Sometimes Local is Best

It's easy to forget there are gems in your own backyard, especially if you're like me and desperately want to hike mountains and paddle on oceans, both of which my city has exactly zero. But then I remember I have the Royal Botanical Gardens practically right down the road and it's (mostly) dog-friendly! It's not as adventurous as mountains and oceans, but it sure is pretty!

Yesterday we explored Hendrie Park, and I couldn't believe that I had never thought to take Mia to this amazing spot. I could have kicked myself! One of my best memories is when my Grammie and I came by ourselves and walked around the gardens and then had a quiet lunch in the Tea Room. There is just something about Hendrie Park that makes you feel peaceful and relaxed, which makes it a perfect place to spend a gorgeous autumn afternoon. Now, it takes a lot to make Mia feel relaxed, especially when she's somewhere new, and while she didn't necessarily qualify as 'calm', she did very well (even if I did have to revoke her flexi-line privileges in the first five minutes...). She hid behind me when a nice lady wanted to say hi, because, as per usual, she drew a crowd of admirers and, as per usual, had no interest in playing the well-brought-up lady and ignored everyone. Better to trust me to take care of the stranger-danger than to bark her fool head off. One spot she did really enjoy was the Morrison Woodland Garden because no one else was there because it was most like a hike, which is her favourite. And there were benches. Girl loves benches.

This bench was dedicated to Dr. R.C.B. Webster and says, "for peace, quiet and a good book". I think Dr. Webster and I would have gotten along.

The RBG also launched the International Sculpture Collection, which, as the name suggests, features sculptures by international artists. If you want to learn more about the sculptures or artists, you can do so here.

She thought these kids were real and this was as close as she would get.

Hugs are her favourite!

Artsy-fartsy

This piece is called 'On the Wings of Love' and it may be may favourite. It looks way better in person. Trust.

She desperately wanted to splash in the reflecting pools. Sorry beebs.

There were people around so she wouldn't sit in front of this one...

Cutest little gargoyle there ever was!

Always take a moment to smell the flowers.

All in all, it was a successful day! If you're ever in the Burlington/Hamilton area, you should check it out. There is an entry fee (unless you feel like buying a yearly pass, like us!), but there's also a few restaurants, a gift shop and activities for the kiddies as well, so why not make a day of it? It's a great place to spend some time exploring, whether you like to hike, learn about different plant species, or if you'd rather stroll around the well maintained grounds. Have you ever been to the RBG? Let us know in the comments!