Canadian National Exhibition

To go or not to go? That is the question. Every year I go to the Ex and spend way too much money playing games, riding rides, shopping and of course eating. Once the day is over I feel so disappointed with the experience, maybe I'm being too picky but I never enjoy it fully as I once did. I remember the Skyride, The Flyer the free loot from the food building and long for my childhood. Some may say that I just need to let go and enjoy but even my niece and nephew who are at the age I remember enjoying the Ex the most don't have that same sparkle in their eyes when they go. I think the taking them is more for us rather than them. I remember not being able to sleep the night before because I couldn't contain my excitement in going. My brothers and I would sit up for most of the night planning our day out. With all this said every year my nostalgia gets the best of me and I return to the grounds of the Ex to the inevitable disappointment but yet every year I am drawn back by memories and curiosity. If anyone is going, try and have a great time and I'll see you there!!!

What's The Deal

A few days ago we started the process of looking for a new place to live. We love the apartment we are in, but the landlord....well he's not the best landlord ever. In looking for a new place I've noticed how few places will take cats and or dogs now. When did this happen? There are so many people with pets. Every time I walk out my front door I see people walking dogs or in the case of one neighbour his cat. In my building alone (3 apartments) there are two dogs, two cats and a few fish. So if there are all these pets and seemingly all these people who love them, why is there so many places that say NO PETS? I just don't get it, the last time I looked for a place less than three years ago this was not a problem at all. Where was I when this pet hatred started? Did I miss the memo? I guess I must have, well back to apartment hunting.

R.I.P.

Today the news of the passing of my old friend Robert James Crouse was confirmed. My heart goes out to his family and all those who loved him. It is such a tragic way for a life to end and I only wish that Robbie could have seen how his friends (both old and new) banded together in the search for him. I imagine that if he knew how many people cared about him and his well-being things may have turned out a little differently. Too bad that turning back the clock isn't a option. I hope that Robbie has peace with himself now wherever he may be. Rest in Peace old friend our hearts are with you.

Robert James Crouse

Ok, so it's been awhile. This post isn't good news but I'm putting out there because I know this guy, well I did know him. We went to school together many years ago and he probably won't remember me, but I remember him and I hope that Robbie as we used to call him will find his way home safe real soon. Robbie if by any chance you are reading this, there are people here who love you and are looking for you. Just drop someone a line and let them know that you are ok, even if you don't want to go back just let someone know.

Robert James Crouse was last seen leaving his home on Saturday July 18th at 2am in the Coxwell and Dundas area of Toronto. Robert is white, about 5'8" and roughly a 165 pounds. He has brown hair and blue eyes, he was last seen wearing green pajama like pants, a black sweater with a FedEx logo on it and roller blades. Robert normally wears glasses but did not have them on at the time he left his home. If you have any information as to his whereabouts please contact the Toronto Police 55 Division 416-808-5500 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS(8477), online at http://www.222tips.com/ or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). To all you Toronto bloggers out there please pass this along you can find all the information and picture at the Toronto Police Services website.