Sad Snowman

This poor snowman is in a state of decay. The rain has been falling lightly, but much more in the forecast. Its time will be short.

Behind it is Westmount Conservatory, another sad story. Early in the autumn one of the glass panels fell from the ceiling (learn more here). As this is an old style green house, it takes special craftspeople to fix it. So no winter escape to this oasis. I shall especially miss the spring flower exhibit which usually opens in March when snow is still on the ground. I am sure the city will get it repaired, but it will be a long costly process.

Potential

Anyone who has followed my blog for a while knows I love orchids. Their complex blossoms fascinate me. They last so long. The fact that they re-bloom is a huge bonus. This orchid has been dormant for quite a while but these buds will be opening soon. They are the gift that keeps giving.

Just click here and you will see some of the many posts I have devoted to orchids.

Temptation

A trip to the market always is fraught with temptation. I managed to walk past and only feast with my eyes. My bags were full of healthier victuals.

Another Day Out Snowshoeing

Even early in the afternoon there are long shadows. My legs look like a pair of tree trunks!



Winter opens new horizons. As we snowshoed on the summit in Westmount we could look down on the city right to the river. No curtain of leaves to obstruct the view.



The snow outlines the branches, bringing the natural sculpture to one's attention. With temperatures just below freezing, it was a perfect day to be out.

Double Duty

This store is doing double duty. In warmer seasons it is an ice cream shop, one that is very hard to resist.  While my mind knows a visit there is unhealthy, my feet are happy to lead me there. Now it is not just an ice cream shop but also a winter accessories and more  store. You can buy a fur muff (all furs are recycled) along with your double scoop. It's odd to see the hats perched on top of the freezers - but maybe the cold ice cream entices buyers to buy something cozy to hear in the winter months.

Bilboquet
Harricana

Walking in Winter

A perfectly cold day but great for a walk. All it takes is knowing how to dress. Layers definitely make a difference. I was snug in my

• boots and wool socks
• long underwear and jeans
• camisole, long-sleeved jersey and sweater
• winter coat, neck warmer, hat and mitts

The thermometer said -17°C (1.4 F) with the wind making it "feel" colder, but I was warm and energized by the bright sun.



Colours popped against the bright blue sky! I'll take a cold winter day in the sun any time over grey rainy days. It was glorious to be out.

Wedding White

The city is dressed as if for a wedding
Dabs of fluffy white icing
Decorate the branches




Each tree is dressed in its finery

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Did Cinderella pass this way,
 Losing her slipper as she left the ball.
I saw no sign of the prince
Perhaps he danced off with another



Meanwhile these bushes huddle
Half dressed in rough burlap
Half in their winter coats of snow.

The city is transformed into a land of fantasy.