Woofstock, Toronto. June 8

Every dog lover in the city and surrounding areas visited the St Lawrence market area as the annual dog show 'Woofstock' was on all weekend.
Thousands of dogs were in attendance, I should think I saw every breed there is as I walked around the stalls.
Everything you could ever wish to buy for your pooch was there.... from all the dressy outfits, to bandannas, collars, boots, hats, sunglasses, but if you wanted matching leashes, blankets, beds, - it was all there - and more!!
Portrait artists, photo booths, competitions, free gifts, even complimentary water and dog baths were there.
To see 8 golden Labradors and retrievers frolicking in the pool and fountain trying to get cool was a funny sight to see.
Owners definitely took a back seat with the dogs 'having their day'. I have never seen so many people taking photos of other peoples dogs and chatting in a way you never see in the city of Toronto. Most people could go a week without speaking to anyone on the street car, subway, or just out and about. It was the most friendly day! With the temperatures rising all afternoon, a few dogs had problems with the heat and had to use the services of the dog rescue service.
With all the free samples of food and treats, I can imagine it was a bit like taking a child to the fair, I think a few doggies will feel a bit under the weather today. I took Oscar last year to Woofstock and took part in the on-stage competitions - this year without him was the hardest - I think I found every ShihTzu there.
I did buy him a couple of prezzies though.
Great Day - put it in the diary to go again next year

HRH Prince Edward visits Toronto June 8

The Cathedral Church of St. James welcomed The Earl of Wessex to Choral Mattins at 11.00am today. After the very familiar Royal (our National) Anthem was sung, it was my first opportunity to sing the Canadian National Anthem. I always feel 'at home' in Church, whether here or at home at my beloved Lichfield Cathedral.
The Director of Music Andrew Ager and the resident Choir performed wonderfully, I can imagine the hours of rehearsing they must have done to ensure a fault free, note perfect performance.
To my surprise there were quite a few hats present, more would have been nice, but its more a casual approach these days.
At the end of the service, the Prince walked past all the choir members assembled on the steps of the Cathedral and he took time to speak to most of them thanking them and even turning to the gathered crowds for photo opportunities.
The Dean, The Very Rev'd Douglas Stoute looked magnificient in his robes, and with the sun shining it made for a very uplifting and memorable morning.

For all the Brits:
The Canadian National Anthem

O Canada! Our home and native land!
True Patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise, The True North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.