Last Week of Family Time

Julia returned from the UK for a final week in DC before heading back to Fairbanks (see picture of what she returned to—snow!). We had visits with her sister Emma and boyfriend Michael, Meme and the Sarrges, and Cecily. We cheered Ethan at the start of the Bellringer cancer fundraising event — a 25-mile ride! Julia helped with a puzzle (from Emma), which I sadly completed after she left. But, she'll be back for Thanksgiving. :) 

In love with Quebec

We went to Quebec with little expectations of cooler weather and quaint French cafes; instead, we were blown away by the city's charm, food, parks, history, hotel, and overall vibe of the city. It was fantastic; so wonderful, in fact, that we would go back in a heartbeat (with Julia!). Steven arranged an informative bike tour of the "oldest city in North America," which happened to be given by the "oldest bike guide" we have ever had. The guy was so cute, kept cracking himself up and all decked out in bike gear. We enjoyed the farmer's market, Old Quebec, the Citadel, Chateau Frontenac, the boardwalk, Place Royal, Notre-Dame Basilica, Old Port, the Petit Champlain district's cobblestone streets, the Plains of Abraham, World Clock, the bistros and boutiques, and fireworks over the Saint Lawrence River--the only fresh water in the world with two tides per day. The food was amazing. We had duck breast, quail eggs, seal meat (fatty and yummy), beef tartar, veal liver, walleye, foie gras, shrimp ceviche, croissants, smoked meat, fish-n-chips, and bread with maple butter. It was so nice to get away, although we really missed having Jules with us.

 

 

Clearwater Beach

Yay, for OSU fall break! It was wonderful to spend time with Julia. That girl…just love her to pieces. We would highly recommend the Sandpearl Resort--great service, amenities, and food. Outside of the resort, the food was hit or miss; although they all had fantastic live music each night. Steven enjoyed some local grouper and we had some delicious mussels. Steven rented a bike and rode everyday; Julia joined him one day. I ran across the causeway for my morning decaf. The sand was white, soft, and stayed cool. The weather was a perfect, mid-80s every day. It was a great getaway.