Month: September 2023

First fall minis

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Always living life dangerously and on the edge

Natural contemplator in his natural habitat

We did something new and spontaneous this evening: we had a professional family photoshoot done for our family! It was a 15-minute fall mini photo session with a local photographer.

While I’ve always wanted to take professional family photos, my husband and I had agreed that it would be something we’d do in the future instead, when the kids are older, given that with little ones the process might be too erratic and challenging, and not to mention, costly.

But something magical had happened spontaneously today: while nursing Gaia I stumbled upon a fall mini session being offered by a local photographer the same day, and without hesitation, I messaged her right away to inquire about an evening shoot.

None of us were expecting a family photoshoot today. I texted my husband, who was working from home, to shower and shave during his last break of the day; and when Keaton woke up, I excitedly told him about our soon-to-be adventure, which, to my surprise, he became excited about when he’d learned about it.

And there we had it: it was decided that that would be our adventure of the evening, and everyone was on board. So, just before my husband finished work at 5PM, I quickly nursed Gaia and did a change of clothes for both her and Keaton. As for myself, all was simple and casual: just my usual black leggings and fall boots, and my signature mustard yellow “April O’Neil” raincoat. (Plus a prayer that I won’t look too dishevelled, like a raccoon who’d been in a street brawl.)

***

I’d never been to the pond and trail that had been selected by the photographer. When we arrived, I was mesmerized by the tranquil sight of the pond and the trees that framed it gracefully. I could also see the photographer finishing up her photoshoot with another client as well, trying to capture orchestrated but authentic, candid moments.

While we did bribe Keaton with a divine donut after the photoshoot, I must say that I’m very proud of how he behaved today. He was cooperative and eager to take part in the photo sessions. He was even affectionate and helpful with his sister. Sure, the donut had its weight, but before I’d even mentioned it, when I told him about an upcoming family photoshoot in the evening, he’d already had a big smile on his face that exuded enthusiasm.

That’s how I knew my son was getting older and more rational, and easier in ways that he wasn’t before: we could now talk to him, explain things (even complex things), and he could understand and cooperate and even give us feedback. He’s grown so much already. It’s even reflected in his relationship with his sister — especially so.

Keaton now accepts Gaia and is very fond of her. In fact, they’ve been playing exceptionally well together lately on their playmat. My momma heart can just burst with happiness. Nothing’s perfect; struggles will always persist. But seeing their bond and love grow is the greatest gift of my life.

***

My husband was afraid that with two little ones a 15-minute session wouldn’t be enough time, but I knew: it was just right. After 15 minutes, our photographer had all the poses she’d needed, and the kids were just about ready to hit the road flying for sweeter pastures. With kids, often times, short and sweet is best.

I, myself, had a great deal of fun. It was our very first professional family photoshoot. As the mom in the family who’s always taking photos of everyone, for the first time, I felt relaxed and taken care of. I was finally in photos and most likely not looking like my head is the size of a planet itself. (I’m usually the one taking failed selfies of our family of four, and as I’m the one holding the camera, naturally from that angle my head looks ginormous.)

I really look forward to seeing the finished, edited photos, especially all our imperfections and candid moments. Regardless of the end product, there’s perfection in our family of four being together in nature, just as fall is starting to poke its charming head out.

***

After our photographer had left, we stayed for a short walk to soak in the sunset and magical atmosphere. These are the photos I’d taken, unedited. I think they turned out quite cute.

***

Thank you to my dear husband who supports me on all my whimsical ideas and adventures. I love that as crazy parents with crazy lives we can still be spontaneous together, and find joy in it.

Farm-hopping

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Abby Hill Farms

Abby Hill Farms is a farm shop that sells locally-produced food, like fruits and veggies, as well as pumpkins during the autumn season. They’d just started adorning their lawn with pumpkins galore when we visited the last few times.

My favourite go-to there is their sweet corn. We’ve had the pleasure of tasting sweet corn from many local farms, and so far, their sweet corn is the tastiest. Gaia loves it, too, especially now that she has five shiny white enamels (she likes to gnaw on the cob).

