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2015 Pan Am Games in Ajax

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The countdown to the 2015 Pan Am Games in Ajax kicked off, today. The town’s been chosen as the host site for softball and baseball. And not only was it an exciting day in the Durham Region, communities across the province celebrated the official countdown.

I had the opportunity to work as the town’s photographer for the baseball-themed day at Sportsplex Park, located at Taunton Road and Audley Road. The morning’s event included a mural unveiling, a parade of nations, along with baseball clinics for kids. A number of local celebrities also stopped by, and they included: Jessica Tyler from Degrassi; Grey Cup winner Richard Karikari; singer Toya Alexis; and former MLB player Nigel Wilson.

It’s truly an exciting time for our town, and I am really looking forward to all the energy once the games start. The other celebration in the region was in Oshawa; they’ve been picked as the host community for boxing and weightlifting competitions at the Oshawa Boxing Centre (General Motors Centre).


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Harden and Huyse Chocolates in Cobourg

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About a week ago, I finally got some time off work … after about 11 days straight! I spent my first full day away from the office with my friend Kate-Lynn. We took a short road trip over to Cobourg. Now, it’s the off-season there, but the weather was still great for a day of photos, walking, parks and antiquing.

One of the cute little shops – which stole both our hearts – was called Harden & Huyse Chocolates, located at 201 Division Street. It’s about a 2 minute walk to the water. Inside they offer a variety of chocolates, including Kawartha Dairy icecream. I also tried a few pieces of chocolate ginger. It’s my favourite kind of chocolate (usually I buy it at Laura Secord), and it’s definitely an acquired taste.

I must admit, the shop itself is gorgeous and really welcoming. They have a community board, where people can share info about their businesses and upcoming local shows. Their staff is really friendly, and great at chocolate recommendations. So, if you’re ever passing through on the way to the beach, stop by. It’s well worth it.


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Tyrone Mills in Clarington

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One of the recent Durham treasures I discovered was Tyrone Mills in Clarington, which is located north on Liberty Street in downtown Bowmanville. Tyrone Mills has a water-powered mill, along with saw, cider and flour mills. I managed to find this place after I bought some fruity wines just down the road at Archibald’s Winery (I great find, too!).

Stepping into Tyrone Mills, is like stepping into the past. It’s probably one of the most unique places I’ve seen locally; it was also one of the stops highlighted in Doors Open Ontario, which is an event that showcases towns, villages and hamlets in the municipality.

Pictured below, you’ll see the shop’s interesting wood carvings, Canadian-grown organic wheat, and their homemade soups, butter. Also, their ice-cream was pretty good. I don’t think it’s homemade, but still worth a taste if you have a sweet tooth like me. 🙂


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Hy Tea in Pickering

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A couple of weeks ago, I stopped by Hy Tea in Pickering. The city’s small tea shop and restaurant is located off Liverpool Road, on Frenchman’s Bay at 1295 Wharf Street. It’s owned and operated by Hy Niles – an extremely personable and kind hearted woman, who served us while we were there for an afternoon of treats and tea.

Now, my friend Lori and I stopped by the tea house for our first time ever, during the off season. But I can tell you, I’ve seen the establishment packed throughout the summer months – so it’s best to enjoy it while the weather is still a bit chilly for a perfect relaxing atmosphere!

If you’re a tea enthusiast, like me, you may always be looking for new and exciting places to visit. Hy Tea in Pickering charges just under $24 dollars for a high-tea experience, and includes a warm scone, whipped butter, tasty deserts, fruits, sweet Devon cream, delicious jam and delicate finger sandwiches. Although, they do suggest a reservation first.


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Café Mirage, Kennedy Commons

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Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to check out a café outside of the Durham Region called Café Mirage, located at Kennedy Commons in Scarborough. The day was drizzling and the wind was cold; a perfect afternoon to spend inside the cozy atmosphere of this GTA date spot.

Café Mirage was recommended to me more than once, but serves best for the romantics, I think. The chairs are big and comfy, and the desserts are large … too large for any one person to finish alone. But their selection and service is fabulous. So, if you and your hunny usually have trouble picking a treat to split, you shouldn’t have a problem at Café Mirage. I was born with a sweet tooth (a curse, really, especially if you’re trying to stay healthy), and there was a few options that really enticed me. Unfortunately, I will have to taste those another day.


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Calling all fashionistas!

ModCloth has one of the coolest new contests going on the web right now! From today through 7 a.m. PST on March 18, ModCloth is inviting community members to check out their brand new Style Gallery, upload a photo, love images and share the looks that inspire them throughout the week of March 11 – 18. The image that gains the highest community-generated loves will win the top prize of a $100 ModCloth gift card! The other exciting part, you ask? Two random lovers of that winning image will also each score a $50 gift card! Head over to ModCloth right now to participate in the Style Gallery or maybe just check out all of the great fashions available! Other details: The owner of the image with the most ‘loves’ between 7 a.m. PT 3/11 and 7 a.m. PT 3/18 will win a $100 ModCloth gift card. And ModCloth will contact the winners via email by 3/22 and announce the winners on the blog at 7 a.m. PT 3/27.