Seeing Ottawa like a tourist

Last weekend, we had our annual Ottawa Spring Conference with a group of exchange teachers from the UK and Australia.  There are a number of activities that happen on that weekend but we only had time to attend a few.  On Friday, we went to a bbq at Roland and Darlene’s, former exchange teacher and his spouse, who are off to the Netherlands in July for a 2 yr teaching stint (soooo jealous!!!).  A good sized group joined us for sausages and wine, a bonfire and a good downpour (unfortunately).  The evening ended when most of us moved inside to escape the rain.  The lighting show was pretty spectacular on the way home though.  Bill and Jeannette brought their Roadtrek to stay overnight and I have to admit I was slightly disappointed that we hadn’t done the same.  Leon had mentioned it, but I didn’t understand his sometimes subtle hint.

The next day, we joined the group for a double decker bus tour of the city.  I have to say, I learned a lot from the nice tour guide.  Sometimes, you just need someone else’s perspective to see your city as a tourist would.  The tulips were not quite in bloom, due to the long and particularly cold winter, but that didn’t dampen our enthusiasm.  The sun was shining and it was just the nicest day for a tour.

We met in the Byward market for dinner at Tucker’s.  It’s a restaurant known for its buffet and relaxed atmosphere.  We had plenty of time to connect with exchange teachers, both arriving and soon departing (Aussie arrived in January, UK teachers leave in July). I have to say, I am always so upbeat when I leave an event that features these great educators from other countries. There is so much positive energy.  One of the teachers, Gillian, has managed to extend her exchange for another year.  How great is that??