Memoir Writing

Struggling with motivation and focus as you hammer away on your manuscript at home? Want to join a community of writers as we embrace the joys and pains (mostly pains) of writing together? Bring your laptop, pen & paper, old-school typewriter, or futuristic writing gadget, and join an enthusiastic community of science fiction and fantasy writers as we work on our current projects in the same space. The format will be similar to our online writing sprints: 30-minute blocks of focused, quiet writing time (the sprints), interspersed with breaks where we can chat, ask questions, and share our writing experiences.

We are now at **Yonge Sheppard Centre** in the **food court** near **Dazzle Mi**. We start a bit past 1pm, so if you're late, please find a seat and start writing -- we'd love to hear about your story or your day -- afterwards. :) **Coworking for writers in your area!** Join us for some focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in your area. When you show up, say hello to everyone, grab a drink, and get your writing tools ready. Once you’re all settled, take some time to chat with your fellow writers. Once everyone’s arrived, I will lead quick introductions and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. Afterward, we’ll have time to chat and get to know each other. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers. If you don’t have time to stick around, no worries! **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Travel / Parking info:** Public Transit: 1. Take the TTC subway to Sheppard-Yonge Station. 2. Use the Yonge St. Sheppard Ave exit **Driving & Parking:** Parking Entrance to Yonge Sheppard Centre is located on Greenfield Avenue and Doris Avenue. Accessible parking is available on P1, P3 and Concourse. Be sure to check for parking limits or fees. **Location:** We gather around the tables in the food court near **Dazzel Mi**. If you spot a group of people with laptops out, that’s probably us! **RSVP:** Please do RSVP. But be advised that seating is first-come, first-served, even if you have RSVP'd. Seats are not reserved and we can't control how many other people are in the cafe. **SCHEDULE:** 12:45 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in -- come in early if you want to get lunch. 1:15 to 2:15 PM: Write in silence for an hour. \*\*If you arrive after 1:15, please silently find your own place to sit. We'll welcome you to join the group at 2:15.\*\* 2:15 PM: Introduce yourself. We'll go in a circle; just say your name and 1–2 sentences about what you're writing. (E.g., "I'm Rudolph and I'm writing a non-fiction book about red-nosed reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Explorer Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** We have an amazing "Lecture on the Go" series for 2026. New topics and fascinating stories abound! Join us and learn about the world and keep active and warm during the winter months! I started this walking classroom when we were under that horrible cloud called Covid. This series was popular and helped people get out and back into society and life. The series is back for 2026 with 6 new topics for exploration over the winter and spring months. The "Lecture on the Go" Series is open only to members who have purchased the YEARLY MEMBERSHIP PASS, it's free for those members. If you wish to attend a lecture and you are not a yearly pass member then the price **per** lecture is $20.00. This third lecture is focussed on the History of Northern Ontario, a place most don't know too much about, and that's a shame. Northern Ontario is a place of pure magic. Let's take a closer look at this fascinating subject. Long before maps or borders, or places like Cobalt or North Bay even appeared, Indigenous peoples lived with the land, traveling and followed the seasons. Lakes were highways, canoes were cars, and everything you needed came from knowing the land. When Europeans showed up, they didn’t so much “discover” the North as wander. Business was first to get a notice. Canoes loaded with beaver pelts, trading posts popped up, and suddenly Northern Ontario was connected to Europe. Things sped up fast once railways arrived in the 1800s. Trains unlocked forests, minerals, and new towns were built. Places like Sudbury and Thunder Bay grew — nickel, timber, grain — and people followed jobs wherever they appeared. It was rugged, noisy, and a little chaotic, but it worked. Today, Northern Ontario is a world unto its own. Its big skies, long drives, and communities know how to adapt. The past is still there — in the land, the towns, and the stories — but the North doesn’t dwell on it. It just keeps going, and it's up to us as Canadians to understand. Topics upcoming in the 2026 series of lectures are as follows. We are a little behind but catching up. \*Dante; The Hidden Meaning Behind The Divine Comedy \*Philosophy 1: Great Minds of the Western World: Goethe to Kant! \*Philosophy 2: Great Minds of the Eastern World: Chuang Tzu to Dalai Lama Hope to see you on this "Lecture on the Go!" So book your plans now! This event is for all levels and walkers, there are a few steps here and there to navigate, but mostly on one level. This event in a non walking event. The lecture begins on the steps of Old City Hall at the northeast corner of Bay Street and Queen Street West and head into the PATH. This lecture event has a ticket price of $20.00 per person, and is **free with the yearly membership pass**. Hope to see you there! \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Explorer Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** The beloved CNE started out as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition in 1879 and has been an icon ever since. But the history of the CNE dates back to the mid 1800s when the Provincial Agricultural Association set up the first exhibition in 1846 here in Toronto. The "Fair" was an Upper Canada fair and moved from one place to another for the first 30 years until the permanent exhibition was established in Toronto. Seen as a mini world's fair the Industrial Exhibition changed the name in 1912 to the Canadian National Exhibition, as was known as the "People's University." The buildings were considered the most beautiful exhibition buildings on the continent. In 1906 the Crystal Palace burned to the ground and the current horticultural building built on the site. The architecture tells its own story of Toronto and what Torontonians thought about their city. Pride in Toronto, and all that it achieved was on display for all to see during the CNE days in late August. Learn about the history and the ups and downs of the "showplace of the nation." This walk is for all walkers and all skill levels. Please dress for the weather and bring water. Please meet on the south side of Springhurst and Dufferin Street, just north of the TTC loop. This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person. \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket price when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

For April, we'll read Cranford by Elizabeth Gaskell 257 pages First published in 1853 About the book: Cranford depicts the lives and preoccupations of the inhabitants of a small village - their petty snobberies, appetite for gossip, and loyal support for each other in times of need This is a community that runs on cooperation and gossip, at the very heart of which are the daughters of the former rector: Miss Deborah Jenkyns and her sister Miss Matty, But domestic peace is constantly threatened in the form of financial disaster, imagined burglaries, tragic accidents, and the reapparance of long-lost relatives. to Lady Glenmire, who shocks everyone by marrying the doctor. When men do appear, such as 'modern' Captain Brown or Matty's suitor from the past, they bring disruption and excitement to the everyday life of Cranford.

