Condo Container Gardening, From a Beginner Gardener

When you live in a big and expensive city, sometimes you have to let go of some of your #housegoals - a driveway, garage, home office, backyard, to name a few. 

But then again, there are some you don’t…

One of the major selling features when we bought our condo was the large terrace, 200 square feet of outdoor space. If we weren’t going to have a backyard, then a space where our kids could play and where we could entertain was a must.

On top of this great outdoor space, and, essentially, extension of our living space in the warmer months, the terrace came with two large planter boxes. I’m talking very large… like herb and vegetable garden large.

In 2009, the City of Toronto created a bylaw where all new builds over a certain square footage were required to have a green roof. For our condo, this was in the form of the planter boxes. When we moved in, they were filled with a variety of perennials (blooms that come back year after year), that quickly blossomed and became our own little pollinator garden. 

As much as I LOVE a pollinator garden, what I don’t love is our stinging friends being so close to where the girls are playing. And so, those perennials sadly had to go.

With our condo bylaw stating that the planter boxes must stay “green”, we decided to instead use them for an herb and vegetable garden. Might as well get some reward out of them. Am I right?!

Since this type of garden was completely new to me, I immediately turned to my friends at The Home Depot Canada for help. (By the way, did you know that they are THE destination for spring in Canada?) 

When it comes to plants, they have 32 dedicated growers across Canada, 8 here in Ontario. Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to go on a field trip with them to visit one of those local growers, family-owned Jeffery’s Greenhouses, in the Niagara-area. Jeffery’s 1.5 million square feet of planting space supplies the annuals to 55 stores in Ontario. Burpee is the edible brand they grow, and includes the majority of potted herbs I bought for our garden.

>> Read on to learn what we planted. <<

Originally, we had intended to just do one planter with herbs. But, naturally, when I saw the availability of herbs and produce in-store (both in starter and seed), I got excited and overbought. So, our second planter box became dedicated to veggies.

Since we live in a condo and space is at a premium, I didn’t have the luxury of starting seeds indoors in the winter. So instead, I bought a mixture of potted herbs and vegetables, as well as seeds suitable for sowing directly outdoors after last frost.

Most herbs and vegetables do require full sun, for at least six hours a day. Perfect for our north-facing terrace because during the daytime hours, we are bathed in sunlight. Sun equals happy plants. 

Living in hardiness zone 6a, typically last frost is the beginning of May. BUT, we’ve had such a cool, wet spring so far that planting was a bit delayed. 

Since I can never do anything by myself anymore (#momlife), I “enlisted the help” of my littlest garden buddy, my three year old daughter Morley. I’ll give her credit, after putting on her PAW Patrol gardening gloves (also bought at The Home Depot Canada), she was all in, using all of the strength in her little body to pull out the old plants, and prep the dirt for planting the new. While she was a great help, she did require about 15 snack breaks, so prepping and planting took a little longer than I intended.

But, after those 15 snack breaks, we finished. And I am so happy with the result!

Nationally, 1 in 8 households live in condos or apartments (2011 National Household Survey). And in Toronto, the largest city in Canada, 20% of the population calls a condo home (2016 census). Small space, urban gardens are on the rise. Just because you live in a small space, does not mean you can't have a garden (and eat it too). 

Gardening is such an immensely pleasurable and enjoyable activity. You have the joy of growing your own food, knowing where it came from, and how it was grown. There’s nothing that beats the ability to harvest the freshest ingredients for your home-cooked meals. Having your kids involved, and teaching them where your food comes from, is also a bonus.

Now, keep your fingers crossed that it’s successful because I’m itching to be able to serve them up on our many terrace BBQs this summer…

What We Planted: 

Planter Box 1 (Herbs): Chives, Dill, Parsley, Basil, Sage, Thyme, Rosemary

Planter Box 2 (Vegetables): Kale, Arugula, Lettuce, Green Onions, Carrots, Beets

Medium-sized pot: Tomatoes 

Small-sized pot: Mint (*)

*It is important to note, mint has an aggressive root system and must be planted on its own or it will completely take over your garden.

Interested in planting your own small-space container garden?

Between doing my research and planting our gardens, I learned a few things that I think are important to share to help with the success of your garden. This is no way meant to be a comprehensive step-by-step guide. I am in NO WAY a gardening expert (hell, this one may completely fail). 

