Sketching Nature

Hello Bird Lovers! Spring is finally beginning to wake up across Ontario, and after a long winter, there is no better time to get back outside and enjoy the excitement of migration. This is one of the most rewarding times of year for birders, as winter holdovers mix with the first fresh arrivals of the season. Every outing in early spring brings the possibility of something special, and that sense of anticipation is exactly what makes this time of year so much fun. On this trip, we’ll head east of Toronto for a full day of spring birding, exploring a variety of productive stops with excellent chances to see both early migrants and lingering winter birds. We’ll be watching and listening carefully for the first signs of the new season, always alert for whatever may have arrived in the days leading up to our outing. Early spring birding can be wonderfully unpredictable, and that is part of the adventure. One of our key targets will be at Cobourg Harbour, where a rare Tufted Duck has been present. This is a very unusual bird for Ontario and a great opportunity to potentially see a true rarity much closer to home. While searching the harbour, we should also enjoy good numbers of other waterfowl along the waterfront, making this an exciting stop regardless of what turns up. Bald Eagles are also a major highlight of this outing, and we should have an excellent chance of seeing a few of these magnificent birds as we travel through the area. Other species we’ll be hoping for include early spring arrivals such as Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, Song Sparrows, Fox Sparrows, Eastern Phoebes, and possibly Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers. We’ll also keep an eye out for some of the winter birds that may still be lingering before heading north, including American Tree Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos, Northern Shrikes, and perhaps even Barred Owl. Red-tailed Hawks will also be active at this time of year, and with luck we may see pairs together as the breeding season begins. Whether you are a seasoned birder or just getting started, this outing is designed to be fun, welcoming, and full of discovery. With only **3 guest spots available**, this will be a small-group experience with lots of personal attention, a relaxed atmosphere, and a great chance to enjoy some of the best early spring birding east of Toronto. Join us for a day of fresh air, great birds, and the thrill of seeing spring return. **What to Expect** Included - **Transportation provided from Finch Station**. Prime viewing locations carefully selected for the best sightings Expert guidance to help you spot and appreciate key species Frequent stops for photography, observation, and a break for lunch (bring your own) or we stop at Tim Hortons. Please note that due to the migratory nature of these birds, each trip is unique, and conditions can vary. Our local knowledge ensures an exceptional experience. Spaces are limited, so sign up today and join us for a spring adventure like no other! **Itinerary:** * Depart Finch Subway Station at 9:00 a.m. sharp. * Head east of Toronto for a day of birding. * Return to Toronto by 4:00 p.m. **Price:** $99.00 plus tax for a total of 112.00 Dollars for my guiding services only. **Important Details:** * Payment through Paypal or direct e-transfer to [torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com](mailto:torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com) **Note:** Let us know right away if you'd like to join us on this spring adventure! Come get wild with us and embrace the wonders of spring!

Join us for a cozy afternoon of stitching and creativity. In this Creative Sundays session, we’ll be working on a **small beginner-friendly crochet or knitting project (such as a chunky headband or coaster) that you can finish during the session and take home.** This is designed to be a relaxed, welcoming space where you can spend a few hours making something with your hands while enjoying a calm creative atmosphere. You’re welcome to: • join the guided project and create something small to take home • or bring a crochet or knitting project you’re already working on No prior experience is required, I’ll walk through the basics at the beginning and be around to help if anyone gets stuck. Whether you're experienced or completely new, you’re very welcome. ✨ What to expect • A relaxed, cozy atmosphere • A small guided project you can finish during the session • Time to stitch, chat, and create together 🧶 Materials Basic yarn, hooks, and knitting needles will be available for the guided projects. If you're bringing your own project, feel free to bring your own materials as well. 📍 Location Midtown Toronto (Yonge & Eglinton area) Exact address will be shared with confirmed attendees. 💛 Materials fee There is a **$25 materials fee** to participate in the session. Spots are confirmed once payment is received, as space is limited. Looking forward to a cozy afternoon of stitching together.

