Moments, Memories, and Montreal
Trains
One of the enjoyable aspects of living in Ottawa is having access to trains. It may sound like nothing special to American, European and Japanese readers, but trains are not readily accessible across our country. Since moving here, I have taken the train several times to Toronto, Kingston, Quebec City and most often Montreal.
Except
The last time I took a train prior to this past Saturday was January 2020. And that was for the same reason as this recent trip – to meet dear friends who live in Vermont. They drive up to Montreal in under three hours, and I take the train in just under two hours. And the three of us land in the magical city of Montreal in the wintertime.
My longtime readers already know that winter is not my favourite, except for the six weeks or so of this festive time. I love the big snowflakes, the smell of fir trees and Basler Brunsli’s baking, the glow of candles, the outdoor lights, older Christmas music, especially French, German and Polish carols. And of course, the magic of surprise – cards, packages, phone calls and favourite stories. The overall cheerfulness during this time of warm heartedness and goodwill.
Even when things are challenging, there are so many sweet memories of times past that have a way of brightening the nights. My January 2020 memories of Gregg and Linda have the bitter cold of Montreal that month, the immersive Van Gogh exhibit, which delighted us, the fabulous metro subway, which makes getting around cheap and easy and a delicious dinner before I caught the evening train back to Ottawa.
At that time, we had no idea of the impending upheaval COVID would cause. Much of our conversation centred around my Mother’s upcoming 100th birthday bash in Victoria that April, and lively and optimistic talks about dreams, intentions and action-taking for 2020. Of course, we were all derailed by what happened shortly after that visit. We all had to pivot to a new reality, and Zoom, along with other video conferencing platforms, became our new way to be together.
Let’s Begin Now
Rather than wait for the turn of the year, we dove into the idea of making this meeting in Montreal happen right now in December. And I can speak for all three of us that we are glad we did. Such a moodling time on Rue St Paul in Old Montreal – no rushing. Enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of good food wafting out the doors as we walked on. Taking a peek inside interesting stores and passing, with appreciation, the expensive and beautiful window displays of designer fashion. The busy sidewalks, smiling faces, the architecture, decorations – the whole nine yards.
Later, curled up in our Auberge, with a glass of wine and talking about our joys and challenges and what matters for each of us as we wind down this year and look forward to the next one. Ideas and friendship were nurtured and watered, and one of our conclusions was to do this at least twice a year.
How easy it is for one year to turn into another. Perhaps because I turn 80 in 2026, I am even more aware of not putting important things on the back burner. I take my inspiration for wanting to make sure I see my friends more often from my trip to Japan last year. My daughter and I both observed the dedication friends have for each other, and the effort they take to see one another. It isn’t about comparisons, but rather a reminder of finding creative ways to meet up even for a short time. It is definitely worth it.
Coincidentally
These last two days, I was attending a Longevity Masterclass, and once again, the research points to the most important thing – our relationships and social connections and how they connect to our biology. An assignment was to contact old friends and let them know what they mean to us. One of the reasons, besides the fact that you love them and haven’t talked for a while, is that it is a #1 regret on our deathbed. Not staying in touch, that is, and letting old but good friendships die. I appreciate this reminder that even when we have lost touch that it can bring a boost of joy to be contacted or to contact someone. I had that experience a couple of years ago with an old friend I hadn’t been in touch with since we were teens. We met that next summer and will meet again, three years later, this summer. I am delighted.
Moments
At this time of celebration and also grief, we know how much we gravitate towards each other. It is a natural time to reach out, don’t you think? We don’t need an excuse. Moments add up. In fact, my favourite definition for ikigai is ” the sum of small moments/joys adds up to a meaningful life.” I think it is finding ways to be in touch with those who matter, even though we are separated by time zones and proximity. Now and then, and maybe more than once a year. We all know best what works for us. I simply want to get better at this.
