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<h3>A Delightful Dinner with Friends&nbsp;</h3>Last night, I had the pleasure of gathering with nine of my closest friends for an amazing dinner at a Western restaurant in the heart of downtown Toronto. The city, with its lively streets and bustling energy, set the perfect backdrop for our evening.<img id="vf9loof3klm298bwgy" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dqa8bDQ2qRpKBRfvIlTtlFs5XN8pkcrPvHbeFUjIhLgNeTyKkI22qNeT7GujU17.jpg" alt="多伦多项目" title="多伦多项目" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dqa8bDQ2qRpKBRfvIlTtlFs5XN8pkcrPvHbeFUjIhLgNeTyKkI22qNeT7GujU17.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 50%;">The restaurant we chose had a cozy yet modern vibe, offering a welcoming atmosphere that made us feel right at home. As we sat around the large table, the sound of laughter and friendly conversation filled the room. There’s something truly special about sharing a meal with people who mean so much to you.<figure id="figure-cgqumwey3dm298c1vr" class=""><img id="cgqumwey3dm298c1vr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dlunF99B7A9Cj6AoBZJqGoQkTOgbpV5lcz3F4cbe2rPdbkkoyj7Uu9uev6R63xbp.jpg" alt="餐厅内部" title="餐厅内部" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dlunF99B7A9Cj6AoBZJqGoQkTOgbpV5lcz3F4cbe2rPdbkkoyj7Uu9uev6R63xbp.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The food was nothing short of spectacular. We indulged in a variety of dishes, from perfectly cooked steaks to fresh seafood, each bite bursting with flavor. The chef’s attention to detail was evident in every course, and the presentation was as beautiful as it was delicious.<figure id="figure-51oemxp1sm298jyj5"><img id="51oemxp1sm298jyj5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/340CPBDCNMcAMLowr5eSw1febni0WMG0J66A422SthFXKvykUX2d0gfVnY5CPelQ.jpg" alt="MacBook Pro on top of brown table" title="MacBook Pro on top of brown table" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/340CPBDCNMcAMLowr5eSw1febni0WMG0J66A422SthFXKvykUX2d0gfVnY5CPelQ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>What made the night even more memorable was the sense of connection we all felt. Between bites, we caught up on life, shared stories, and reminisced about old times. It was one of those nights where time seemed to stand still, and for a few hours, we forgot about the stress of daily life and simply enjoyed each other’s company.<figure id="figure-ebt92bupafm298kpgs"><img id="ebt92bupafm298kpgs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/159Mge8OSlHZEU4dSNXY7emQlAxjEHCIy9r5C0VdUFB3IaM3jb6oZi06reL6cI51.jpg" alt="space gray iPhone X beside turned on laptop beside coffee and succulent plant" title="space gray iPhone X beside turned on laptop beside coffee and succulent plant" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined% 80%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined%" data-positionY="80%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>As the night came to a close, we left the restaurant with full hearts and full stomachs. It was the perfect reminder that no matter how busy life gets, it’s important to make time for the people who matter most. After all, the best memories are made around the dinner table.

A Memorable Evening: Dining with Friends in Downtown Toronto

<h3>Embarking on a Northern Lights exploration journey</h3>There are certain experiences in life that leave an unforgettable mark on your heart, and this trip to Blue Mountain with my university classmates was undoubtedly one of them. We had heard rumors of the Northern Lights being visible, and the excitement built up as we packed up and set off for Ontario’s Blue Mountain, hoping to witness this elusive natural wonder.<figure id="figure-hwre70hajnm27wac2k" class=""><iframe id="hwre70hajnm27wac2k" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sH9RYYyhHEo" class="w-full bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/sH9RYYyhHEo" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sH9RYYyhHEo" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>As we drove through the scenic roads, laughter filled the car. The fall chill was crisp, and the anticipation in the air made the journey feel shorter than expected. Upon arrival, the serene beauty of Blue Mountain greeted us, its slopes and forests creating a perfect backdrop for our aurora adventure. We found the perfect spot on the mountain, bundled up in warm layers, and settled in under the clear night sky.The wait for the aurora was long but full of excitement. We sat together, sharing stories from our university days, reminiscing about lectures, late-night study sessions, and spontaneous hangouts. With every passing minute, the sky grew darker, and the stars began to twinkle more brightly. We kept our eyes peeled, scanning the horizon for any sign of those magical green lights.And then, it happened.<figure id="figure-ifkcxgt4vom298pfae"><img id="ifkcxgt4vom298pfae" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3hkeZp18qN7IJ6ea7NFBRJW1Midwe3eUAlynMMX8zU81368P46tV5iEFzmmQf1v5.jpg" alt="white paper" title="white paper" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="50%" data-positionY="60%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>A faint glow appeared on the horizon, gradually intensifying into brilliant waves of green and purple that danced across the sky. It was more breathtaking than any photo or video could capture. We stood there, in awe of nature’s beauty, watching as the Northern Lights put on their silent, mesmerizing show. The experience was surreal, as if time itself had paused to allow us to fully immerse in the moment.We stayed there for what felt like hours, the cold completely forgotten as we marveled at the spectacle. It was more than just a visual experience—it was a reminder of how vast and beautiful the world is, and how lucky we were to share that moment together.As we made our way back down the mountain, hearts full and minds still reeling from what we had witnessed, we realized that this was one of those memories we’d talk about for years to come. The Northern Lights had brought us closer, not just to nature, but to each other.

