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Sunday, July 6, 2025

Summer Serenity at Full Bloom Lavender Farm

It's summertime, and we escaped the city bustle and drove out to Langley for a dreamy lavender adventure. On the weekend of July 6, Full Bloom Lavender Farm welcomed hundreds of visitors who flocked to capture picture-perfect moments among endless rows of purple blooms. It’s a summer activity not to be missed.

First Impressions

A gentle lavender-scented breeze greeted us before we even stepped through the gate. We were enchanted by a huge white farmhouse on a hill, overlooking the vast lavender fields. Sunlight turned every stalk into a glowing purple sea, making us pause with awe at the farm’s tranquil beauty.

A Warm Welcome

Shortly after arriving, the gentleman, who is a farm owner, greeted us at the entrance, welcoming us warmly. We met his wife in the field, offering their signature lavender lemonade ice cream. She was friendly and accommodating, patiently answering all our questions about the farm’s history.

Fields & Photo Moments

Inhaling the fragrant breeze, we found the lavender fields instantly relaxing and calming to the senses. The experience felt naturally therapeutic, offering mood-boosting benefits that left us smiling.

Walking the neatly aligned rows, we realized why so many cameras clicked in unison:

- Hundreds of visitors paused at every angle to snap photos  

- Bee-friendly zones where honeybees buzzed from blossom to blossom  

- Hidden paths that opened onto panoramic views for perfect selfies  

Whether you’re holding hands as partners or chasing laughter with little ones, the lavender fields offer a picture-perfect backdrop.

Lavender Treats to Beat the Heat

With temperatures climbing, we treated ourselves to lavender lemonade ice cream offered by the farm owner herself. Each spoonful was cool and tangy, with just the right hint of floral sweetness to refresh us under the summer sun. 

Farm Shop Finds

After exploring the fields, we stepped into the rustic farm shop and stocked up on lavender treasures:

- Lavender-scented soap for daily indulgence  

- Lip balm infused with soothing lavender oil  

- Bundles of dried lavender—now hanging above our bed for a calming night’s sleep  

We also met the owner’s niece, who showed us the farm’s different lavender varieties and explained how each is harvested, dried, and prepared for use.

Why Visit Full Bloom Lavender Farm

Full Bloom Lavender Farm offers a pause button in a world that moves at breakneck speed. Wandering through endless rows of violet blossoms lets you inhale peace, exhale stress, and reconnect with the simple joys of summer. Every gentle breeze reminds us that beauty thrives when we slow down and savor the moment.

This is more than a day trip—an invitation to nourish your soul. Whether you seek quiet reflection, family laughter, or a romantic escape, the farm’s fragrant fields will leave you inspired, rejuvenated, and dreaming of purple horizons long after you’ve returned home. Pack your hat, bring your curiosity, and let Full Bloom Lavender Farm transform an ordinary summer day into something unforgettable.

©️ 2025 Del Cusay




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Sunday, June 8, 2025

From Farm to Bucket: Our First Standing Strawberry U-Pick Adventure at Maan Farms

There’s something about a warm day, fresh berries in the air, and vast open fields that sparks pure happiness. Although it wasn’t officially summer, the sunshine and cheerful energy made it feel like the season had already arrived in spirit. This past weekend, we soaked up that pre-summer glow with our very first Standing Strawberry U-Pick adventure at the beloved Maan Farms —and it turned out to be one of those days that sticks with you.

From the moment we arrived, we were clearly stepping into something special. Neat rows of vibrant strawberry plants stretched across the landscape, each dotted with juicy red gems waiting to be picked. But what really struck us wasn’t just the beauty of the berries—it was the heart behind it all. We saw the Maan family themselves, hands-on in the operations, greeting visitors with warm smiles in their farm store. It was genuine and added such a personal, welcoming touch to the experience. You don’t just feel like a customer at Maan Farms—you feel like family.

Strawberry fields forever… or at least 'til the basket’s full! ๐Ÿงบ๐Ÿ“ 

Aside from the berries, the experience truly stood out. The Standing Strawberry U-Pick setup was made possible through hydroponic farming that uses less water and minimizes soil erosion. The elevated rows, grown without soil using a nutrient-rich water system, made it incredibly easy to move through the fields. No crouching, no muddy knees—just clean paths, comfortable picking, and strawberries so fresh they practically sparkled in the sun. It felt more like a peaceful garden walk than a harvest, and each berry we picked felt like a tiny summer gem, waiting to be discovered.

Of course, we capped off our U-Pick haul with a visit to the farm store—because how could you say no to an additional bucket of the finest and freshest strawberries in produce? We also cooled down with their delicious ice cream, a real treat that hit the spot in the warm weather. And just when we thought it couldn’t get any sweeter, we tried their chocolate strawberry pot—a sweet delight that tasted like summer romance in a cup.

Summer sweetness at Maan Farms ๐Ÿ“✨—fresh strawberries, rustic charm, and cozy vibes all wrapped into one delightful visit.

Our visit to Maan Farms wasn’t just a day in the fields. It was a moment of connection with nature, community, and the passionate people behind the farm. We’re already dreaming of next year’s summer U-Pick—because once you've tasted a day this sweet, it’s impossible not to return for more.

©️ 2025 Del Cusay

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Monday, February 17, 2025

A Journey Through Time at Britannia Shipyards in Steveston

Britannia Shipyards is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty on the Fraser River. The Shipyards offer an immersive experience, with restored buildings that tell the stories of the fishing community. Walking through the shipyard, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, from the clanging of tools to the stories of those who lived and worked there. It's a living museum, perfect for history enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike.

