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.

Treat mom to a night of laughter, cocktails, and brutally honest comedy at Moms Gone Mild—a cheeky twist on the wild side of motherhood. This Mother's Day, celebrate with us at this stand-up showcase! We are featuring four hilarious comedians who are not only seasoned performers but also moms who've seen it all, survived it (mostly), and are ready to tell you about it. From sleepless nights to questionable parenting choices, from school drop-offs to existential crises in the grocery aisle—nothing is off-limits. Whether you're a mom, have a mom, or just need a night out, this show delivers big laughs with a side of real-life truth. Grab a drink, bring your friends, and treat yourself (and mom) to a comedy show that proves motherhood doesn't mean mild—it just means funnier. Tickets are limited, so grab yours now and avoid the last minute rush! Anjelica Scannura (Headliner) Anjelica Scannura is a Toronto-based comedian known for her sharp wit, bold storytelling, and unapologetic takes on motherhood, marriage, and modern life. A regular on large comedy stages across Canada, she has built a loyal following with her high-energy performances and brutally honest humor. Diana Barbosa Diana Barbosa is a dynamic comedian whose warm, relatable style draws audiences in before hitting them with unexpected punchlines. As a mom, she brings a fresh and hilarious perspective on family life, cultural expectations, and the daily balancing act of trying to keep it all together. Silvi Santoso Silvi Santoso blends clever observations with a laid-back delivery that sneaks up on you in the best way. Her material often explores parenting, relationships, and the quirks of everyday life through a unique lens shaped by her experiences. Janice Israeloff Janice Israeloff brings a sharp, witty voice to the stage with comedy that's smart, self-aware, and delightfully candid. As a mom, she isn't afraid to poke fun at the realities of parenting, aging, and everything in between. Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/moms-gone-mild-a-mothers-day-comedy-show-tickets-1987648737881

What Can We Do? And What Is Already in Motion? The second gathering of Auravista Movement is an opportunity for a collective conversation about Auravista’s path, the projects currently taking shape, and the role each of us can play in building connection, awareness, hope, and meaningful action. In this gathering, we will reflect on a central question: in today’s world, amid crises, distance, and collective exhaustion, what can we do as human beings, artists, parents, educators, social activists, or simply as concerned individuals? Given the current situation in Iran and the Middle East, part of this gathering will focus on this specific point: how we can create spaces for dialogue, solidarity, awareness, and human-centered action in the face of exhaustion, indifference, and fragmentation. We will also take a closer look at the projects and ideas that are already in motion within Auravista, and the possibilities for participation, collaboration, and future involvement. This gathering is open to anyone interested in culture, art, peace, awareness, education, children, the future, and building meaningful human connections. Date: Sunday, May 10, 2026 Time: 2:00–4:00 PM Location: Richmond Hill Central Library Admission: Free Registration: Required To attend, please register through the link https://auravistamovement.com/join-auravista/ Auravista Movement A space for turning hope into connection, awareness, and action.

## Details Our hike leader is Gadi Prager From the website... * [TommyThompson](https://www.hphc.ca/TommyThompson01.html) \-\- description of hike with driving instructions * [Schedule Spring 2025](https://www.hphc.ca/schedule.html) * [What to Bring](https://www.hphc.ca/WhatToBring.html) \-\- on a hike * [Hiking Etiquette](https://www.hphc.ca/HikeEtiquette.html) * [Taking Photos](https://www.hphc.ca/Photos.html) * [Après Hike](https://www.hphc.ca/ApresHike.html) Hello Hikers (and those currently questioning our identity), This coming Sunday, May 10th, we are trading our vertical inclines for horizontal velocity. We’re "walking" more than "hiking." What’s up with that, you ask? Think of it as a strategic recovery mission at a brisk pace. We’re tackling the Leslie St. Spit, formally known as Tommy Thompson Park. Fun fact: Tommy is world-renowned for the phrase “Please Walk on the Grass,” so feel free to rebel by staying on the path—or don’t. He’d want you to live your best life. **The Mission** This is a classic 11 km out-and-back journey to the lighthouse. It’s paved, level, and straighter than a ruler, with unpaved "finger trails" for those who have an itch for the scenic route. Navigation Warning: It is virtually impossible to get lost unless you decide to swim to St. Catharines or the Island Airport. If you plan on stowing away in the cargo hold of a jet to the Caribbean, please let me know by the 5 km mark so we don’t count you as "missing." **The Scenery** Far from a boring stroll, the views are spectacular—pure "Kodak moment" territory for the shutterbugs among us. As a nature reserve, the park is teeming with locals, including Marty the Mink. You’ll have Lake Ontario on one side and the iconic Toronto skyline on the other. It’s basically a 360-degree flex. **The Details** Runners: You are more than welcome to "Run, Forrest, Run" ahead of us. Trail runners are a solid choice if you want to explore the grit. Meeting Time: 10:00 AM sharp at the park entrance. Cost: $0.00. Free parking, free entrance, priceless memories. Transport: Carpooling is available for those who prefer to be chauffeured in style. "Champagne wishes and caviar dreams" (though you’ll have to provide your own Grey Poupon). Supplies: Bring water and lunch. Marty the Mink does not share his snacks. **Location**: 1-3 Leslie St. Toronto, ON M4M 3M9 The views for this walk are truly unbe-leaf-able. (Sorry, I had to). Looking forward to seeing everyone out there! Gadi Prager

