Spring arrives as a quiet invitation—to begin again. It is a season of renewal, where we plant seeds not only in the earth, but within ourselves: seeds of peace, of gratitude, of possibility. As the world awakens, we are gently called to move forward, to embrace what we have, and to imagine what might yet be. With this renewal comes the promise of a new chapter. Nature, in its effortless rhythm, reminds us that growth is inevitable. Budding branches and blooming fields mirror

Every so often, I step back from the noise of the world and allow myself a moment of quiet reflection. Yesterday was one of those moments—a welcome pause that gently redirected my thoughts. In a time when global uncertainty often weighs heavily, Hudson offered something different: a day filled with joy, connection, and gratitude. It was a reminder that when a community comes together in celebration, we are fortunate—fortunate to feel safe, to belong, and to share in something

In the heart of Hudson, a cherished tradition returns with renewed spirit as the Soulanges Irish Society prepares the 15th edition of its beloved St. Patrick’s Parade. Over the years, this celebration has flourished into one of the largest of its kind in Canada—an event that now transcends festivity to embody the very soul of the community. As Mayor Chloe Hutchison reflects, the parade has become far more than a seasonal gathering. It is a testament to collective pride and sh

On a quiet street in Hudson, the aroma of freshly baked pastry now drifts from a small cantine called Cantine Flaquita — a warm and welcoming place where South American flavors meet the relaxed charm of a small town. The name itself carries a personal story. Flaquita , meaning “the little skinny one” in Spanish, was the affectionate nickname given to chef Emily by her grandfather when she was a child. The venture was made possible with the support of Hudson entrepreneur Char

Each year, International Women’s Day reminds us of the ongoing global effort to advance equality, dignity, and opportunity for women and girls everywhere. This year’s commemoration arrives at a pivotal political moment, placing justice at the center of international dialogue. It also coincides with the opening of the world’s largest annual forum on gender equality at the United Nations—the Commission on the Status of Women (9–19 March). The official celebration will bring tog

Recently, I read an article that deeply resonated with me. It spoke about our tendency to constantly do  rather than simply be . When I retired from the United Nations in 2017, I felt lost. For years I had lived a full and stimulating life between New York and my artistic pursuits. When that chapter ended, I suddenly found myself searching for something to fill the space it left behind. After returning to Canada, I kept myself busy travelling and exhibiting my artwork, unknow

It gives me great pleasure to announce that I am presenting selected artworks and original photographs from my series Iconic Egypt & Beyond   at the Hudson Community Centre throughout the month of March. I warmly invite you to visit the exhibition, held as part of the cultural initiatives organized by Artistes Hudson Artists (AHA) The works on display belong to a larger body of exhibitions previously shown in Lake Como & Florence, Italy; London, England; and Montreal—each ven

Returning to Montreal was a shock to the senses. The city lay silent beneath a heavy blanket of snow—a stark contrast to the vibrant world we had just left behind in the Dominican Republic. Only days before, my eyes had been filled with endless greens of jungle and the shimmering blues of the sea. Already, I longed for that living landscape, where each morning awakened the senses and each evening dissolved gently into the horizon. In those final days in paradise, time seemed

As our time in this tropical haven draws to a close, we find ourselves gathering memories that will remain with us for the rest of our lives. The sea has been our constant companion, its rhythm soothing and timeless, while the people we have met along the way have added warmth and richness to this journey. Here, we were given the rare gift of simply being—happy, present, and at peace within ourselves. We also had the pleasure of visiting our friends Marvin and Pascal at their

When we travel, it is often the people we meet who leave the deepest imprint, transforming a simple journey into a lasting memory. After all, it is human connection that enriches our lives far beyond landscapes and monuments. That is exactly what happened here, in the condo where we are staying. Thanks to Loraine — our resident social butterfly — we were instantly swept into a circle of joy and laughter. Through her, we met three wonderful couples: Pam & Sep, Don & Vicki, and

When life slows down and we find joy in its simplest pleasures, free from everyday obstacles, it feels like paradise. We are deeply fortunate to spend time in such a beautiful corner of the world. The weather is gentle, the sun nearly constant, and each day feels like a gift. When we pause to recognize what truly matters, the simplest moments take on deeper meaning. Nature is our most precious treasure, yet too often it is taken for granted as material pursuits overshadow our

Being by the sea touches something very deep within me. It brings a quiet calm that softens my thoughts and opens my heart to reflection. The ocean feels like a return to where everything begins. As the waves roll in, they seem to whisper directly to my soul, carrying a healing presence that gently soothes and restores me. Our time in the Dominican Republic is filled with joy found in the simplest moments. Waking up each morning to the sound of the ocean feels like a gift I n

Ever since I arrived, I’ve had to pinch myself to be sure I’m not dreaming—this place is simply extraordinary, the kind of destination you imagine when you think of the perfect vacation. Even more remarkable are the people: genuinely kind, refreshingly warm, and so different from the routine-driven pace we’re used to back home. In a world filled with so much turmoil, being able to slow down and savor life in this natural paradise feels like a true blessing—made all the more s

Sylvain’s longtime friend Peter, along with his father, graciously invited us to the Dominican Republic—a generous gesture rooted in enduring friendship. We feel deeply blessed to have escaped Quebec’s winter chill and to be welcomed into such kindness. Simply being here already feels like a gift. Surrounded by lush greenery, swaying palm trees, and the endless ocean, the landscape is utterly mesmerizing—a celebration of nature at its most abundant. This place feels like a na

Before Sylvain and I set off on our month-long getaway, we took the opportunity to celebrate my sister, Lise, whose birthday would take place while we were away. We had framed the gathering as a farewell on the eve of our departure, while our friends were in on the surprise. In truth, it was a beautiful way to honour Lise, who played an essential role in bringing Sylvain and me together—a true blessing in our lives. This small yet meaningful gesture was our way of celebrating

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