Leaving Clarenville
My last cherished memories with Cheri were at Trinity. She kindly stopped there on our way home from Bonavista so I could buy more chocolate from "Aunt Sarah's" and purchase a little gift for Miss M. When we were there earlier that week she had seen a toy she wanted. It seemed the least I could do after using her room for the past several days. What a kind little girl, such a gem.
It was hard to leave the serenity and safety of Cheri and Sheldon's home. I hugged each of them, heeded their warning to watch carefully for moose on the highway, Sheldon helped me stuff all my belongings into the Mini, and then I set my Google Maps route, took a deep breath, and was on my way. I want to thank all of Cheri's family for their incredible hospitality and friendship.
Making My Way to Corner Brook
There were many signs along the highway warning about moose and stating how many deaths there had been so far that year. A good incentive to stay alert. I saw one moose on my drive. It was standing in the ditch, chewing, watching, looking quite content and in no mood to athletically spring out in front of my car, thank goodness. Let's face it, the mini wouldn't stand a chance and by association, neither would I.
I arrived in Corner Brook and found my AirBnB. It was situated on a steep hill, fairly close to shops and restaurants. The place was a walk-in basement, quite clean and comfortable. After having all my camera gear stolen in 2017, I decided not to let my new gear out of my sight on this trip. So, pack on my back, I began the decent into town to find food. There was a Thai Restaurant listed close by and their website said it was open. After marching about 10 blocks I discovered it was closed for renovations. Note to self...call first. Back along the main street, past The Subway (I wasn't in the mood for that), I finally discovered a brand-new little restaurant open and it looked acceptable. They were missing many of the items listed on their menu but by now I was ravenous and too tired to care. I actually can't remember what I had or if it was any good, but the waitress was helpful and efficient.
Time to head back. Whatever goes down, also goes up. Funny, the hill didn't seem that steep on the way down, but it presented a cardiac challenge going back up! Then the rain came. By the time I entered my room, water was dripping from my coat and back pack. I was soaked and feeling rather chilled. It was late, the bed looked very attractive and I welcomed sleep.
Morning - Surprise! My car was covered with snow! In Corner Brook the snow was light enough that it hadn't stuck to the roads, but I realized I was lacking any implement to clean off my car. Oops. I found a broom inside the building and swept off my windows, packed up my luggage and drove to the Tourist Information Centre. I discovered there had been 30cm of snow in Gander that night. How fortunate I left Clarenville when I did. My journey across the island was on dry roads with good visibility. I felt blessed to be safe and the forecast toward Port Aux Basque called for sunny skies. Phew. The charming young woman in the centre directed me to "the best breakfast in town." I was ready! I have to tell you that when my plate arrived, I was very uncertain but each item on the plate was totally delicious. I enjoyed every morsel.
Before I left the city, I wanted to explore a little. Having no idea what to see or where to find any interesting spots, I meandered around and eventually located a park high on a ridge overlooking the water and the city. Captain James Cook Historic Site
I decided to head toward the better weather, perhaps explore Port Aux Basque. It was a two and a half hour drive. Most importantly I wanted to be prepared for my ferry crossing that night. I may never discover the hidden treasures of Corner Brook, but that breakfast, well, it was damn fine.
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