I left Halifax last weekend to pay a visit to Krista and Kurt in St. John's. I had such an amazing time over there. Some of the highlights include authentic Newfoundland fish & chips, off-roading in Kurt's dad's ATV (nearly throwing him off the back while speeding over potholes), a yummy lobster dinner, a hike around Signal Hill, and of course, getting screeched in.
For those of you not familiar with the ritual, it happens at a bar (of course). You take a shot of Screech (which is probably better-suited to stipping paint of walls than for drinking), kiss a cod or a puffin, and then shout for all to hear: "Indeed I is me old cock and long may your big jib draw." It sounds much better, albeit much harder to understand, coming from a Newfie bartender.
After the ceremony and being acosted by some drunk guy at the urinal, we headed to another, more lively bar. Met some nurses from Regina. Not long afterwards Kurt & friend had to bail and got a ride home from Krista. I stayed with the nurses... but my only way home involved a combination of not losing Kurt's house key and remembering his address (for which Krista yelled at him for not writing down for me). No small feat given the state I was in.
I did eventually make it back safe and sound, though I learned that night that cabbies in St. John's don't take Visa. The Newfoundland gods must have been smiling on me that night though, because in addition to remembering the address (while not having my phone with me), I had just enough cash left in my pockeet to cover the fare, plus a 20 cent tip. How's that for a close shave?
That weekend was just what I needed... Krista and Kurt were awesome hosts. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing them again next year in Bonavista!
