So tell me about Canada!!

[Ummy]

Hi All,

We are thinking of possibly reloacting to Toronto (Missasauga)? in the next year or so. How is the weather? I am sure the winters are harsh and bitterly cold. How are the summers?

Lots of homeschooling moms? Organic junkies like me?

Anyone in this area please let me know.

THanks

[eirual]

Where are you moving from? That would shed light on what winters and summers are like in comparason.

"Going green" is the new fad, but throwing baking soda into something counts for most people. You can find random gems who value organics and other NFL principles, but you typically have to seek them out, especially in a city like Mississauga I would think (When I think mississauga I think endless suburbs, but I'm sure it depends where you live).

[sweetsensation]

Hi!
I am also planning to move to Toronto soon (about 3 months?) We live in Kansas . DH is from T.O. and now it is necessary for him to move back so he can work. I really like the area but we need to start looking for housing. I was looking for a forum to post this question in. I know there are a lot of moms from this area on here so I was hoping someone could help shed some light on all the different suburbs/areas by helping me compare cost, space, etc. We don't want an apartment, want to stay somewhat close to Pickering/Ajax, and want a yard. I am also hoping to meet some other like-minded moms that live in the area. I have a lot of other questions and I will be a LOOOOONG way from home.
Can anyone help???
Thanks,
Annah

[Cujobunny]

I wouldn't say that the winters are "harsh" or "bitterly cold" but I suppose it depends on what you're comparing it to. It can get quite snowy. In more northern or eastern Ontario it can be a lot colder.

The summers are usually quite hot, but not very long. Humidity is high. Smog is likely.

There are lots of homeschoolers and organic junkies I think. Not sure about Mississauga specifically, although I did once visit a store in the Port Credit area of 'Sauga called "Planet Organic".

In the city of Toronto there are lots of organic food stores and you can find a lot of organic products at regular grocery stores. The junkies, well, you never know where you'll find them "Going green" is everywhere, so it's becoming pretty common to run into Natural Family Practices. Breastfeeding is widely accepted.

There's another Natural Family Living board that you can get more info from and probably meet up with the moms too. I lurk there a lot, post occasionally, but have yet to meet up (I'm not all that social).

Annah- I can help you if you want to PM me with some questions. I've lived in the city for 11 years - I don't know the suburbs that well personally but I can probably shed some light.

[Ms Apricot]

If you are looking for organic in Toronto, you'll find it. There are organic farmers' markets, and quite a few "green" ecostores. Toronto has a great recycling program - curbside pickup of compostable waste, including paper products (diapers, sanitary napkins) and meat waste etc.

Mississauga is a pleasant area, but it's very large - I think it's Canada's 4th largest city. There's quite a variety of neighbourhoods. Port Credit is on the lake, and is very nice. Clarkson is also very nice. Both are along the GO train line, a commuter train, making travel into downtown Toronto very easy.

Oakville is a city on the other side of Mississauga, and there is a Whole Foods grocery store there.

I don't know your tolerance for cold/heat, so can't answer your questions about climate. I think Canadian winters are beautiful, and love outdoor skating, skiing etc. Summers are pleasant - highest temp. is usually around 32 to 35 Celsius, but can be quite humid.

For reasonable family living, without huge costs, check out New Toronto and Mimico - they are often overlooked, but are right on the Lake, and nice family areas.

Good luck