You’re invited into a deeply nourishing and expansive experience this Mother’s Day—an opportunity to reconnect with your heart, your energy, and the wisdom within your body. This sacred gathering is rooted in the teachings of **Light Body Expansion**, working with the intelligence of **Life Force energy** and the multidimensional frequencies of **Light Language** to support profound healing, activation, and inner alignment. We begin with a ceremonial cacao journey—an ancient heart-opening medicine that softens the body and gently guides you into a state of receptivity. From this space, you’ll be guided through powerful Life Force activations designed to awaken your energy field, release stagnation, and restore natural flow within the body. Through Light Language transmissions, we move beyond the mind—working directly with your energetic system to activate remembrance, elevate your frequency, and support expansion on a cellular and soul level. This experience is not just something you attend—it’s something you feel, embody, and integrate. Held in a sacred and supportive container, this is your space to slow down, receive, and reconnect with the essence of who you are. Whether you are honoring yourself, your lineage, or the Divine Mother within, this journey invites you into deeper love, presence, and expansion. Come as you are. Leave activated, open, and aligned. [Book your spot here](https://lightbodyexpansion.com/class/5)

Make it a Mother’s Day outing at the movies with a musical double feature that’s equal parts sparkle and heart. Start with *Gold Diggers of 1933*, the ultimate backstage crowd-pleaser, featuring the famous Busby Berkeley production numbers that basically invented “movie musical spectacle.” Then settle into *Lili*, a tender, charming story set around a travelling carnival - a film that’s pure classic-Hollywood warmth. This is the film that introduced the hit song Hi-Lili, Hi-Lo! Two timeless films, one great afternoon, and a perfect excuse to go to the theatre! Purchase tickets here: https://paradiseonbloor.com/purchase/499557/

🎨🏙️ **GRADEX 111 – OCAD UNIVERSITY ART EXHIBITION & SOCIA**L 🏙️🎨 Emerging Artists, Creative Energy & A Cultural Hangout If you want to feel inspired, this is the kind of event that does it. Join us for GradEx 111 at OCAD University — Toronto’s largest free art and design exhibition, featuring work from over 800 graduating artists and designers. This is a chance to step into the next wave of creativity — exploring everything from painting and photography to design, installation, and experimental work, all in one space. It’s vibrant, it’s varied, and there’s always something that catches you off guard in the best way. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social outing — come explore, react, and experience it together. 👉 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) *** 🚶‍♂️ **What We’ll Do** We’ll meet outside and head into the exhibition together, spending about 1.5–2 hours exploring the different displays across the building. You’ll have time to move at your own pace, take it all in, and check out the wide range of disciplines on display. **There’s also:** 🎓 Student work available for purchase 🏅 A special medal-winning exhibition in the Great Hall 🛋️ An alumni lounge space Afterward, we’ll head out to find a nearby spot for drinks or food and keep the conversation going. You’re welcome to join or head out whenever you like. *** 🎨 Vibe & Expectations This is a relaxed, low-pressure event — no art expertise needed. Just: ✔️ Curiosity ✔️ Openness ✔️ A willingness to explore Also — this is NOT a guided tour. It’s about experiencing the exhibition in your own way, while being part of a social group. *** 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: Corner of Dundas St W & McCaul St (AGO side) 🫎 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 in promptly. End Point: Back at the starting location *** 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** The exhibition itself is free. This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 *** 🎒 **What to Bring** Water Comfortable shoes (we’ll be on our feet) Curiosity and an open mind 🎨 Optional: cash/card for food & drinks afterward *** 🌈 **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 art. Stay for the conversation. Leave feeling inspired by what people are creating right now. 🎨✨

