Woman in Real Life

One event that I get excited about every September is the Toronto Vegetarian Food Festival. I have been going to it for years and years and now I cannot miss it. One of the many awesome things about the Veg Food Fest is that it is always held at Toronto's Harbourfront. So not only do you get to sample great vegetarian food, but the location is perfect for a leisurely day out with the family too.

The picture above shows us on our way to the food fest (after the ordeal of finding parking - I didn't realize they had closed part of Lakeshore for repairs). You can see from this pic that I'm super excited, the children not so much. The little gal is probably complaining about something (not sure which part of her list she had gotten to at that moment). The dude just wants out of the picture. Why do you have to take pictures all the time?



We passed by Lavazza Expression Italian cafe on our way to the festival. We didn't stop in, but I took a picture because I just think it looks super cool (fake lawn and all).


We met my husband's cousin at the food fest. It was a lovely day, despite occasionally threatening skies. The nice thing is the festival wasn't that crowded at the start. I think people were afraid of rain.


Each year when we go to the food fest, we usually opt for a combo plate from Govinda's for lunch. Inexpensive and very tasty.


I caught a demonstration by Terry Hope Romero. She was making a salad from her new book, Salad Samurai. She was funny and sweet, but people stopped listening to her once they saw the salad samples hitting the table. People go crazy for free food!


I loved this booth from Tori's Bakeshop. So pretty. But I didn't buy any treats. There are so many great booths at the Veg Food Fest that it's hard to know what to buy.


Our girl kept asking to go on the paddle boats, so I did what any great parent would do. I used her wish as a way of getting her to do what I wanted to do first.


Then the husband and I enjoyed a few minutes of silence while the kids enjoyed the paddle boat. $10 well spent.


My little ones are old enough now that they can explain the reasons for being vegetarian to their friends. It's very easy for children to understand not wanting to harm animals, because they naturally love all animals.


We took another wee break at the Harbourfront before heading back to our car.


The boys like to do card tricks and disappearing acts as we walk.


We also stopped at this memorial sculpture that pays tribute to popular Toronto politician Jack Layton. I think it's a genius idea, using a tandem bike to engage passersby. Much more fun than reading an engraved sign.


Of course we brought some treats home - cinnamon buns, a brownie and a date square from Bunner's Bake Shop. All gluten-free and vegan. They have all been eaten and now I want to get baking!


What are you hoping to do for fun this month?