My Watermark is Lake Ontario.

When I moved to Toronto in 1999 I was repeatedly warned not to swim in the lake. I was told it was terribly dangerous, so I missed out on refreshing dips during a heatwave and all the fitness opportunities offered in the waters.

A few years later I bravely registered for the Toronto Island triathlon. And was delighted by the clear waters, and the sparkling view of the city skyline over the surface of the lake.

Years later I still hear the cautions of illness but have yet to experience any. I use the lake for swimming, stand up paddling and canoeing. It is such a calming place, yet so close to the rush of the city.