Most of us have changed location several times. Whether it’s a new home, going away to university or just trying somewhere new, we’ve all done it. I’ve lived a fairly transient lifestyle so far, but I’ve always been lucky enough to move for positive reasons. I’ve lived in some great places and I’ve had the opportunity to visit some truly incredible places. I love exploring and getting to know my new home, no matter how temporary it might be.

Once you settle somewhere for a reasonable period of time, people start visiting you. Vistors are great, but once I get over the initial buzz of hearing about an upcoming visit, I start to worry. Whilst, for most guests at least, the main point of the trip is seeing you; you want to make absolutely sure they’re going to have a fantastic time whilst they’re with you.

My dad and his partner are currently over from the UK. It’s their first trip to Newfoundland. They have absolutely no idea about anything here, so there are hundreds of things we could go and see and do. But, despite this and the many things that I fell in love with, I started to panic about finding enough fun things to fill their time here. This is completely ridiculous.

Out came the traditional Newfoundland hospitality to save me. News of Papa Ball’s impending arrival got out and lots of friends and members of the community came to tell me how much they were looking forward to meeting him and his lovely lady friend. They also offered tons of suggestions of things to see and do. Lots of people offered boat rides, fishing trips, guided hikes and meals. More suggestions than you could shake a stick at!

And so, whilst I’m still in the early stages of my love affair with Newfoundland, having family to stay is offering me the chance to visit the first places I fell for and recapture the magic. It’s also giving me the opportunity, and the push, to keep exploring.

Maybe I’ll invite more people to visit.