We began the day regularly enough—with optional morning rec. Little did we know that the afternoon would take a turn towards the unexpected. After lunch, the Shads were bundled into a bus and released at the Ocean Science Centre. There we: learned (and observed!) that seals sleep vertically, for about 30 seconds at a time, got to hold a variety of ocean creatures sea cucumbers, starfish, crabs, sea anemones, and giant scallops, and eagerly watched for whales in the bay. Our next stop was at the end of a beautiful drive through Newfoundland scenery. The gorgeous landscape of hill and sea were the inspiration for many a photo shoot.
After an authentic Jigg’s dinner (salted beef and boiled veggies), everyone gathered for a true party; in the Newfoundland style of course. Then, we became true Newfoundlanders. We learned to say Newfie words (like “narn” which means “nothing much”), ate traditional Newfie fare, and, best of all, kissed the cod. Literally. A huge cod was pulled out for each Shad to kiss. Finally, to end the night, while the music of accordions, violins, and ugly sticks (a percussion instrument unique to Newfoundland) sounded in the background, the Shads twirled and danced around the room; the perfect ending to an interesting night!
Charlotte Wallace, Shad Valley Memorial University 2011
Hometown: Waterloo, ON