Ferme l’Eco des Champs

Ferme l’Eco des Champs is a local ecological, agrotourism farm situated in Gatineau, Quebec, about a half hour drive from Ottawa. (The drive on the Quebec side is always scenic and refreshing.)

It was our first time there, and upon arrival, I noted just how cohesive and natural life there felt. The owner and her small team were hard at work; and after she came by for a quick hello and welcome, we were off exploring autonomously. I really appreciated the feeling of being a trusted guest in her home — it felt communal.

What’s neat about this farm is that they have a trust system in place, where customers are welcome to buy products in the shed without any employee to perform the transaction (they’re busy farming!). There’s a sheet where customers write down the products and their prices, a cash box to leave the money, and a device to scan debit and/or credit cards.

Gaia enjoyed observing all the animals, while Keaton was busy feeding the chickens. There was a tiny piglet here that was so stinkin’ adorable! Small it may be, but slow it wasn’t.

When we visited, they were working on a labyrinth made of at least a few hundred hay bales. Keaton had a blast running off and climbing on the hay bales, and hiding in all the nooks and crannies. As for me, I nearly broke my old age hips in the process of chasing him.

They also had fields of blooming flowers and harvested produce, all of which were ecologically grown. You can even subscribe to their different baskets of produce over the course of a period or more.

Perth, Ontario

Stewart Park

Not exactly a fall activity per se, but we drove to Perth the other day — just an hour outside Ottawa. We’d done many day trips outside Ottawa in the past, many of which had directed us on the highway. But to my surprise, the drive to Perth passed through the countryside!

It was magical and relaxing looking out the window the whole ride. The kids were deep asleep, too, so the quiet atmosphere made the experience all the more serene. My husband joked that perhaps we should do more trips to Perth in the future, if only for the scenic drive and to be able to converse and think (and have silence).

Perth Chocolate Works

Choosing some chocolates with Keaton’s “help”

The Code’s Mill

After we grabbed a little box of chocolates to share, we went to Stewart Park to sit on a bench and enjoy them together as a family. Keaton ate most of the chocos of course, since he’d asked to taste everything. But I was still a happy momma, sitting in nature and seeing my family enjoy life, even in all its imperfections.

While the drive to Perth took an hour, we’d spent a mere two hours or so there. We’d left later in the day — it’s hard to leave early with two little ones — so we didn’t have much time to spare.

After our little chocolate experience at Stewart Park, we ended up continuing on a walk around the downtown area. It was a short walk and there was much we’d missed, like the cheese and donut shop. But, my husband and Keaton did get to enjoy a visit to a local bookstore.

So little time to explore, but it was still a lovely outing. As parents now, our expectations and priorities have shifted: we do what we can, when we can, and the best we can.

Courges & Cie

Courges & Cie is an agrotourism farm in Gatineau, Quebec that harvests, as its name suggests, squashes and pumpkins (of hundreds of varieties). They also have a U-Pick subscription service where their clientele can pick their own fruits and vegetables directly from the field.

Before heading out to the pumpkin patch, we first tried their infamous wood-oven pizza that many customers have raved about. Even if I prefer the traditional greasy, cheesy species, I must say that this pizza was pretty delectable.

Their other infamous eat: the pumpkin donut

I picked up a few kabocha squashes (Japanese squashes) for myself and my parents, too. When cooked, they’re soft and exceptionally sweet, as if a pumpkin and a sweet potato had done the hanky-panky, and then had a baby.

They’re also densely packed with nutrients, so they’re perfect for Gaia’s eating regimen, especially as a puree or mashed. (In my motherly dreams she eats them, but in reality, she mashes them and windshield wipers them to the floor.)

I’d learned about kabocha squashes from my parents, who’d buy them often, and either steam them or make Khmer pumpkin-coconut custard dessert with them.

Their tent with all the pumpkin and squash varieties in the world

We picked a pumpkin from their pumpkin patch before heading home, but rather than the romanticized autumn moment, it was quite the sweaty summer day.

Valleyview Little Animal Farm

Puppet theatre

I wish I’d taken more photos of the farm itself — I’d taken mostly videos of the kids — because this farm is very dear to me. It was the first farm that Keaton had visited by car when we lived at our old apartment.