Chasing the Northern Lights: A University Adventure in Blue Mountains, Ontario

It was one of those perfect evenings when the sky was painted in soft hues of pink and orange, and the air was just cool enough for a light jacket. Cabbage, my neighbor’s lively dog, was waiting by the door, tail wagging excitedly, as if he already knew the adventure we were about to embark on. Today, we were heading to the lake to catch the sunset<figure id="figure-gz6hjhlu6m27xnfpv"><img id="gz6hjhlu6m27xnfpv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6VhxonPjEhoBZfKmW9iZ8Iz4iqRslEASbagK6T4Nk3eZjnZ7AOVRz23gonfNmYog.jpg" alt="房间内配有键盘和触控板的银色 iMac" title="房间内配有键盘和触控板的银色 iMac" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined%" data-positionY="100%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>With Cabbage trotting by my side, we made our way through the quiet streets, his ears perking up at every rustle of leaves, while I soaked in the peacefulness of the fading daylight. There's something about walking with a dog like Cabbage that makes the journey feel lighter, more carefree. He has this way of noticing the little things—the birds, the breeze—that brings me back to the present moment.As we reached the lake, the sky had turned into a breathtaking canvas of colors. Cabbage and I found the perfect spot by the water’s edge, where he sat calmly, watching the ripples as if mesmerized by the beauty in front of us. The sun dipped lower, casting a golden glow over everything, and for a moment, the world felt still, peaceful.<figure id="figure-6870x2szinkm27xqxls" class=""><iframe id="6870x2szinkm27xqxls" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KQDNtNRxeLw" class="w-full bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtube.com/shorts/KQDNtNRxeLw?feature=share" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KQDNtNRxeLw" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>We stayed there until the last sliver of sun disappeared behind the horizon, and then, as the first stars started twinkling in the sky, we made our way back home. Cabbage, tired from the walk, trotted more slowly now, his tail still wagging softly as if content from the evening’s adventure.It’s moments like these that remind me how simple joys—like chasing sunsets with a furry companion—are some of the best memories we can create.

Adventures with Cabbage: Chasing the Perfect Sunset

<h3>Back from the Land of Maple Leaves: My First Meeting with Xia Qianqian</h3>After months of anticipation, I finally returned to China from Canada to pick up my new furry companion, Xia Qianqian. The moment I saw him, it was love at first sight. His adorable little face and wagging tail melted my heart instantly.On our very first day together, I decided to take Xia Qianqian to the park for some playtime. As soon as we arrived, he excitedly sniffed the grass, darted around in circles, and made friends with other dogs. It was a beautiful sight, watching him explore his new surroundings with such curiosity and joy.<figure id="figure-rqxbfusq6mm29dfq9o"><img id="rqxbfusq6mm29dfq9o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26ZOPOm2yR531Tz6WpE9CDj05wRMs8na6g4f9BjeWaJi4cG1vg3U0cGTW5OPS3KD.jpg" alt="gray Apple wireless keyboard beside black tablet computer and stylus pen" title="gray Apple wireless keyboard beside black tablet computer and stylus pen" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26ZOPOm2yR531Tz6WpE9CDj05wRMs8na6g4f9BjeWaJi4cG1vg3U0cGTW5OPS3KD.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><figure id="figure-076z00wesrm29diqzv"><img id="076z00wesrm29diqzv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23SYXr6YIx2233aSWmhfUgRizZJtcnOiMM4gASJi9ijz835q2iITDk8CwpmLvOwx.jpg" alt="color code book" title="color code book" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 65%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionX="50%" data-positionY="65%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>That day in the park was not just about fun—it was the beginning of our bond. Watching Xia Qianqian enjoy the simple things in life reminded me of how precious moments like these are. I can’t wait to create more memories with him, from morning walks to cuddles on the couch.<figure id="figure-0kssp1jttom29dgd63"><img id="0kssp1jttom29dgd63" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3ai6Cqjb7qIQ0K07XjJwKhHJSQ7K4R9mAWcCr38s0oyRkdMK8uf5xDV7OI2eizd6.jpg" alt="black and gray laptop computer beside black mug" title="black and gray laptop computer beside black mug" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3ai6Cqjb7qIQ0K07XjJwKhHJSQ7K4R9mAWcCr38s0oyRkdMK8uf5xDV7OI2eizd6.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 55%;"></figure>Xia Qianqian has already brought so much happiness into my life, and I’m excited to see where our journey together takes us!

