What it's all about

Today was one of those days when I needed to step back from my work, absorb the landscape and history of this area, and take stock of what I am doing. It's not always easy to put into words the thinking and the process behind what I do, so taking the time for contemplation is very important.

The sun shone brightly and the wind was strong, today. The temperature got up to 16 degrees, which is cooler than it has been. I jumped in the car and drove to nearby Rocky Harbour. Here is an interesting map that shows Norris Point, where I am staying, Rocky Harbour, and Woody Point, all near the bottom. Just above Rocky Harbour, you can see Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. That is where I went to really "feel" the coastline.

Here are some photos of the lighthouse:

The trees you see in this photo are tuckamore. They are sculpted by the high winds and salt spray. 

It was important for me to re-visit this lighthouse because it put me in touch with life on the edge of Bonne Bay and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The winds were strong, today, but were mild compared with some of the strong winds and storms experienced by people along these coasts and on the water. This lighthouse represents our historical reckoning with the elements and the ways that communities learned to work together to try and keep everyone safe. Out here, you cannot hide from the weather; you experience it. 

Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse is that little, white form on top of the hill at the top left of this photo. Taken from Rocky Harbour.

The waters below the lighthouse. There was a quote in the lighthouse from a keeper who talked about having difficulty sleeping when the winds came up. I can see why.