Thank You Neighbors

Toronto is a fast,fun and friendly city and is a relentless, ever changing, energetic, embracing , awe inspiring wonderful place. The population od Toronto proper is around 2.8 million so in terms of size it is bigger than Chicago. Just outside to the north and west of the city nestled between the 401 and Sheppard Ave, is a magical little place called West Lansing, where for the past two years we have called home.

The neighborhood is about 5 city block wide and 6 block long and in that space we had an incredible time. The families that we met invited us into their lives, showed us a part of Canada and we can only say thank you. The kids have made great friends, as have Tracy and I, we have been to Bar Mitzva's. birthdays, retirement and house warming parties and all of life celebrations (most importantly, not to be forgotten, 5th grade graduation!!) The open and inviting atmosphere really made this place special.

The kids had countless sleep-overs, we had a great many dinner parties and every morning we would have coffee at the comer and solve the world problems - it was home. The guys in the neighborhood would get together to help set up the Cameron School Fair, take the kids on a three day camping adventure, go out into he middle of a rain storm and help the neighbors who unfortunately had water in their basements, and during the ice storm went around door by door to make sure everyone was Ok. The women in the neighborhood would gather on a monthly basis and have a women's social night, get food and clothing to the local shelters, swap kids for play dates, create what was need to make sure the school Fair was a success and to make sure the kids in the neighbor had plenty to keep them happy.

This past weekend our friends Rod & Peggy threw us a going away party. It was a fun and bittersweet event that we are very grateful for. The kids friends were there as were most of our friends from the neighborhood, friends from Tom's cooking classes and a great time was had by all. Saying good-bye is the beginning of a new chapter and we will always remember the great time and experience we have had in Toronto. (see if you can find the photo bombing Mom in the photos below:)) Consider this our virtual hug to Canada Another milestone? Tracy now tears up when she hears 2 national anthems.... O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love in all thy sons command. With glowing hearts we see thee rise, The True North strong and free! From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. God keep our land glorious and free! O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.