In a previous post, I talked about some of the projects and excusions that my family and I have been involved in. The beautiful fall weather we are having this year has really helped keep us outside and active.

One of our most favourite outings was a recent visit to Le Verger de Hudson. Founded in 2003, Le Verger de Hudson has over 2000 apple trees, and has been open to the public for apple-picking since 2013. One of the few completely organic orchards in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges area, verger Hudson offers a unique experience. Unlike some of the well-known and quite large orchards in the area, Le Verger de Hudson is quaint and gives you the feeling that you are visiting a friend’s farm. Along with the opportunity for u-pick your own fresh organic apples, they also offer their own honey and other apple-related products. I have purchased the apple tarts, honey and juice, all of which were high quality and delicious.

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On our most recent visit, we were greeted by Eric, co-owner of The Verger Hudson, who gave us a tour of the orchard and showed us which trees were ready for picking. Beautifully ripe,we proceeded to pick about 14 lbs of apples, which doesn’t take long when you have two enthusiastic daughters at your side. Annick, co-owner and wife of Eric was not present at the time, but who I have met on other occasions, and their daughter who was working in the shop was pleasant and helpful for the transactions. It is truly a family-run business, right down to the Jack Russel dog that runs around near by. If you are in the area and looking to find something to do, it is a truly hidden treasure.

Another recent outing involved a trail walk in Rigaud mountain where I live. The sentier de l’Escapade is a trail system maintained by the city of Rigaud. Comprised of almost 27 km of natural forested trails, and includes an occasional panoramic view, natural wetlands and even a well-known sugar shack – La Sucrerie de la Montagne – all can be experienced within the trail system. With some steep hills and at times a rocky terrain, the trail provide a bit of a challenge for the avid walker or run enthusiast. It’s a beautiful place to be whether you have only an hour to spare or an entire day.

These moments together with my kids and husband are precious. They are simple to plan and don’t involve a big investment of time or energy. With our active and sometimes incompatible schedules, being able to reconnect even if it is just for a few minutes while picking apples, or being outside in nature are good for our health and good for our souls.

Now it’s Nathalie’s turn. I asked her about the types of activities that she participated in with her family and here is what she recommends.