A Few Things to Think About When Starting Your Own Small-Space Container Garden:

Before deciding to plant herbs and vegetables, it is important to check your condo bylaws! Each condo is different in terms of rules for balconies and terraces. 

Determine your hardiness zone. This will tell you what can grow where, and when. Here is Canada's hardiness zone map.

Set a budget to help determine what kind of things you can invest in, like the size and type of containers, quality of soil, and size of raised beds you can purchase. For those on a tight budget, think about starting small and gradually expanding each year.

Do your research. So you know what can grow in your area, and based on that info, you have created a list of what you want to plant. Now its time to learn about how much water, sunlight, space (i.e. space between plantings, do they sprawl vs. grow vertically), and love the plants you want to grow need. Based on this info, come up with a garden plan. 

Make sure to observe the location you have selected for a few days. Your container should be kept in a position where it can enjoy a fair amount of sun during the day. The amount of space and sun will determine how much you can grow and also what kind of plants you can grow.

Consider whether you want to start with seeds or transplants. Many varieties (i.e. carrots, beets) do best when direct seeded while other plants (i.e. tomatoes, peppers) should be started indoors in advance or purchased as seedlings to ensure there is enough time for them to grow and mature.

Remember that a successful vegetable garden takes time to manage and maintain. You can’t just plant your garden and forget about it until the harvest rolls around. Remember it needs to be watered, weeded AND harvested. And don’t forget about the end of the growing season - putting your garden to bed in the fall is just as important.

Have fun with it!

Do you have a garden? What is your favourite thing to grow (and eat)? I’d love to hear!

*Disclosure: This post is in partnership with the Home Depot Canada. However, all opinions are 100% that of To & Fro. Thank you Home Depot!

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Spring & Summer Bucket List

After a long winter, the warmer weather is FINALLY here. And that means it’s time to start thinking about our spring and summer adventures!

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the warm weather passes by rather quickly - so, it’s important to make the most of it. The perfect reason to make a bucket list!

Read on to discover what’s on my family’s bucket list this spring and summer.

To & Fro’s Spring & Summer Bucket List

Annual family camping trip. For the past few years, we’ve taken a annual family camping trip in Ontario. The first few years we did a canoe-in trip in Algonquin (link). And then kids happened, so we scaled it back a bit with the Pinery and car camping in Algonquin. This summer we look forward to exploring a new provincial park - Awenda, on the shore of Georgian Bay.

More camping. Our condo has a fairly large terrace, large enough to fit a small tent. I foresee many nights spent “camping” on the terrace. It’s also good practice to see how the girls do in a tent.

Picnics in the park. We have an incredible park across the street from our house, that we frequent almost every single day in the summer months. We love to pack up a picnic lunch, grab a blanket and make an afternoon of it. 

Dinner on the beach. One of our favourite things to do last summer was to whip up a homemade pizza, pack it up and head down to the beach (a quick 20 minute walk from our house). We’re looking forward to packing up the pizza, some beverages and the pails and shovels and doing it all over again this summer.

Swimming in the lake. I grew up on Lake Huron, and I have many fond memories of swimming with friends each summer. We’re very lucky to have the Great Lakes in our backyard. It’s not a summer without a dip in the lake, whether it be Ontario or Huron.

Plant an herb garden. This one I’m especially excited for because it will be my very first garden! That very same terrace I mentioned above has two large planters, one of which I will be using to grow our own herbs. Also a chance to teach my oldest where our food comes from. And let’s be honest, food just tastes better when you grow it yourself. 

Canada Day fireworks from the rooftop. Our condo’s rooftop has the perfect view of the lake, so I look forward to grabbing a few folding chairs and watching the Canada Day fireworks from eight floors above. Because let’s be honest, no one wants to battle the crowds at the boardwalk (especially with two little ones in tow).

Visit to the Zoo. Always a must during the summer months! Since we’re such animal lovers, I don’t think this bucket list item needs much of an explanation. 

Watch a Lake Huron sunset. Preferably while sitting around a campfire, while roasting marshmallows, with a cold beverage in hand. Lake Huron sunsets are seriously like a piece of art. 

Get outside, as much as possible. Summer wouldn’t be summer if we stayed indoors the entire time. Whether it’s all of the above, or just a walk down the street, we get outside as much as possible, rain or shine. Getting outside is just good for your soul. And if you don’t believe me, you can read more about why it’s good for your mental health, here. 