Intermediate to advanced men's 5X5 indoor basketball. First game free! Plz confirm in advance with me. Parking options available too.

**🏀 Drop-In Basketball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come shoot hoops, stay active, and connect with other players — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for **friendly, casual basketball** at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. Whether you're looking for a good run, some solid practice, or just a fun way to break a sweat, this drop-in session is for you! *** **🏀 Event Details:** 📍 **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) 🛑 **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive *** **🏀 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup **does not reserve your spot**. To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance through our system. 👉 **[Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=b6lXeYG)** 📞 **Or register by phone:** 416-924-6211 🔢 **Space is limited** to ensure quality play — once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. *** **🏀 Other Info:** • Basketballs are available for loan at the front desk with a $20 cash deposit and valid ID • All skill levels welcome — come ready to play and have fun • Games are self-organized with regular rotation for equal court time • Friendly, inclusive environment *** Come shoot, pass, dribble, and dunk your way into a great afternoon of basketball. We can’t wait to see you on the court!

🍽️ Breakfast Meetup Location: Saravaana Bhavan, Woodside Square Mall - McCowan Entrance, 1571 Sandhurst Cir Unit 153, Scarborough, ON M1V 1V2·3.8 km Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM What to expect: South Indian breakfast classics (dosas, idlis, vada, filter coffee) Easy conversation, no rush A relaxed start to the day — phones down, people present This is not a “grab-and-go.” This is a sit, savor, and connect kind of breakfast. 🚗 Transition Time 12:00 – 12:30 PM Wrap up breakfast Short drive to Rouge National Urban Park Carpool if possible (always boosts bonding points) 🥾 Nature Walk / Hike Location: Rouge National Urban Park Time: 12:30 – 2:00 PM (flexible) Hike details: Easy, beginner-friendly trails Forest paths, river views, fresh air Walk-and-talk pace — not a bootcamp What to bring: Comfortable shoes Water bottle icers Light layer (Rouge can feel cooler under the trees) Vibe: Grounded. Unhurried. The kind of walk where conversations deepen naturally — or silence feels just as good.

