I’ve got so much to tell you, and I think I know the perfect place to begin: here. Recently, I’ve been out more than usual, and sometimes I run into people I haven’t seen in a while. Every time, the conversation somehow turns to, “I recently visited your blog to see if there’s anything new posted.” Perhaps it’s time to switch gears and invest more time in writing my blog, while spending less time on social media platforms—something I’ve already been reducing significantly.

As I reflect, I realize that I’ve accumulated so much digital information over the years, especially regarding Aurora and my experiences living here. There’s so much to share! It’s amazing to think about all the memories I’ve made since I first started exploring the hidden corners of Aurora. On a related note, my go-to lens recently broke. It’s been with me for over 20 years – truly a great investment. But like everything else, nothing lasts forever. Maybe it’s a sign for me to slow down a bit.

Earlier today, as I was driving out of the subdivision, I spotted a postal worker driving in to deliver our mail. They’re back! It’s great news, even though, let’s face it, no one’s exactly thrilled about receiving bills in the mail. But, well, bills need to be paid. And trust me, calling to check on account balances a couple of weeks ago was far from enjoyable. I’m sure many people have chosen to skip sending Christmas cards this year as well, uncertain of when the labour dispute would be resolved. Still, last week, I stopped by Town Hall to pick up my water bill. I arrived three minutes early, so instead of being the first geek at the door when they opened, I decided to take a detour to the Aurora Community Arboretum.

It’s been some time—probably a year or so—since I last visited this particular location of the arboretum, adjacent to Town Hall. It’s a bit different now—revitalized. New hidden trails have opened up, and educational plaques have been placed. Some trees are gone, others have grown. The scent of pine trees fills the air, surrounding you as you walk. But the arboretum is more than just that. It’s about the stories of the people who worked tirelessly to create and maintain this gem. Some of those who contributed are no longer with us, but their legacy lives on.

The arboretum serves as more than just a physical space filled with trees and trails; it is a sanctuary for reflection, a quiet haven where one can pause and reconnect with nature and themselves. Each tree is a living tribute to the past, an embodiment of memories, and a symbol of continuity. Behind each planted tree lies a story—a commemoration of loved ones. The Arboretum also holds darker stories—of crime, death, or the ongoing battle against invasive species—but that doesn’t necessarily make it a bad thing. In fact, it symbolizes something deeper—perhaps a testament to resilience and the enduring strength to survive. It speaks to the quiet persistence of life, the ability to adapt and thrive despite adversity, and the hope that even in the face of challenges, something beautiful can grow and endure. So, if there is a place for contemplation, this is it. It’s a place where the act of walking slowly through the trees becomes a metaphor for slowing down in life, embracing stillness, and allowing time for reflection.

Okay, that was deep. Ha ha, I was really in the moment. Perhaps the broken lens, the postal dispute that led me to pick up my water bill, aren’t mere coincidences. Maybe they’re urging me to pause and reflect on all these years—and dive into my digital archives to reconnect the past with the present. If you were to stroll through my blog, you’d find that history, environment, and politics dominate the narrative—and I plan to continue that tradition.

I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many interesting individuals who have left a lasting impact on our community. As I mentioned, some of them are no longer with us, but their memory endures. Throughout my mainly photographic journey, I’ve encountered numerous people whose contributions have shaped the fabric of this place. Although some have passed, their legacies continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew them. Two names that stand out, particularly in connection to the arboretum, are David Tomlinson and Gordon Barnes, both of whom are no longer with us.

David once expressed his willingness to support my mayoral campaign if he were in Town. I fondly remember our conversations on his electric-blue bench, overlooking what was once the English garden (Merlin’s Hollow)—now gone but not forgotten. Those discussions were truly enriching and are a part of what makes this community so special.

Recently, while tidying up, I stumbled upon a box of books that carried the nostalgic scent of aged pages. Among them were photography books gifted to me by Gordon Barnes when he and his wife were still alive. I remember visiting their home on Catherine Avenue, where I was treated to tea and delicious cake, lovingly prepared by his late wife, Marie. Moments like these fill me with deep gratitude for the connections I’ve forged and the experiences I’ve cherished within this community. The list of impactful people and experiences is much longer, and I plan to share more in the future. But for now, I’m reminded of how rich and meaningful this journey has been.

Politics undoubtedly plays a role in shaping our community—even places like the arboretum. I’m glad I took the time to explore it over the years. So, on the same day, as I was driving home with my son and his friend from school, his friend, sitting in the back seat, suddenly leaned forward and asked, ‘Are you going to run for Mayor again?‘

Wishing the Aurora community a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2025! May we be blessed with snow soon, revealing the hidden wildlife of the arboretum through the footprints left behind.

Aurora Community Arboretum, The Creators We Don’t See

A final note on the photos: The morning was overcast, with a touch of fog lingering in the air. It was a damp day, but the light was just right. Though it was already mid-December with no major snowfall yet, the colors still carried a hint of autumn’s warmth. Taken around 8:30 am with my mobile phone. I’ve learned that as long as the light is right, even the simplest devices can capture beautiful moments.

Anna Lozyk Romeo
Aurora, Ontario