You know what is always with us when we get outside? Our AfterShokz Trekz Air headphones. I’ve been talking about them for the past few months, and can’t tell you enough how much we love these bad boys. 

Seriously, these headphones are a total game changer. They use bone conduction technology, sending mini vibrations through your cheekbones, directly to your inner ear, leaving your ear canals open to hear the ambient sounds around you. You can listen to your podcasts, music, audio books or favourite sports game, while still being able to hear the world around you!

The Trekz Air headphones sport a wireless wraparound titanium band that loops behind the neck and hooks over the ears. It provides a flexible fit for unnoticeable all-day comfort and stability. No cords, no worries - perfect for an active and on-the-go lifestyle.  

I will admit, at first, I was a little hesitant. It felt weird not having something in my ear. But, after a few minutes, I was used to being able to hear the ambient nose of the cars passing me and the neighbourhood dogs barking as I walked down the sidewalk and through our local park. And, when you’re walking down a busy street, with a toddler who asks for a snack every 4 seconds, being able to hear is definitely key.

AfterShokz Trekz Air headphones come in four different colours (slate grey, forest green, midnight blue and canyon red) and retail for $189.95 Canadian.

Follow #ShokzSquadCAN on social to see what the rest of the review team is saying about these headphones!

What’s on your spring and summer bucket list? I’d love to hear!

*GIVEAWAY*

I’ve been talking about these headphones for four months now, and it’s about time we give away a pair! Enter below for your chance to win 1 of 3 pairs of AfterShokz Trekz Air headphones. Good luck :)

AfterShokz Giveaway

Fine Print:

• Giveaway open to residents of Canada and the US only.
• Open May 8 - June 6, 2019. Winners (3) will be contacted within a week of closing.
• Prize pack will include the following: Trekz Air headphones, water bottle, black sport belt, portable large case and sport towel.

Disclaimer: This post is in partnership with AfterShokz and PTPA Media. I have received products and/or compensation in exchange for this post, however, all opinions and advice shares are 100% that of To & Fro.

5 Reasons to Visit Algonquin Provincial Park

When you think of the outdoors in Canada, where does your mind go? To the picturesque views of the west coast’s Rocky Mountains? To the shores of the Maritimes? Or, how about to the golden hues of the fall leaves in Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park?

While the mountains have my heart, Ontario is where I call home. And to me, there’s not much more stunning (and quintessentially Canadian) than Algonquin Provincial Park. It’s also only 3(ish) hours from Toronto, making it the perfect long weekend escape from the big city. 

Established in 1893, Algonquin was created as a wildlife sanctuary to ultimately protect the headwaters of the five major rivers which flow from the Park. 

You may also like >> You’ll Find Me in the Trees of Algonquin 

As one of the oldest and largest provincial parks in Ontario, Algonquin is diverse, protecting a variety of natural, cultural and recreation features and values. It also offers something for nearly everyone. Whether it be a family camping trip, a back country portage or even just a day hike, there are many reasons why YOU must visit Algonquin Provincial Park. 

Here are just 5 (of many).

Canoeing

Whether you’re an experienced voyageur or have never touched a paddle in your life, Algonquin is the perfect place for canoeing. With 2,000 kilometres of routes and portages, so you can choose something short or plan something epic.

Wildlife Viewing

Having lived in Alaska, we took seeing moose on the daily for granted. In Ontario, that’s not so much the case. Algonquin is not only the perfect place to view a moose or two, but is also home to red fox, grey wolves, river otters, beaver, black bear, white-tailed deer and more. 

Oh, and the sunsets aren't too shabby either. 

Fishing

With 1,500 lakes and 1,200 kilometres of streams, it’s no surprise that Algonquin boasts some of the best brook and lake trout fishing around. Trout aren’t the only fish thought - there are a recorded 54 different species of fish in the park! 

If you’re looking to go fishing in Algonquin, spring provides some of the best fishing opportunities of the year. Don’t forget your license!

Hiking

There are 19 interpretive hiking trails, each allowing you to explore a different aspect of Algonquin’s natural environment. Interpretive trails are open year-round, clearly marked and easy to navigate. Be sure to pick up a trail guide booklet, found at all trail heads and park bookstores, before you start. 

And if you're not into hiking, there are also several beaches, such as the one at Canisbay Lake Campground, to explore. Which when you have a toddler, totally counts as a hike. 

