Mama Cormier

…..clearing overhanging branches and wild shrubbery

I’ve lived in my neighbourhood for over 38 years and I can’t say I’ve ever seen the city sending work crews to trim the trees by the lake. I’m sure they have; I’ve just never been there to witness it. It’s quite the operation and it took several days to prune and manicure the trees in the park at the end of my street.

I’m glad they weren’t taken down completely. Toronto really prides itself on the amount of green space we have and the natural canopy that the trees provide. Many years ago it was rumoured that some of the residents discouraged the planting of new trees because they took away their view of the lake and in the dark of night they went in and cut down any new trees that were planted. Attitudes certainly have changed over the years. Last year the city went in and planted at least 20 new trees in our park alone.

….every year the C.N.E. features some wildly delicious food

The food vendors get very creative every year at the Canadian National Exhibition. This year was no exception. The crazier the better just to get to get your food dollars. If you only attend the C.N.E. once you have to pick and choose carefully or you’ll end up with a massive tummy ache.

The first thing that my daughter, daughter-in-law and I did was venture into the Food building and make our menu choices. The girls had decided ahead of time to check out the Japanese Street Food booth. An order of Dirty Fries and a Samurai burger didn’t disappoint.

If there was one common and unusual ingredient this year it had to be activated charcoal. I chose a slice of pizza called Carbone. The crust was light and airy and delicious.

For dessert the girls lead me through the midway to find the vendor that sold a soft ice-cream made from grape and charcoal and served on a slice of watermelon; also very delicious.