Nordheimer ravine is relatively short but as with other midtown ravines like Cedarvale, it's well-used and surrounded by moneyed neighbourhoods. There are spectacular vantage points in the surrounding parks. This neighbourhood also has popular attractions like Wychwood Barns, Casa Loma, Spadina Museum, and a bunch of murals. I hope you like hills because there will be several of them. This hike is sandwiched by restaurant rows at St Clair Ave W and Dupont St. There isn't any standout cuisine but Dupont is home to a mini-empire of Middle Eastern restaurants. On St Clair Ave W are some of the best upper mid-range restaurants in Toronto for Italian, North Indian, and Persian cuisine. And possibly one of the best gelaterias in the city. There will be long lines at Bar Ape so come earlier if you want to get gelato there. **Highlights** 1. Bar Ape Gelato (depart 2:30 pm) 2. Pura Vida / Baker and Scone 3. Pink Ice Cream 4. Sea Witch / JABS 5. Wychwood Barns (depart 2:55 pm) 6. Hillcrest Park 7. Tollkeepers' Cottage 8. High Level Pumping Station 9. Nordheimer Ravine 10. St Clair Subway Station, south side of St Clair Ave W (depart 3:55 pm) 11. Sir Winston Churchill Park 12. Casa Loma (outside) 13. Spadina Museum (depart 4:35 pm) 14. The Backyard Smokehouse / Euphoria Cake 15. Roti Cuisine Of India (arrive 4:55 pm) **Neighbourhoods** Wychwood > Casa Loma > The Annex **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=16joz8-VYsQ8lr155TDonvYdkgl70iwI&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=16joz8-VYsQ8lr155TDonvYdkgl70iwI&usp=sharing) Uphill and downhill at Hillcrest Park, Nordheimer Ravine. Stairs at Winston Churchill Park and Casa Loma. **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to [globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.](http://globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.) No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

**Mother’s Day Cacao Ceremony & Light Body Expansion Activation** *Life Force + Light Language Experience* **May 10** This Mother’s Day, step into a sacred space of deep nourishment, activation, and expansion. This immersive experience is guided through the principles of **Light Body Expansion**, working with **Life Force energy** and **Light Language** to awaken your energetic field, open your heart, and support profound inner alignment. We begin with a ceremonial cacao ritual—an ancient, heart-opening practice that gently softens the body and invites you into a state of presence and receptivity. From this grounded space, you’ll be guided through Life Force activations that help clear energetic blockages, restore flow, and awaken vitality within your system. As the journey deepens, Light Language transmissions move beyond the mind—working on a cellular and energetic level to activate remembrance, elevate your frequency, and expand your light body. This is a space to slow down… to receive… to reconnect. A space where healing happens naturally, and expansion unfolds with ease. Whether you are celebrating yourself, honoring your lineage, or connecting to the essence of the Divine Mother, this experience invites you into deeper love, clarity, and embodiment. Come as you are. Leave feeling open, activated, and aligned. [Book your spot here ](https://lightbodyexpansion.com/class/5)

**An opportunity to serve the homeless and those at risk as a group.** During this session, we will be helping with preparing breakfast and serving. *We have a great time serving together, lots of good energy and smiles.* **Only 2 spots are available. If you sign up, please do so with the intention of attending, as the organization relies on our numbers for planning.** We will send a reconfirmation message closer to the date, and if any spots become available, we will reach out to those on the waiting list. When you arrive at Reception, the staff will guide you to the volunteer room, where you can place your belongings in a locker and meet the group. Before attending, please review and complete the Toronto Joy waiver form: [https://forms.gle/1fsK9vYz6b6yDdeBA](https://forms.gle/1fsK9vYz6b6yDdeBA) Below are simple guidelines from the Ministry on what to wear, safety, etc.: [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1piAyloECv9YUDkPJuoJBdCmh3x8n1un1rGvJSFIkbs4/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1piAyloECv9YUDkPJuoJBdCmh3x8n1un1rGvJSFIkbs4/edit?usp=sharing) Good to know: * Closed-toe shoes are required. * Tie back long hair; minimal jewelry. * Please arrive by **8:30 AM** at the latest so we can plan who will be doing which roles and begin together. If you can’t make it due to an emergency, please message me as soon as possible 🙏 Grateful to serve alongside you.

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!

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 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. 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:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. 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! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

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!

The topic for May is "Ink" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!