* **Discover the creative power of Soul to enrich your life.** * **Learn how to tap into your innate creative talents--God's gift to you.** (ONTARIO PROVINCIAL ECK Light & Sound Service - Hybrid event) [Eckankar Ontario Spiritual Events](https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario-spiritual-events.html) [Eckankar Free Books](https://www.eckankar.org/freebook/wisdom/) "Creative people who cherish the gift of life often slip into the secret chambers of the creative mind. Their solutions are well-rounded, more sensible than those of people who rely solely upon reason as their mainstay. Gratitude unseals fountains of creativity, because a grateful person is relaxed. This allows him to take stock of these circumstances with an objective mind. A creative person often gets three-dimensional answers to his problems." —Harold Klemp, *The Language of Soul*, p. 66 You are warmly invited to the Provincial ECK Light and Sound Service which you can attend **online** or **in person**. Date and time: **Sunday, March 15, 2026** **10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m** Please note: All the ECK Light and Sound Services in 2026 will be hybrid (In-person and on Zoom) with the in-person portion held at: **York University Glendon Campus, Centre of Excellence, York Hall A, Room YH A002, 2275 Bayview Ave, North York, ON M4N 3M6.** Please stay for light refreshments afterward. To attend online by Zoom and see the upcoming events: [https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario](https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario/zoom/) It will take you directly to the Ontario ECKANKAR page where you will find the Zoom link and call-in numbers. The Zoom link allows for up to 300 attendees and will be active at 10:15 a.m. **ECK Light and Sound Services** are a wonderful way for anyone to experience: * **the Sound and Light of God** * **the [HU](https://www.eckankar.org/experience/hu-the-sound-of-soul/) (a love song to God)** * **the inner guide known as the Mahanta** Come and hear about others' adventures of walking the spiritual path, on the road home to God, as well as original creative arts. You will have the opportunity to experience a simple spiritual exercise that can open your heart to live to your fullest potential. You are welcome to invite seekers, family and friends to attend. *If the region or country you live in forbids you from attending this spiritual event, please follow the laws of your home country.* These are free events; however, your donations are most gratefully received! You can leave your donation in the donation bowl on the table OR send your e-transfer donations, using online banking to: [provincialdonations8093@gmail.com](mailto:eckontdonations@gmail.com). Please stay for light refreshments afterwards. To learn more about spirituality, here are a few resources: · [Spiritual Adventure](https://www.eckankar.org/eck-soul-adventure-magazine) Magazine · *[ECK Soul Adventure](https://www.eckankar.org/ebooklets) eBooklets* · [HU ](https://www.eckankar.org/experience/hu-the-sound-of-soul/#huapp)App · [Eckankar Soul Adventure Podcast](https://www.eckankar.org/podcasts/) · [Discover Eckankar and Advanced Spiritual Living](https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001wdetsToXHUuR0qMb4Q6Jbn9NsVsjeGGv9-pv3zeN5OJIPvDhF1JBeIKusW1USqWw1Zp1ZaTnQ2RhVdFiFR40cVWLJP69hwDJ6gkdu5rdjrHK5ObZ_tis6cbANWZbNVk8wg0JtH1bJjx9dHaeOUj0-Q==&c=waEPfx7zdz0PenP4PzCIxF7D6_bctEUp7HtZ4PABLxdcfU32QqrKhA==&ch=9rbFp1H_WsWh30zsiD-UiviJOyeYlHNExu3S_FmLkW30Rt5s5OD87Q==) Video *Graphics courtesy of* [Eckankar](https://www.eckankar.org/)*, The Path of Spiritual Freedom* Sponsored by Eckankar Canada in Ontario

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hike-mount-nemo)** ***Mount Nemo, one of the most popular scenic spots in the GTA, offers breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment while being conveniently close to the city.*** Despite its proximity, the area feels beautifully removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As we hike along the ancient limestone formations that shape the escarpment, we’ll be on the lookout for *Eastern Cedars*, some of the oldest living trees in the world. This is a fun 7 km hike that's accessible but super interesting — you'll feel truly connected with the escarpment as you walk through cracks in the rock and alongside ancient forest that goes all the way to the cliff edge. On this hike you can expect: \- Ancient cedar trees \- Sweeping panoramic views \- Dramatic escarpment ridge formations \- Scramble up rocks & wooden ladders **Depending on snow levels we may be required to use snowshoes or ice spikes. We have a limited quantity available that you can grab at check-out. Ice spikes are free to borrow and snow shoes can be rented for a small fee.** **Highlights** **Scenic hike -** Walk through some of Ontario's oldest forests and enjoy the varied terrain and ecology. **Local mountain -** Only 45 minutes west of Toronto, Mount Nemo is the perfect accessible hike for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and people who want to just dip their toes in what Ontario nature has to offer. **Panoramic escarpment views -** Once at the top of Mount Nemo, enjoy some beautiful views. **Event cost: $40+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hike-mount-nemo)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

