this was the last summer weekend that I could spend with Gab. I'll be starting my new job in the village soon, and from now until the end of mountain biking and hiking season in Big White, I'll be working every weekend.
A friend of mine shared this website with me that lists all the legit U-pick farms in Okanagan valley. I picked one from the list and we headed there early in the morning to go cherry picking.
It was such an amazing experience. I wish I could always pick my own cherries instead of buying them from the store. There's a whole different feeling when you pick a cherry straight from the tree and drop it into your bucket.
On the way, we stopped by the lake to enjoy the beautiful view. There, I found an Oregon grape bush. I had a plastic bag in the car, so I picked as many berries as I could tolerate. Those branches have so many spikes! Haha. Next time I'll bring my gardening gloves. I think I’m going to make some delicious muffins with them.
We also stopped at a garden center in Kelowna because I wanted to buy a rosemary plant. I love picking fresh rosemary from my own plant instead of buying it from the store or using the dried kind.
While I was looking for the rosemary, I spotted a jasmine plant. I've been looking for one for a couple of years because I absolutely love the fragrance when it fills a room. I'd never been able to find one, but by pure chance, there it was. I bought it right away :)
I take this as a sign for a great year ahead. I think it is just the start ;)
The flower buds are still a bit fragile and keep falling off, but I think the plant just needs some time to adjust to its new home. I'll do my best to create a beautiful environment at home for it.
Have a great night everyone :)
July 7, 2026
Big white, Canada