Dog Days of Ontario.

These scorching summer days, marked by oppressive humidity, truly embody the dog days of summer. The discomfort all began when the noxious smog from the Canadian wildfires blanketed the air, and to make matters worse, a wave of stifling humidity soon followed. Personally, I find muggy weather unbearable, so I've been seeking refuge at my boyfriend's cozy apartment in Ontario, where we've been huddling next to his beloved air conditioning unit.

Spending the entire summer together has been an incredible journey of discovery for us, unveiling just how remarkably compatible we are. It's not just our shared silly quirks that align; we also have the same cleaning habits, sense of humour, and even the same contagious laugh. It all started when he visited my hometown of Montreal, Quebec. I proudly showed him around my condo, introduced him to my child and beloved dog, and together we embarked on numerous adventures. We strolled along the picturesque waterfront, wandered through downtown, hopped on the metro, and explored various neighbourhoods, including the vibrant Chinatown. One of the things I adore about Montreal is its cosmopolitan nature, so I took pleasure in introducing him to the delights of Vietnamese cuisine and the world of bubble tea. While bubble tea didn't quite capture his taste buds, he surprisingly enjoyed Bahn Mi sandwiches and spring rolls from a charming little Vietnamese restaurant conveniently located just a short ten-minute walk from my place. Our journey to retrieve food became all the more exciting when we found ourselves caught in a torrential rainstorm, transforming an ordinary task into a memorable escapade. I cherish our shared sense of adventure and how we find joy in these simple, whimsical moments. A week later, we boarded a train back to Ontario, bidding farewell to the bustling streets of Montreal.

In contrast to the hustle and bustle of Montreal, I experienced the tranquillity of his serene Ontario town. With the daytime humidity too unbearable, we found solace in late-night walks along the deserted streets. The contrast amazed me. Back in Montreal, I rarely had the chance to gaze upon the stars at night, but in Ontario, I relished the opportunity. One memorable evening, I caught sight of the Big Dipper, a constellation I hadn't seen in years. I even discovered a stargazing app on my phone, which guided me to various constellations and even alerted me to the presence of the space station in the night sky. My remarkable boyfriend, always supportive and thoughtful, promptly searched for the optimal times to witness the stars' brilliance, ensuring I could indulge in my newfound passion. Standing on his front lawn one evening, enjoying a quiet cigarette, I was astounded to witness tiny flashing lights. At first, I questioned my own eyes, but soon realized I was observing fireflies—a sight I hadn't encountered since childhood, during a camping trip with my family. It's these little wonders of life that bring me immense joy, and capturing them on video became an unforgettable moment.

Being in Ontario has granted me much-needed relaxation and the opportunity for some well-deserved rest and recuperation. It's refreshing to have a partner who not only supports me but also lavishes me with affection. I haven't felt this relaxed in a long time.

To top it off, his parents came to visit, having heard so much about me. They welcomed me with open arms and hearts, possessing the same kind-heartedness I associate with my own father. His dad, despite his quiet demeanour, possesses an exceptional sense of humour that instantly resonated with me. I immediately felt at home with them as they treated me to coffee and dinners, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. We spent a delightful afternoon by the water's edge, admiring the serene scenery and observing the graceful geese. Amidst laughter and light-hearted banter, we shared jokes, even if it meant occasionally becoming the subject of playful teasing.

My time in Ontario has sparked a realization: I yearn to move here. The proximity to Montreal allows me to maintain connections with friends, family, school, and my child's father while indulging in the tranquillity that comes with a quieter life. Though I've always identified as an introvert, as I grow older, I find myself cherishing solitude even more. Being here where it is quiet, and the locals are super friendly, only enhances my desire to be in a town where people seem to stop, say 'hello' and smell the roses! It's comforting to be with a partner who not only shares my introversion but also understands and respects my need for personal downtime.