Back then, we didn’t have a car, so Keaton was limited to activities around our abode. It was only when my sister (Auntie Mel Mel) would visit us from Montreal, that he’d go on car adventures around Ottawa with her. He still has very fond memories of sitting in his car seat and eating snacks.

This farm was the first we’d visited with my sister. Now, being back here on our own, with our own car and a house we own, feels many years away from what was once a crippling challenge in our lives. And I feel immensely grateful, more than I could ever express.

This time at the farm, Keaton is much older and taller (without the little hair curl at the back of his neck). He also has a baby sister accompanying him, who was fascinated by the puppet show and all the animals.

This is where daddy and Gaia had shared a sweet moment observing alpacas together. Gaia was enchanted, of course.

Bruno had taken a photo of these two lovebirds, which, according to him, is a metaphor of us.

Proulx Farm

The entrance to the farm that I sweetly recognized from last year

This year, we were back for another round of Proulx Farm’s Pumpkin Fest. At this time of year, their farm is transformed into a giant pumpkin and Halloween-themed haven of fun.

Their iconic pumpkin stack

This year, Gaia is here with us, whereas last year she was in my belly!

Seeing the wall of pumpkins reminded me of my parents and last year’s trip (I was pregnant with Gaia). They came along with us and had a spooky good time for two elderly people. I missed them dearly on this trip and wish we’d had just one more seat in the car.

Gaia amongst pumpkins at Proulx Farm at 9 months old

Proulx Farm has everything fun for families during the fall season. It has different playgrounds with play structures and toys; it has a petting farm; it has a pumpkin patch and a corn maze; and it has tractor rides and Halloween displays, among other activities (they have more on weekends).

My favourite activity there is their wagon ride that took us along a long trail in the “Mysterious Forest” to see all the cool, spooky displays for Halloween. We all enjoyed our time, with Keaton excitedly pointing at different hidden displays in admiration and awe, and Gaia entranced by the serenading movement of the wagon.

Hay bales of animals

Character hay bales and a haunted house

I really admired all the Halloween displays on the trail and on the farm itself. It was a creative touch that added so much life and fun. The staff deserve all the appreciation, as much time, effort, creativity, and dedication had been involved in making Pumpkin Fest a spooky, fun zone for all. We even received free pumpkins that we were able to pick from the patch ourselves at the end of our visit, as part of our Pumpkin Fest package.

The highlight of autumn for me so far is being back at Proulx Farm, where fond memories had been curated last year, and where, going forward, we’ll always be visiting as a family of four. I’m hoping to visit a second time in October, when the temperature is chilly and crisp, and the leaves have changed colours.

Autumn came early

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I know that autumn is actually a few weeks away, but in my heart of hearts, as soon as September 1st hits, it’s already autumn. For me, it’s a feeling of change, rather than a mark on a calendar or a change in temperature or colours.

Autumn is my favourite season, not only for its natural beauty, but especially for the essence and wisdom the season brings. It shows us the fleeting cycles of life and moments; it reminds us that there’s a time to do and be busy, and a time to stop and retreat; and it teaches us that in the end, there must be balance in nature and in the universe, just as there must be balance in our individual psyches and selves. As an introspective person, I appreciate how autumn ultimately leads me back home to myself.

Lately, I’ve been finding bliss in decorating our home and in doing little art projects with my husband. As insanely busy parents with very little time and rest, going out on dates has become a faraway dream. Nevertheless, I really love our quiet moments at home together when the kids are asleep. Actually, I prefer these more than anything. Presence is the ultimate sublime gift.

Paintable projects from Dollarama

My spoooky haunted house

My husband’s dancing skeletons

The other day, my husband had found some paintable Halloween-themed art projects at Dollarama. We painted them together the same night, and I had a great deal of fun. No skill or expertise was involved — just enthusiasm, will, and concentration.

It was a simple little project, but I was still proud of our work, because when I look at our Halloween art boards, I feel that I’d had the most peaceful time in a long time. And it didn’t take much. In fact, it was the most amazing date night, for only $4 or so a piece.

Pick-your-own produce at Rideau Pines Farm!

Luscious tomatoes in their tomato field

Strawberry field

The sweetest strawberries I’ve ever tasted!

