Girl About O-Town

Those of us who prefer to deny winter exists can no longer ignore the cold hard facts.  While not yet in full swing, the sub-zero season has most definitely arrived, and the snow has finally started to fly.

Conventional wisdom would suggest we embrace it.  We are urged to get outside and boldly face its frigid character, and we are constantly reminded of all that Ottawa has to offer by way of winter sports.  “Go play” they say, as if the nostalgic echoes of childhood can somehow overcome our chilled bones, frozen toes and fogged up lenses.

Each year I begin with the same resolve.  I vow to  maintain a cheery attitude and enjoy the adventure.  I upgrade my gear, I muster up a smile and I optimistically prepare myself for wonderland fun.   “This year,”  I always tell myself, “this year I will finally get what all the excitement is about!”.

So, with the canal not quite yet frozen, and with the ski hills still bare, I  kicked off this year’s snowy season with the same dogged determination I always do.  A  downtown date after dark , I wistfully envisioned.  How romantic!  How delightful!

Last night, my mate and I headed down to the Byward Market for a walk outside.  While not exactly a winter wonderland, it was cool enough to catch a bit of the spirit, but warm enough to be bearable.  Starting off at the Chapters Indigo at Rideau and Sussex,  we perused the stacks and stopped in to Starbucks for a Grande European Blend Hot Chocolate, the perfect accompaniment for an evening stroll around town.

The shop windows were lit up with lots to see and the fresh air seemed to clear our heads enough to inspire insightful conversation outside our normal range of subjects.  We looked and laughed and wandered aimlessly past boutiques, bars and bistros filled with people out seeking experiences of their own. 

Then, when the hot chocolate had run dry, we headed over to the SAW Gallery for SKETCH, their annual holiday fundraiser.  The artist-run SAW Gallery located at Ottawa’s Arts Court, has become a premier destination for contemporary art in the city.

The underground space was jammed packed with art lovers of all kinds keenly straining for a look at the many sketches hung casually by string and paperclip across the gallery wall.  The room itself was full of creative energy, and the diverse crowd was lively and engaged.   The sketches, donated by more than 100 participating artists provided an eclectic selection to choose from, starting at the very low price of $5.    I myself found a fabulous pen and ink drawing done by Maya Hum, a recent graduate of the Ottawa School of Art.

In the end, our downtown date was black and white and gray all over.  And, it was absolutely delightful.

So far so good with this winter thing…