Phoenix books - burlington

dusting of snow, cold, temps 30

In Burlington, Vermont now! Had a wonderful weekend in sutton etc. Picked up Susan at the bus from Montreal at 11 Saturday morning. Went to lunch in Sutton, did some grocery shopping, then headed home. While Michael and Susan read and chatted by the fire I wrote a piece for the Globe and Mail about Christmas in the townships.

Then Wilder came over for dinner. Duck. (dinner, not a command - try not to think of Rosa!)

Sunday morning after breakfast susan and I got in the car and drove to Burlington, in time for lunch at Al's French Fries. this is the same diner Michael, Wilder and I stumbled upon last weekend...not realizing it's a Vermont institution. Poor Michael panicked and ordered a Caesar salad...though I gave him half of my burger and Wilder shared his fries,

This time I was prepared and Susan and I had burgers, fries and I had a milkshake. Yum!!!

Then "Christmas" shopping in Burlington. I actually did buy some things for Michael though I believe for the sake of voracity Christmas really does belong in quotes since most of the "gifts" were for me. I hate clothes shopping - but this was a gas. And Susan had done loads of homework so she knew where we should go. Besides, we were hopped up on fries, so had plenty of energy. Ended the day with a fabulous dinner at a bistro on Church street in Burlington. Church street is actually closed to vehicle traffic and is a pedestrian thoroughfare. wonderful shops. They're so eco-aware here it is inspirational, and terrific to be a small part of. Love it. The Christmas lights had just gone up so after dinner we stood on Church street, mesmerized. white lights in the trees the full length of the street, culminating in a multi-coloured huge pine at the very end of the street, in front of the old church.

magical.

And now we have some snow to simply gild the effect. Gorgeous.

Today, more shopping then off to a Vermont Public Radio interview at 4pm, and dinner with Mike deSanto of Phoenix books, in Essex Junction before a 7pm event there tonight.

Home tomorrow - actually to Montreal...appointments there.

Tonight is my LAST event of the year!! As much as I love them, and SO looking forard to Phoenix books (wonderful store) - I am also looking forward to putting my feet up. And exhaling.

speak soon! Hoppe you're well.