Notes
1)Speaking of moments and relationships, tomorrow night, my Non-Book Club is getting together to see the 2025 documentary film The Librarians. Following the showing, we will have dinner together at a Vietnamese restaurant and discuss. There will be lots of different moments, I am sure, and I am looking forward to it.
2)Here is a link to Stanford University Medicine’s free newsletter, called Lifestyle Medicine . It was recommended by the gerontologist co-facilitating the program I just did. I have signed up but have not read anything yet. However, they have produced other publications that I have found useful and engaging.
3)Here is one of my favourite traditional Polish Carols. It is 7 minutes long. (sorry) I hope you enjoy it. (you can put the video on full screen to lose all the annoying info on the sides.)
4) Once again, it is a Wednesday, and you have kindly loaned me your attention and your eyes. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for kindly reading my musings. When you need a break, you can easily unsubscribe, and when you want to come back, it is also just as easy. Never any obligation. I appreciate and thank you. Warmest and best wishes, Trudy.
Trudy, thank you for your words. Also, Robert and I loved the Polish Carol.
I’m grateful that we have stayed in touch over all these years. Many blessings to you in these sacred days! Carol
Hi Carol:
I was happy to hear that you and Robert enjoyed that carol.May I extend my blessings back to you during this special time. Warmly, Trudy
Happy Holidays Trudy! You are off to a good start. I always found Montreal magical. Lived there from 1961-1967. Loved it, great place to visit with good friends.
Hi dear Sue: Great to find out you lived there too. I was there from 1966-1968, which included the amazing EXPO 67. What wonderful memories. I hope you are doing well and enjoying your beautiful home in Vancouver. Warmly,
Trudy
Trudy, thank you for your beautiful message at this special time of year. I truly appreciate all you shared and for sharing your favorite definition of ikigai: “the sum of small moments and joys adds up to a meaningful life.”
I’m grateful for all my small moments—and especially for every moment shared with you, my dear friend.
Dear Teresa: We have had many wonderful moments working together at Wellspring. Hopefully there are more to come. Thinking of you especially this Christmas. All the best of good luck and best wishes for you and yours. As always, Trudy
Dear Trudy, altho I don’t know you personally, I also live in Ottawa and don’t really like the winter. Your musings about Montreal reminded me of my first year of marriage which was spent there and our visit in Jan 2020 to see the Van Gogh immersive. So many moments of joy and awe! Thank you for another year of wisdom shared. Wishing you and your family peace this Christmas.
Dear Mary-Martha: Thank you for your kind and thoughtful note. How nice to hear that you also enjoyed that experience in Montreal.I appreciate you taking time to read my blog and send such a thoughtful note. I send all my best wishes, Trudy
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, dear Trudy:-)
Thank you for enriching my life with your weekly posts.
Big hug
Sabine
A warm and deep bow to you dear Sabine. Trudy
All the best for this holiday season Trudy.my hopes for you in 2026 are good health,laughter and new things to learn.p.s.80 is still young.i am now 85 and so blessed to still be ticking.
Aren’t we fortunate to still have life and the vitality to enjoy it. It strikes me as a great privilege. Thanks dear Jean.
Thinking of you this Christmas time.All my best wishes, Trudy
Dear Trudy, you walk your talk!! You are a loyal friend and much loved by many. I will have no regrets on my deathbed that I have had your friendship in my life. much love and Christmas spirit to you. xoxoxox
What a beautiful thing to say dear Janice. I am humbled by your kind words. Hope we can work in a walk this week. Warmly,
Trudy
Dear Trudy, you paint such a beautiful picture of your holidays ( and your trip to Montreal)! The traditions you and your family have sound so lovely. I trust that you will have a peaceful and enjoyable holiday this year and I wish you all the best in the new year! I look forward to your blog post every week!
Thank you Connie. It means alot to me to receive your encouraging words. I hope you are enjoying blue sky and warm friends and family. All my best wishes, Trudy