Around 1:40pm this afternoon, a good part of the central portion of North America was subject to a 5.5 earthquake. The quake—which didn’t last for more than about 15 seconds where I was—had its epicentre just outside of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

It would probably be one of the only times in my life that I would have experienced an earthquake, since these are so rare around this part of the world.

Although it’s sad to say, I was actually a little disappointed that I didn’t feel a single shake, rattle, or roll. As it turns out, I was out on the streetcar coming back from my lunch when the quake struck without warning. Upon coming back to the office, my coworkers were all talking about the quake. Quake? What quake? I didn’t feel anything.

Apparently the quake was experienced as far west as Portland, Oregon (U.S.) and as far west as Quebec (Canada), and perhaps even beyond.

To my knowledge the only time I actually experienced an earthquake was some time in the 1980s when I was still a small child. I was asleep in bed, when I saw my entire room shake (upon waking up of course). This was back in Ottawa, so again, a quake was a rare experience.

So to this day, that experience remains my only earthquake experience. And yes, I am thankful for that.

I haven’t heard of much damage or injuries anywhere so let’s hope things stay that way.

Luminato

It’s that time of year again when the arts and creativity comes to Toronto. As a third year veteran volunteer to the festival, this year I opted to be a mentor to the newly minted photography program for the youths. I really didn’t know what I was getting myself into at the time of applying, but as it turns out, it’s quite fun. Seeing the kids so energetic and enthusiastic about photography and being able to impart your knowledge of the topic to them is quite satisfying. Seeing them learn based on what you’ve taught them is a gift in itself.

The first day, I had two shifts, each which brought me to two different places: Nelson Mandela Park Public School in the morning, right before it rained, and to Yonge Dundas Square in the evening for the latin dance party starring none other than INDIA, the leading lady of salsa and soul.

Two more shifts coming up this weekend, which will see me at Queen’s Park where the 1000 tastes of summer and a host of other free events will overtake the park grounds. Come join the fun if you’re in town!

When you come here on a bright, sunny day, you can’t help but soak in the sunlight coming from the floor-to-ceiling windows that actually open up to the sidewalk and street. It’s a nice place to sip a cup of tea or coffee, eat a fine pastry, and ponder on what life brings you. Or, if you’re not into that, then at the very least, you can enjoy the peacefulness that it brings within you.

To me, it’s a calming place no matter when I go. I suppose the light coloured decor opens and brightens the place up, even on overcast days. When it gets busy, you can still relax and enjoy yourself as if you’re in your own little world too.

Where is this place? Well, none other than Dessert Trends!