Profile of Mia

The unintended expat blogger behind UrbanCalmMirror

Mia Brown - Founder of UrbanCalmMirror Photo: UrbanCalmMirror

Hello, I'm Mia

I work as a project manager, I am a parent, and I’m an expatriate living in Toronto, Canada.

A few years back I moved here with my family. What began as a short-term contract gradually blossomed into a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Began

Moving to Canada wasn’t part of the long-term plan. Like many expat moves, it started as a work opportunity and quickly grew into something much larger.

The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than expected.

City skyline in Toronto, Canada
Life in Toronto comes with surprises. Photo: UrbanCalmMirror

The Adaptation Phase

There was culture shock, ambiguity, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We found places that worked for us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt stable.

What Prompted the Creation of UrbanCalmMirror

Most information online was either corporate-level relocation guidance or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.

This site aims to fill that gap — practical guidance grounded in real life in Canada.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site is:

  • Practical experience gained from living in Canada
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever there is a real change

This site isn't:

  • A tourism authority resource
  • A sponsored review platform
  • A generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our stay in Canada goes on, and so does the process of learning. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue recording what we learn.

If you have questions about family life in Toronto or anywhere in Canada, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Best regards,

Mia

Toronto, Canada