Lasting memories of Old Quebec

I love getting souvenirs from my trips. They don’t have to be anything fancy or expensive, just something to remind me of my trip.

Our trip to Old Quebec was no exception.

CRYSTALS

I can’t go anywhere without picking up some crystals. I got four of them from a cute little store in Basse-Ville.

I got:

—Jasper – a powerful healing stone
—Amber – a talisman for courage and self-confidence
—Blue Lace Agate – a stone of communication
—Red Carnelian – a stone of courage.

DREAM CATCHER

I have always been fascinated by dream catchers and I was so happy to find this one. This was from the gift shop at the Musee de la Civilization. The museum had a fascinating display of all the indigenous peoples of the area. The display featured interviews with members of the different tribes.

The purpose of dream catchers is to protect sleepers from bad dreams, nightmares and evil spirits. Native Americans believed that at night the air was filled with dreams, both good and bad. They would hang the dream catcher over their beds. They had to be careful that daylight could reach it.

My dream catcher is hanging on my bed post, right next to where I sleep and right next to a window.

COFFEE MUG

This souvenir coffee mug caught Mr. Ken’s eye. He enjoys his morning coffee in this mug every morning and he thinks about our fun trip to Old Quebec.

SAINT FRANCOIS DE LAVAL

Francois de Laval was the first Catholic Bishop of Quebec. He was canonized (made a saint) in 2014. I got this coin when visiting the beautiful Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica. This church was one of the most beautiful churches I have visited. For pictures, please see my post Beautiful churches in Old Quebec.

BERNARD THE CANADIAN MOOSE

My favorite souvenir is Bernard, the Canadian moose. He proudly joins Sir Oliver, Sir Angus and Toby. It’s as though he was always part of the group. Note that dear Bernard shows a blue fleur-de-lis and blue ribbon, symbols of Old Quebec.

BATISSE THE CITADEL GOAT

After learning about Batisse, the Citadel goat, I just had to have a momento, so I chose a refrigerator magnet. I smile every time I open the refrigerator door now.

FLEUR-DE-LIS FLAG

The Québec flag was officially adopted in 1948. The cross on the flag evokes the faith of the province’s founders, and the fleur-de-lis and blue background recall its French origins.

CANADIAN FLAG

There is symbolism in both the design and the colors of the national flag of Canada. The colors are meant to symbolize hope and prosperity, as well as peace, tranquility and neutrality. The maple leaf design represents the cultural heritage of the nation and the natural resources of Canada.

What souvenirs have you collected?