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There is nothing more beautiful then a sunset over-looking the water. Newfoundland Labrador has some of the most spectacular locations for taking sunset photo.

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Where to Catch These Spectacular Sunsets in Newfoundland

My favorite spots are, from The Trailway in Conception Bay South and Topsail Bluff

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Quick Planning Tips for Sunset Watchers

• Set out about 30 minutes before sunset—the skies light up before and after the sun dips below the horizon.
• Check the weather first; clear or partly cloudy skies make for stunning, colorful displays.
• Bring what you need: camera, warm layers (especially near water), and perhaps a blanket or thermos if you’re staying awhile.
• Explore trails and lookouts—places like Topsail Bluff and Summit Drive offer easy access and gorgeous views just steps from the car.

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Recommended Sunset Spots at a Glance

Location	Highlights
Topsail Bluff / Portugal Cove	Coastal cliffs and colourful skies near St. John’s.
Summit Drive, Paradise	Elevated, sweeping views across Conception Bay.
Quidi Vidi	Quaint fishing village vibe with great waterfront sunsets.
Fortune Head, Burin Peninsula	Dramatic sunsets over open bays—astounding scenery with a geological twist.
Trout River (Gros Morne)	Serene sunsets over tranquil waters amid iconic Newfoundland terrain.
Captain Cook Site, Corner Brook	Ideal elevated viewpoint for panoramic sunset shots.

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Squid jigging in Newfoundland — a tradition that is both cultural and practical:

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🎣 What is Squid Jigging?

• Squid jigging is the practice of catching squid (mainly short-finned squid, locally called loligo or squid) using specialized lures called jiggers.
• A jig is usually a weighted lure with sharp barbless prongs. Squid grab onto it with their tentacles, and when the line is pulled, they are hauled aboard.

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📍 Where it Happens

• Widespread along Newfoundland’s coasts, especially in bays and harbours during the summer months.
• Famous jigging spots include:
  • Holyrood (Conception Bay) – linked with the folk song “The Squid Jiggin’ Ground.”
  • Change Islands – also associated with the song and a rich tradition.
  • Twillingate, Bonavista, and Trinity Bays – popular for both commercial and recreational jigging.
  • St. John’s & surrounding areas – locals often jig right from wharves, beaches, or small boats.

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🗓️ Season & Timing

• Season: Usually July through September, depending on water temperatures and migration.
• Best Times: Early morning or late evening, when squid come closer to shore.
• Squid arrive in large schools, often creating exciting nights when “the water seems alive.”

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🎶 Culture & Festivals

• Folk Song: “The Squid Jiggin’ Ground” (written by Arthur Scammell, 1928) is one of Newfoundland’s best-known songs, celebrating the humour and community around jigging.
• Festivals: Many towns celebrate with squid festivals (like SquidFest in Holyrood), mixing food, music, and fireworks with the fishing tradition.
• Jigging isn’t just about catching squid — it’s also a social event, often with families and neighbours gathering on wharves to share the fun.

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🍳 Eating Squid

• Freshly caught squid is a Newfoundland delicacy.
• Common dishes: pan-fried squid rings, stuffed squid, or squid stew. Locals also freeze squid for winter use as food or fishing bait.

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Here are some tasty squid recipes you might enjoy:

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1. Fried Calamari (Classic)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb squid (cleaned, cut into rings)
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt & pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• Oil for frying
• Lemon wedges

Steps:

1. Pat squid dry, dredge in seasoned flour.
2. Heat oil to 350°F and fry squid until golden (2–3 minutes).
3. Drain on paper towel, serve with lemon and garlic aioli.

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2. Stuffed Squid (Newfoundland Style)

Ingredients:

• 8–10 medium squid (cleaned, tentacles reserved)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ onion, finely diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup cooked rice or potato
• Salt, pepper, parsley

Steps:

1. Sauté onion, garlic, and chopped tentacles in butter.
2. Add breadcrumbs, rice/potato, and seasoning.
3. Stuff squid tubes, secure with toothpicks.
4. Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or simmer gently in tomato sauce.