And last, but definitely not least…

Camping

Camping is one of Algonquin’s most popular activities. Camping opportunities are grouped into two main categories based upon the mode of transportation to get you to the camping location - drive to camping and backcountry camping. Drive to camping includes developed campgrounds (aka those with sites), yurts, ranger camping, RV camping and lodges, whereas backcountry camping includes portaging, backpacking and paddle in campsites. 

In Algonquin, you can camp (just about) anywhere. First, pick your ideal type, then pick your location. If you are keeping it safe with car camping, you have 9 different locations to chose from. Our personal favourite is Canisbay Lake, located at km 24 of the park. It offers an access point for portaging, paddle in campsites and a developed campground (with sites that can accommodate both tents and trailers). 

Word to the wise, start planning early. You can reserve your spot up to five months in advance on the Ontario Parks website. The good ones go fast!

You may also like >> Disconnecting in Algonquin

Did you know, Ontario’s provincial parks are turning 125 in 2018?! And it all started back in 1893 with the creation of Canada’s first provincial park, Algonquin. Today, Ontario Parks protects 340 provincial parks, which encompasses just under 8% of Ontario, an area larger than Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island combined.

Make 2018 the year to visit the stunningly beautiful landscapes of our province, carry on traditions and make new memories. I highly recommend starting with Algonquin. 

Have you explored Ontario’s Parks? Which one is your favourite? I’d love to hear!

The Adventures of Summer Soccer (& Essentials in Our Bag)

*This post is sponsored by Bayer®. To make sure Bayer® products are right for you, always read and follow the label.

Earlier this spring, I successfully checked one of my #momgoals off the list - to become, a soccer mom. 

As someone who played soccer both recreationally and competitively for the majority of her life, seeing my mini don her red and white uniform and kick the ball for the first time made me one proud mama.

Ok, so maybe there wasn’t as much “soccering” going on as there was longingly staring at the play structure next to the field or running off through the dirt, but it was still soccer.

While I would love to call it a summer sports league, a bunch of toddlers running wild really is anything but. However, it is a way for her to be active, introduce her to a new activity, get outside, meet new friends, learn her independence and, most importantly, have fun! 

No matter what sport you or your children are signed up for this summer, there are a few essential items you’ll want to bring along in your bag. Check out this handy list for tips on packing for your time on the field (or wherever the sport takes you).

Water Bottle

Hydration is no joke, especially when it gets hot out there. Make sure to bring your own reusable bottle of water. Look for an insulated stainless-steel water bottle to keep your water cold for hours under the sun. To avoid the dreaded summer sickness, make sure to not share your water. 

Safety Equipment

Sports-related injuries can be serious, and could keep you on the side lines in the short term, or lead to long-term problems if not treated properly. Protective equipment like helmets, elbow and knee pads, eye protection and mouth guards (depending on the sport) can help to reduce your chances of getting hurt or the severity of the injury. Be sure to find out what gear you need before your first game so that you’re prepared.

Spare Clothes

Keeping an extra pair of clothes on hand keeps you dry and comfortable on your way home after the key. As an added bonus, you’ll be ready for an impromptu post-game team celebrations. 

Sunscreen

Sun protection is key year round, but especially if your game takes you out in the hot summer sun for a couple of hours. Apply your sunscreen before you get dressed for the game to ensure all spots are covered and keep it on sidelines to reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. Also reapply immediately after towelling off. 

So you don’t miss a minute of the game, try a spray like Coppertone SPORT® Sunscreen Continuous Spray SPF 30. This sweat-resistant sunscreen is hypoallergenic and can help boost skin’s hydration. Apply just 15 minutes before sun exposure. It goes on fast, has a light breathable feel and stays on strong when you sweat. Keep in mind, sprays should be rubbed into the skin for complete coverage. 

For a small portable option, pick up the new Coppertone SPORT® Sunscreen Stick SPF 50, it provides a broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and won’t run into your eyes when your sweat. It’s small size also allows you to tuck it into any size sport bag (or purse). 

First-Aid Kit

The type of first-aid kit you’ll need obviously varies by the sport, but there are a few general supplies that will come in handy no matter what. This includes instant cold packs, bandages and cleansing wipes for cleaning wounds. For the adults, you can even pack a pain medication like ALEVE® Pain Relief Caplets to give you 12 hours of relief and keep you in the game.

