Happy New Year 2022!

Confederation Park, Ottawa ON

We walked around downtown Ottawa last evening to see the holiday light displays in our nation's capital city. Crowds were sparse on this holiday weekend and many tours have been cancelled due to the rapid spread of the Omicron Covid variant. This is the third December that Covid-19 has dominated world news and hopefully, 2022 will bring an end to the pandemic and its restrictions.

Steps to the War Memorial, Ottawa ON

In spite of the losses and inconveniences from the pandemic, there is no country I would rather live in than Canada. I am proud of our medical system and the provision of care to all who call this country home. While many complain about politics, our democratic government is one of the best in the world. 

Federal Parliament Buildings, Ottawa ON

The Parliament Buildings are undergoing a decade-long renovation project but the buildings (and cranes) were the screen for a light and music show that gave tribute to our nation.

Spark Street, one block south of the Parliament Building, had several booths and light installations that provided festive backgrounds for selfies and group photos.

The Centennial Flame burns at the entrance to Parliament and the fountain never freezes. I have hope that this coming year will be better than the last, and while life is not back to normal, we have much to be thankful for.

My touchstone word for 2022 is JOY.

Complaining is so commonplace, but there is joy to be found even in the most mundane moments.

A Joyful New Year to Everyone!!