To celebrate my 40th birthday, Leonard took the day off from work to take me on a date again. This year has been so fun with his birthday date, our hot air balloon ride, and my birthday date- we should turn 40 more often!
We went downtown to play tourists and rode on the open air double-decker bus.
Taking a "couplie" from our seats at the back of the bus.
First stop, Parliament. This is the Centre block and there are also East and West blocks on each side of Parliament Hill. The Peace Tower is the clock tower that looks similar to Big Ben in England.
The National War Memorial was originally built to honor Canadians who fought in World War I. It has since become a memorial to "all Canadian Armed Forces personnel who have served Canada in time of war in the cause of peace and freedom--past, present and future." Unfortunately, it is also the site where Cpl. Nathan Cirillo was killed last October, so sad.
The Fairmont Chateau Laurier was built during the railroad tycoon days, and someday we are going to stay there!
This War of 1812 monument was built 3 years ago to commemorate its 200th anniversary. It's interesting to me as an American married to a Canadian that both of our countries see themselves as the victors in this war.
The 14 flags of Canada- 10 for the Provinces, 3 for the Territories, and 1 for the Nation.
Ottawa, Ontario is the capital city of Canada. However, it really is Part A of the capital and Part B is Gatineau, Quebec. This is the back of Parliament across the river from Gatineau. The round building on the left is the Library of Parliament.
Cute maple leaf on top of the street lights.
The traffic lights in Quebec. Every time I go there I feel like I am in a different country.
Back on the Ottawa side of the capital region, here is Leonard's place of work- the Lester B. Pearson Building.
The guards on display outside of the Governor General's residence.
It was such a lovely day to have a birthday! Looking back at Gatineau across the Ottawa River.
The beautiful Notre Dame Basilica.
The Rideau Canal, is a great place to visit in the spring during the Tulip Festival and in the winter during Winterlude when it becomes the longest outdoor skating rink in the world!
This is the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Confederation Park.
Back to the beginning, Parliament Hill.
I had to take a picture of my lion-hearted husband in front of these regal lions outside of the Ottawa central post office.
We turned the corner and saw this guy ready to party with us.
What a cutie in his birthday hat!
We visited "Territorial Prerogative" on our way to D'Arcy McGee's for dinner.
We came home to have dessert with the kiddos. These peeps are still my favorite gifts ever!
We had the yummiest coconut cream cake, simply divine!
If my birthday was any indication, I think my 40's are going to be fantastic!
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