Our love affair with Newfoundland began the summer of 2005. Lured by the glorious television ads, we dialed the number at the bottom of the screen and began making plans. With our two sons, then seven and five years old, we jumped in the rental car at the airport and went on a tour of the Avalon. From whale-watching to museum visits, walks along the coast to ferry rides, our holiday was fantastic. It wasn’t just the stunning scenery that impressed us, but the kindness of Newfoundlanders that we met along the way.

That fall, we couldn’t get the island off our minds. Then came the fateful day when I whimsically asked my husband, “I wonder what real estate costs in Newfoundland?” We began by giving MLS listings a cursory glance, and then a closer scrutiny. Yes, we decided, property was affordable, but was this idea crazy? My husband would tell you that, as a recreational shopper, I can easily justify any purchase I make. In this case, my argument was that, if people could buy condos in Florida for their winter migration, surely a summer place in our own country was not out of the question. A cabin in a small southern shore community caught our eye, and so began a flurry of e-mails. Finally, having decided that we could not “sign on the dotted line” without setting foot in the place, a hasty weekend trip was arranged.

I remember that October weekend as being windy, wet and cold, but brimming with excitement. One look at the view from this cabin on a hill and the deal was finalized. I asked the seller if he thought people in the community would resent Ontarians like us moving in? His answer is something I’ll never forget: “My dear, once they get to know you, it will be like they’ve been waiting for you to come”.

Six years later, there have been many trips back to Newfoundland. Worries about our place being vacant for months at a time were quickly dispelled. If something went wrong, like a broken window or a loose plank, a kindly neighbour would step in and tend to it, simple as that. But these neighbours have become so much more than people down the road we wave to when passing by. Through ill health and family tragedy, they have become a second family, celebrating good times and sharing the sting of bad times. Phone calls, cards and gifts have made their way from province to province. Great comfort comes from knowing that, far away, dear friends are praying for us as we do for them.

Why do we keep coming back? Because Newfoundland has embraced us with open arms and our cabin on the hill has become our second home. Because when days are much too busy in Ontario, we have only to think of our quiet, peaceful retreat to feel calmer. Because we have friends who tell us on the phone that there will be a party when we come home in the summer. Because, no matter where they go, our sons will feel an affinity for Newfoundland and a love for all it has to offer, and as parents, we have done them a great service.

Joanne Webster
Orillia, ON
  Submitted By: Mark Webster