Week 1.2: Basically, it is very snowy all the time.

Firstly, the photo of the snow ball fight was taken at the end of last semester, but I couldn't not share. 250+ students bombarding each on Lower Field at a stress-busting event actively encouraged we attend by the university. Secondly, I need to think of a good way to name my (not weekly) weekly updates - 1.2 will do for now.

I was really dreading coming back to Montreal. I was told the weather would be horrendous, and after having had such a lovely Christmas with friends and family the idea of not seeing any of them again for four months wasn't sitting pretty. Now I'm here, and busy, all is well and I'm genuinely glad to be back. The man on immigration even said 'Welcome back, Mademoiselle.' I'm a local now . . . (As a side note, my customs official for my flight to New York was called Moody, I thought that was brilliant.)

Work is already picking up, I had an assignment due today - considering people can still take up any class on offer until Week 3, I was a little taken aback! My favourite class so far is the hardest, surprise surprise, but I am really enjoying the challenge of being in a Graduate seminar and the experience is fantastic. I'm keeping on top of work in order to make time for play. Last Saturday I went ice-skating at Parc Lafontaine. As someone who hasn't ever really skated, save the time I almost concussed myself and my Dad when I was 9, I wasn't really looking forward to the event. PARTICULARLY once I arrived and found out that we were skating on an actual lake. (I.e. no sides to grab on to, vast and filled with pros). Having said this, I had the best time - mainly thanks to a patient Helena and the wise words of a passing French man, over the age of 60 and juggling his way around the rink who taught me to get my 'equilibrium' right. Anyways, I will definitely go again.

This Friday I am off to Igloofest in the evening, and on Sunday I am heading to Ottawa. I figured I would make use of the beginning of the semester to tick things of the year's bucket list, as we don't need to waste them settling in again like last term. I also very excitingly booked myself a long-weekend in Washington D.C. at the end of February. I can't wait, as I have never been. I imagine there will be some late nights prior and post to keep work ticking over, but it will be worth it.