Together with our extended family of friends, we reserved a table for fifteen to celebrate the New Year at Rube’s Restaurant. Our host for the evening was none other than the owner, Lee Michaelson—a familiar face at Kingfisher Pub and very much part of our circle. The first time I discovered Rube’s was thanks to our friend Peter, who invited Sylvain and me for dinner. That evening remains unforgettable. I ordered the lobster, already removed from its shell and generously bath

New Year’s Eve at Kingfisher Pub felt like a prelude to the celebration awaiting us on New Year’s Day at Rube’s. There was that familiar joyful energy we so often experience at the Pub. Two of the owners, Charlie & Darryl, were present, offering their warm wishes to patrons on the final day of 2025. Yet amidst the cheer, we received heartbreaking news. Our friend Jess arrived to tell us that her husband, Mark, had passed away the previous Sunday. She shared that she had spent

As 2025 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the many moments we have shared at the Kingfisher Pub, which first opened its doors in Hudson in May 2025. From the very beginning, it became a place where we felt instantly at home—a place where everyone knows your name and welcomes you with genuine warmth. Within those walls, friendships were nurtured, stories were shared, and memories were created, all thanks to the kind-hearted owners who care for their patrons as if t

The holidays always carry a special kind of joy—one woven with nostalgia and memories of wonder. I am transported back to childhood, to nights when my mother baked cakes in the quiet hours before dawn, filling our home with warmth and magic. That was how she expressed her love—not through words, but through those cherished Christmas desserts that made us feel deeply loved and wonderfully special. We didn’t have an abundance of gifts back then, but each of us eagerly awaited t

Yesterday morning, the Manoir Cavagnal was warmed by the joyful presence of the Centre De La Petite Enfance Treehouse Child Care Centre and the sweet voices of its little angels. Hosted by the Director, Paula Mesa, the children arrived bearing the true spirit of the season, sharing Christmas carols that resonated with happiness and light. Under the attentive care of their dedicated educators, the performance was a moment of pure delight—one that lifted hearts and spirits alik

“ Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.” - Gary Snyder When I met Natania — a young artist and entrepreneur — I discovered a soul whose earliest inspirations sprang from the natural world. She spent years working in tree removal, and from childhood she found in nature a quiet peace and grounding that eluded the rush of everyday life. Working among trees only deepened her love and respect for the living world. A visit to the Montreal Botanical Garden awakened a desire

When I met with Briana Doyle , I was immediately struck by her energy — the kind of bright, purposeful enthusiasm that inspires a newcomer like me to feel even more at home in Hudson. As President of the Hudson Hospitality Association , a non-profit organization, Briana channels this passion into a clear mission: to support local businesses and to promote Hudson as the special destination she knows it to be. Her vision is simple yet powerful — encouraging collaboration rather

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of 2 Rockers Art Supply , the charming new shop just around the corner, owned by Tracy Boccini. It was a magical and deeply meaningful day for Tracy, whose dream of opening an art supply store in Hudson—home to so many artists—has finally come to life. Tracy comes from a lineage where art is woven into the very fabric of family tradition. Both her great-grandfather and her grandfather were accomplished artists whose

I’m delighted to invite you to experience a selection from my “Paris Vintage” series at the Viva Vida Gallery in Pointe-Claire , alongside the inspiring works of other talented artists. In this series, each photograph is carefully transferred onto small canvases and then enhanced with oil paint — a process that transforms each image into a one-of-a-kind work. The result is a unique fusion: the original photograph’s detail softened and enriched, the hues deepened, the canvas i

There are encounters that reveal more than a story—they illuminate a way of being. My recent conversation with Hudson’s Mayor, Chloe Hutchison, re-elected for another four-year term, was one of those rare moments when biography meets presence, and the personal journey becomes inseparable from the place one serves. Chloe’s early years unfolded across European landscapes—Geneva’s serene order, the gentle countryside between Lyon and the Swiss border—where her parents had moved

On Remembrance Day morning, I wandered through the forest and encountered a scene of such profound beauty: heavy snow draped the branches, transforming the woodland into a sacred sanctuary of white. I felt as though I had stepped into a heaven-like realm — where peace, grace and harmony uplifted my spirit and infused the moment with new meaning and purpose. Later, returning home, I joined the solemn ceremony honouring all who fought in the world’s darkest wars. The contrast s

I was very fortunate to meet Elise Zylinska  while participating in the Spring Exhibition of the Artistes Hudson Artists (AHA) . The connection was immediate — I sensed we shared more in common than I could have imagined. One of Elise’s most remarkable traits is her boundless energy and resilience, especially in the face of personal challenges. A breast cancer survivor, Elise embodies both strength and grace. As a survivor myself, I understood her journey on a deeply personal

In anticipation of the upcoming municipal elections, Manoir Cavagnal recently welcomed local candidates for an informal community discussion. The gathering offered residents an opportunity to voice their concerns, ask questions, and hear directly from those seeking to shape the future of Hudson. Paula Mesa, Director of Manoir Cavagnal, opened the event by greeting the candidates and inviting them to share their vision for the town. The first to speak was mayoral candidate Cha

The three-day exhibition was a resounding success, thanks to the leadership of AHA Executive and the tireless efforts of our volunteers. Visitors left glowing praise for the fall show, which also translated into a healthy number of sales. A tender surprise came in the form of a newly-joined member of the AHA, whose first steps into our community bore fruit with three pieces finding new homes. How deeply we treasure each person who came—to linger in the world of art, to honor

When I moved into Manoir Cavagnal last April, I felt deeply grateful — grateful to have found a safe haven after leaving an abusive relationship. Many of the residents here, I soon discovered, have faced their own challenges in later life. Yet within these walls shines a beacon of light: Paula Mesa , whose life’s purpose is to bring comfort, kindness, and joy to others. At the heart of the Manoir, Paula’s compassion transforms the residence into a true home. She believes that

Dear Charlie, Today is a day to celebrate someone truly exceptional — a person whose kindness, generosity, and radiant spirit light up every room. Happy Birthday! May your day be filled with everything your heart desires, surrounded by those you hold dear. Kingfisher Pub’s success owes so much to your joyful energy. What makes Kingfisher genuinely special isn’t just the food or ambience — it’s you . You lead not by profit, but by passion, with a warm and sincere welcome that

Mireille Youssef: A Leader Who Revived the Spirit of AHA I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Mireille Youssef , the outgoing...

Dear friends, Just a warm reminder that the exhibition opening (vernissage) will take place on Friday, October 17 . I would be truly delighted to see you there and to share this special evening together. It will be a wonderful occasion to reconnect, discover new works, and celebrate creativity in an inspiring atmosphere. Your presence and support always mean so much — they bring life and energy to each exhibition. Looking forward to welcoming you and sharing this artistic mom

The Inaugural Exhibition was a remarkable success, brought to life through the professionalism and passion of its founder, Nedia El...

It is my sincere pleasure to introduce my friend Stephen Schettini , who will be offering special Yoga for the Mind  sessions at Mūv...