Stay calm and drink coffee

This morning I set off on an adventure on my own while Eric is in school.  Since it's a drizzly, cold day, I decided to tackle the underground and find the shopping.  Parts of the tunnels are deserted so it feels a little odd walking by myself. I decided I was going to get past it and just do it.  So, I stopped to see the concierge and got a map.  

The tunnels have lots of turns and sometimes go up thru buildings and back down again.  It makes you feel like a mouse in a maze.  I got to a point where I was lost.  So, I went up to ground level to try to get my bearings.  Nothing was familiar - I just started walking.  Luckily, I do know some landmarks and can find my way if I can either see the bridges over the river or the tree covered hills in the other direction.  I found a familiar street and walked.  Eventually, I made my way to St. Catherine's Ave (where all the posh shops are) but it was starting to rain.  That's when I received a sign :)  Actually, it was a sign that said "stay calm and drink coffee."  So, I did. 

I made my way to Starbucks and got a cup of coffee and directions.  I had overshot my destination by several blocks.  So, I headed back out into the drizzle and finally found the entrance to the underground shopping.  

Wow!  There is a lot underground and some areas go several stories above ground too.  Again, I felt like I was in some sort of a maze, often walking in circles.  However, in this maze, there are shops every where you look and food courts galore. 

I did a lot of window shopping but did have to stop in my favorite bath/beauty product store, Lush to buy some goodies. After grabbing a cold sandwich to go from the food court, I headed back to the hotel thru the tunnels.  I did a lot better finding my way back.  I ended up outside just a couple blocks from our hotel.  

The skies have cleared.  After a short rest and a little repair on my hair, I will head back out for an afternoon adventure.