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3. Squid Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 lb squid (rings & tentacles)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced (or 1 can)
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 2 tbsp oil
• ½ cup white wine
• Fresh parsley

Steps:

1. Sauté onion in oil until soft.
2. Add squid and stir 2–3 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, wine, and potatoes. Simmer 30–40 minutes.
4. Garnish with parsley and serve with bread.

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4. Grilled Squid

Ingredients:

• Whole squid, cleaned
• Olive oil, lemon juice
• Garlic, chili flakes, parsley

Steps:

1. Marinate squid in oil, lemon, garlic, chili.
2. Grill on high heat, 2 minutes per side.
3. Serve with extra lemon and herbs.

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Wild Fires In Newfoundland 2025

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Wildfire Situation in Newfoundland and Labrador, 2025

Overview: Canada-Wide Context

• Canada is currently experiencing its second-worst wildfire season on record, with over 7.3 to 7.8 million hectares burned this year.
• Wildfires have significantly impacted Atlantic provinces—including Newfoundland and Labrador, where dry conditions and human and natural causes (like lightning) are fueling the spread.
• The season’s severity is attributed to climate change, which has created hotter, drier, and longer-lasting fire seasons.

Local Fire Incidents in Newfoundland

Several specific wildfires have had major impacts on local communities:

• Adam’s Cove Fire (May 8, 2025): Approximately 600 hectares burned, with 40 structures destroyed.(Wikipedia)
• Kingston Fire (starting August 3, 2025): Originating near Kingston, the fire expanded through Small Point–Adam’s Cove–Blackhead–Broad Cove and Western Bay. As of August 13–15, it had scorched 8,000–10,000 hectares, destroyed around 100 homes, and even leveled the Cabot Academy elementary school in Western Bay.(Wikipedia)
• Wildfires on the Avalon Peninsula: Named fires like Martin Lake, Paddy’s Pond (near Paradise), and the Conception Bay North wildfire continue to burn:
  • Martin Lake: ~1,770 hectares, currently out of control.
  • Paddy’s Pond: ~318 hectares, listed as being held.
  • Conception Bay North: ~10,708 hectares, out of control.(Wildfire Info Canada)

Emergency Response and Evacuations

• The Canadian Red Cross is deeply involved, having registered over 6,500 evacuees from 3,200+ households and providing emergency lodging, hygiene kits, and information services in Conception Bay South and Carbonear.
• The National Wildland Fire Situation Report (as of August 20, 2025) provides these status updates:
  • Martin Lake Fire: 1,770 hectares, out of control.
  • Paddy’s Pond: 318 hectares, being held.
  • Conception Bay North: 10,708 hectares, out of control.
• Nationally, Canada is at Preparedness Level 5, indicating full mobilization of resources with domestic and international support being deployed.(Wildfire Info Canada)

• Hurricane Erin, although staying offshore, may complicate firefighting efforts by bringing gusty winds and surf to coastal areas like the Avalon Peninsula. Fire officials have noted that rain would help—but high winds pose significant operational risks.(Global News)
• Nationwide, there are calls for improved fire preparedness and adaptation. The wildfire season’s duration and severity are pushing stakeholders to rethink land management, infrastructure, and climate resilience.(The Guardian)

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Summary Table

Aspect	Details
Scale of Fire Season (Canada)	Second-worst on record; 7.3–7.8 million hectares burned
Key Local Fires in NL	Adam’s Cove, Kingston area fires, Avalon Peninsula fires
Area Burned (Kingston Fire)	Up to 10,000 hectares
Evacuees Registered	6,500+ individuals (~3,200 households)
Support Provided	Emergency accommodations, financial aid, hygiene kits
Donation Matching	Federal government matches Red Cross donations—dollar for dollar
Preparedness Level	National Level 5—full interagency and international mobilization
Hurricane Impact Risk	Offshore Hurricane Erin may introduce hazardous winds for fighting fires

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Some of the information in this post may have changed since the date of this post.

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Artificial vanilla extract is a synthetic version of natural vanilla, made primarily from vanillin, the key compound responsible for vanilla’s signature flavor.

