We've passed the midway point of August and it's been a super month spent with family, friends and fireworks.
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| John and his sisters (Bonny to his right, Janet to his left) |
Catching up with Bonny and Janet was a blast as it's been quite a few years since the four of us have managed a get together. We spent the afternoon chatting, laughing and of course eating as Chef John rose to the occasion and cooked a delicious lunch. Prior to their departure we strolled the condo grounds and took a few more photos.
One of our favourite places in Ottawa is Lansdowne Park. On Sunday the farmer's market takes place next to the Aberdeen Pavilion.
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Aberdeen Pavilion
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Built in 1898, the Aberdeen Pavilion is the oldest fair building left of its kind in North America and was designated a National Historic Site in 1983. It also happens to be the oldest existing venue for a Stanley Cup Hockey Game.
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Lansdowne Farmer's Market
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We returned to Lansdowne Park via public transportation on another sunny day and walked back downtown via the Rideau Canal Pathway.
The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and while most people associate it with being the longest outdoor skating rink in the world the promenade is utilized year round by joggers, walkers and bikers alike.
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Mural illustrating the four season uses of the canal
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L to R: Chateau Laurier Hotel, Shaw Center on right
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Where the Rideau Canal meets the Ottawa River
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From Wellington Street we walked north on Mackenzie Avenue to Major's Hill Park.
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| View of Parliament Building from Major's Hill Park |
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Notre Dame Cathedral from Major's Hill Park
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| National Gallery of Canada from Major's Hill Park |
Being a fairly warm, beautiful summer's day it seemed a perfect opportunity after our 6 km walk to sit and relax while enjoying a cold beverage overlooking the Ottawa River at the
Tavern on the Hill.
Last Wednesday evening we returned to Parliament Hill and joined the crowd gathered behind the Supreme Court Building. Why? It was a perfect spot to meet up with Alan and Mark and watch the
Sounds of Light Fireworks. Such fun as the crowd oohed and aahed in unison!
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| View of Parliament Hill and Ottawa River |
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L to R: Mark, Alan, Dianne & John
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Last, but not least, we travelled to Warsaw, Ontario to spend a couple of nights with dear friends Doug and John. Our visit included an hour long walk followed by a relaxing and tasty picnic lunch beside Eels Creek.
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Amazing root system
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Stoney Lake
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L to R: John, John & Doug
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| Eels Creek |
Thanks to family, friends and yes, fireworks, this August has been especially memorable and I have no doubt the remainder of the month will be equally awesome! Btw, a special thank you to Alan, Bonny and Doug for sharing their photos and allowing me to post them.
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