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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Oh Canada

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I hope everyone had a great Canada Day. I just got around to posting my photos tonight. I actually worked most of the day, but by 6 p.m., I was long gone and on my way to Pickering. That’s where the city put on a pretty cool holiday event with musicians Fefe Dobson and Jesse LaBelle, along with other local entertainment.

To say the least, the afternoon ended up being really awesome; an old high school friend showed up, a few best friends came, and even their friends stopped by. So by dusk, we had a nice group of proud Canucks watching the grand ol’ fireworks display. Oh, how I love this red & white CANADIAN day!


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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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A relaxing long weekend

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While everyone has probably made it up to the cottage by now, I’m spending the long weekend working. Yes, that’s right. Working. But it’s okay with me. The weather is beautiful, and I do have a few things on my agenda – besides work – this weekend. On Sunday, my friend Matt will be celebrating his 27th birthday in style with a party in Whitby; and on Monday, I hope to catch up with Amandla – one of my workaholic best friends. Let’s just say, I’m thrilled we’ve finally found some time to hang out. So I guess all-in-all, the next few days do have their positives.

Granted when I am busy at work, looks like my little man is spending his afternoons relaxing and soaking up the sun at the backdoor. Oh, how puuurfect. 😉


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