Today I had the first official Youth Action Forum Editorial Collective meeting. It was so inspiring to be sitting around that big table with a group of youth who truly are inspired, informed, and involved. When I was a young high school activist I would always feel tokenized by older folks. I tried to repress my extreme surprise and joy that these young girls came out to the meeting, but it was hard. They were so talented that they could basically organize the whole thing themselves!

I'm so excited to work with them and get to know them better. On the Forum Editorial Collective we already have a diverse group of youth from across the city who have a wide skill set. We have editors, social workers, environmentalists, immigration activists, queer activists, web designers, communication experts, video artists, campaign organizers, and even one comedian. I am so excited to see the magazine grow and flourish through the love and care of this dynamic team.

Today I my Dad's bike was stolen. It is a vintage beauty, and it has taken me all over the city. He's had it since he was my age, which is like 40 years plus. When I saw that it was stolen I thought that he was going to hang me. I was so scared to tell him, but I just admitted it to my Mom and she said she would do it for me. I dreaded going home tonight, and was even considering sleeping in the office as a healthy alternative. Then I got the sweetest email:

Dear Lisa:

I hear the bike has gone awol.

Guess what although I regret losing the bike I still LOVE YOU darling.

And that will never change.

Not today, not next week not next year not ever.

A bike is just a bike but a daughter that is a life long blessing.

Do not feel too bad and just be more careful next time.

Steven

I love my Dad. My Dad is the bomb. Sorry I lost your bike dude, this one is for you.

They say home is where the heart is. I feel like I'm just starting to discover my heart again. It lies in breakbeats, quick feet, forest floors, grimy beaches, multi-lingual streets, bike spokes, greasy spoon breakfasts, and tree tops. Being in this city has been a dream as of late. Every weekend there are free shows with amazing artists and djs. During the week I spend my time chilling at the office, running errands, writing away at my thesis, and promoting the magazine.

I love being downtown constantly. I've never felt more at home in a place. I know every back alley from when I was 16 and used to hang out here every day after school. Every street, every corner is full of rich memories, and new adventures. Different tastes, smells, and languages all spice the air. I hear Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, and French almost on a daily basis. If I want to travel, I can just go to a new neighbourhood, pick a random restaurant or shop and settle in for an afternoon.

Last week I went to the Scarborough Bluffs, and then afterwards Little India. I felt like I was in another country, like I had just crossed the ocean. That's what's so wonderful about Toronto to me, this rich diversity. Each day is full of new possibilities.

Lip Dub - Flagpole Sitta by Harvey Danger from amandalynferri and Vimeo.