Raspberries

My husband had a spontaneous week-long vacation, so another simple activity we’ve been enjoying are mini road trips. Since going on vacation and travelling isn’t feasible for us right now, we do mini vacations instead, which may consist of road trips to a nearby town, suburb, or city. And especially to farms.

I think we spend most of our time at farms. I’m not sure if it’s my tickling dream of living in the countryside and being self-sufficient — I’m aware that it’s difficult and that hard work, resources, and dedication are involved — or if farms are simply my happy getaway place. Whatever the case, I’m happiest there, and the kids as well.

Since Keaton loves tractors and construction vehicles, farms have always been a good source of education for him (of course he’s swayed by their play structures and toys, too). He’s also been appreciating picking his own fruits and veggies there. In fact, he’d always get so excited when we’d tell him our plan of the day was to go to a farm.

Recently, we’d spontaneously stumbled upon a farm — Rideau Pines Farm — that offered a variety of pick-your-own options. They had both fruits and veggies to pick! I was in absolute awe, as I didn’t know there was a farm where we could pick our own produce. It tends to be the case that pick-your-own farms offer specific seasonal fruits only.

Rideau Pines Farm was heaven-sent. They had a myriad of produce to pick: garlic, kale, tomatoes, strawberries, raspberries, currants, peppers, you name it. The day we went they offered pick-your-own tomatoes, peppers, strawberries, and raspberries. Friends, their strawberries were the sweetest babes on this earth! Did they spray sugar water?

Despite the random downpours — I’d managed to pick only a few raspberries before we had to go — and violent gangs of mosquitos, I was in my happy place. Not only was everything healthy, but there was something deeply spiritual for my soul to be picking my own food from its source — it had felt like I was one with nature rather than a mere consumer.

Pumpkin patch at Fallowfield Tree Farm

Gaia was fascinated by the black cover and all the overlapping dirt and leaves

Keaton was really adamant about picking this lil pumpkin

We also did something naughty: we went to a pumpkin patch! It’s still early in the season, and most farms don’t open their pumpkin patches until mid- or late-September, but Fallowfield Tree Farm was very kind to have welcomed us with such warmth when we gave them a dingle.

We were very lucky. In fact, when we’d driven by the their fields the day prior, I was just telling my husband how this very pumpkin patch was already looking plump and invitational, and what a bummer it would’ve been if they’d kept it hidden and inaccessible until their grand opening day like other farms.

Lo and behold, this lovely farm didn’t withhold the love. They were the most easygoing, kindred, heartwarming folks I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. It’s funny how the universe works. The day prior, I’d looked at the pumpkin patch longingly as we drove by, and the day after, there we were, spontaneously picking pumpkins.

Bonnie was a gem. She had the bouncy castle ready for Keaton by the time we’d finished our time at the pumpkin patch. We had no clue that she was preparing this treat for us. He was her special little guest of the day. We were all her special guests — she’d sent us home with corn, too. My motherly heart almost exploded with gratitude. I couldn’t thank her enough.

Something I’ve been very grateful for as well is our backyard, which I’ve recently transformed into a little oasis. I love the string lights; they make the space cozy and magical. This is thanks to my husband who’d spent time making it just right for me (even in the heavy downpour).

This year, I’ve added mums and pumpkins again. I hope my mums don’t die on me, and that squirrels won’t eat my pumpkins like last year (we’d added white vinegar around them, so, fingers crossed). The addition of scarecrows and Halloween characters also set the tone for an autumn-y and Halloween-y vibe.

There’s a bit of all of us in our yard: there’s the punching bag that belongs to my husband, the mums and flowers that belong to me, and the playhouse and general toys that belong to Keaton. As for Gaia, the trees are very much her muse. I love that it tells a story of us all.

Apple-picking as a family of 4

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Keaton likes to play pretend that the cat is real (I think he longs for a kitty).

The start of September is always filled with hope and rejuvenation. It’s also when we put up our autumn decor. Last year was particularly exciting, as it was our first autumn in our first home (I was pregnant with Gaia). This year, all the autumn tingles are multiplying, because now, Gaia is here with us (we’re now a family of four)! She’s grown so much since her birth, and is so much of her own person already.

