On a crisp Toronto morning – Anjo, Jeff, and Anne—decided to spend their day exploring the city from different angles. Each had their own plans but shared a common goal: to find inspiration, connect with loved ones, and enjoy the sights of the bustling metropolis.
Anjo at the YMCA: Building Skills and Bonds
Anjo started his day bright and early at the YMCA, accompanied by his son Jude. As a dedicated dad, Anjo takes his son’s love for basketball seriously. Jude, who plays in Filipino leagues and rep leagues, was ready to practice drills provided by Coach Kyle.
“We’re focusing on developing his skills,” Anjo shared as he guided Jude through warm-up routines and stationary ball-handling exercises. The YMCA has become a second home for them, providing a space not only for sports but also for bonding. Anjo highlighted the importance of these moments: “Mornings like these are a great way to start the day, and it’s amazing to see Jude grow through basketball.”
Anjo’s passion for the sport extends beyond family time. As a producer of basketball-related shows featuring FPV leagues, he dreams of covering more games and sharing the love of basketball with the next generation of Filipinos. “Basketball is such a big part of our culture, and it’s something I want to help pass on,” Anjo reflected.
Jeff at the CN Tower: Rediscovering Toronto
Jeff’s adventure took him to the iconic CN Tower, one of Toronto’s most famous landmarks. As his group of first-time visitors marveled at the breathtaking views from the top, Jeff stayed grounded—literally—enjoying the crisp outdoor air.
“This is their first time up there, but I’ve only been once in my 20 years here,” Jeff admitted with a laugh. He chose to soak in the atmosphere from below, appreciating the absence of summer crowds and the perfect weather.
For Jeff, stepping out of the usual routine is essential. “As a writer and producer, it’s important to explore and gather new ideas,” he explained. The city’s energy and sights provide the creative spark needed for his work. While waiting for his group to return, Jeff reflected on how even familiar places like the CN Tower can reignite inspiration.
Anne at the Eaton Centre: Finding Christmas Cheer
Anne, meanwhile, ventured to the Toronto Eaton Centre, eager to rediscover the mall where she once worked before the pandemic. Her goal? To soak in the holiday spirit and find a bit of inspiration.
The Eaton Centre’s towering Christmas tree, adorned with dazzling lights, was the perfect backdrop for Anne’s reflections. “Every 30 minutes, the light show brings a magical feeling,” she shared. For Anne, the holiday season isn’t just about decorations but also about the spirit of giving.
As she explored, Anne stumbled upon the unveiling of Toronto’s Giving Machines—a charity initiative encouraging people to give back to those in need. “It’s a reminder of how fortunate we are and how much others lack,” Anne said. Inspired by the experience, she felt a renewed sense of gratitude and a desire to contribute to the community.
Coming Together at the End of the Day
After their individual adventures, the trio reunited to share their stories. They laughed about their experiences—Anjo’s morning drills with Jude, Jeff’s CN Tower visit, and Anne’s rediscovery of the Eaton Centre.
Their day ended with a hearty lunch at Congee Queen, courtesy of some generous titas. “Thank you for the delicious meal!” they all chimed in, full and happy from the day’s activities.
As they wrapped up, each reflected on the day’s takeaway: the importance of stepping out of their routines, finding joy in small moments, and reconnecting with the people and places that matter most.
A Day to Remember
For Anjo, it was about building connections through basketball and passing on Filipino traditions. For Jeff, it was about finding inspiration in the city he calls home. For Anne, it was about rediscovering the magic of Christmas and the power of giving. Together, their experiences painted a picture of a Toronto that’s vibrant, inspiring, and full of possibilities.
In the words of Jeff, “Sometimes, you just need a day off to explore, reflect, and recharge. And today was exactly that.”
As they look forward to their next adventure, they’re reminded that the best stories often come from the simplest days spent in good company.
