When I made my trip to Newfoundland I was already acquainted with some people from the Island and new a little about them and their culture. I do say culture even though they are a part of the whole that is Canada. It was like being dropped off on a different planet. Everyone treated us like they had known us forever; like we were family.

People on the mainland (Newfoundland) according to the 250 residences of the small north eastern Change Island are mainlanders. It was like stepping back in time. Everything was just that much simpler. There was only 3 little corner stores and though internet was available not every house was equipped. The cottage that we stayed at didn't even have a phone. This is where myself and three other ladies spent three glorious weeks painting.

There is a kindness there that I just haven't seen anywhere else. When we were out painting many people stopped and watched or asked questions about us. They never drove by without waving.

There are two stories in particular that I would like to share with you. The first one is about the selflessness of a husband and wife who own and run one of the restaurants on the island. It was a Thursday and we were in for supper. We asked about Jakes Dinner. It was a meal that everyone at home and in NFLD told us about and insisted that we search out. The couple told us to come back the next afternoon and they would make it for us and for them for their supper.

The next day we were sitting down to an amazing Jiggs Dinner with salted beef, potatoes, various root vegetables and homemade biscuits. While we were eating a young couple came in and asked about the meal we were having. Even though they had only made enough for us and them they gave this young couple their supper.

We found out later that they almost missed the ferry to go and spend the weekend with their daughter on the mainland. They didn't rush us or even tell us they had plans. I was glad that they had made it on time.

The other story is also at one of the two restaurants. This takes place at the Burgundy Squid Cafe. Two young women Tenisha and Suzanne looked after us on a daily basis. We were there at least once a day for one of our meals. When our time there was coming to a close they did all of the organizing for a show in the cafe. They did all of the food and arranged for paintings to be displayed. We took invitations around to everyone on the island. It went very well and we were able to speak to many of the residents that we hadn't met yet.

I hope that this show reveals some of the warmth and friendship that I felt when I was on the island.