Today we set off on a 5 hour bus ride to the capital of Canada, Ottawa. I got quite excited, as I had my first glimpse of snow on the way into the city. Our accommodation was right in the heart of the Byward Market area, which was packed with restaurants, bars and little market stalls.

I was shocked at how bitterly cold it was in comparison to the temperature in Toronto. Of course, I didn't bring my thermals did I?!

Saturday was just as cold, but walking around Ottawa kept the blood flowing! We wandered by the Houses of Parliament, Supreme Court of Canada and the East and West Memorial Buildings. I was surprised at how small the city was; you could probably walk from one side of downtown to the other within 15 minutes. They have no subway or streetcar systems, just buses. Considering Ottawa is the capital, it only has a population of 800,000, unlike Toronto's population of 4.5 million! Ottawa has a more laid back feel to it though, and you are fully aware of the fact that you are on the border of Quebec province. In fact, if you look across the Ottawa River, you are only 400m or so away from the town of Gatineau, Quebec. It makes me laugh, as Gatineau was formerly known as Hull. I think I know which name I prefer! We also walked by the Rideau Canal, which freezes over in winter so thoroughly, that people skate up and down it at the weekends!

Tonight we headed to Scotiabank Place for Ottawa Senators vs New Jersey Devils. I backed the Sens, so of course the Devils won. I should really start employing some sort of reverse psychology to my betting!

Sunday, and it was my 23rd birthday. I vaguely remember referring to Dave as "ancient" in a bid to make myself feel better! I'd barely got used to being 22!! I don't like change! It was a strange feeling opening my cards without having all of my family there, but Dave made sure I enjoyed myself. Not only did he buy me tickets to the hockey, he bought me a top too. Finally, some shopping!! We rounded off the day with a Beavertail. Not the real thing, but an Ottawa speciality of sweet pastry shaped like a beaver's tail (the clue's in the name!) covered in your choice of topping. Mine was to be hot apple and cinnamon! Good choice! Then it was time to head back to Toronto.