Memoir Writing

\*\*NOTE: This meetup currently lacks a regular host. (The current hosts are volunteers for online organizational purposes; they show up in person occasionally.) If you arrive and there is no host, don’t worry. Whoever is the longest-running member (or whoever wants to) can set the timer for the writing session. In this way, the meetup is self-sustaining, and not dependent on any one person. Thanks for your understanding.\*\* Join us for an hour of quiet writing, followed by an hour of (optional) socializing. \*\*SILENT WRITING BEGINS AT 1:15 PM. IF YOU'RE LATE, WELCOME! WE WILL IGNORE YOU (BECAUSE WE'RE BUSY WRITING) UNTIL 2:15 PM.\*\* This meetup is open to everyone, whether you’re writing a novel, blog, class paper, or journal entry—or something completely different. Anyone interested is welcome to attend :) LOCATION: 5 Elements Cafe, basement level RSVP: Please 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. We recommend coming down to the basement to grab a spot before you buy anything, just in case. SCHEDULE: 1:00 to 1:15 PM: Arrive and get settled in. 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 reindeer.") 2:20 PM onwards: Chill/leave. Chat, hang out, keep writing if you want, leave whenever.

Come join us at the lovely, well-lit, and cozy Theatre Centre Cafe for an hour and a half of silent writing (on whatever writing projects you will)! After silent writing is done, feel free to stay and chat or go as you please. If you are late you are welcome to join us (quietly and not disruptively). Please note this is a casual event, and we will NOT be critiquing each other’s work. **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: #TheTheatreCentre (no password, open access) Travel / Parking info: There is paid street parking as well as Green P underground parking located at 45 Abell St (2 mins walk from the venue) . Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

Hobbyists, new writers, published authors, and those aiming at publication are called to gather in friendship and love to create and share work, help each other improve with well-meaning, constructive feedback, and build a Christian community of male writers. Members may read up to 2,000 words from a piece of fiction or non-fiction. Those reading work must print copies sufficient for the number of members who RSVP. All those members attending must RSVP. Though never required, members are encouraged to provide written feedback on their handout of the piece and take a turn giving a verbal “hot take” after the reader has finished reading their work aloud. I encourage members to approach writing as we do our faith: strength in numbers. Though writing is often solitary, we take and give support in a fellowship setting and in time invite two or three men in the fellowship to be our special allies in achieving our own individual artistic goals. Beta readers, is another name for these chosen few. These men will work with you reciprocally outside of the group, reading longer drafts of your work than can be read in group sessions. You will support them as they do you. I'll moderate and host the group once a month for starters, and we will hope to grow to a weekly fellowship.

**Real Stories. Real Recovery. Second Chances.** On **Saturday, March 7 (12–5 PM)** we’re taking SLN offline and into the community at **32 Cranfield Rd, Toronto (M4B 3H3)** for a live event: **“Real Stories, Second Chances”** 💬❤️​ ✨ **What’s happening:** 🔹 16 short, powerful talks from people with lived experience of addiction, mental health, and recovery (15 minutes each) 🔹 Space to connect with others who “get it” 🔹 Artists, live music, and community partners invited 🔹 **Charity Second Hand Book & Used/New Clothing Sale** **(March 7–14)** in partnership with PagePickUp & Cost Liquidation, with a portion of sales donated to **The Gatehouse** 📚👕​​ This space is for you if you’re: 💛 In recovery (any stage) 💛 Sober‑curious 💛 Supporting someone you love 💛 A recovery professional or organization wanting to show up for the community 👉 **Recovery org or author?** We have limited **tables, speaking spots, and author book-signing opportunities** available on site. DM us or email for details.​ 📅 Saturday, March 7 🕛 12:00–5:00 PM 📍 32 Cranfield Rd, Toronto, ON M4B 3H3 🔗 Register / learn more: SoberLivingNetwork.org 📧 [Toronto@SoberLivingNetwork.org](mailto:Toronto@SoberLivingNetwork.org) Tag someone who needs to hear a real recovery story. Together, we grow stronger. 🔗 [https://linktr.ee/soberlivingnetwork](https://linktr.ee/soberlivingnetwork) 📧 Email: [Toronto@SoberLivingNetwork.org](mailto:Toronto@SoberLivingNetwork.org) 🔗 Registration: [https://SoberLivingNetwork.org](https://soberlivingnetwork.org/) 👥 Meetup: [https://www.meetup.com/toronto-sober-living-network](https://www.meetup.com/toronto-sober-living-network)