A Heartwarming Reunion: Meeting My New Pup Xia Qianqian

<h3>My coming-of-age ceremony in Canada</h3>Turning 21 is a milestone, and I couldn’t have asked for a more magical way to celebrate it than on a yacht at Toronto Island. The day was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cherished moments with friends, surrounded by the stunning views of Toronto’s skyline and the calm waters of Lake Ontario.<figure id="figure-tpa64mesxom280ctwd"><img id="tpa64mesxom280ctwd" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dPywd7ptldvTy4s3ZEARCPgs3RyTawp4kUjkKD8LWcb4pWbBx8yN8YlNuozyy9C.jpg" alt="flat lay photo" title="flat lay photo" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dPywd7ptldvTy4s3ZEARCPgs3RyTawp4kUjkKD8LWcb4pWbBx8yN8YlNuozyy9C.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>We set sail in the afternoon, the sun gently warming the deck as we cruised around the island. The gentle breeze, the sparkling waves, and the sense of freedom that comes with being on the water made the whole experience feel surreal. Laughter filled the air as my friends and I enjoyed the breathtaking scenery, snapping pictures, sharing stories, and soaking in the moment.<figure id="figure-q6z2rx8g1em29d1u9u"><img id="q6z2rx8g1em29d1u9u" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3abFI2weqTKe31dCOQ7IC6Qd42y6KO9gw35h5fGCHAs2M5atLxuDihfEyOrupPEE.jpg" alt="person writing on printing paper" title="person writing on printing paper" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 75% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="75%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3abFI2weqTKe31dCOQ7IC6Qd42y6KO9gw35h5fGCHAs2M5atLxuDihfEyOrupPEE.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 75% 60%;"></figure>As the day progressed, we anchored at a serene spot near the island, where we set up a picnic on the yacht. Delicious food, refreshing drinks, and the company of my closest friends created the perfect atmosphere. It was simple yet perfect—a time to reflect on the past years and look forward to the future. The conversations flowed as easily as the waves, and I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the people in my life and the memories we were making together.As the sun began to set, casting golden hues across the horizon, we gathered on the deck to watch the city lights slowly come to life. The transition from day to night felt symbolic—a beautiful way to mark the beginning of this new chapter in my life. The cityscape glowed in the distance, and in that peaceful moment, I couldn’t help but feel incredibly lucky.Celebrating my 21st birthday on a yacht at Toronto Island wasn’t just about the place; it was about the people and the feeling of being surrounded by love, laughter, and happiness. It was a day that I’ll never forget, a perfect way to step into this exciting new year.<figure id="figure-shu8cevpkrm29d3yu2"><img id="shu8cevpkrm29d3yu2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13pw9iwAE1kKZPKZMuFZGIByOPC8H1T9LtehK87RUzDIgFZESZtdIUp1GulfTzru.jpg" alt="person lettering on tracing paper using mechanical pencil" title="person lettering on tracing paper using mechanical pencil" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Toronto Island perfectly blends adventure and relaxation, making it the ideal destination for any celebration. As I look back on this milestone, I realize the importance of cherishing the special moments in life and the people who make them unforgettable.

Qianyi Xia

Blog

A Memorable Evening: Dining with Friends in Downtown Toronto

Chasing the Northern Lights: A University Adventure in Bl...

Adventures with Cabbage: Chasing the Perfect Sunset

A Heartwarming Reunion: Meeting My New Pup Xia Qianqian

Celebrating My 21st Birthday on Toronto Island