wine Glass
Row Houses of NL Ornament
D
C
Hand Wash Only Sold Assorted Colours More colours online
#59831 | $5.99 each
Hand Painted Key Rack Row Houses
#72979 $16.99
#76315 | $6.99
Hand Painted Coasters Row Houses
Hand Painted Row House Mailbox
Set of 4, 4" x 4" #59827 | $24.99
#47594 | $99.99
Assorted Colours, 10" x 3 1/3"
#59826 | $24.99
Downhome Mummer Coaster Set - Set of 4
Downhome Mummer Magnetic Thermometer Downhome Mummer Pewter Key Chain 60345 | $6.99
3" | 60342 | $10.99
3"x 3" | 60343 | $6.99
Downhome Any Mummers ‘Lowd In? Ornament
Row House Pewter Key Chain
1.5" round #60344 | $4.99
76316 | $6.99
#60340 | $5.99
2D Wooden Magnet Row House
Magnetic Thermometer Row House
Coasters - Row House
3" x 3.5" #60338 | $6.99
Set of 4, 4" x 4" #60337 | $10.99
Downhome Mummer Wooden 2D Magnet
Raised Level
Raised Level
3" x 3" #60339 | $4.99
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com Little Red Mini Button Accordion
Celtic Tin Whistle with Tune Sheet
Dory Dan Musical Spoons
#48726 | $19.99
#3470 | $15.99
Includes Learn to Play Instructions and Songs
#74074 $49.99
Brian Bursey 2021 Calendar
Wall 12" x 11" #79463 | $12.99 Desk 5" x 6" #79464 | $6.99
Ed Roche - 2021 Calendar Newfoundland
Images of Home 2021 Calendar by Trish Walsh
13 3/8" x 24" #79468 | $24.99
#79563 | $13.99
Official Newfoundland Sou’wester $11.99 each
Magnetic Thermometer Scenic Newfoundland and Labrador
Coasters - Scenic Newfoundland and Labrador
3" x 3.5" #74455 | $6.99
Set of 4, 4" x 4" #74462 | $10.99
Magnetic Thermometer Newfoundland Sayings
Coasters Newfoundland Sayings
Screech-In Certificate
3" x 3" #72902 | $6.99
Set of 4, 3" #72900 | $10.99
#3530 | $1.99
Tartan Infinity Scarf
Children #40652 Youth #40651 | Adult #40650
Newfoundland Watercolour Scene Mug
Fisherman Nut Cracker #76002 $29.99 gift box included
#57617 | $24.99
* While quantities last.
#55665 | $12.99
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-588-6353
GIFTS
Sherpa Fleece Throw - 50" x 60"
cial Spe ice Pr Any Mummers ‘lowd In? #75515
Was $39.99 | Now $32.99
Fleece Throws $19.99 each Mummering in Dildo #79547
Mummering on Signal Hill #79548
Elliston Mummers #79549
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
Downhome Cookie Cutter Newfoundland Map
Moose Head Cookie Cutter
Moose Cookie Cutter
with sugar cookie recipe
with sugar cookie recipe
#49564 | $7.99
#49563 | $7.99
Downhome Fish ’n’ Brewis Net #35876 | $3.29
Traditional Newfoundland Mesh Vegetable Bag 11" x 15"
#60592 | $5.80
Downhome Pease Pudding Regular Size Bag w/Recipe
#35871 | $2.99 XL Size Bag w/Recipe with sugar cookie recipe
#75944 | $3.79
#75942 | $9.99
Tea Towels - $6.99 each Any Mummers #77316 ‘lowd In? Kitchen Sayings #65130 Puffin #65131 Lobster #48613 Lighthouse #48612 Moose #65083
More Selection Online!