I was surprised, when I tried to mix vanilla extract with milk and discovered that the taste was not what I expected. I am a senior and had thought that vanilla extract was made from vanilla beans. I checked the bottle and it read artificial vanilla extract. A taste test, from a few drops on a spoon did not detect any vanilla flavor. The following is some information on artificial vanilla extract compared to pure vanilla extract.

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🌱 What Is Artificial Vanilla Extract?

✅ Key Facts:

• Made from synthetic vanillin, usually derived from:
  • Petroleum byproducts
  • Lignin (a byproduct of wood pulp)
  • Sometimes from clove oil or rice bran
• Does not contain real vanilla beans
• Often labeled as:
  • Imitation vanilla
  • Artificial vanilla flavor

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🍨 How It Differs from Pure Vanilla Extract

Feature	Artificial Vanilla	Pure Vanilla Extract
Main ingredient	Synthetic vanillin	Real vanilla beans + alcohol
Flavor complexity	One-dimensional (just vanillin)	Rich, complex (contains 250+ flavor compounds)
Cost	Inexpensive	More expensive
Color	Often clear or light brown	Dark amber
Best for	High-heat baking (cookies, cakes)	Custards, frostings, recipes with subtle flavor

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🍪 When to Use Artificial Vanilla

• Great for baking where the vanilla is not the star flavor
• Budget-friendly for large batches
• Stable under high heat

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⚠️ Considerations

• May contain propylene glycol or caramel coloring
• Doesn’t offer the nuanced aroma or depth of real vanilla
• Not ideal for raw applications (like no-bake desserts or whipped cream)

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1. Perception of Canada as a Neutral & Friendly Country

• Canada has a global reputation for being peaceful, polite, and non-aggressive in international affairs.
• Some Americans believe that posing as Canadians can help them avoid political tensions or hostility toward U.S. policies, especially in regions where anti-American sentiment exists.

2. Avoiding Stereotypes or Political Associations

• In some parts of the world, Americans are seen as loud, entitled, or wealthy tourists (though this is a stereotype, not a universal truth).
• Canadians, by contrast, often have a reputation for being humble and friendly, which can lead to better treatment.

3. Perceived Safety Benefits

• In some countries, American tourists may be targeted for scams, higher prices, or even political reasons.
• Some Americans believe wearing a Canadian flag patch or saying they are from Canada lowers their risk in potentially dangerous situations.

4. Currency & Economic Reasons

• In some places, locals expect American tourists to tip more or pay higher prices because of the perception that they have more money.
• Some Americans think that identifying as Canadians might help them avoid being overcharged.

5. The “Maple Leaf Trick”

• Some Americans put a Canadian flag on their backpacks or luggage to pass as Canadian travelers.
• This practice, sometimes called “The Maple Leaf Trick”, became more popular during times of high international tensions involving the U.S.

Is This Common?

• While not every American does this, it has been reported, especially in certain regions of the world where Americans might feel unwelcome.
• However, many countries are still very welcoming to American travelers, and some people see pretending to be Canadian as unnecessary or even dishonest.

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Here’s a delicious honey glaze sauce for ham that’s sweet, tangy, and flavorful. Perfect for baking, roasting, or drizzling over sliced ham!

Honey Glazed Sauce for Ham

Ingredients:

• 1 cup honey
• ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (or whole grain for texture)
• ¼ cup pineapple juice (or orange juice for citrusy sweetness)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or balsamic vinegar for depth)
• 2 tbsp butter (for richness)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (adds warmth)
• ½ tsp ground cloves (optional but adds a classic holiday touch)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional but enhances flavor)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, mustard, pineapple juice, vinegar, butter, and spices.
2. Simmer & Thicken: Bring to a light boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.
3. Glaze the Ham:
   • If baking a ham, brush the glaze over the ham every 15-20 minutes during the last hour of cooking.
   • If using on sliced ham, drizzle the warm glaze over slices before serving.
4. Caramelization Tip: For extra caramelization, broil the ham for 2-3 minutes after applying the final coat of glaze.