It's better when we're together. Come and experience the power of the WHM with a wonderful group of people. We breathe, we go into the cold and we teach our bodies to heat up properly. We develop resilience and the mindset to use these powerful healing tools over and over again, all year round. This gathering is fully guided by Wim Hof instructor Steve Beattie. If you are new to this, come on down, enjoy the support and practice in a safe way with us. If you already have a WHM practice this meetup is a great way to take it to the next level, and make lots of new friends. There will be a fire, snacks and drinks shared by other attendees. We have been doing this 6 for years! **What to bring?** * Yoga mat * Weather-appropriate clothing (better to dress too warm!) * Bathing suite, towel * Water shoes (optional) In extreme weather being prepared is very important. Especially if it's your first time, please read up on how to come prepared [here.](https://www.breathinginnature.com/wim-hof-method-meetup/) Learn more about our Wim Hof meetups, workshops, breath classes, wilderness trips, medicine work and special events at **[Breathing in Nature](https://breathinginnature.com/)**. Join the "**[Wim Hof Toronto](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1714218015474146/)**" group on Facebook to see all of our local events. This is a free event made possible by our Gift Economy. You can learn more about the Gift Economy [here](https://breathinginnature.com/gift-economy/).

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly 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 amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** This city has changed over the last few years. But what were the events that propelled the city in new ways, new avenues. This tour looks at the events that truly changed the city for good and some say for bad. Buildings have been erected and others torn down, but certain happenings in the city changed the path forward forever. And those events were viewed as monumental at the time. Today, we see the outcome of let's say Hurricane Hazel's fury, the development of our parkland. Or the building of the subway system in 1954. The first Great Fire, Christie Pits Riot, War of 1812, Constance Hamilton, Hurricane Hazel, and the creation of the Toronto Islands, all changed Toronto's destiny. But over time, those landmark stories have been forgotten. We need to bring them back and highlight them for the next generation! Let's get started! This tour explores the downtown area in great detail, and uncovers the stories that changed our impression of the city. This walking tour begins on the **steps of Old City Hall.** This walk is for all fitness levels. Please dress for the weather, and bring your love of history was well. This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! \*\* **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**

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.

I’m participating in a **48-hour short film challenge**, where a team has just two days to write, shoot, and finish a short film. This meetup is for anyone who wants to **experience the process of making a film from scratch**. You’re welcome whether you want to: • act in the film • help with filming or ideas • see how filmmaking works • or simply hang out and watch the creative process unfold Our style is **very indie** — small team, simple gear, and lots of creativity. Even if you’ve never been on a film set before, this is a great chance to **see how a movie comes together in real time**. Film lovers are very welcome. Location: Chaffe Coffee Corner 2060 Ellesmere Rd Toronto, ON M1H 2V6 Inside Lazeez Shawarma.

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly 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 amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** On a warm June day in 1985, Air India flight 182 left Toronto Pearson headed east for Montreal, London, and onward to India, with 329 passengers and crew. The flight never reached London. It was destroyed by a suitcase bomb over the north Atlantic Ocean off the shores of Ireland, resulting in one of the most complicated and politically sensitive investigation in recent Canadian history. Since a vast majority of the passengers were Canadians, this was the worst terrorist attack against Canadians in our history. The outcome divided families and shone a spotlight on wrong doing at all levels here and abroad. A fascinating story, but a tragic one for the victims. This tour looks at the story in detail and the fallout. This tour also examines the history of the Humber Bay Shores, and the historic Mimico Creek, or "where the passenger pigeons take flight." The area is a walkers paradise as it follows the shoreline for great picture taking moments as well. If you have not explored Mimico and the Humber shores, or new to Toronto, this walk is for you. The price of this tour is $15.00 per person! This extensive walking tour begins at the Humber Streetcar Loop on Lakeshore Blvd and the Queensway! We end the tour at Mimico Avenue in Mimico Village on Lakeshore Blvd West. \*\* **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**

