When Two Things You Love Merge Together - Magic Happens!

When Two Things You Love Merge Together - Magic Happens!

I'm not sure when it was that I started to become passionate about trains and I couldn't point to a particular time and place where I realized how much I loved them. In fact, my first clear memory of trains was being scared witless when the steam engine arrived at the station and let out its huge 'hiss' after coming to a stop! 

Steam trains hissing when they came to a halt - used to make me hide behind my mom!

(Courtesy of https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g209947-d212199-i143364720-Steam_Train_Rides-Carrickfergus_County_Antrim_Northern_Ireland.html)

Fear soon caved in to being mesmerized by the smell of the train, the rhythmic clickety-click, clickety-click as it traveled over the gaps between the lengths of rail, and the sheer pleasure of leaning against the window to watch the up-and-down movement of the telegraph wires as we sped past them on the journey.  

I used to love watching the telegraph wires from the train window

(Courtesy of http://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/video/empty-rail-tracks-lorry-travels-along-parallel-stock-video-footage/1B04113_0017)

Growing up on farms in the U.K., our family could not support owning a car, so we relied upon public transport. For the same reasons, traveling by rail was not something we could do on a regular basis. So, when the rare opportunity came along, getting on a train became a fascination, and - until experiencing flying in a plane for the first time - remained my favourite mode of transport. A promised train trip to Southend-on-Sea, Tilbury, or London would be the cause of eager anticipation for several days leading up to it. (See our earlier blog). Even today, the prospect of getting on a train still fills me with excitement- and just seeing a passenger train rattle by makes my heart dance.

The other 'love' which the title refers to is the whole experience of Christmas - especially the build up to the event. For me, there's nothing quite like the gradual increase of excitement as the Big Day arrives - interspersed with the writing of cards, listening to carols and favourite Christmas songs, appreciating the aroma of baking mince pies and sausage rolls, watching new and traditional seasonal movies for the umpteenth time and, yes, even the arrival of the first snowfall.

But the most enchanting thing, for me, is the Christmas tree, with its decorations which evoke the most treasured memories, and especially the coloured lights which whisk me right back to the magic of Christmas as a child. I don't really care too much about presents (though I'd never refuse them!!!); but I do want a tree to adorn the living room, lovingly dressed with lights sparkling out of the window. 

Taken a couple of years ago, my nephew, Mike, and his son, Liam, check out their tree.

Back in the 60's, our family would often take the bus into Southend to look at the 'lights' - the illuminations that came alive when darkness descends. Best seen from the 'longest pier in the world', the coloured lights would be reflected in the water (if the tide was in) and we'd feast our eyes upon them for the whole mile-and-a-quarter walk back from the pier head. (Of course, we would have taken the pier train on the outward journey!) The warmth of the bag of chips (fries) in our hands, wrapped in newspaper (with the malt vinegar seeping through onto our fingers ready for later licking) would enhance the experience!

Illuminations on Southend Pier

(Courtesy of http://picclick.co.uk/Postcard-Epping-Forest-at-Buckhurst-Hill-282212242493.html)

You can imagine my delight upon learning that the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train was going to make its appearance in Sudbury, just 2 hours away from where we live. I had seen various movies of it on YouTube last year, and had made a note in our calendar to explore the possibility of getting to see it, live, this year. Dreams do come true! 

We decided to stay overnight so that we would be able to enjoy the experience without having to journey back home afterwards. It was slated to arrive in Sudbury at 8:50, followed by a performance from 9:15 for half an hour. True to form, it was a little late, but that added to the anticipation as crowds gathered - young and older - clinging to the safety fence, eyes peeled towards the East from which it would make its appearance, with phones ready for the photo op. I'm always amazed at the kindness that emerges when crowds gather together for events like this. There's an excitement in the air, and everyone is touched by the camaraderie. 

Sure enough, at about 9:10, the sound of the whistle echoed through the night air and the first glow of lights from the engine appeared along the track. The train eased its way forward, gradually chugging past us until it came to a complete (and relatively silent) stop along the station platform. It had arrived.!!

We managed to take a short movie of its arrival, and a couple of pics of it from different angles.

We were not disappointed! There were so many wagons with Christmas greetings and scenarios all blinking with a plethora of coloured lights. The crowd's sense of fun was tangible, and the look of wonder on the faces of the children was contagious. Everyone was happy that the Holiday Train had arrived in their town this Christmas. 

When we finally left there, we visited the Science North Festival of Lights - an annual display which raises money for charity. We were lucky to have it almost all to ourselves as most people were still at the station. 

Alan meets Santa!

Display of light trees

Mark, imitating the illuminations

Mark loves deer - in any way, shape, or form!

Mark rubs noses with Rudolph

It was a great way to celebrate the beginning of the festive season and now, since it's December 1st, I can't wait to really get into it. Bring it on!

Kathy's Brew Haha!... more than just a cafe!

Kathy's Brew Haha! ... More than just a cafe!

Since it's opening a couple of weeks ago, we've been promising ourselves a visit to the newest jewel in our town of Elliot Lake. Yesterday, we made good on that self-promise and dropped in to see it for ourselves. 

