10 signs you grew up in the Beaches

The Beaches is regarded as one of the most idyllic places to grow up in Toronto. It has parks galore, decent public schools and a strong sense of community. Though you probably remember those things, you're more likely to look back on the less G-rated parts of growing up in the city's south east.

Here are 10 signs you grew up in the Beaches.

1. You drank your fair share of beers and vodka coolers at Leuty Lifeguard Station.

2. You befriended Hollywood (AKA the pen guy) and were genuinely concerned about his untimely "death".

3. You cured your hangovers at Sunset Grill or The Goof.

4. You hung around outside Mac's Milk during the Jazz Fest until the cops broke up the crowds.

5. You've had to clarify that you went to this Malvern not this Malvern.

6. You refer to it as The Beaches not The Beach or The Beach Village (sorry, non-believers).

7. You feared the crowds at the Victoria Day Fireworks - or any fireworks for that matter.

8. You never actually went in the lake (unless very inebriated).

9. Your entire CD collection came from Sound City.

10. You remember when McDonald's existed at the foot of Lee and Queen, back in the days when it still sold personal pizzas.

What did I miss? Add your suggestions in the comments.

Photo by Kim Yokota in the blogTO Flickr pool.

by Alice Prendergast via blogTO