Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Elliot Lake to Topsfield, MA and Back

The temperatures have dropped considerably since mid October and we've endured rain, sleet and snow - often all within the same day! While driving from Elliot Lake to Ottawa at the end of October we experienced our first snowfall of the season. Thankfully, by the time we reached Mattawa most of it had melted, but there was still a layer on the top of the picnic table.

Mattawa, Ontario

Then, later that same week on the drive to Magog, Quebec, there was more rain, sleet and snow.


South of Montreal, Quebec

Thankfully, our Airbnb rental was comfortable and ever so relaxing and we quickly forgot about the inclement weather. And of course the corner fireplace added to the ambience. Merci, Jean-Raphael!


We're huge fans of Airbnb because it offers a stay in real homes, plus we get to meet the locals. Even better, John gets to use the kitchen facilities and this one was stunning. 

The next morning we drove to Boston via the Stanstead, Quebec. To our surprise it was one of the least stressful border crossings we've ever endured for decades. Our 4-hour journey took us through Vermont, New Hampshire and finally into Massachusetts. It's become our favourite as the traffic is usually light and the scenery is gorgeous anytime of the year. 

Vermont


Vermont


Once in Massachusetts we spent a wonderful weekend with our daughter and son-in-law at their new home. Situated on a gorgeous lot, it's so cozy. 



The wildlife in the backyard is equally impressive. This included wild turkeys, blue jays, cardinals, chipmunks, squirrels and although we didn't see any, there are deer, as well.


Our road trip wasn't quite over unfortunately and after spending a few days in Ottawa we headed back to Elliot Lake. As luck would have it we got waylaid in a snowstorm and rather than risk getting stranded we opted to spend the night in North Bay.




John commented that brushing snow off the vehicle is certainly not something he's missed these past few years.  


I don't mind the snow (too much), but the -15C temperature this morning is a bit much. The good news is we've closed up the house for the winter. 



Next stop - Ottawa...
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