**Note:** this is a hybrid (in person AND online) event and will be followed at **12 noon** by a recorded talk and interactive discussion: **“Fulfill Your Potential as Soul” a talk by Sri Doug Kunin, a God-Realized Spiritual Teacher”** ***Please join us.*** **ONTARIO PROVINCIAL ECK Light & Sound Service - Hybrid event**) · **Find new attitudes and practices for navigating unexpected changes** · A**waken your creative ability to solve problems and grow spiritually.** “Often people are afraid to follow their inner guidance. It sounds like such a foolish thing to do, especially if they have to face other people and explain why they are doing what they are doing. Yet showers of love rain down upon us simply because we are Soul, a divine spark of God. Its Voice, which showers the love, is the pure Light and Sound.” —Harold Klemp, ECK Wisdom on Inner Guidance, p. 5-6 You are warmly invited to attend the Provincial ECK Light and Sound Service **online** or **in person**. Date and time: **Sunday, March 15, 2026** **10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m** Please note: All the ECK Light and Sound Services in 2026 will be hybrid (In-person and on Zoom) **In-person** **York University Glendon Campus, Centre of Excellence, York Hall A, Room YH A002, 2275 Bayview Ave, North York, ON M4N 3M6.** Please stay for light refreshments afterward. **online by Zoom** [https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario](https://www.eckankarcanada.ca/ontario/zoom/) It will take you directly to the Ontario ECKANKAR page where you will find the Zoom link and call-in numbers. The Zoom link allows for up to 300 attendees and will be active at 10:15 a.m. **An ECK Light and Sound Services** is a wonderful way to experience: · **the Sound and Light of God** · **the [HU](https://www.eckankar.org/experience/hu-the-sound-of-soul/) (a love song to God)** · **the inner guide known as the Mahanta** Come and hear about others' adventures of walking the spiritual path, on the road home to God, as well as original creative arts. You will have the opportunity to experience a simple spiritual exercise that can open your heart to live to your fullest potential. You are welcome to invite seekers, family and friends to attend. If the region or country you live in forbids you from attending this spiritual event, please follow the laws of your home country. These are free events; however, your donations are most gratefully received! You can leave your donation in the donation bowl on the table OR send your e-transfer donations, using online banking to: [[provincialdonations8093@gmail.com](mailto:provincialdonations8093@gmail.com)]([mailto:eckontdonations@gmail.com](http://mailto:eckontdonations@gmail.com/)). To learn more about **Eckankar, *the Path of Spiritual Freedom***, here are a few resources: · [Spiritual Adventure](https://www.eckankar.org/eck-soul-adventure-magazine) Magazine · [ECK Soul Adventure](https://www.eckankar.org/ebooklets) eBooklets · [HU ](#huapp)App · [Eckankar Soul Adventure Podcast](https://www.eckankar.org/podcasts/) · [Discover Eckankar and Advanced Spiritual Living](https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001wdetsToXHUuR0qMb4Q6Jbn9NsVsjeGGv9-pv3zeN5OJIPvDhF1JBeIKusW1USqWw1Zp1ZaTnQ2RhVdFiFR40cVWLJP69hwDJ6gkdu5rdjrHK5ObZ_tis6cbANWZbNVk8wg0JtH1bJjx9dHaeOUj0-Q==&c=waEPfx7zdz0PenP4PzCIxF7D6_bctEUp7HtZ4PABLxdcfU32QqrKhA==&ch=9rbFp1H_WsWh30zsiD-UiviJOyeYlHNExu3S_FmLkW30Rt5s5OD87Q==) Video Graphics courtesy of [Eckankar](https://www.eckankar.org/), The Path of Spiritual Freedom

🍀 St. Patrick’s Weekend Party – Toronto 🍀 Let’s celebrate St. Patrick’s weekend with music, dancing, and great vibes! St. Patrick’s Day celebrates Irish culture, and people wear green for good luck. 📍 Oria Nightclub 220 King St West, Toronto ⏰ 10:00 PM – 4:00 AM | Saturday, March 14 🎟 Tickets: Eventbrite price is $23, but we have limited $10 tickets. E-transfer $10 to mech.mandeep@gmail.com and text me to receive your ticket. 👗 Dress code: Wear green 🍀 🔗 Event details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-patricks-weekend-party-get-lucky-toronto-tickets-1984195124029?aff=erellivmlt Looking forward to seeing you all — it’s going to be a fun night! 😍 Feel free to message if you have any questions.

