We have included, after what were a lot of roadside thoughts and musings, some notes on what seems to define things we saw or learned on the days we spent away from home;

... Much like last summer, only this time north of the 49th parallel, we spent much time using the National Parks System. The comfort of a consistency of service, the acute attention to historical detail and overarching principles of conservation of environment make these parks and historic sites essential. They are much like a holding space for special things and places, securing both natural geography and culture along the way... A past, present and future to which we all owe consideration.

... Newfoundland was very much like home for me!!! I constantly drew comparisons with my hometown of Canso be it during conversations with people, understanding the economy, the physical landscape... foreign but oh so familiar. Even the weather, with constant tinge of fog and the warm days - cool evenings, was Canso-like.

... Big island, Newfoundland is!!! We saw the closest thing to mountains that we have out east, barrens like those close to our camp in Whitehead, remote fishing villages, coastal communities that are now linked by black top, the working waterfront of St. John's... although sometimes hidden and far flung, there is a lot to see and do while in Newfoundland.

... Of note... travel in Newfoundland was very different for us than most of our travel experiences. Often we have focused travel on the front and back ends of a trip to a metropolitan area. On this trip, travel was consistent (except for two day stays in St. John's and Gros Morne). Our usual "tightly packed" series of moving from attraction to attraction was not as possible. This trip saw more time between attractions... and we felt great if we got to "one big thing" a day!!! We also took more time to just "veg"... whether it be looking out over a lake, playing crazy eights, or even (God forbid) an afternoon nap!

... Newfoundland comes with price. Everything, as most island people already know, is just a little more expensive. Whether it be fuel, grocery, getting on and off the island, or service at restaurant and/or accommodations... one would be remiss not to mention that this little jewel and all it's remoteness comes with a cost. However, the more prepared one can be (including what you physically bring, planning ahead to secure advance reservations, and using potential packaging opportunities as we got some family friendly discounts at several attractions), the more likely you will be able to stay on budget.

... Guides, weather it be audio or in person, are important to getting the most out of a visit. Sometimes, in my introverted way, I like to do it on my own. However, in watching the responses of the rest of my "travel partners", a good guide can add tremendous value to a visit. We got that while in the Newfoundland Insectarium and visiting L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site.

... We had very good success with the tourism related hospitality and service representatives that we encountered. Whether it was the earnestness of the waitress that kept us watered and fed on George Street or park employees that provided information on activities, "best spots" for tenting and weather updates, the norm was that those we engaged went above and beyond in their efforts to accommodate... "My Lover"!!!