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-588-6353
TASTY TREATS Summer Savoury
Lee’s Mini Snowballs
Newfoundland Seasonings $7.99 each
60g Bottle
#34177 $8.49
200g tub
#78551 $6.99
28g Package
#34176 $3.99
Screech Coffee 454g Bag
#39365 | $19.99
Newfoundland Screech BBQ Sauce
225g Bag
#39005 | $9.99
350ml
#48150 | $9.99
K Cups
#57077 | $12.99
Cod 65g #77379 Moose 100g #77375 Ragin’ Bayman 100g #79465 Steak & Burger 100g #77377
Dark Tickle Salad Dressings (250ml)
Dark Tickle Traditional Jam
Bakeapple
#79380 | $15.99 Partridgeberry
#79378| $11.99 Blueberry Bakeapple 250ml #1005 | $16.99 Partridgeberry 250ml #1015 | $12.49 Wild Blueberry 250ml #1009 | $12.49
#79379 | $11.99
Dark Tickle Gift Box Partridgeberry and Bakeapple 2 x 57ml Jam 2 x 135ml Sauce
#50223 $38.99
Dark Tickle Traditional Sauce 250ml
Bakeapple and Partridgeberry 2 x 125ml #50225 | $23.99 2 x 57ml #47529 | $18.99
6 x 57ml Wild Blueberry, Crowberry, Bakeapple, Squashberry Jam, and Rhubarb Pickles
#50224 $43.99
Dark Tickle Old Fashioned Spread 250ml
Bakeapple
#59717 | $12.79 Partridgeberry
#59716 | $9.99 Wild Blueberry
#59718 | $9.99
Wild Blueberry #59715 | $9.99 Partridgeberry #59714 | $9.99 Bakeapple #59713 | $14.49
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
Downhome Candy $2.99 each
Puffin Poop 100g #46793 | Caribou Poo 100g #46794 | Moose Droppings 100g #46795 Bunny Buttons 100g #46796 | Moose Bait 82g #74725 | Fish Bait 82g #74726 | Cod Tongues 80g #78020
Newfoundland Chocolate Company - NL Sayings Chocolate Bars - $6.99 Each | 50g
Oh Me Nerves #60023 | Whadda Ya At? #60026 | Yes B’y #60027 | Crooked As Sin #60029 Shag It #75255 | God Love Your Cotton Socks #75256 | Arse on Dat #77728
Newfoundland Chocolate Bars - $5.99 each | 42g
Blueberry #50684 | Coffee Hazelnut #75356 | Dark Orange #75359 | Dark Wildberry #50687 Fruit and Nut #75358 | Hazelnut #50688 | Dark - Low Sugar #47303 | Dark Mint #50686
Dark Tickle Tea 20 Tea Bags $8.99 each Screech Bakeapple Patridgeberry Blueberry Blueberry Green
#45644 #45641 #45642 #45643 #63348
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-588-6353
CHILDREN
Plush Puffin #44414 $8.99
Plush Puffin w/sou’wester
Plush NL Dog
#64669 $14.99
Rhymes from the Rock Bonnie Jean Hicks & Leanna Carbage
Newfoundland and Labrador Lullaby - Riemann, McCarron and
#43618 $19.99
Maggie and Hero Margaret O’Brien
Steuerwald - Hard Cover
#58304 | $9.95
#49135 | $12.95
#33660 | $13.95
Numbers in Newfoundland
Nanny’s Kitchen Party
A Newfoundland Christmas
Bonnie Jean Hicks Illustrated by Leanna Carbage
Rebecca North Illustrated by Laurel Keating
Dawn Baker
#75941 | $9.95
#77678 | $12.95
#43813 | $9.95
Christmas in Newfoundland
A Puffin Playing by the Sea: 12 Days of Christmas in Newfoundland and Labrador
A Moose Goes A-Mummering
Mike Martin
Lisa Dalrymple
Gina Noordhoof
#77993 | $16.95
#53792 | $16.95
A Newfoundland and Labrador Christmas Wish
Where are you Puffling? A Bird Island Adventure
Necie - Hard Cover
Erika McGann
#57326 | $8.95
#77685 | $9.99
#52955 | $12.95
The House of Wooden Santas Kevin Major
#3945 | $24.95
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
BOOKS - ADULT Downhome Household Almanac & Cookbook
Downhome Household Almanac & Cookbook 2
Cooking Up a Scoff
#2739 | $19.95
#13433 | $19.95
#79297 | $14.95
Our Best Berry Recipes From the Readers and Staff of Downhome
Our Best Seafood Recipes From the Readers and Staff of Downhome
#55888 | $10.99
#58362 | $10.99
#38322 | $19.95
East Coast Keto
The All New Purity Cookbook
Fat-Back & Molasses -
Bobbie Pike
New Edition!
