Remembering you...

I remember the times when you would call us and talk to us for hours - always asking such intelligent questions and leaving us questioning ourselves. I remember hanging out upstairs on our rooftop patio and taking pictures of you holding the CN Tower. I remember our trip to Centre Island and how you were content with just hanging out with us instead of going on the rides. I remember you always hiding from the sun because you didn't want to get dark. I remember your love for nicely packaged snacks, most especially pocky. You never ate them. You considered them art but everytime I would come over you would offer some to me. I remember your adoration for your little sister from the moment she was born and always showcasing her new antics as she got older. I remember your determination in school and how proud we were of you. I remember when your grandparents were here to visit and instead of hanging out at the hotel, you chose to come home with me and to protect me as I walked home that night. But what I miss most is your smile. It didn't matter what kind of day you were having, you always smiled and greeted us with a kiss and a hug. You were always so courteous of your elders - even though you said I was more like a "friend" because i looked so young. There's not a day that passes by without me thinking of you but this day is special. Today is your birthday and we miss you so.

Surprise!

Mae, Di, Sally and myself were busy putting together a surprise shower for Ev & Stu. We all know how sharp Ev is so to be sure she would not have any suspicions we told her it was a surprise birthday party for Glenn and for a little humour we added that it was an 80s themed party. Not only did Ev make transformer cupcakes for Glenn and came bearing gifts but she also came dressed in the 80s with her homemade t-shirt with a whole bunch of pins and Stuart was a hit with his David Bowie t-shirt and a mullet hair-do. Mission accomplished. Our guests were treated to a culinary treat: Di's kalbi, salmon on a cedar plank, chicken souvlaki, pasta, salad and lots of dessert. I took the opportunity to expand my cupcake repertoire with tiramisu, carrot and chocolate chip cupcakes and Sally provided guests with a ice cream sundae bar. I am so happy that the party went smooth and that Ev was truly surprised. Today little Eric surprised all of us by coming earlier than expected. Ev went into labour Sunday morning and gave birth to a healthy baby boy at 6:25 pm. Congratulations to the new parents!

CNE

There were so many new things to see at the Ex this year. We watched the professional surfers on the FlowRider as I ate the infamous tornado potato. Norm did not have his speedos otherwise he said he would have showcased some of his many talents - belly flopping is a favourite. The food building had some new additions such as Webers and a UK booth that housed the Marks & Spencers shrimp chips! That's right ladies, get them while you can! We did not stay too long this time. Just a visit to the food building and a walk up the midway. It was a busy night with the $1.75 entrance fee. We plan on revisiting the EX sometime this week so we can eat those now expensive Tiny Tom doughnuts ($5/dozen!) and so I can challenge Norm to whack-a-mole.

Harbourfront

Everyone should make a trip down to the Harbourfront before the summer comes to an end. It was a beautiful day on Saturday and it was even sweeter near the lake. Ella enjoyed walking on the boardwalk, chasing the birds, eating ice cream, watching the boats, sticking her feet in the water and doing some art work at one of the exhibits. Meanwhile, Kuya Freddie had food on his mind as he followed his nose to the smell of street meat and grilled calamari, ice cream for dessert and coconut juice to wash it all down. Norm spent the day working as he is trying to beat his month end deadline but he found some time to join us for dinner at Wah Sing. In my opinion, that's always a perfect way to end the day.

My rooftop patio

When the weather is this beautiful who wants to stay indoors? There are a million things to do around the city but sometimes you just want to simply enjoy the weather.  I recently rediscovered my rooftop patio - oh how i love it up there.  We have a beautiful 180 degree view of our city that faces south towards the lake.  I had a day off on Friday and it was spent reading a book upstairs. It was perfect. No work. No phone calls. Just me and my book. We only have a few more weeks before the end of summer so that's where I'll be if you're trying to find me.