Event by Recovery Without Borders Location: 32 Cranfield Rd, Toronto, ON M4B 3H3 Charity Art Auction – Heavy Hues, Together in Colour is a daytime, alcohol‑free art and music event in East York, bringing together original artwork, live performances, curated fashion, and local vendors under one roof. Discover: \- A charity art auction with original pieces from Toronto‑area artists \- Live acoustic sets throughout the afternoon \- Curated fashion and accessories plus select vendors A special functional mocktail bar from DNA Drink Solutions (12–2 PM) serving crafted alcohol‑free drinks Proceeds help support participating artists, core event costs, and The Gatehouse, a local community organization offering peer‑based support and programs. 🎨 Full event details, artist lineup, and schedule: https://recoverywithoutborders.org/heavy-hues-together-in-colour 🎟 Tickets (free, pay‑what‑you‑can, and supporter options): https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/charity-art-auction-heavy-hues-together-in-colour-sunday-april-26th-toronto-live-music-and-substance-free Sunday, April 26, 2026 12:00–6:00 PM (DNA Drinks 12:00–2:00 PM) 32 Cranfield Rd, East York (Toronto) Come browse, bid, listen, and explore—while supporting local creators and a thoughtful, substance‑free community space. 🔗 https://linktr.ee/recoverywithoutborders 📧 Email: Toronto@recoverywithoutborders.org Be sure to check our May event: https://www.facebook.com/events/816740714a807447 #HeavyHuesTogetherInColour #ArtAuctionForChange #ArtForMentalHealth #TraumaInformed #ChildhoodSexualAbuseAwareness #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryWithoutBorders #TheGatehouse #SoberEvents #AlcoholFreeToronto #SupportLocalArtists #ExpressiveArts #ArtHeals #CommunityCare #EndTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #TorontoEvents #CharityEvent #NonProfit #LiveMusic

We changed the world! 🤞 Time to celebrate!

🏙️🍔 LIBERTY VILLAGE, STACKT MARKET & THE WELL WALK 🍔🏙️ Old Industry, New Energy & A Food Hall Finish Some parts of Toronto have completely reinvented themselves — and walking through them feels like watching the city evolve in real time. This is a brand new walk — the first time we’re doing it — and it’s all about exploring three very different (and very cool) pockets of the west end. We’ll start in Liberty Village, once an industrial zone filled with factories and rail lines, now transformed into a buzzing neighbourhood of condos, creative spaces, and local energy. You can still feel the history in the brick buildings — it’s just been given a whole new life. From there, we’ll head to Stackt Market, a unique outdoor market built from shipping containers, full of pop-up shops, art, and ever-changing vendors. We’ll finish at The Well, one of Toronto’s newest and most talked-about developments, where we’ll settle into the food hall for a relaxed lunch together. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social walk — a mix of city exploration, light storytelling, and discovering places together. 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) *** 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll meet at Wendy’s at King & Dufferin and begin our walk into Liberty Village, wandering through its streets and getting a feel for the neighbourhood. From there, we’ll make our way over to Stackt Market to explore, browse, and take it all in. Afterward, we’ll continue toward The Well, where we’ll wrap up the walk and grab lunch in the food hall. There are lots of options, so everyone can find something they like. You’re welcome to stay and eat or head out whenever you like. *** 🌦️ Weather & Expectations This walk will happen in typical spring weather — sun, wind, or light rain. As long as it’s not extreme conditions, we’ll be going ahead. Dress in layers and come prepared — this is April in Toronto. Comfortable shoes are recommended. Also — since this is our first time doing this route, we’ll be exploring it together a bit. That’s part of the fun. And as always — this is NOT a guided or historical tour. It’s about being social and enjoying the experience. *** 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: I will be waiting outside of Wendy’s at King & Dufferin 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 11:00 AM I will only wait 5 minutes. Early is on time. On time is late. We’ll head out promptly, so please plan ahead. End Point: The Well (Food Hall) *** 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** This helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 *** 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes A small snack (optional) Weather-appropriate clothing (layers + rain-ready ☔) Optional: cash/card for lunch Please also use the washroom before arriving, as stops are limited. *** 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. *** REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. *** 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com Come for the contrast. Stay for the food. Leave feeling like you experienced three different Torontos — all in one walk. 🏙️✨

**Want to help bring your city’s community together?** We’re looking for local hosts to organize small group lunches, evening drinks, mixers, movie get-togethers and curated experiences. **No experience necessary,** just a friendly attitude, some local knowledge, and a willingness to meet a few new people. After each event, we’ll send a short feedback form so we can improve and support you. The host will also be able to provide feedback so we can learn what worked and what didn't. **[Click here](https://form.questionscout.com/6926c9ab87a828a5c11a79fc)** to apply and get started: if you’re selected, we’ll reach out for a quick screening call.

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

Let’s meet and share our thoughts about Carson McCullers’ novella, The Ballad of The Sad Café.

**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**

**Let’s catch up and take an afternoon break.** **Grab a coffee or snack and let’s chit chat! Gayle and I will bring adult coloring books and/or a simple craft if you’d like to unwind and relax.😊**