Centre Court

Centre Court at the 141st edition of the Canadian Open tournament has its own microclimate; intense, pressurized, and high octane. The players ferocious grace makes them appear to float a fraction above the hard court surface at Toronto’s York University. On the qualifying weekend spectators can attend for free to watch some of the best players in the world compete for the title.

With Serena Williams’ announcement that she will be retiring from tennis after the 2022 US Open; Sobeys stadium was filled to capacity. Serena’s famous forehands exploded off her racquet like popped paper bags and for a few games in each set she reminded us of the Serena Williams of old — the magic of a player who had written herself into tennis’ past, present, and future.

Winter Stations

Got out to the Woodbine Winter Stations. After weeks of sustained spring-like conditions, we had a snowstorm last night. Unfortunately the weather didn’t heat up until much later in the afternoon so I was left out there freezing while waiting for the kids to finish climbing all over the structure.

You can learn about the structures here.

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When I lived in Midtown I would cross the park where Allan Gardens is located. Due to the lockdown I only saw it from the outside, and when I moved downtown I forgot it existed On a beautiful day I went back and took some pictures. The building is under some construction so it isn’t fully open; still it’s a nice place to spend 30 minutes.

Fleur de Villes

I spent the weekend in Banff for a wedding but a couple days before I met up with a friend who was in the city for the summer and we went to Fleur de Villes in Yorkville. The floral designs were incredibly intricate. I have been interested in floral art since I discovered the work of Doan Ly. Maybe one day soon I’ll buy some florals and make an image. Overall a fun evening and would recommend if it comes to your city.

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