We often judge a situation and decide whether or not we will ‘have a good time’ before we even give it a chance. The other night the weather looked quite miserable out, but I decided to push myself to go outside and take photos despite all of my pessimistic thoughts.

“It’s too dark out to take any decent pictures.”

“I don’t want to have to hold an umbrella.”

“My camera might get wet.”

“What if I get water droplets on the lens.” 

You get the picture! By ignoring the incessant chatter of negativity, I was able to go out and make the most of the night, and really appreciate and get excited about how surprisingly beautiful everything was. Stop coming up with excuses as to why things won’t work out, and just do. Be open, and let things magically unfold.

So the universe generously dropped a pair of free Arcade Fire tickets on my lap last weekend, and boy what a treat it was! Concerts on the island are always extra special, and although they were poorly organized I kind of miss the good ol days of V-fest.

My most favourite thing in the world is to experience live concert music. Give me really fantastic music, on a sweet summer evening, on a pretty little Toronto island and I am in heaven. Something magical happens on nights like these. The vibration of the music and the intensity of the lights sends shivers down the spine, and really brings you into the present moment. For me, this is when I feel most alive. Being able to share this kind of moment along with thousands of spectators really gives you a sense of community and oneness.

P.S. To the organizers, the delicious local vegetarian food options were greatly appreciated!

It is amazing what a leisurely stroll outdoors can do to energize one’s soul.

Nature is truly my favourite pick-me-up. Here are some photos of some friends and sights I met along the way. Today’s recommendation: get outside and enjoy the summer while it’s still with us!

I am so blessed to be living by the Toronto Harbourfront. For one, the lake invokes such a sense of calm and stillness. Sitting by the water is truly my favourite thing to do in the city and I was reminded this weekend that I really must do it more often!

During the summer months, the Harbourfront Centre is bursting at the seams with creative energy and inspiration. Each weekend showcases a different cultural festival offering endless possibilities from food sampling, to live music and dance. Where else can you drink young coconut milk, canoe in a 2 ft deep pond, learn to salsa, visit an art gallery, watch a concert and catch a flick all in one spot. 

Last weekend was the Hot & Spicy festival (one of my favourite annual events). I sampled hot sauces til my tummy ached, watched a cooking demo, and finished the day off with a screening of the film Black Gold. I highly recommend watching this one especially if you’re an avid drinker of coffee.

Lesson learned this weekend: It’s so easy to take for granted what we have available to us. It is so important to go out and enjoy and make the most of the abundance that surrounds us. I suggest that you go out and explore your immediate neighbourhood, wherever that may be. There is surely some hidden treasure waiting to be found right under your nose.