A mild version.

Our first evening in Montreal we climbed up Mont Royal for a night view of the city, a picnic, and people watching. All three turned out to be quite satisfying. Although the path was steep and dark, (we didn’t have a flashlight), it was certainly worth the exertion. If only there were less bugs at the top!

We also visited an independent art gallery in the area. There were quite a few interesting pieces and displays. Unfortunately, the Fast Food Wizard wasn’t working. (Or fortunately?)

I suppose we should have gone out to a few clubs or bars, but I’m a grandma. I can’t stay awake that late!

xo, jill

government issued road sign, ever.

Hehe.

xo, jill

Peut-être.

Of all the cities I visited in Canada this summer, Montreal might just have been my favorite. It’s a manageable size, has plenty to do, and has a very international feel. Just what I like in a city.

First, we ventured into old town and walked down the brick and cobblestone streets. Not very comfortable, actually.

After relaxing near the water it was finally time for some poutine. I had been waiting for this moment for quite awhile…but you’ll have to wait for the novelty snack report to see what I thought!

Our hotel was in a great location…and also happened to be next door to a sex shop. It made for some interesting people watching but thankfully I didn’t stay in a brothel again.

 How very Montreal.

xo, jill 

A little stop.Oops! I forgot one little stop that Mike and I made on our way to Ottawa… Manotick.

Mike spent some time growing up here in an awesome house with an awesome backyard (so I hear). He speaks so fondly of the place that we decided to make a little stop.

It’s a small place for sure… but the mill is nice.

xo, jill

PS We also stopped by the Big Apple, but I’m glad we didn’t take the time to eat. The reviews are hilarious.

Back to the hill.

After spending our evening on Parliament Hill, Mike and I headed back there in the morning. There was something he wanted to show me that we couldn’t see at night. Earlier in our trip he joked with me that Ottawa had a “cat zoo.” Of course, I assumed he was just teasing and attempted to tease him back by pretending to believe him.

Well. He wasn’t joking!!

There’s a little cat hotel for the stray cats who live near Parliament. The cats have been living there since the 1970s. They are all fixed, fed, and friendly. Unfortunately, there was loud construction work happening near by so all the cats here in hiding. Fortunately, you can see the cats via youtube.

Seeing a real live Mountie was also exciting!

In laser lights.Mike and I arrived in Ottawa in the late afternoon. We checked into our haunted prison hostel and went to check out the National Gallery of Canada.

Later that evening we headed to the parliament building to watch the Mosaika laser light show. It was a very comfortable evening relaxing on the lawn, eating dinner, and learning about Canada. Thanks to Riley for suggesting it!

After the light show we walked around the grounds before heading back for the evening. I was a little nervous that a ghost or two might appear in the night, but I think the live music (until 2am) next door kept them at bay.

xo, jill