As many of you are reading this week’s log... I'll most likely be doing one of the things that I love to do more than anything else in the world……….Skiing!

I have three kids, all in elementary school and this week is their spring break. That means that my wife and I had to get creative and figure out what to do with these little rascals for the entire week off. Some of you may be facing the same challenges we are, and some of you may remember what that used to be like when your kids were that age. Perhaps you're now looking for something to do with your grandkids!

Then again, I'm sure there are some of you reading this who don't have kids... and know nothing of the struggles the rest of us have to endure. (wink)

My wife and I were very deliberate in our plans of becoming a "Ski Family". So when we had to decide what to do this week during the kids' school break, for us, the choice was obvious. We found some great deals on lift-passes and lodging at Le Massif in Charlevoix - about a three-and-a-half hour drive from our home. They've had about 3 feet of fresh snow here since last week, so the conditions really couldn't get any better than this!

But for those of you who don’t ski and whose kids are starting to get a little antsy... we have done some research for you on various activities taking place this week and thought we'd share a few ideas that we discovered. 

There are a couple of cool activities going on at the Beaconsfield Library. The first one on Thursday from 2-3pm is called "A Tour of the Solar System."  The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada will be taking you on a tour of the Solar System during this 1-hour presentation. Kids will learn about the sun, planets, asteroids, comets, and more! (link, date, time)

The second event on Friday from 2-3pm is titled "Samurais & Ninjas"! It's geared towards children ages 5-12 years old, and will teach kids all about Japan's fascinating ancient warrior traditions. Kids then get to make their own samurai and ninja face masks. Cool! (link, date, time)

If theater is more your thing - be sure to check out "Sous Mon Lit" at the Peter B. Yeoman's Cultural Centre in Dorval on Thursday at 11am. This play is perfect for children 3-8 years old and it tells the story of Yuma, a child getting ready for bed. As soon as the lights go out, the fear of the dark sets in and his imagination takes off. This show charms the audience with its masterful use of poetry, shadow puppetry, shadow theatre, acting, images, and sound. (link, date, time)

On Friday from 1-4pm the Dorval Aquatic and Sports Center is hosting a family beach party featuring giant palm trees, beach balls, flamingoes, inflatable pool games, face painting, music and more! Hawaiian leis will be given out and exotic juices, slushies, pizza and a candy bar, will be offered.

There are several other activities and events taking place throughout the West Island such as special presentations and face painting at the Ecomuseum in Ste-Anne-de- Bellevue and movies at the Colisee Kirkland theatre for only $2.99. If you'd like our complete list, please don't hesitate to send us an e-mail and we'll be happy to send you all the details.

In the meantime, keep warm, stay dry, and don't eat the yellow snow!
 
Signing off,
 
Capt'n Mark