WESTMOUNT INDEPENDENT

18 – WESTMOUNT INDEPENDENT – March 19, 2008The Westmount LaurentiderThe sap is running in the LaurentiansBy Annika MelansonMaple syrup season begins as soon assap starts running, usually early in March,and lasts about four weeks. Once upon atime, entire families would gather the sapand boil it down to make maple syrup.This process was called “sugaring-off”.It is a French-Canadian tradition toenjoy the natural treat at the cabane à sucre,a festive place where one devours peasoup, ham, thin pancakes, baked beans,cretons (a pork spread often eaten on toast)and oreilles de crisse (deep-fried smokedpork jowls). As if these goodies aren’t richenough as they are, some like to poursweet maple syrup over it all! According toconnoisseurs, the lighter the syrup, themore refined it is, and the better qualityand taste it has. After a satisfying meal atthe sugar shack, go for a sleigh ride andtake the kids to savour taffy on snow (tiresur la neige).The Laurentians are home to manywell-known sugar shacks (for a listing ofsugar shacks recommended by TourismeLaurentides, go to: www.laurentides.com).One of the oldest and most authenticsugar shacks is Cabane à sucre Millette(1357 rue St. Faustin, St. Faustin-Lac Carré,877.688.2101), a traditional sugar shacklocated 15 minutes from Tremblant.For five generations, the Millette familyhas maintained the time-honoured“sugaring-off” ritual. Guests are greetedby staff dressed in traditional costumes. Ahistory of the maple grove and guidedtours demonstrate how sap is tapped fromthe trees in the forest and collected into ahorse-drawn barrel, reminiscent of yesteryear.Families and groups are welcome untilthe end of April. Reservations are required.Early breakfast is available startingat 10 am on Sundays.The last Christmas tree?This tree was put out on March 6. How did they keep it so green? Now open in St-Laurent Coiffurein Westmount SquareAward winning bridal make upLuminous 5 bedroomlakefront with stunning views!St. Hippolyte: Majestic, historically unique property withsweeping views of the magnificent Lac des Quatorze-Îles.Southern orientation assures endless sunny days. Impeccable,oversized deck & windows, balconies overlook lake.79,428 sf of land with mature trees. MLS 1413038$489,000Jean LerouxAffiliated real estate agentGroupe Sutton LaurentidesOff: 450 227.2611 Cell: 450 565.5272Mtl: 514 990.0370 jleroux@sutton.comSt-Adolphe-d’HowardAlpine domain. Access to Lac des Pins, pine floors,slow combustion wood stove, concrete basement withprivate entrance, large brand-new balcony,and 3 bedrooms, MLS #1303946.Johanne LeducAffiliated real estate agent - Groupe Sutton LaurentidesOff: 450.227.2611 Cell: 450.275.2754Mtl: 514.990.0370 jleduc@sutton.comExtraordinary Ecological Log ChaletStupendous lakefront, eco-friendly Scandinavian-style chaletin Val-David. This magnificent residence is one of five roundlogchalets in the picturesque Domaine des Merveilles(160 acres). Full southern exposure, wooded land, privacy,superior quality. Near the village. Exceptional site!MLS 1386460 – $599,000Maryann ZuluetaAffiliated real estate agentGroupe Sutton LaurentidesOff: 450 227.2611 Cell: 450 660.1686mzulueta@sutton.comJisele cosmetiques is the most popular make-up studio in Montréal. The ultimate make over’s forall occasions especially your wedding day. Impeccable eyebrow shaping is a must at Jisele’s. Her exclusivesignature line of cosmetics is constantly being updated with the hottest trendsetting colors.Our beautiful spa will pamper you with our hair, nail and estetiques professionals and of course jiselecosmetics, the ultimate make-up experience. Gift certificates available.Complimentary consultation for the bride.St. Matthias’ Church welcomes youto worship during Holy WeekWednesday March 19Tenebrae Service 7:00 pmThursday March 20Maundy Thursday Service 7:00 pmFriday March 21Good Friday Service 12 pm (noon)Sunday March 23 Easter Sunday Sung Eucharist Service 10:30 amSt. Matthias’ Anglican Church131 Cote St. Antoine Rd.(corner Metcalfe in Westmount)Bus 24, 104, 138 to Sherbrooke & Metcalfe stopWalk one block North514-933-4295Rector: The Rev James McDermottDirector of Music: John WiensOrganist: Loren Carle