As I sit here on my last Sunday morning as a Toronto resident, I reflect back on the last 5 years.

Five years ago, my wife and moved to Toronto when I had the opportunity to work alongside two amazing people who I have a world of respect for. Working with AW and CP at BlueCat gave me some of the most rewarding personal and professional experiences. There, I met a bunch of people I will consider close friends for life.

We recently met up last Tuesday and rehashed this amazing memory:

A story of Alcohol, Leadership, Agility, Inclusive Team Building, and Love - Leading with Imperfect…
The last few weeks I have been meeting up from friends from a past software company I worked at a few years ago. This…www.leadingwithimperfectfeet.com

Living here, I discovered new independence I’d never experienced, being able to use public transit and other rideshare accessibility options that only big cities can support.

Week 1 - Crip in The Big City - Leading with Imperfect Feet
My first week in the city has been an awesome life experience. Monday morning rolled around with Kelly getting me up…www.leadingwithimperfectfeet.com

One of my favourite moments was attending the 2015 American League Division Series Game 5 in person with my brother-in-law. We were originally supposed to go to game 2, but our work schedules forced us to sell those tickets and go to game 5 instead. We were supposed to be in the nose bleed 500 seats, but the staff moved us to the 100 level instead. We had a whole area to ourselves.

I was lucky enough to be interviewed after the game:

It also brought extreme struggle that brought growth:

Can't Stand the word "Can't" - Leading with Imperfect Feet
The word "Can't"bothers me. It strikes a nerve with me. When I hear the word "Can't" I interpret that as someone is not…www.leadingwithimperfectfeet.com

The years all brought growth and reflection:

2015 was a year of change... - Leading with Imperfect Feet
It's hard to believe that 2015 is already coming to an end. This year has been one of the most challenging years I have…www.leadingwithimperfectfeet.com

2016 was a year of choice... - Leading with Imperfect Feet
If 2015 was the year of change, 2016 was the year of choice. I chose who to spend time with. I chose where I wanted to…www.leadingwithimperfectfeet.com

A Look Back on 2018 and Thank You! - Leading with Imperfect Feet
The year 2018 was about amplifying . Amplifying my message , thoughts , ideas , inspiration and passion . My energy and…www.leadingwithimperfectfeet.com

We met a bunch of new friends, we shared many experiences with our family, and made the most of five years.

I will hold my Toronto experiences as an amazing experience both personally and professionally.

People ask what is so special about Waterloo. Waterloo is the place I first discovered my independence, when I went there for University. Waterloo is the place that my wife and I grew as a couple. Waterloo is the place where we met friends who became our family. Waterloo is our home. As I reflect now and even admit Toronto is better for accessibility reasons, when you are with your loved ones in a place you call home… that creates accessibility that knows no limits.

Love,

Dave, Waterloo Resident!