When I worked as an office administrator for a church in Edmonton, all the office support staff from all the United Churches in the area would attend monthly meetings. We did this partly to bounce ideas off each other and partly to connect with others who would understand our frustrations, joys, challenges, and the benefits of doing such work. One of the people I met through those meetings was Cathy. We weren't best friends but I always felt a special connection to her. When she heard I was taking this trip, she opened up her home to me. Her and her husband Stan were the most gracious of hosts.
Cathy is an avid hobbyist photographer and she revealed an entire treasure trove of interesting spots which I never could have found by myself. The best part was that all these fascinating locations were "free to see". Due to her enthusiasm, even the rain and heavy clouds couldn't dampen our explorations.
Rockcliffe Park
Our first destination was Rockcliffe Park Drive, There's a wonderful little pavillion there, an incredible view across the river into Quebec, and at one spot (if you know where to stop), you can see the back of 24 Sussex Drive.
I love lilacs but I have never smelled such fragrant ones as I did in Rockcliffe Park. I wanted to stand there forever and just breathe in the heavenly scent. I could imagine a beautiful wedding taking place in the pavilion, and children playing on the grass and climbing on the log bench that someone had created. Perhaps due to the weather the park was deserted. The rain actually added to the feeling of tranquility as it made everything feel so fresh and green.
In Edmonton, we do not have many really old buildings so as we passed St. Francois d'Assise Church, an incredible specimen of architecture, I asked Cathy if we could stop. The church was built in 1890 and has many wonderful features. I feel so blessed that Cathy was my tour guide in Ottawa because she was so understanding about all my requests to take photos. I'm working on a project of doors and windows and these will definitely be included as part of it.
Another "free to see" in Ottawa is Maplelawn House and Garden (which has been converted into a Keg Steakhouse & Bar). Built in 1831, from the outside at least, it maintains its historic value and the gardens beside it are a pleasure to wander through.
Next blog - more of Ottawa's "Free to See" delights
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