MONTREAL

Yesterday morning, we left Mansonville. as we drove away, I could see all the fields and hills, covered in snow looking absolutely gorgeous. The trails on the ski hills as we drove by the different ski centers were sparkling white. Coming into the city, I followed Cornelia in her car, I saw so many sites - some strange, some sentimental:

• a fence made entirely of old bicycles - quirky but novel
• first St. Hubert siting - yummy
• sign for the Granby Zoo - family outings
• the Montreal skyline - I almost cried..
• the Atwater Market - going strong

Once we settled in, I took Cornelia's dog, a little Australian Terrier - Jack, out for a walk and went over to my old neighborhood, just a few blocks from where she lives. Our house is still there, looking as cute as ever. I wanted to knock on the door, but not exactly a Canadian thing to do. Wandering around I saw that although some things had changes, a lot had not. what fun.

I have been getting through to old friends, and the reconnecting has started. Dinner tonight with a dear family friend, lots of catching up to do. I am properly armed for these encounters, thanks to Stephanie, who put together a "Brag Book" for me before I left San Jose.

To add icing to the cake, last night the Habs won their home game, and there was celebrating in the streets near by. Although I do like the San Jose Sharks, my heart will always belong to the Montreal Canadiens (the Habs) and it is very exciting to be in Montreal right now. Many are driving around with Mtl Cdn's flags flying from their car windows. Off to see more of Montreal.........