White Xmas without the trimmings

Joyeaux Noel
Montreal is a very pretty city. I am sure the other seasons would be quite spectacular because even in full snow it is picturesque. We freaked out the cabbies again after arriving at Gare Centrale as I proceeded to hunt down the biggest car I could find. He was happy at the end as I left him a good tip.
The apartment was unique and the kids were impressed - gadgets and electronics everywhere. Dad - you would have had no chance working the main TV but you would have enjoyed the surround sound, circular lounge and private media room. It was like your own little movie theatre.
The owner had stocked up plenty of food, beer, soft drinks and snacks (Pete - you and I as kids would have gone crazy. Actually I think you probably still would now) so we didn't need to do any grocery shopping.
We were only about 15 mins walk SE of downtown so we went exploring. There is about 30kms of underground walkways called the "Underground City" and with the signs in French we got a bit lost but did OK. Dave and the others went off to find the ice skating rink, so Lisa and I were by ourselves (yay!) to find the information centre and other places. The info centre people were so professional and everywhere we went people had no problem speaking to us in English. They are all bilingual. Our French is limited; so other than ordering food, small purchases etc; we have to revert to English.
After we spoke to you on skype, we decided to open our gifts on xmas eve as it was an early start on xmas day to get to the ski field that we found out about from the info centre.  We decided to do all our shopping in New York and each of us had bought a joke present for everyone, a souvenir gift and a Secret Santa proper gift for your nominated person. Wrapping was newspaper. Hopefully you will like the silly photos we will download.
Up early on Xmas morning to get the metro (also efficient and easier to use than US systems despite being in French) to the Gare d'Autocars to catch a coach to Mont Avila and Saint Seveur about an hour NW. So breakfast Xmas day was a toasted croissant/muffin at the bus terminal.
I was surprised at the number of people traveling on Xmas day - the suburban public transport was running frequently and plenty of patrons using it. Our coach was full as well and it was great traveling without luggage for once - wearing our ski gear and a backpack full of snacks!
The sun was just coming up as we left the bus terminal (about 8ish) and dry, so perfect conditions for outdoors and skiing, although a chilly -20 deg but nice in the sun.
Not many people at the ski field so there were no lines to get on chairlifts and we had a great day. I stayed with mum on the beginner slope ("Babalou") until she felt more confident. The kids coaxed her to try a bigger beginner run at the top of Mont Avila but that didn't go too well, although I remember her flying past me on the last bit of the run after a few earlier tumbles as she decided it was easier than trying to traverse side to side down the run. I shouted out "just keep leaning forward" and hoped for the best. Down in one piece but back to "Babylou" for the rest of the day, so she now has the nickname "Babalouie".
Herb had his "Go Pro" which was a video camera that you all contributed for his Xmas/birthday present, strapped to his chest. So there are some funny shots of them all falling over at various times. Lol fell over getting off the first chairlift and the others left her to fend for herself and laugh at her expense as an attendant went to help her. She was "Babalouie Mini Me" for the day!
Herb kept finding the trees; running into them forward and backwards, just like when we were teaching him to ride a bike for the first time - hope his driving skills are better. He also doesn't like to turn, so its pretty much straight down the slope for him - everyone else watch out....
Mim had all the proper form but had trouble staying upright while stationary and Dave was getting his skis crossed whilst copying the locals but we all had fun and I had them on the advanced Black runs by days end. On the final run Lol went flying past me - she was praying!
They shut the mountain early at 4pm so we went off to find some dinner and indoors as the sun was setting.
Xmas feast was a hamburger but it was warm inside.
The only downside was waiting back at the bus stop for the return coach. There was no shed and the bus was half hour late so we had to jump up and down to keep our feet from freezing.
Back at the apartment by 9ish, so it was a big day and after hot showers we were pretty tired. Jerome (owner) arrived around 10pm from visiting his parents in Mexico and then we all retired.
Next day was a slow one as everyone was sore, so after a cooked breakfast, Lisa and I went to Mont Royal which is a huge park above Montreal city about 10mins walk from the centre north. It turned out to be another beautiful day with light snow the night before and throughout the day. The park was very pretty and we took plenty of pictures to show you. Lots of stairs and all uphill on the way there but it was worth it as you are above the city sky line from the observatory.
The kids went to the movies - Lol was in particularly good humour!!!
So another day to ourselves - whohoo...Nice leisurely walk around the park, some lunch and a warm cuppa and few local beers after avoiding the boxing day shopping crowds.
Jerome cooked us all dinner and then off to the cot.
We are now back on the train to Quebec City. Its a 3 hr journey with very nice scenery, although looks colder than Montreal so far. Will let you know how we fare next blog.
I am trying to get the kids to post blogs but without success - their loss...
Take care all
Mike