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Isabella’s Chocolate Café

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Isabella’s Chocolate Café in Oshawa is pretty famous in the Durham Region. For weeks, people had encouraged me to stop by. And for the first time this week, I made the trip there.

The café is located on King Street South, between the TD Bank and the jewellery store – which is a bit tricky to find. Initially, I tried to find the shop around Valentine’s Day, but couldn’t spot it while driving. So if you take a closer look, you’ll find their logo on a window, between those two establishments.

Isabella’s features a lot of homemade treats and a variety of hot chocolates, including Isabella’s chocolate. That particular drink is just like hot chocolate, but features their own dark chocolate chips. I sampled it, and it’s absolutely rich in flavour – a definite for chocolate enthusiasts.


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Isabella’s also allows customers to buy their chocolate truffles. They come in beautiful wrap – perfect for gifts or for holidays. But if local treats don’t sell you on this café, Isabella’s is also run by Rosanna Bruno – who is totally engrossed in the local entertainment and arts scene. I had some time to chat with her on my way out, and she is actively promoting events in the Durham Region. She has a certain passion for it. It’s a wonderful thing to see. And don’t forgot to say hi to local musician Patrick Dorie. He works hard behind the counter, all the while going after a career in music – something he is truly destined for.


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Fountain of Youth Yoga

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I first discovered Fountain of Youth Yoga in Whitby after meeting with Penny McQueen – the owner and founder of the company. One of the most wonderful things about Penny, and it’s obvious once you chat with her, is her kindness and passion for yoga. She really cares for her clients – whether it be those already fit, those on a personal journey, or even those just checking out her studio for information.

I’ve only ever attended one yoga class in my life and I injured myself terribly. Ever since then, I’ve been scared to try it out again. But in the coming months, I’d like to begin my journey to better health and I’m sure I’ll be calling Penny for advice. I think it might be an interesting and strengthening activity – did I also mention I am the least flexible person you’ll ever meet?

Anyhow, I know it is hard to choose a yoga studio these days because there are so many options available to us. But if you’re from Whitby, I suggest visiting this downtown yoga studio. I am sure Penny will guide you and monitor your form properly, so you don’t walk away with an injury … like I did once upon a time.


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Laurel Richards Hair

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After weeks of planning, I was finally able to drop by Laurel Richards Hair in Ajax and snap some photos. Laurel Richards Hair is a charming Durham Region hair studio, located in south Ajax, which provides hair and spa services, along with beautiful gifts – anything from hand made soaps, jewellery to makeup bags.

Laurel Richards – the owner and master colourist – is not only a master at her craft, but truly a fantastic person. A couple of years ago, she assisted me in a Hallowe’en food drive I ran called Trick or Eat … and to be more specific, she didn’t even hesitate when I asked; she was onboard with excitement right away! Ever since then, I’ve found a deep respect for her and the business she runs. Not only is she valued for the services her company provides, but for the kind work she does with the community.


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In addition to top notch service, Laurel Richards’ business also brings the latest products from places like New York City – so if you can’t find something at a big box store, be sure to swing by their studio at 487 Westney Road South. I guess it’s no wonder why they’ve been named Best Hair Salon Ajax-Pickering more than once.

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Taunton Bakery

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Taunton Bakery is located just east of Whitby, in the Somerville and Taunton Road West area of Oshawa. The small and quaint bakery features healthy deli sandwiches, some yummy treats and fresh loaves of bread. The shop is only a few minutes from my work, which is why I went to check them out. I also had the chance to meet the owner of the Oshawa bakery, Ying, who seemed quite humble and hardworking. Despite the language barrier, we were able to chat and share some stories.

It took me some time to decide what to order … but for lunch, I ordered a whole grain bun – which you can pick up yourself in the front of the store – complete with chicken, Havarti cheese (yum!) and lettuce. It tasted great, although I was quite tempted to walk out with a piece of Heart Chocolate cake. It sure looked delicious, but I think I will save that for my next round at Taunton Bakery.


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While researching Taunton Bakery, I stumbled across some of the wedding cakes and desserts they’ve prepared. All beautiful and lovely pieces.

If you’re from the Durham Region and are looking for a quick bite to eat, or for some local catering, check them out. Drop by 133 Taunton Road West, or give them a call at (905) 723 – 6484. Be sure to tell them A Day in Durham sent you.


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Winter wonderland

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Yesterday, Toronto saw about 30 centimetres of snow. It was one of the biggest snowfalls we’ve had in years, and many residents in southern Ontario woke up to piles of the white stuff engulfing their vehicles, mounting their driveways and most of all, giving them a great excuse to take a day off work.

The windchill made it feel like almost -25C, and I tried my best to stay warm indoors. Luckily for me, Thursdays and Fridays are my days off. But this morning, I took a walk down the snowy pathways, and took a few photos to remember the storm, even though it had mostly dissipated.


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