Join your community of fellow Intuitives and MBTI nerds for a casual evening of engaging conversation. We get together every second Sunday – with a mix of regulars and new friends. There is no fee to attend, though we ask that you support the venue by ordering something to eat or drink. **Feel free to contact event host B. via Facebook/Meetup messenger, or text/call 416-712-8635 for directions**. About the venue: The Pint Public House Nearest Subway: Union Station Map / Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G5GfXDSQXeifJ5ot5 We make an effort to find pubs that are quiet and introvert friendly, with a section to ourselves. We make no effort to muffle our extroverts, but should they get out of hand, our resident INTJ will use their death stare, to pull them back in line.

WE ARE SOLD OUT! Natural light portraiture studio workshop, hosted at Toronto's deluxe interior studio, Marlowe Studio. Nestled within the historic charm of the old Toy Factory Building in Leslieville, Toronto, our luminous, all-white studio stretches across a generous expanse of 700 sq. ft. of furnished space. The goal of the workshop is to provide a great opportunity for photographers of any skill level to explore the space and create quality content. No prior photography knowledge of any level is required. \- 4 registrants per session \- 100 minutes of shoot time \- Model will be exactly as shown in promotional material \- An instructor will be present to provide help and guidance

Welcome to the first Park Club of 2026! Drake Khazal has recommended Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve in Loudon County, saying "It's not a very demanding hike because it's mostly flat land, so it's a nice leisurely stroll. Also lots of water and open meadow, when I was there lots of wild flowers but since we'll be heading there in mid march and it'll still be a bit cold they may only just be starting to pop up out of the soil. Also it's a nature preserve so lots of wildlife we may not get a chance to see elsewhere in NoVa, assorted birds and even some larger fauna (if we're lucky but they're very shy)" As in the past, we'll be meeting up and taking a look around, walking a trail, and enjoying nature and conversation. A nice chill activity for anyone to join whether you are a member of CCAN, a passionate environmentalist, or simply a person who loves nature. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Let’s hang out and journal together, trade stationary and stickers, and have a good time! Please note, we do not have a reservation, so we will do our best to find some good spots when we get there.

Join us for a calm and cozy afternoon of creating together at Oakton Library. This is a relaxed social art meetup, not a class. No instruction, no pressure. Just time to focus, draw, paint, and connect. We’re keeping this one intentionally small: **Maximum 10 seats** for a more intimate creative space. 🗓 First Saturday of every month 🕐 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM 📍 Oakton Library *** ✨ **What to Expect** This is quiet, focused art time with light conversation. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced artist, you’re welcome. You’re free to come late or leave early. *** 🖌 **What to Bring** Bring any materials you enjoy working with. Keep setups clean and easy for a shared public space. Suggested items: * Sketchbook or loose paper * Pencils, pens, markers, crayons * Small watercolor or gouache setup * iPad or tablet * Crochet, journaling, calligraphy — any quiet creative work is welcome Please avoid messy materials or anything with strong odors. *** 📌 **Important** Seats are limited to 10. Please RSVP to reserve your spot. If you RSVP and can’t make it, let us know so someone else can join.

**Regular Garden admission and memberships apply.** | Ages 5 & under | Free | | -------------- | ---- | | Age 6 - 17 | $5.00 | | Age 18 - 59 | $9.00 | | Age 60 and over | $5.00 | **We will meet at the visitor center.** **Bring Water, a tripod, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards** **There is no specific route in this park. Folks are free to wander around the trails in the park at their own pace.** **Check out Rob Trek's video from May 16, 2021: [https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y](https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y)** **For lunch, after the field trip around 12:00 PM, we will head to The Virginian Restaurant, 169 Glyndon St SE, Vienna, VA 22180** Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Beauty, conservation, education, and discovery flourish throughout the year at this 95-acre complex of large ornamental display gardens and unique native plant collections. Walking trails, lakes, more than twenty varieties of cherry trees, irises, peonies, an extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms, and foliage create a sanctuary of beauty and nature. https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/ By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.