Magical Mimico

An enchanting world of alluring and vibrant nature lies just a short jaunt from the city of Toronto.

The name Mimico is derived from Omimeca - the Ojibwe name for this little area. It means "abundant with wild pigeons." (Sadly, the wild pigeon became extinct but the name stayed).

An eclectic area that mixes Eastern European delis, estates, rapidly rising condo developments, colleges and multicultural restaurants, Mimico has a small-town feel with easy access to Canada's Great Trail.

Mimico is a quiet and friendly area. Residents rely on each other especially now to wear masks in the area, respect social distancing and of course keep the area clean.

It became my home about 5 years ago and I have yet to tire of its serene yet vibrant beauty.

Walking meditations have always been a staple of my life. The beauty of this area that reveals itself in the changing of the seasons and the lively engagement with natural wildlife is a gift I truly honor.

Mornings here start off cool and crisp. Locals head over to one of several coffee spots, many starting off their day gazing out at the lake.

On the weekends, I head out for my walk on the waterfront trail. Bringing my phone is a must. I need the camera to attempt to capture the energy of the rolling waves that gleam with silver calm, or thunder with snowy froth against the rocky promontories.

The spring brings a shade of green to trees and grass, a shade so vital and fresh that it uplifts the soul instantly. Saucer magnolias blossom in neighboring gardens, sharing fragrant space with silver birches and maples. A small copse on the waterfront abounds with weeping willows, fronds swaying with bittersweet grace in the gentle breezes.

In the waterfront space I call my backyard, the great maples abound. Their majestic grace beckon for one to place their hands upon their bark and rest for a moment in true tranquility.

Minks, otters, raccoons and beavers revel in the dusk of spring and summer. It’s not uncommon to see wildlife here each day.

Swans glide with stately ease through waves propelled by passing yachts. And the spring brings adorable fluffy chicks and cygnets that charm both children and adults alike.

Birds of vibrant colors dart about through the trees. Red cardinals, warblers, swallows and more. Bees hum lazily, settling into the luscious pink and yellow blooms dotted along the paths.

Summer has a rhythm here. Staying outdoors as much as possible is the norm. I go for dreamy daytime and evening walks, touching the tips of plants, gazing out at the waves, feeling the gentle touch of the breeze on my skin.

Sometimes, during a full moon, I go out late at night to send an intention out into the Universe. And to simply bathe in the moonlight, watching the waves crash against the shores. My camera can never quite capture the shining magnificence and sheer size of the full moon that hangs overhead, backlighting branches like something from a gothic novel.

The paths are crowded on weekends. Cyclists swoop by, pedaling as fast as one would expect from a Tour de France. There’s a certain relief to moving aside from the pedestrian flow, sitting under a tree and reading a good book.

It’s a joy to see children everywhere. The playgrounds along the path are filled with laughing youngsters. Parents pushing little ones on the swings, take a break and swig from water bottles enjoying the views across the bay.

The fall brings hues and colors that touch the trees along the waterfront with fiery shades of yellow, orange and red. Set against the backdrop of the blue waters and fluffy clouds, I feel as if I am sitting within a picture, a lovely piece of art.

I sometimes place my hands upon the grass, grounding myself and marveling that I’m here. I wonder at the scene, imagining it back in time and what it must have looked like in its natural, raw and wild beauty.

Gratitude fills my heart for beautiful Omimeca as I walk here, sit and dream.