I’ve long expressed my desire to go strawberry picking because it’s something I truly enjoy. I realized that I had been talking more than taking action. Last year, various obstacles; time, money, and more, held me back from this experience. Not this year, though. This year, with the sun blazing, I made a choice. Sure, I had other tasks at hand, like editing, planning, and even the prospect of resting (because I absolutely love my sleep). However, I began my day with movement and recommitted to cultivating a life of consistency. Today marks the continuation of my journey to show up for myself. I craved something authentic beyond my usual routine. This wasn’t just another task to tick off; this was about embracing an experience I enjoy wholeheartedly without reservation.
Over the last week, I researched a few farms to discover the perfect spot for picking my own strawberries. As someone who often overanalyzes every detail, I usually gravitate towards farms with various crops, but today was all about strawberries, and I embraced the simplicity of that focus. The farm I chose, Robintide Farms, is a delightful gem just a short 30-minute journey north of the city. Nestled in wide-open spaces, it offers the crisp, fresh air that revitalized my spirit, truly, it was exactly what I needed!
The Quiet Joy of Showing Up
This was a scorching hot day in Toronto; 38C degrees and up, typically, with such extreme heat, I would have folded and said maybe tomorrow. Today, I was determined, Why? Because my heart was set on it. I arrived shortly after 8 am, and believe me when I say the sun was shining, proclaiming her presence! ( I felt like she was a hater lol) Bees were buzzing around, birds chirped playfully, and a warm breeze carried the rich scent of earthiness, wrapping around me like a comforting embrace. Yes I was hot but I was in my element.
There was no rush. No pressure. Just me, the sun, and an invitation to be present.
Upon entering the farm, I was warmly (literally lol) welcomed by the staff who outlined the process of purchasing and picking strawberries. They also shared the exciting news that the farmers’ market was open, with fresh treasures just waiting to be discovered. It wasn’t a luxurious spa day, but the experience offered me a kind of peace that money simply can’t buy, even if I did pay for those succulent strawberries, haha! Picking strawberries may seem simple , it felt right.
Just Me and My Berries
The Berries Were Worth It
At this farm, there were three basket sizes to choose from:
- 2L for $14
- 4L for $28
- 6L for $42
After examining the baskets, I chose the 4L, knowing it was the perfect amount for me. The short walk to the strawberry fields was no more than 2–3 minutes, and even with the heat (and trust me, it was blazing), it felt good to be outside, getting some fresh air and movement.
The farm had a few different strawberry varieties, but we were guided to a section full of the ripest berries for picking that day. The kind you can smell before you even taste them. These were not your average grocery store berries. They were sun-kissed, juicy , fragrant and imperfect little gems grown locally.
Is It Cheaper to Pick Your Own?
Let’s break it down:
- Most stores near me sell 1 pint of strawberries for $3.99–$4.99 (sometimes even $5.99 and $2.99 when on sale).
- 1 litre = about 2 pints
- So 4 litres = ~8 pints
That means:
Low-end store price: 8 x $3.99 = $31.92
High-end store price: 8 x $4.99 = $39.92
What I paid at the farm: $28 for 4L
Savings: $4–$12
Bonus: Better quality, more flavor, and locally grown
So, What Am I Doing with All These Strawberries?
It’s strawberry season, and I plan on using every last berry and sharing the whole process with you here and over on my YouTube channel. One of my intentions this year is to use everything I buy and stretch every dollar, especially when it comes to fresh produce.
I wasn’t raised in a household that focused on sustainability and zero-waste cooking, but as an adult carving her own path, I’m learning to live with more intention. Not just for the budget, but for the joy of making the most out of what I have and being creative.
These 4 litres of berries give me space to experiment, and share what I learn along the way. Here’s a little preview of what’s coming:
➤ Sweet Things
- Homemade Strawberry Syrup – Perfect for waffles, lattes, lemonades, or cocktails
- Strawberry Chia Jam – Fridge-friendly, no pectin needed
- Sourdough Discard Strawberry Muffins – Soft, tangy, and budget-friendly
- Coconut Strawberry Popsicles – Summer in a bite
➤ Zero-Waste Goodness (Using the Tops!)
- Strawberry Top Vinegar – Great for gut health (I’m working on this) and salad dressings
- Strawberry Top Tea – A calming brew that feels like a warm hug
I’m also freezing some of the berries, tossing others into smoothies, and enjoying them fresh each day. This is just the beginning, I’ll be experimenting all month long, and I can’t wait to bring you along.
A Gentle Reminder to Just Go
I’m not here to preach my ways, but I do believe that sharing is a form of love. You don’t need a lot of time or money to feel good, I needed this reminder. For a long time, I held myself back with thoughts like, “I can’t” or “I don’t have enough.”
But sometimes, all you really need is an open field, a basket, and a reason to pause.
If you’ve never gone berry or fruit picking before, here’s why I think you should try it, even just once this season:
- It supports local farmers + small businesses
- You get fresher, tastier produce for less
- It’s peaceful, and surprisingly therapeutic
- It’s a fun solo date, couple outing, or family moment
- It slows you down, and that alone is worth it
I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect this day to be meaningful,but it was. It reminded me that joy doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. Sometimes it’s just about getting up and going. Doing something because I want to. Showing up for myself, choosing peace, and living without waiting for the perfect time.
So if you’re reading this and thinking, maybe I should go… let this be your sign.
Go.
Get your hands dirty.
Pick something fresh.
Eat it there (wash it first of course).
And smile about it.
Let’s Chat in the Comments:
- Have you ever gone fruit or berry picking?
- Would you try it after reading this?
- What’s your favorite way to use fresh strawberries?
Tag me on Instagram @softpastelslife if you go berry picking, I’d love to see your haul.
Soft Pastels Life 
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