This past Thanksgiving weekend, I have the privilege to do some photos of my friend Erika and her beautiful daughter Madeline at Enniskillen Conservation Area in Clarington. Mother Nature couldn’t make her mind up all day – was it going to rain or not? Luckily, showers held off.

A little backstory for you – I’ve known Erika since 2005 when she brought me on as a volunteer at RogersTV. I was probably about 16-years-old, and a nervous mess at the time. Fast-forward almost a decade later, and I’ve watched her help shape the lives of TV professionals, and inspire others to make healthy lifestyle choices. For me more specifically, she helped me craft my entry essay for post-secondary school, and has been a huge supporter of my photography for the past couple of years. For that, I am so thankful.

About Enniskillen Conservation Area – it’s a place for hikers and dog walkers. You might also find yourself sitting on the dock during the nice weather. And for the winter? According to the park’s website, a 3km trail network offers some opportunities for cross-country skiing.

As another year is nearing an end (Christmas countdown: 2.5 months!), I realize I am surrounded by riches. I have the most colourful, quirky friends – easily complimenting my unique personality, and I’ve been blessed with a kind, warm-hearted family.

To all my Canadian friends celebrating Thanksgiving this long weekend, I hope you find time to share with your loved ones, just as I am doing.

Below: a quick photo I snapped at Pingle’s Farm Market, located at 1805 Taunton Rd, Hampton. It’s one of my favourite locations for fall-themed photos. Thanks guys for letting us hang out for the afternoon!

I’ve been all around Ajax and Pickering Village continues to be one of my favourite locations – in terms of community activity and picturesque settings.

The historic area is located in the went end of Ajax, often mistaken for City of Pickering territory. According to the Town of Ajax website, it was “once an original Quaker Settlement in the early 1800’s …”

Today, the district features a number of professional businesses, including the Village Ice Cream Shoppe and Jazzberry Tea. The area houses local artists, with it’s long-time running music school, professional hair stylists along with a number of local bakeries and eateries.

The area is also the scene of the the town’s popular jazz festival during the summer months, and features its own tree-lighting during the holidays.