ALEVE® is an over-the-counter pain reliever (with active ingredient Naproxen Sodium) indicated to quickly and effectively relieve aches and pains due to arthritis, headache, muscular aches, toothache and backache.

Have you joined a sports league this summer? What are the most important things in your bag? I’d love to hear!

*This post is sponsored by Bayer®. To make sure Bayer® products are right for you, always read and follow the label.

Celebrating Spring with the Perfect Toddler Tea Party

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #TeaProudly #CollectiveBias

Now that the weather is finally in our favour, we like to celebrate the best way we know how - by getting outdoors with our toddler!

When our daughter was born, I vowed she would follow in her mom’s footsteps and never be a girly-girl. I was against all pinks, purples and princesses. But then, she became a toddler and I quickly discovered that it was not my choice. Babies, dresses, bows and the colour pink are now a common sight in our house. So, getting outside to celebrate the arrival of spring with a tea party seemed like it would be right up her alley.

A tea party is something I can get on board with because it is not just a fun way to eat lunch with your little one. A tea party is also a form of imaginative play, giving your child the opportunity to role play and act out various experiences (ahem, including being bossy). They can experiment with decision making, while also practice their social skills, from negotiation, to sharing, taking turns and understanding consequences.  

Add the outdoor setting and a toddler-friendly tea party is the perfect way to celebrate the return of spring (and the Victoria Day long weekend)!

Interested in enjoying a cup of Bigelow Tea this spring season? Hover over the photo above to click through to Walmart.ca to buy your favourite Bigelow Tea steep flavour.

What do I need to create the perfect toddler tea party?

First, you’ll need a table and chairs. One suitable for little people. To the table, you can add a lace or floral table cloth, but of course its not necessary. Decorate the table with all things spring, including bright colours and fresh flowers. Our favourite spring-time flowers are tulips. Pink for Morley, of course. 

In order to have a tea party, you’ll also need a way to serve the tea and snacks. There are many toddler-friendly play tea sets that will do the trick, or you can opt for a real set. Your local thrift store should have a variety of inexpensive cups and saucers, and even tea pots. For our party, we stuck with a kid-friendly set. Somebody can be a bit messy when it comes to eating and drinking, so plastic was safe. 

Don’t forget to wear your best tea party attire, such as a spring dress. If you’re venturing outside into the sun, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are also a must.

No party is complete without food. Tea sandwiches are simple two-to-three-bite treats that go perfectly with tea. If you have a favourite sandwich combination - such as peanut butter & jelly or cucumber & cream cheese - try it in miniature-sized version instead. You can also include mini cupcakes, cookies or scones as dessert. 

Whether it is mom, auntie or even a favourite stuffie, don’t forget about inviting friends to share the party with!

Last, but definitely not least, the tea. For our recent tea party, we opted for Bigelow Tea’s organic collection, steep. Our go-to flavour was the caffeine-free Chamomile Citrus. Also toddler friendly, when cooled to the perfect temperature. 

Steep is completely “NEW” to Walmart Canada locations, and comes in six different flavours - Chamomile Citrus, Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Green Tea w/Pomegranate, Lemon Ginger and Pure Green Tea. They can be found in the tea and coffee aisle and, coming soon, online at Walmart.ca.

And, if your toddler is not into the idea of drinking tea, you can always substitute their favourite juice and reserve the tea for the adults at the table. 

Just because it’s finally warm outside, doesn't mean we can't drink hot tea. Tea brings people together, regardless of the weather. After all, a good tea party should be all about enjoying the company of others and finding something to celebrate, whenever you can. Like the return of spring.

How do you celebrate spring? Does it involve a favourite beverage, such as Bigelow Tea? I’d love to hear!

Connect with Nature: 10 Reasons to Get Outside

“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” -Rachel Carson

When you think back to your childhood, can you recall a day at the beach, a camping trip or even just a picnic that you really enjoyed? How about a passion for fishing, swimming or even canoeing? It’s time to bring back those memorable childhood pastimes, and time to start dipping your toes in the mud once in a while.

As far back as I can remember, I have always loved spending time outdoors. When I was younger, my grandmother and I used to go on nature walks at our cottage, collecting interesting things and always looking up the names of certain flowers or birds when we got back. Growing up on Lake Huron, I spent my free time at the local beach, not coming home until my fingers looked like prunes. 

