Quebec 4

We knew that today was going to be one of our coldest so I wore thermals under my ski pants. Warm as toast.

The plan was to catch the bus to the edge of the Plains of Abraham, the major park and public space adjacent to the old city. Multiple hectares of open space running along the river. This preserved space was the site of major battles between the French and English during the 1750's. Historical landmarks abound. It is also a much-loved play space for the Quebecois.
We also wanted to walk down a nearby road where our host had indicated the commercial sector of this neighbourhood where we are staying, existed. Being Boxing Day, there were one or two eateries open but we weren't particularly inspired to put this street on our "return to" list.  It certainly was cold and catching a warm bus was the next priority.
Coffee time called and the Rue Cartier ( the Chapel St equivalent) beckoned. A reasonably lively spot and a comfy café had its doors open.  However, you cannot stay indoors forever ( Why not?   I can hear Chris saying).  I wanted to see how the locals used these days. The skating rink ( the one seen from the museum) had a healthy patronage. Ski trails were being used. Various joggers, with head cover not seen in Oz, utilised the clear pathways. Dogs were being walked.  One just had to wear the appropriate clothing. I read the many historical explanations as we meandered through this long park.  If we needed to walk on an icy path, the three of us were extra, extra careful.
Finally the walls of the old city were reached and just inside was another atmospheric restaurant for lunch. Omelette, soup and pizza warmed us up. I also wanted to cross the St Lawrence on a ferry but our timing was out. After a team discussion we decided to try again on Friday.
Some incidental shopping followed before we returned to the bus stop, changed buses, to reach an area of non-descript, large supply-everything stores where we hoped to buy the long-bearded Santas that line our current hallway. Unfortunately, to no avail. They must have been very popular. I did get a giggle from a life-sized blow-up Santa that opened and shut an outhouse door!!!

When the light is fading at 4pm and it is totally dark by 5pm, one tends to lose the perspective on time. We have realised that you just keep doing things. We were wandering those shops at 6-ish and content to walk into our warm house by 6.45. Chicken soup for tea.

Ski practise at your front door

Skates slung over the shoulder for today's fun.

Why not!

Very rosy cheeks and "helmet" hair!

Adding to my history knowledge. 

Tourist fun. Warm blankets supplied. 

Skating on the "old city" rink. Note the determined little tike on the right. 

Forecast for the week. Tomorrow colder than today. Fortunately we are doing a  bus tour!