A couple of months ago, our friend, Kathy Mitchell, mentioned that she was going to be starting up a new venture in town and we were excited at the prospect. During the preparations for our car rally, back in September, we noticed that the sign was already up and we decided that we would make it a priority to include a visit upon our return from our latest house/pet sitting assignment. 

Such a warm, welcoming feeling at the entrance

Stepping through the entrance, you are greeted with a warm fuzzy feeling, complete with aromas that are conducive to finding a comfy seat and spending a couple of hours there! Topping that, is the persona of Kathy, herself, whose down-to-earth warmth and heart of service permeates the whole experience.  

Vanna White has nothing on Kathy!

A bundle of positive energy, Kathy has created an environment where one is surrounded by uplifting slogans and mottos that punctuate the venue while relaxing with some of the many treats that she has available.

Inspiring messages permeate the venue

There is a choice of seating - from armchairs, regular table and chairs, and bar stools where patrons can look out at the comings and goings on Ontario Street. Everything is geared to the 'come-in-and-tarry-awhile' experience... and we can guarantee that we'll be popping in on a regular basis whenever we're in town. 

A repeated pic... but I love this one so much!!

Kathy provides a wide range of tea and coffee flavours and blends... and the dessert offerings are to die for, courtesy of Sloan at the Fat Raccoon Bakery with whom Kathy has a special arrangement. (Anyone who has tasted the concoctions of Sloane will attest to their excellence!!) Making yourself comfortable and enjoying these goodies is a real treat - and the prices are amazing affordable.

Sloane's treats are truly awesome!

Mark and I chose a pot of tea each - complete with bone china cup and saucer. This meant that we were each able to enjoy 3 cups of the splendid brew, which warmed us from the inside out. 

Of particular interest were the jigsaw table - where patrons could sit and spend some time working upon the partially completed puzzle; and the free paperback book exchange is an excellent addition - 'take a book.. leave a book' ... what a great way to recycle and share! 

While away some time at the jigsaw table

Take a book - leave a book

Kathy's personality attracts those who, like herself, are 'people people'. We interacted easily with other patrons, but were still able to enjoy the privacy of the intimate setting. 

The many tasteful decorations, home-made crafts, and items on display and/or for sale, build a delightful ambience - either to take in up close, or just to sit back and enjoy the overall feeling of well-being. 

wi-fi is also available

Some home-made crafts

Add your own milk, cream, and sugar to taste

A variety of flavours - a dash here and there

For those of you who are fortunate to live in Elliot Lake, this is another jewel in our crown - and a visit here is not to be missed. For those who will be gracing our wonderful town with your presence, Kathy's Brew Haha! is a must - a place that will help your family and friends take away feelings of goodness, warmth, and welcome - which encapsulates what we have found since we have moved here.

For further information: Kathy's Brew Haha! is to be found at 126 Ontario Avenue, Elliot Lake. 

705-261-1625   kathysbrewhaha@gmail.com 

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (though you'll never be rushed out!!)

Like her Facebook Page:   Kathy's Brew Haha! 

Kathy's Brew Haha! is a fair trade coffee shop. 

Fat Racoon Bakery can be found at: 7 Charles Walk Elliot Lake 

Wakefield, Quebec - A Trip Down Memory Lane

Wakefield, Quebec - A Trip Down Memory Lane

Our recent house/pet sit in Manotick, near Ottawa, put us in the vicinity of the Gatineau Park, just north of Hull, in Quebec. We had gotten permission from the home/pet owners to take their dog, Jazzy, out for day trips in our car, so we took her with us across the provincial border on two occasions. We wanted to enjoy the Fall colours in 'La Belle Province', while providing Jazzy with the opportunity to sniff out new areas. 

On our first visit, we decided to visit the village of Wakefield - a place that has some fond memories of when I first came to live in Canada, back in 1989. 

We love the various village and town signs - and this one, in Wakefield, is no exception.

My first Canadian friend was a teacher/associate at the school where I had been assigned. Pat, a wonderful woman who is full of the 'joie de vivre' -and someone whose company we thoroughly enjoy - used to have a chalet in the Gatineau, overlooking Lac Bernard, just north of Wakefield. 

At the end of June, in my first year of teaching here, Pat and her husband, Robin, invited me to spend a weekend with them at the cabin, so we left Scarborough on the Friday night and traveled over 6 hours to get there. (This was my first experience of long-distance treks in this huge country - and it certainly whet my appetite for more). 

Passing through Wakefield on our way to the cabin, Pat promised that we'd visit the village during our stay. Being a railway enthusiast, I was thrilled to learn that the station, in Wakefield, was now a restaurant (called the 'Cafe Pot au Feu') that overlooked the Gatineau River. Little did I know that this restaurant would become a favourite destination for our visitors from the U.K. whenever we took them into the Ottawa Region. 