Some may call me a nature nerd, but that's ok with me because being outdoors is what makes my heart happy.  

When was the last time you went outside? I'm not talking a walk to put out the garbage at the end of the driveway. I'm talking when you really went outside - for purpose and pure enjoyment - hiking, camping, fishing, even a relaxing day at the beach.

Sadly, not many people can remember the last time they really got outside. Emerging technologies, limited green space and a fear magnified by media are often to blame. Nature deficit disorder is real, and is becoming all too common in today's society.

At a time when we our daughter is beginning to take a larger interest in the world around her and we’re about to welcome number 2, I can't imagine a world where we don't get outside. 

Clearly, I am a total nature pusher and truly believe that being outside in nature is good for the soul. In celebration of Earth Day (on April 22), I'm sharing 10 reasons why YOU should get outside:

To escape the hectic city life. 

Stressed at work? Leave the to do lists at home and head for the trees. No wifi, no electrical outlets, no problem. Leave the technology at home. Studies have found that those that spend time in nature have lower levels of cortisol, a hormone used as a marker for stress, than those that stay in the city. Give your brain, and eyes, a break, and enjoy the quiet time. A dose of fresh air is the perfect way to reset before the work week ahead.

To explore new places. 

Whether it is your local park, or a natural area a road trip away, choosing different places to visit allows you to explore what your own city and others have to offer. Do you research - you'd be shocked at the places you can find within a short drive from your home.

To develop a new found love of nature. 

Being outside isn't just about being in a new environment. It's also about gaining a new appreciation for Mother Nature's beauty. Take a walk in the woods - close your eyes, open your ears and take a deep breathe. Look up, look down, look all around you. Appreciate the small things. Learn something new about the plants and animals that call your area home. 

>> You may also like: Benefits of Outdoor Play 

To reset your sleep cycle. 

With crazy work schedules and the increased exposure to artificial light, our internal clocks can easily get out of rhythm. Studies have shown that we actually sleep better when we set our sleep cycles with those of the sun. Plan a camping trip and leave the alarm clocks at home. Allow your body the rest it deserves.

To relax your mind and eyes.

You probably already know that staring at a screen for hours is bad for your eyes. So then, why do it? Turn off the electronics and take in the visual buffet that is the outdoors instead. And, if you really need to take the technology with you, put it to work by going on a photo safari. 

To spend time with friends and family. 

Being outside doesn't have an age limit. Taking a walk through the worlds, relaxing on the beach or even sitting around the campfire, telling stories, playing games and having a few laughs is the perfect bonding experience. And don't forget about your pets, sometimes unwinding in nature does them good too.

To do something affordable. 

Getting outside is often cheaper than planning a weekend trip to a popular tourist area. Chances are, it may even be free! If visiting a national/state/provincial park, day use and overnight fees are usually very minimal, and what you do pay often goes right back into caring for the park. 

To get some exercise. 

Being outdoors does not need to be strenuous, but it can give you the opportunity to take a break from your regular exercise routine and try something different. The opportunities for exercise while being outdoors are endless - canoeing, climbing and hiking are just a few. Your body will thank you.

To inspire others.

Now that we have a daughter of our own, spending as much time outdoors as we can is so important. The more time we spend outdoors, the more our daughter will enjoy being outdoors with us. It's all about building that connection with Mother Nature. If someone has a connection with nature, they are more likely to love it. And if they love it, then they're more likely to want to protect it.

>> You may also like: Creating an Animal Lover 

To have fun! 

No explanation needed.

So do me a favour this weekend - make a pledge to get outside. Whether it is a nightly walk in the park or a weekend camping, drop the chaos of every day life. Take a deep breath and take in the sights, sounds and smells of the great outdoors. Make a lasting connection with nature. I think you'll like it. 

About Earth Day 2018: Earth Day is now a global event each year. Observed by more than 1 billion people in 192 counties, it the largest civic-focused day of action in the world. This year's theme is End Plastic Pollution. From injuring marine life to the presence of plastics in our food and beyond, the exponential growth of plastics is threatening our planet’s survival. The goal of Earth Day 2018 includes ending single-use plastics, promoting alternatives to fossil fuel-based materials, promoting 100% recycling of plastics, corporate and government accountability and changing human behaviour concerning plastics.

What is your favourite outdoor activity? How do you celebrate Earth Day? I'd love to hear!