A perfect day in Toronto.

A chance to explore a city with someone who knew it well.

I love travelling, and I love travelling on my own too. I think there is an incredible amount you learn about yourself in such situations… And I wouldn’t trade my experiences there for anything.

I have learnt so much about myself this year, and been humbled in so many ways.. This year as an Au Pair has been so many things; but at the deepest level, it has been a huge year of learning. With some lessons easier to take than others. And some experiences harder than others.

But life as an au pair can also come with a lot of alone time. A lot of time to think, a lot of time where your schedule is the complete opposite to anyone else your age, a lot of time where you are the sole caregiver of someone else’s heart in the form of a child, and a lot of last minute changes in plans making for solo adventures towards the first cheap flight you can find (Although its plausible that last one is just me).

And these can all be wonderful things.

Always growing things, sometimes scary things, yet still wonderful things.

But sometimes, to be able to explore with someone else and take any turn you want, knowing they will find your way home is exactly what you need. Not having to be aware of the fact that I am 5foot 1 and female, appearing relatively young, generally not speaking the local language, and always looking like a tourist because I am so excited by beautiful things I just can’t put my camera down…

Especially when there is a shot like this. Just look at this building. How can you not love Toronto?

So Toronto was a breath of fresh air… not to mention an awesome city! With its markets and great food, especially a delicious brunch with some lovely Canadian friends of Jono’s I fell in love immediately (FINALLY in a country where brunch is a thing again!!!). After our few days in the woods, a day exploring the city was the perfect amount of time. Wandering the streets taking any turn we wanted, the only the only essential being a stop at ‘Free People’ (after a years long obsession with their designs and clothes, Jono found me one to go shopping in person for the first time before I even touched down! The excitement was palpable. As was the resigned patience from the other half. Luckily for him my au pair wage/travel habit meant I was very depressingly well behaved. My girls won’t believe it!).

I think I might just have to come back.

Till next time,

Em x

This market was incredible, although a total maze!

Utterly loved this display of NZ honey!

And then you find a street like this.

“Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it” ~ Goethe