The heritage railway station is now a restaurant, overlooking the Gatineau River

A view across the Gatineau River from the restaurant

The 'Cafe Pot au Feu' sign

I will never forget one such visit where we were enjoying a delicious meal with our visitors, while taking in the surrounding scenery. I remember sharing wistfully with our guests how wonderful it would have been in the olden days to have been standing in this spot and hearing the whistle of the train, and seeing the whisp of smoke as the steam train made it's way around the bend in the river to arrive at the station. 

The village of Wakefield - as seen from the restaurant. Although it looks like it is on the other side of the river, it's actually on the same side, just round a bend in the river.

Lo and behold... I had barely uttered those words when we heard a train whistle and saw a white puff of smoke across the river!!! I couldn't believe it! I had not been aware that there was a regular tourist steam train during the summer months taking passengers to Wakefield from Hull, via Chelsea. 

To my utter delight, we watched the train as it chugged alongside the river and finally came to a stop at the station. It had been years since I had seen a steam train, and I was truly in my element. The only thing was, it had come to a stop right in front of the platform (obviously) where the outside seating of the restaurant was now located, blocking the view of the river! Suddenly, people were pouring out of the coaches, ready to tour the village and/or find a seat in the restaurant. Luckily, we had just finished our meal, so we were able to vacate our table. 

I was totally enthralled when I saw the steam engine being uncoupled and moving slowly along the track towards a manual turntable, to be turned around in readiness for its return journey to Hull. I had never seen this in real life, so I was mesmerized with excitement at witnessing this, first-hand. 

Turntable of the Hull-Chelsea-Wakefield railroad. 

Years later, when our friends, Alan and Elaine, visited us from the U.K., we decided to strike off an item from our bucket-list - to travel to Wakefield on the train from Hull. The trip gave tourists a couple of hours to spend in Wakefield before the return journey. Sure enough, we booked ahead, and thought we would surprise our visitors during our stay in Ottawa. My excitement grew as we crossed the Ottawa River in the ferry and made our way to the station. 

Happily seated on the train, we waited patiently until the whistle blew, and the engine pulled us slowly out of the station. The old familiar smell of the steam train added to the sheer joy of the experience, as we started to watch the outskirts of Hull pass by. 'This is it!', I thought to myself. I'm actually going to Wakefield on a steam train - just like so many people had done in the past. This was history in the making!! 

Alas, it wasn't to be... just 10 minutes out of the station, the train (which had been traveling fairly slowly) came to a gentle halt and we sat there, unmoving, for several minutes. The conductor informed us that there was a mechanical hitch and that we would be returning to Hull!!! So we found ourselves slowly moving in the opposite direction of where we had hoped to go, and back to where we started. How disappointing! 

Not to be outdone, we made our way back to the car and drove the 30 minutes or so that it took to get to Wakefield. Parking at the Pot au Feu, we trundled into the restaurant and found seats on the outdoor platform. The waitress told us that they were waiting for the train to arrive and that they were expecting the usual throng of patrons. We informed them that this would not be happening that day as we had been on that train and it was still in Hull. I'm sure that, unfortunately, their profits were down that day. After enjoying the meal, we took our friends on a tour of the village, with its artsy attractions, making sure that they saw the covered bridge and, of course, the railroad turntable!

After seeing so many covered bridges during our house/pet sit in Vermont, earlier this year, it was good to visit this one, which is a short drive beyond the Pot au Feu. A commemorative plaque near the bridge provides the following information: 

'A committee of local volunteers established the Wakefield Covered Bridge Project in 1987 - three years after the Gendron covered bridge, built on this site in 1915, had been destroyed by fire. Their goal was a new bridge, faithful in structure to the original one, but restricted in use to pedestrians and cyclists. 

'More than 1000 donors and volunteers contributed to reconstructing this treasured landmark.'

It's brightly painted exterior sets it up for some beautiful photographs... and crossing over the bridge is like a little trip back in time to the early 1900's and how life was in those days. 

The Covered Bridge crosses the Gatineau River

Mark takes Jazzy across the bridge

Nearly every visitor we have hosted has been given the tour of Ottawa, and we always ensured that a trip to Wakefield was included in that tour. I suppose we've visited the village nearly ten times over the years. 

All of these memories came flooding back as we drove through the village last week. 

Unfortunately, the railroad tracks alongside the river are now overgrown with grass and weeds as the train tour was discontinued in 2011. I have learned that it's sometimes better to hold cherished memories of the past in your heart and not try to recreate them because things never seem to stay the same, and the memories are then coloured by those changes. After all, ten years had passed since our last visit there, and it was inevitable that it would not be quite the same as our memory served us. However, the Cafe Pot au Feu still seems to be a main attraction for visitors, as is the covered bridge. 

I asked Mark to drive through the village, from one end to the other, while I filmed the experience for readers of this blog to get a feel of the village. 

A Drive through the Village of Wakefield

If you are in the Ottawa area, we would certainly recommend a trip to Wakefield, with its picturesque setting - possibly stopping in Old Chelsea on the way for a coffee and a treat. You will not be disappointed by this charming village, nested on the Gatineau River with all the splendour of the surrounding forest - especially in the Fall. There are several eating establishments in the village; but the Pot au Feu will always be my favourite. 


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