The Treasury of Newfoundland Dishes Cookbook - Jill Whitaker
Ivan Jesperson
#78131 | $34.95
#16361 | $19.95
Island Vegan Marian Frances White
Newfoundland Recipes Carol Over
#78676 | $29.95
#2495 | $4.95
#38455 | $9.88
Rock Recipes Barry C. Parsons
Rock Recipes Cookies: My Favourite Recipes for Cookies, Bars & Sweet Treats Barry C. Parsons
Rock Recipes Christmas: Your Complete Guide to a Delicious Holiday Season Barry C. Parsons
#75585 | $22.95
#60474 | $22.95
Vol. 1
#53803 $26.95
#2313 | $9.95
Downhome Cookbook
Vol. 2
#56832 $26.95
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-588-6353
CLOTHING AND APPAREL Sweeping Map NL - $44.99 each Size S-XXL
Hoodie NL 1497 Fushia
#78151 $42.99 Size S-XXL
“Yes B’y” Blue
#61605 $19.99 Pink
#61604 $19.99 Size S-XXL
“Oh Me Nerves” Definition
Dusty Rose #79087 | Misty Blue #79093
Newfoundland Lifestyle
Nautical Knot
Black
Orchid
#74295 $19.99
#78873 $14.99
Size S-XXL
Size S-XXL
Newfoundland Flag Rhinestone Map
NL Satin Rhinestone
#61360 $24.99
#77661 $24.99
Size S-XXL
Size S-XXL
Fleece Lined Toque
#74448 $12.99
Fleece Lined Mittens
#74450 $10.99
#73496 $19.99 Sizes S-XXL
“Home” Newfoundland
#74396 $19.99 Size S-XXL
Scarf - Newfoundland Crest
Grey with Beige and Slate Blue Trim
#74449 $15.99
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com Hoodie NL 1497
Keep Calm and Let the Newfie Handle It
No Friggin Way
Black
#58878 $42.99
#63201 $14.99
#63132 $14.99
Size S-XXL
Size S-XXXL
Size S-XXXL
Sayings Drop Out
Newfoundland Map with Sayings
Newfoundland Lifestyle
Sale!
#63026 $14.99
#74855 $19.99
#78867 Was $19.99 Now $14.99
Size S-XXXL
Size S-XXL
Size S-XXL
Black
Letter Map NL
Newfoundland 1497 Moose
Hoodie Plaid Moose
Navy
#58803 $19.99
#78969 $19.99
#77793 $49.99
Size S-XXL
Size S-XXXL
Size S-XXL
Moose Dropping
Newfoundland Rocks
Hoodie Quilted Flag
Black
#47932 $21.99
#74946 $19.99
#78989 $59.99
Size S-XXXL
Size S-XXL
Size S-XXL
Experimenting with Sea-Weed
Pot Head
Hoodie Camo Newfoundland Labrador
#76530 | $19.99
#62428 $19.99
#78983 $49.99
Size S-XXL
Size S-XXXL
Size S-XXL
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-588-6353
CHILDREN Kids’ T-Shirt Cuter Than a Puffin $12.99 each Infant (Sizes 6m, 12m, 18m) Light Blue #78050 Hot Pink #78031
Kids (Sizes 2, 4, 5/6) Light Pink #78054 Royal Blue #78058
Oh My Cod! Too Cute To Throw Back! Infant T-Shirt (Sizes 6m, 12m, 18m) Pink #78809 | $13.99 Blue #76700 | $13.99
Infant Onsie Ocean Green #78805 | $14.99
Stud Puffin Unisex Boxers (Sizes S - XL) #47832 | Was $21.99 Now $16.99!
Sale!
Unisex Pants (Sizes XS - XXL) #51944 | Was $36.99 Now $27.99!
Unisex T-Shirt (Sizes XS - XL) #51942 | Was $24.99 Now $18.99!
Infant Onsie (Sizes 6m, 12m, 18m) #47814 | Was $21.99 Now $16.99!
Youth Tye Dye Shirt Peace, Love, The Rock
Youth Zip Up Micro Fleece Puffin $29.99 each
Size XS-L
Size XS-L Wildberry #79431 Navy #79436
#79134 $17.99
Youth Hoodie NL EST 1497 $36.99 each Size S-L Navy
#73915 Maroon
#78954
FOR MORE SELECTION VISIT: www.shopdownhome.com
PURITY PRODUCTS
Purity Goodie Box #79290 $49.99
Jam Jams Cookies
Syrup 750ml
$5.99 each
Hard Bread 625g
#78947 $7.99 350g #18709 | $6.99
Strawberry #79558 Raspberry #15358 Pineapple #77660
Jam Jams - 2 Pack Bull’s Eyes Candy
Candy Barrel
#1085 $4.50
#49556 $4.50
#79557| $1.60
Peppermint $4.50 each Nobs #4238 Lumps #4239
Kisses $4.50 each Assorted #3997 Peanut Butter #4010 Rum & Butter #16805
TO ORDER CALL: 1-888-588-6353
2011photo Finish_0609 Photo Finish 9/30/20 7:32 PM Page 144
photo finish
Some
Sea on
Fall weather can certainly whip up the waves in the North Atlantic. This was the scene last December at Green Point Lighthouse in Port de Grave, NL. Joyce Morgan Port de Grave, NL
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November 2020
1-888-588-6353
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