Serving Suggestion:

Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad for a perfect meal!

Would you like variations, such as bourbon-infused honey glaze or a spicy honey glaze?

The “best” AI writer depends on your specific needs, such as content type, budget, and desired features. Here are some top AI writing tools to consider:

Jasper AI is renowned for generating various content types, including blog articles, social media posts, marketing copy, and sales emails.It offers over 50 templates and a long-form writing assistant, making it a versatile choice for many users.

GrammarlyGO integrates seamlessly with word processors and other applications, providing AI-driven writing assistance alongside grammar and spell-checking features.It’s user-friendly and helps maintain your unique writing voice.

Copy.ai
Copy.ai specializes in creating marketing copy, social media content, and other short-form texts.It’s particularly useful for marketers seeking to generate engaging content quickly.

Rytr is an affordable AI writing tool that supports multiple languages and offers various templates for different content types It’s suitable for users looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on essential features.

Hypotenuse AI
Hypotenuse AI excels in generating both long and short-form content, with a strong emphasis on copywriting for e-commerce brands. It’s an excellent choice for creating ad copies and social media posts efficiently.

When selecting an AI writing tool, consider factors such as the specific features offered, ease of use, integration capabilities, and pricing to determine which one aligns best with your requirements.

Designrr Premium is a popular tool for creating eBooks, lead magnets, and other content quickly by repurposing existing materials such as blog posts, PDFs, and transcripts. Whether it’s a good choice for you depends on your specific needs and goals. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

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Key Features of Designrr Premium

1. eBook Creation:
   • Converts blog posts, PDFs, Word documents, and other content into professional-looking eBooks.
   • Offers over 200 templates, making customization easy.
2. Content Repurposing:
   • Extracts and reformats content from multiple sources, including web pages and videos, into new formats like eBooks or reports.
   • Transforms audio and video transcripts into readable text.
3. Lead Magnet Generation:
   • Helps marketers and entrepreneurs create visually appealing lead magnets for email marketing campaigns.
4. Visual Enhancements:
   • Provides tools to add images, visuals, and design elements to make your content more engaging.
5. Interactive Content:
   • Includes the ability to create flipbooks or interactive PDFs for a more modern feel.
6. Distribution and Integration:
   • Easy export to multiple formats (PDF, EPUB, Kindle, etc.).
   • Integrates with platforms like WordPress, Medium, and others.

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Pros of Designrr Premium

• Ease of Use: Intuitive drag-and-drop interface; no advanced design skills required.
• Time-Saving: Converts existing content into polished materials quickly.
• Professional Templates: Wide variety of templates for various industries and styles.
• Versatile Outputs: Supports multiple file types and formats for digital distribution.
• Value for Content Creators: Ideal for bloggers, marketers, authors, or anyone needing regular content creation.

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Cons of Designrr Premium

1. Learning Curve:
   • While user-friendly, some features may take time to master for beginners.
2. Limited Advanced Design:
   • Not as robust as professional design tools like Adobe InDesign for highly customized projects.
3. Price:
   • Premium plans may seem costly if you don’t create content frequently or utilize its full range of features.
4. Content Limitations:
   • Works best with pre-existing content; may not be as helpful for creating from scratch.

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Is Designrr Premium a Good Fit for You?

Choose Designrr Premium if:

• You frequently create eBooks, lead magnets, or reports.
• You want a time-efficient way to repurpose existing content.
• You’re looking for an all-in-one tool that combines content formatting, design, and export capabilities.
• You’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or content creator focused on producing professional-looking materials without a steep learning curve.

Consider Alternatives if:

• You need advanced design features or heavily customized layouts.
• You don’t have existing content to repurpose.
• Your content creation needs are minimal or infrequent.

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Alternatives to Consider

If Designrr Premium doesn’t seem like the perfect fit, here are a few alternatives:

1. Canva Pro: For highly customizable designs and presentations.
2. Beacon: Focused on creating lead magnets with templates and analytics.
3. Adobe InDesign: For professional-grade design work.
4. Jasper AI + Canva: Combine AI writing and design for unique content creation.

