Last Day

Our last day, in St. John's, and the city was transformed from when we saw it barely a month ago. Lush green trees, swathes of lupins in fields and parks, pots of flowers on porches and window baskets. People were sitting on their steps by the street and would always smile and greet us as we went by. We know that we are not so special. It's what Newfoundlanders to do everyone.

Almost everyone still wears masks here, and are careful in indoor places. That's why Newfoundland has weathered the COVID-19 pandemic so admirably. Everyone seems to follow rules here, especially those that show courtesy to everyone else. Again, that's what Newfoundlanders do. They are unfailingly patient and polite.

It was hot, summer hot. We broke out the shorts and bared our white legs as we repeated our first day by hiking around Signal Hill, including the spectacular North Head trail.

the North Head trail,
running down along the cliffs

watching a boat come in
from the Atlantic

rounding the trail into St. John's harbour 

there is always a hill in St. John's

We were hoping to meet with two friends who have just returned to Newfoundland after 4 years in Vancouver. One of them felt unwell, so we went out for a quick drink with the other, along famed George Street, which is full of pubs and bars. One drink turned into two as we talked together and listened to a friend of theirs play - Stephen Green - and sing an impressive repertoire - it seems every Newfoundlander can sing or play an instrument, or both, and do it well!

It was dark as we walked back to our Inn to finish packing and head home. There was a tiny bit of light in the west, and the evening was warm and scented with early summer. The next post will the the last, a wrap up photo montage if you will.

It's been a wonderful trip to a wonderful place.