What I've been Up To Lately - April 2023

It's finally starting to feel like spring and we even had a veryyyyy nice week of summer-like weather that had everybody outside soaking up the rays - including me!

Food I ate

It's BBQ seson over here! So we are BBQ's our favourite sandwiches, Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Caesar-ish Dressing by Molly Baz, and eating the best vegan ice cream I've ever had from Honey's. Started by the same owner as Bunner's, Honey's ice cream is seriously next level, it's made with cashews as the base, and their Rocky Road is an absolute must-try. When I heard that Tandem Coffee was reopening after being closed since December 2022 due to damage to the shop I knew I had to stop by and welcome them back.

And finally, a client / new friend invited me for brunch at Chadwick's where they specialize in global-fusion comfort food. I got the Rancheros and my friend got the Chilaquiles and Huevos - both were sooooo good! Plus, you can make reservations which is always a plus :)

Things I did

With Easter and my birthday usually lining up pretty close to each other, my family typically celebrates both at the same time. It's great because I get to spend time with my nieces and nephew doing crafts, playing games and eating all of our favourite Easter foods.

One day, I had some time between showings and decided that instead of going to a coffee shop, I'd explore the Toronto Reference Library. It was such a great (and quiet) place to get some work done and you can grab a coffee at the Balzacs attached to the library too. If you've never been, I'd definitely recommend it!

We were blessed with a gorgeous home-opener series for the Blue Jays where the dome was open and enjoying all of the new drinks, including Jelly King by Bellwoods. I went with my cousin and we explored all of the new areas like the rooftop patio and The Catch bar. I really love all of the renovations, and I think it'll make it a great spot to hang out with friends when the summer hits - especially with the new $20 tickets!

Things I read

Toronto Star's Multiplex housing belongs in every Toronto neighbourhood, final city hall report says

You may have heard of multiplex housing. It's basically a building with more than one unit, think townhouses and stacked townhouses. Why is this important? Well, it can be a more affordable option for many ,plus, it helps increase the density of our neighborhoods and promotes sustainable development - something the city is desperate need of. But due to Toronto zoning laws, these types of developments are allowed which means that our most desirable neighbourhoods don't have enough housing. But a recent report has finally put forward the importance of allowing these types of options especially for low-income households and families. It's time that we start making Toronto for everyone.

CBC's Ontario to beef up tenant protections, prevent renovictions, housing minister says

Do you rent in Ontario? Then you'll want to hear about the new tenant protections that are now in place. The Ontario government is proposing changes that will give renters more rights when when a landlord wants to renovate your unit. They are suggesting that they should give you more notice and offer you a chance to move back in once the work is done at the same price as you were originally renting at. These protections are great news for renters who have been worried about losing their homes due to renovations.

New York Times's 9 Tools to Organize Your Kitchen Like a Pro

As someone who loves to cook and bake, having an organized kitchen is necessary to being able to fit all of my pans, tools and ingredients all in one small space. We've implemented many of these recommendations and if you're feeling cramped give the article a read and see how you can improve your space.