The forecast all week was 18⁰C and sunny. By 10:30 with an hour and a half on the road, we were having our doubts.

I’m experimenting with the new to me app as Leo drives. Poor connectivity is already an issue as I try to add an image. We’ll see.

The plan is to go through Avondale area, check into Salty Seas Cottages and blow the horn at Renee Gosse’s house in Red Head Cove whether she’s home or not. We’ll see.

I’ve picked this area for a number of reasons. Local photographers have been generous on my Newfoundland and Labrador Iceberg Reports group with current photos and a few FB messages have been exchanged with some. But my main reason is the fires.

Much of this region was threatened by,or devastated by, months of wildfires in 2025. Over 200 structures lost throughout multiple communities. Historic properties, new homes and businesses. Summer homes, work places and a school.

Dipping into my iceberg travel portion of a Go Fund Me that assisted with medical expenses, I’m paying it forward a bit by staying and eating in the remaining businesses. Every bit helps has always been one of my guiding principles.

By Clarenville we’re entering fog. Sigh.

We have a routine. Stop for a bathroom at Rudy’s in Port Rexton and soup at the Big Stop in Goobies.

Saving often as we lose service frequently.

Beautiful drive via Avondale and first iceberg in Cupids.