Greetings from Sunny Montreal!

Spring is in the air!  Even before the calendar made this season official, Rook and I were taking advantage of the gorgeous, yet unseasonably warm sunshine and spending our time at Parc Lafontaine, the largest park in the Plateau.  It is only a few blocks from the apartment and we can get there with a quick walk, depending on how many friends Rook meets or how much time he deems necessary to smell everything along the way.   Parc Lafontaine is one of my favorite spots to lounge in the grass under shady trees, peruse a good book, and enjoy beautiful weather.  I like it even more now that I have my sidekick to enjoy it with me.

On Sunday, we took an afternoon walk through the park and joined all the Montrealers who couldn't let the 22C (72F) weather go to waste.  I love the first truly warm day of the year.  It always seems like the population doubles and, after hiding inside all winter, suddenly everyone is out trying to get as much fresh air and warm sun as possible.  I also love to see the juxtaposition of barely clad sunbathers gathering along the banks of the snow filled ponds, which is stubbornly refusing to melt in the park.  


Rook and I had taken several strolls through the snow filled park during the winter, but I think he prefers it filled with people and their dogs instead.  As we were wandering, he kept looking up at me with a big puppy smile that I am sure could only mean, "Can you believe how much fun we are having?!?"  Being a civilized and sensible kind of guy, Rook's favorite park activity is sitting on the benches.  It was such a great time that we went back again on Monday morning for another walk, and plan on continuing to do so until one of the following occurs: a) the snow and/or rain returns, b)it gets too hot for a little bulldog puppy, or c) I finally get a work visa and a job.

Even though it has not been terribly warm here in Montreal, I have been extra careful to make sure we are taking it easy and keeping under the shade when possible so Rook doesn't over heat (as bulldogs are apt to do).  Even with our rests on the benches and plenty of water breaks, Rook can work up a good amount of panting and by the time we make it home he is always tuckered out.  It is true what they say, 'A tired bully, is a good bully.' :)