First apple-picking of the season at Mountain Orchards

Small but delicious silken apples

The first autumn activity we did this year was apple-picking at Mountain Orchards. I recall apple-picking at a different orchard around this time last year with my parents, and being pregnant with Gaia. I still can’t believe that one year later, she’s here with us and sitting up for photos with her brother and trying to hold and bite apples, while having the time of her life!

Both Keaton and Gaia had a lot of fun picking apples and taking part in the kids’ activities. There were wooden toy horses, a straw jump tent and playground, and a forest trail and corn maze, among other things. Going on a weekday meant that we pretty much had the whole place to ourselves, even the wagon ride. Keaton had a blast as usual. It was Gaia’s first time, and she screeched and flailed with excitement the whole way through.

Because we’d visited on a quiet weekday, there were no apple cider donuts — they’re a must-try when visiting this orchard — so we were all a bit bummed, especially Keaton who was looking forward to eating one. We did buy some apple cider from their shed instead, and on the way home grabbed Keaton a donut.

Avonmore Berry Farm and a furry pal

A few days later, we did another apple-picking activity. This time, we visited Avonmore Berry Farm. Even if this farm is known to harvest tasty berries in the summer, they’re equally equipped with fields full of blooming apple trees later on in the year.

The entrance was enchanting; it reminded me of an idyllic scene from an English classic novel. Upon entering, we were greeted by three golden retrievers, who, I’ve learned from the ladies working at the Pantry, belonged to nearby neighbours. Apparently, they love frequenting the farm to visit guests.

Surely enough, they became a great source of companionship during our visit. These friendly and well-trained doggos were the highlight for Keaton. One had followed us all the way to the orchard, crossing the road with us with such impressive intuition and spatial memory. (Come to think of it, I think it followed us simply because it wanted Keaton’s bun.)

Here, we picked paula red apples. While many of the apples were damaged due to the recent hail storm, we did manage to find enough good ones to fill our bag.

These apples were tangy and tart — just perfect for the way my mom and I would eat them traditionally. We’d mix salt, sugar, and spicy red peppers, and then dip the apple slices in. In our culture, we tend to eat sour apples this way. It really does hit the spot.

Fun family activities

I think my husband enjoyed the swing more than our child.

This photo is so dear to me; I could see and feel the friendship between a little boy and his four-legged companion.

Towards the end of our visit, we got ice cream and this doggo followed Keaton the whole time. Something comical, sad, and suspect had happened, though: Keaton dropped his ice cream cone and the doggo rushed to eat it all. Keaton cried of course, but I must admit that I had a laughing spell from afar, as it was an adorable yet equally comical sight. (I’d also told him not to tempt the doggo.)

My husband suspected that perhaps it wasn’t accidental. Perhaps the doggy had booped him with his tail so that he’d drop the ice cream. Perhaps it wasn’t even the doggy’s first time pulling this trick. Whatever the case, it was a cute-as-a-button kind of day.

MacIntosh apples at Orleans Fruit Farm

I have to admit that in the span of a week, we went apple-picking three times. The third and last time, thus far, was with my parents and sister and niece (who’d visited us from Montreal). It was a hot day, so the trip to the farm was very short.

The apples at Orleans Fruit Farm were healthy, ginormous, and plentiful. I was surprised. I’d almost overlooked this farm because I’d thought it would be minuscule in scope. I was wrong. The farm was vast and the sight was picturesque, with sloped fields that were lined with endless luscious apple trees. They even had scrumptious apple cider.

While their prices were the most steep compared to the other two orchards we’d visited, the fact that they’re the closest farm to the city — at least where we are — is very convenient for us.

Mums at Millers’ Farm & Market

We also returned to Millers’ Farm for our new annual fall tradition: picking up mums for our backyard. Keaton loves helping me choose the mums and putting them in our wagon.

While we didn’t buy any pumpkins, they were much to be adored. The orange colours induced many feelings of warmth and coziness in me. I’m really looking forward to cold sweater weather and going to all the pumpkin patches we can humanly muster, and to having Gaia experience her first autumn season in all its rays of beauty.