🌸International Women’s Day Urban Hike🌸 Come join a special urban hike in celebration of International Women’s Day a day to honour the strength, resilience, and connection of women. Meet your fellow Toronto Hiking Moms and enjoy a relaxed walk through High Park, with space to connect, breathe, and move together. This will be a mom’s only event. No kiddos. We’ll begin at the entrance of High Park (Bloor St W & High Park Ave), make our way through the park, and pause for a short guided walking forest bathing meditation. From there, we’ll continue along Howard Park toward our final stop: The Commoner – 2067 Dundas St W Stay for lunch, a drink, or simply good conversation—whatever feels right for you. You are responsible for your own purchase of lunch/drink. ✨ Details: • Distance: \~4 km • All ages welcome • Optional lunch/social after the hike This is a beautiful opportunity to meet other women, build community, and get some fresh air and movement into your day. Not staying for lunch? No problem—you’re absolutely welcome to join just for the hike. Bring water, dress for the weather and come celebrate women with me. See you in the park. 🌸💙 Disclaimer: By attending Toronto Hiking Moms events, you accept all risks associated with outdoor activities and take full responsibility for yourself and your child(ren), if applicable. Toronto Hiking Moms is not liable for any injuries or damages. By marking “attending,” you agree to this disclaimer.

33 books, 5 large print, 33 ebooks, 5 audio

**DANFORTH WALK, BUTTERFLY MURAL & GREEK LUNCH️** Street Culture, Public Art & A Proper Greek Feast There’s something about the Danforth that feels like old-school Toronto in the best possible way — vibrant, layered, proudly local, and full of stories. Join us for a social walk along one of the city’s most iconic stretches: **Danforth Avenue**. As we stroll west toward downtown, we’ll pass lively patios, long-standing family restaurants, cozy cafés, independent shops, and the everyday rhythm of a neighbourhood that has shaped Toronto’s cultural identity for generations. This area is famously home to the annual **Taste of the Danforth**, one of the largest street festivals in the city — and historically, it was once home to the largest Greek community outside of Greece. You feel that history in the bakeries, the signage, the music drifting from open doors. It’s not just a walk. I t’s a little slice of Toronto heritage — experienced together. **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) \*\*\* The Butterfly Mural Stop Along the way, we’ll stop at the Butterfly Mural, sponsored by the **David Suzuki Foundation** as part of The Great Canadian Butterflyway Project. It’s bold, colourful, and rooted in environmental awareness — a reminder that even in the middle of the city, we are connected to something larger. We’ll pause, take photos, chat, and enjoy a little moment of art-meets-nature in urban Toronto. \*\*\* ️ Greek Lunch at a Danforth Institution After our walk, we’ll sit down for lunch at the historic **Astoria Shish Kebob House**, one of the most well-known Greek restaurants in the city. Expect: Classic souvlaki Lemon potatoes Fresh Greek salad Big, generous comfort food energy Menu: Click Here! Nothing bonds people like sharing a table and passing the tzatziki. \*\*\* ‍♂️ What to Expect We’ll walk at a relaxed, social pace — stopping to observe, chat, and enjoy the neighbourhood. The route will take us toward Danforth & Chester. You’re welcome to leave at any time. \*\*\* ❄️ Weather & Commitment Please don’t sign up if you’re not ready to walk in real winter conditions. This event happens rain, snow, or classic Toronto wind. The only exception: if temperatures reach -20°C, the event will be canceled. Bundle up — this one is for the walkers. ❄️ \*\*\* Meetup Details Meetup Location: Outside the station (exact station noted in event listing) I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 11:00 AM ❗ I will only wait 5 minutes Please arrive on time so we can begin together. End Location: Danforth & Chester \*\*\* Meetup Fee ️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! \*\*\* What to Bring * Water * Good winter boots * Gloves & hat * Something warm to drink * A small snack (optional) Layers are your best friend. \*\*\* Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether you’re single or not. We also host: Movies Walks & hikes Arts & culture ️ Restaurant outings …and lots of welcoming, low-pressure community gatherings. You’re always welcome. \*\*\* REMEMBER: You can just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes life happens and plans may need to shift — please keep an eye out for updates. \*\*\* Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the culture. Stay for the conversation. Leave full — in more ways than one. The Danforth has heart. Let’s go feel it together. ️✨

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!

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 Sunday 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 noon on Sundays. 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: 12:00 - quick intros. 12:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 1:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 1-1:30ish. 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. 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 Sunday!

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, March 25 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.

The topic for March is "Our Bodies, Ourselves" 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!

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!

**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!**