OH CANADA!

Quebec was our first stop over the border last Monday. We ended up with a killer deal on a hotel thanks to Expedia and then used points to upgrade AND get discounts- thank goodness it was all used for a more expensive hotel!

We heard about a Notre Dame in Quebec and considered not touring because of the admission. HOWEVER, we are SO glad we went (I feel like I say this a lot but with being unemployed, we do have to be careful!).

Anyway, as you can see, this place could not be more impressive. Actually - the highly decorated and ornate stage was once a VERY large stained glass window. They had removed it years ago because it was built facing the east, so every Sunday, the sun would be blinding everyone in the pews! However, I do wonder if people listen on Sundays with so much to look at. I know having beauty in a church building is important in many churches and cultures. I can appreciate that, but personally would have a hard time focusing on the message.

We had some unique experiences while in Quebec, like trying "Pizza Pizza" brand for the first time (really good cheap pizza by the way!) and ate lunch at a Lebanese restaurant that made my taste buds oh so very happy. We also walked a good mile or 2 that day around the city, enjoying the culture and old buildings.

Ottawa, Ontario
We were hosted by a family whom the husband works for a Member of Parliament (very similar to a US congressman) and were fortunate enough to be treated to lunch in the parliament building with our hosts and the M.P. It was a unique opportunity and we learned a little more of how the Canadian government works as well as enjoying some amazing food. 

Lynette (our host) is originally from Trinidad and spoiled us with a curry dinner - both nights! It was served with authentic flat bread - stuffed with smashed peas. YUM!

Having a home cooked meal is always appreciated. One of my wish lists is to take cooking classes so I can better show love to those I serve through food. I can't wait to have a kitchen again and start practicing meals so we can have a turn hosting others!

BLESSED ~In Toronto, Canada...
We consider ourselves blessed in life because we have a relationship with God and know He watches out for our best interest. However, there are times where we are in need and God provides. This was one of those times. We were in need of encouragement, support, and connection with community - all the things you would get from a church family - and we received that this weekend.

We connected with a pastor in the area after he read Josh's book and began tweeting quotes from, Radically Normal. Josh connected with him and was invited to speak at their church. This is what brought our USA tour to Canada. How fun is that?!

They spoiled us all weekend. My kids made new friends, we had a host family give us our own room, good food and conversation. We had play time in the sunshine, a visit to a local ice cream store, and the pastor's wife and I even got in a little shopping time-without kids! :D

Here are some photos of the pastors family and us enjoying our time together.

We are back state side today with 2 nights in New York. We are down to less than 5 weeks till we transition back into "normal" life. But still many memories to be made - like my Mothers Day gift I can't wait to share about in next weeks post!!!

Till next week! Marilyn