Random November Moments

I can't believe November is almost over! It really came and went. Yourrah!

But before we begin, let me introduce you to Margot's twin: sweet, calm and gentle Marguerite:

And now, here's a dose of the real munchkin:

Exploring the world upside down. Seeing the world in a different perspective is encouraged.

Digging into the hummus container. Very serious stuff.

Showing off her new superwoman skills. I would like to believe that she is inspired by my yoga practice.

Trying out a new mode of transportation in museums. Goodbye stroller! Hello super seat!

 Look at those big cheeks!

Little Miss Chatterbox skyping with her Grandparents. Watch this. It's hilarious!

Oh, and Ottawa/Gatineau was greeted with the first snowfall of the season on Wednesday morning:

And we also went to the Ottawa Santa Claus Parade. Now that's festive! (In know, I know... what happened to: "nothing festive before December 1st?) I never understood why Santa Clause Parades were always in November. Now I know: because the weather is milder. Is that it?

 

And guess who we saw across the street during the parade? Find Jason and Noa.

Visitors!

Last weekend, we had the lovely visit of Aunt Nathalie & Uncle Rich. Margot took a great liking to her uncle and followed him everywhere, hugged his legs, and gave him books to read to her. Here's a picture of them enjoying a quiet moment together:

Aunt Nathalie won Margot's heart by showing her pictures on her camera. The little munchkin knows that when we take a picture of her, she can view it if she gets on the "other side" of the camera.

Simon and I really enjoy having visitors. A time to relax, to play board games (Apples to Apples and chocolate edition of Clue), to sight-see (we went to the War Museum) , to sip wine, and to laze about.

I also had a chance to finally Skype with Bex. Skype is really practical - Simon uses it almost daily with his family - but not as intimate as a phone conversation. Regardless, it was wonderful to speak to Bex. She, enjoying her glass of wine, away from her mini-beasts; and I, sipping tea.


Random Thought: I refuse to think of anything Christmasy before December 1st. That includes: music, decorations, gift ideas. It's getting tempting... This morning, we went to the Byward Market and I noticed that the stalls were selling wreaths...their smell is so festive!

An Appreciation for November

I have always despised November. It's a dead month: grey skies, rain, cold winds, and dark...oh, so dark, and it only gets worse until mid-December. I have observed, from reading my numerous past journals, that November is the month when I feel the most confused, disoriented (what should I do with my life?) and reflective. It's often  the time of year when I actively want to change something in my life; for instance, toying with becoming a vegetarian, embarking on a meditation journey, or going on a brisk wake-up walk at 6am. As if!
However, this year, November feels different. I feel energized, motivated and light (!) Perhaps it's because of the sheer amount of work I have as the semester draws to an end. More work = less time to think. Or  perhaps it's because the weather has been so glorious these past two weeks. Or maybe even because I have plans on the calendar. I think it's a combination of all three.
So far, so good.

Margot is a funny one! She's the one who wanted the broccoli stalk.