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If you plan to use it regularly for creating and distributing content efficiently, Designrr Premium is a solid choice. However, assess how often you’ll use it and whether its features align with your workflow to make the most of your investment.

Maintaining optimal gut health is essential for overall well-being, and in Canada, a variety of products are available to support digestive health. Here’s an overview of some top options:

1. Probiotic Supplements

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer health benefits by balancing the gut microbiome. In Canada, several reputable probiotic supplements are available:

• Culturelle Daily Digestive Health Probiotic: Contains 10 billion CFUs of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, a strain known for supporting digestive health. It’s a well-regarded option for maintaining gut balance. citeturn0search2
• Genuine Health Advanced Gut Health Probiotic: Offers a multi-strain formula with 50 billion CFUs, designed to promote a diverse and healthy gut flora. This product is tailored for comprehensive digestive support. citeturn0search1

2. Prebiotic Supplements

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, aiding their growth and activity. Notable prebiotic supplements in Canada include:

• YourBiology Gut+: Combines prebiotics and probiotics to enhance gut health, particularly formulated for women’s digestive needs. It supports overall digestive function and well-being. citeturn0search3
• Symprove Daily Essential: A liquid prebiotic supplement delivering live bacteria to the gut, aimed at improving digestion and supporting gut health. It’s recognized for its efficacy in maintaining a balanced microbiome. citeturn0search8

3. Synbiotic Supplements

Synbiotics combine probiotics and prebiotics to synergistically support gut health. An example available to Canadian consumers is:

• Ritual Synbiotic+: This supplement integrates prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to support a balanced gut microbiome, relieve bloating, and promote digestive health. It’s designed for comprehensive gut support. citeturn0news15

4. Dietary Considerations

Incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables into your diet can naturally enhance gut health. Additionally, consuming a variety of fiber-rich foods supports the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Consultation with Healthcare Professionals

Before starting any new supplement regimen, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure the product aligns with your health needs and to avoid potential interactions with medications. Resources like the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation offer guidance on selecting appropriate probiotic products. citeturn0search0

By selecting suitable gut health products and maintaining a balanced diet, you can effectively support your digestive system and overall health.

When seeking high-quality hemp-derived CBD gummies in Canada, several reputable brands stand out for their commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Here are some top options to consider:

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CBDNorth
CBDNorth offers vegan-friendly gummies made from organic Canadian-grown hemp. Each gummy contains 20 mg of CBD isolate, available in assorted sweet and sour flavors like lemon, orange, grapefruit, strawberry, cherry, and grape. The company provides free shipping on orders over $99 and offers a 45% discount for Canadians in need, such as low-income individuals, people with disabilities, veterans, and university students.
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CBDMagic Zen Leafs
CBDMagic’s Zen Leafs gummies come in various formulas, including full-spectrum CBD, sleep gummies with added melatonin, and gummies with minor cannabinoids like CBG or CBN. Potencies range from 30 mg to 140 mg per gummy, catering to different needs. The company offers free shipping and has a 4.6/5 average rating from over 200 reviews on Google.
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Happy Bears Edibles
Happy Bears provides a wide variety of gummies, including full-spectrum, THC-free, vegan, sugar-free, and Delta 8 options. Potencies range from 30 mg to 100 mg per gummy, and the products are available in multiple mixed fruit flavors. The company offers free shipping on orders over $49.99 and a 35% discount for veterans and seniors.
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Resolve CBD
Resolve CBD’s gummies contain 20 mg of pure CBD per piece and come in a strawberry jello flavor. They are available in packs of 5, with options to purchase up to 8 packs for greater savings. Orders over $50 qualify for free shipping, and a subscription option offers 20% off.
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Plant of Life
Plant of Life offers full-spectrum CBD gummies in natural flavors like raspberry, pineapple, and dragonfruit. Each gummy contains 20 mg of CBD, and the products are praised for their effectiveness in aiding sleep and relaxation.
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When choosing CBD gummies, consider factors such as the type of CBD (full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate), potency, flavor, and any additional ingredients that may enhance the product’s effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.