Winter Wonderland

I guess we’ve been saying it for years, but it’s never felt more true than it has this winter. The glorious, luscious snow, the fairly mild weather and the destination-less vacations… the all lead to one thing: embracing our magical Montreal winter.

I’ve always been a snow, but the second the weather turns, you can find me booking flights to the beach. Obviously this year, tropical vacations are not an option and so I decided to get in touch with my super Canadian roots and get into winter sports. Boy was I surprised at how much I actually enjoy being outdoors!

I find it key to be properly bundled if you want to stand a chance at enjoying yourself in minus 30. You gotta be equipped or you’ll call it quits by the time you get to the top of the hill. I have a layering technique I’m really into – which makes it much easier to breathe when I start to work up a sweat. I love my Mackage ski outfit: the Uma parka and the legit stunning Corina ski pants that I would wear regardless of whether or not I was snowshoeing or skiing! Being sufficiently warm is truly make it or break it and when I’m on the slopes with my kids, I know I’ll be out there for a more than a couple hours, so my outfit helps me commit with a smile.

I reached way into my toolkit to grab hold of my younger days as a ski instructor to help my son learn the basics. It was so rewarding to teach him how to ski and even more than that, it was just so nice to spend time with him out of the house doing an activity solo. Spending time every weekend up north has made part of our weekly routine to hit the ski hill. We’ve all gotten so good – my girls are pros!

I recently bought skates too, because, well, I just need more excuses to be outdoors! It’s a great way to have family time but also, be around other people in a safe way – something we are all yearning for at this point.  

Aside from skiing and skating, I have a newfound love for snowshoeing and recently cross country skiing. OMG! If you haven’t already tried it, what are you waiting for!? Although it is intense in terms of a workout, it’s also deeply relaxing. I’m also feeling the excuse to switch up the gear and get a little more stylish with my Madalyn lightweight jacket. I’m telling you, a world of difference when you’re properly geared up.

It’s been a year since we’ve been homebound, but the truth is, what a home to be bound to! I have rediscovered Montreal and fallen in love all over again. What has been keeping you busy this winter season?