Summer in Westmount: Local delights abound

Miraculously, within weeks we are blessed with an abundance of glorious greenery. Tulips and daffodils seem to sprout automatically with forceful determination and before long, the lawns are bursting with colours. The way the seasons reacted this year, it appeared as if the snow would be a permanent landmark and we would miss all the blossoming of trees and flowers. Although Mother Nature is often unpredictable, we have finally and gratefully returned to outdoor living, garden designs…..and the end of school.

The year has passed so rapidly and the days seem to vanish as one unfolds into the other. As I write this article, I can’t conceive that I am contemplating this yearly story once more. It is truly remarkable how the seasons blend so effortlessly and there never seems to be sufficient time to adjust to all our sudden weather changes. In fact we never seem to really slow down and revive. Everything and everybody is always in a hurry to reach the next stage, and technology, an additional culprit, has intervened contributing to this pace. But whether we are rushing around or not, there is no doubt that we are always overly anxious to begin that summer winding down by grabbing every warm moment that nature offers.

There has never been a shortage of activities in Westmount and residents should explore the community for options to modify their hectic lifestyle. Transferring from that work mindset to the leisure one can be an easy transition with all the advantages in our locale. After an exhausting day, venture off to one of Westmount’s gardens and bask in the day’s remaining sunshine, and indulge, as we are definitely immersed in a unique haven. At Devon Park, while the kids playing in the sandbox, or on the swings, parents can play a little tennis. At Murray Hill Park, the lawns are luxuriously lush for picnicking and reading. Try swimming some laps at the Westmount Pool, after a vigorous walk through Westmount Park. Stop in at the library for some reading material so you can catch up on all those novels you didn’t have time to read and buy a frozen treat along the way from bicycle cart vendors parked outside. If you’re in the mood for solitary time, there are those secluded parks sandwiched in on some of the residential streets.

Strolling along Roslyn, Grosvenor, Belmont and other streets, pause to appreciate the architecture and floral arrangements. Not only is it an opportunity to absorb some innovative decorating ideas, but you can investigate areas that you may have never really seen. On one occasion I was surprised to discover a secluded spot situated below the lookout in Upper Westmount. Power walking in our area is a real exercise experience as there are special hilly destinations and challenges everywhere. Hiking below the Boulevard can lead you to coffee shops and ice cream parlours on Greene Avenue or Sherbrooke where you can recharge your energy level.

For the children, there are a variety of day camps offered. A successful summer is guaranteed at the Westmount YMCA, the Recreation Department, or Centre Greene. With either choice you can’t go wrong and it is an opportune way in which your children can discover new talents and friendships. Sessions are available in blocks of times and you can organize according to your schedule. Camp is recommended as one of the best supervised learning experiences as important skills such as swimming, crafts, and social cooperation are introduced.

Beyond all the anticipated attractions such as Westmount Family Day, the Sherbrooke Street Festival, Shakespeare in the Park, and other Westmount events, we should all redirect our focus. Look a little closer into your own backyards where you can effortlessly create your personal summer retreats. For younger children, under parental supervision, miniature playgrounds, wading pools, sandboxes, plus other outdoor toys, can provide hours of entertainment. Encourage your children to unleash their artistic talents such as painting and clay modeling on a towel on the grass as it keeps the interior of the house in better shape. For parents, when the kids are asleep on those balmy summer evenings, dust that lawn furniture; lounges, table and chairs, and heat up that barbeque. Put out some insect repellent candles, ice cold drinks and relax while the food is cooking. Invite some friends, put on some CDs, turn off all phones, and take pleasure in living in your own backyard. Sometimes you don’t have to travel to unearth what you already have and usually the simpler things in life remind you of the essential ones that you already possess.

Have a happy and restful summer vacation and don’t hunt too far for that vacation spot as you may have already arrived…and above all, enjoy summer in your city.