New Boots

This winter has been interminable and I feel like I'm wearing the same 6 or 7 items in the same combination every day. Tights, leggings, socks and snow boots, t-shirt, shirt, sweater, cardigan coat and skirt. The boots are ancient (my newer Fiorentin+Baker are too nice to ruin in the crappy salt, ice, snow, grit and dirt covered streets) and I want to avoid falling over so their Vibram soles work for me. But these new Blundstones should offer a little bit more style--even though I'm hoping that we won't still be battling our way through sub-freezing daytime highs and sporadic snow storms for many more weeks. I treated myself to a couple of Madewell dresses but as they are sleeveless and lightweight, there's absolutely no way I can wear them, even layered up.

So here are my new boots. I feel like fashion has been put on near-infinite hold due to the cold. They are olive-moss green and that's my concession to style right now.

Montreal tips?

Our big annual conference is in central Montreal next month. While I'll be at the hotel and in panels for most of the time, I was wondering if anybody had any suggestions for restaurants, cafes and shopping? I'm also planning to buy real Cadburys and other real chocolate so if anybody knows the best place to procure it (by which I mean biggest variety and best price), that would be lovely. Also if any Canadians/transplants know of any chains I should visit but might otherwise overlook, that would be great. I've not been to Canada for ages and know that some of the English stores (like M&S) have retreated from the market but any tips about British or Canadian stores would be most welcome. Thank you.