Britannia Shipyards, which began in the 1880s as a cannery and evolved over the years, ceased operations as a shipyard in the early 1980s. Today, it stands as a National Historic Site, meticulously preserved to offer visitors a glimpse into its rich history and cultural significance.

Chinese Bunkhouse 

Initially built for Chinese workers, the Chinese Bunkhouse showcases their crucial role in the fishing industry. Despite facing discrimination and harsh conditions, they contributed significantly to Steveston's economy. The bunkhouse stands as a testament to their enduring spirit and community life. 

The Chinese Bunkhouse features narrow, double-decked sleeping quarters, simple wooden furnishings, and functional communal areas. Original artifacts like tools, cooking utensils, and personal belongings paint a vivid picture of daily life and a strong sense of community among the workers. 

The Chinese workers faced discrimination, including lower wages compared to other workers, segregated living conditions, and limited rights. Despite their crucial contributions, they were subjected to racism and exclusion, reflecting the harsh social inequalities of the era.

It's inspiring to know that many descendants of the Chinese Canadians who lived in the bunkhouse are still in British Columbia, contributing to the province's cultural richness. They've integrated into various communities, honoring their heritage through cultural events and associations and sharing stories of their ancestors' resilience. 

Seine Net Loft 

Walking through the Seine Net Loft illuminated the scale of the fishing industry with its massive equipment and tales of hard work.

Located in the heart of Britannia Shipyards, the Seine Net Loft, constructed by the skilled workers of the local fishing industry in the 1950s, stands as a testament to Steveston's rich fishing heritage. This historic structure played a role in the evolution of fishing technology and remains a vibrant part of the community's history and culture.

Today, families and their children can embark on an exciting journey through interactive exhibits like "Our Coastal Connection" and "Our Changing Waterfront." These exhibits bring the history of Britannia Shipyards to life in a way that's both educational and entertaining.

The Murakami House

The Murakami House in Steveston is a significant cultural landmark, reflecting the history and contributions of the Japanese-Canadian community in the area.

The Murakami House belonged to the Murakami family, which consisted of Japanese-Canadian fishermen in Steveston. The house has been preserved to reflect the family's living conditions and lifestyle, providing a glimpse into the community's history. It features artifacts, photographs, and displays that tell their story. 

I've learned that many descendants of the Japanese-Canadian families who once worked at Britannia Shipyards still live in British Columbia, with some in the Richmond area, preserving their heritage and contributing to the community in various fields. 

Stilt Houses 

Exploring the stilt houses transported me to a time when the river was a central part of daily life. The colorful exteriors of these homes added a touch of vibrancy to the scenery.











The Stilt Houses are iconic homes built on wooden stilts along the Fraser River. Initially, they housed workers from the fishing and canning industries. Today, they offer a vibrant glimpse into the multicultural community life of early settlers, preserved as part of the national historic site.

 

A stroll along the Fraser River capped off the day with the sight of families enjoying the Family Day celebrations by the water, a heartwarming reminder of community spirit. Steveston is a treasure trove of history and stories, and I want to explore more!

Our visit to Britannia Shipyards was a walk in history, in the footsteps of fishermen, boatbuilders, and their families. The blend of preserved buildings, interactive exhibits, and tranquil waterfront views creates a connection to the past while imagining its future.

©️ Del Cusay 2025

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Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Celebrating Chinese New Year 2025: The Lantern of Hope

When we feel stuck and not moving forward, there's an absence of light from within that serves as an internal compass. The light that guides us could have been dimmed momentarily, so we sincerely appreciate the light even in dark times.

This time of year, we celebrate the Lunar New Year in Vancouver. When we see and experience the Grand Parade in Vancouver's Chinatown, we feel great about the festive and vibrant way of welcoming the year.

This year's Lunar New Year, starting on January 29, 2025, is a widely celebrated event in cultures influenced by the Chinese community. The most anticipated part is the Grand Parade, which draws a hundred thousand spectators to witness the graceful dancers and the captivating dragon and lion dances. 

Living in Vancouver's late winter season, we were excited for the first significant snowfall on February 2, the day of the Grand Parade. However, the weather had other plans, and we had to forgo the opportunity to witness the vibrant event. 

The Grand Parade in 2023 and 2024 was a sight to behold, and we're always eager to be part of the festivity. Despite missing out this year, we are already looking forward to the next Lunar New Year, living in the positive spirit that it brings.

But then we discovered the "Lantern City," a visual display of giant and colorful lanterns in various locations in Vancouver. The lanterns are displayed until a few days after the Lantern Festival on February 12, which marks the end of the Lunar New Year.


On a sunny weekend, February 8, we seized the opportunity to explore the Lantern City. We visited three out of five locations: Robson Square, Pendulum Gallery, and Benthall Centre, each offering a unique and vibrant display of giant lanterns. 

Vancouver is a highly walkable city, so we could walk from one location to another. It took us an hour to see and appreciate the giant lanterns in three places.

The Lantern City started in 2019 when they invited Indigenous artists to paint their art on a giant lantern that turns into a colorful masterpiece. This visual bridging of cultures fosters a sense of unity and acceptance. It showcases an artistic rendition of one's emotions, ethnicity, and cultural background and is shared with a broader audience.

The Lantern display in Robson Square was the most colorful and diverse, showcasing lanterns from various cultures, including a lantern painted by a Filipino artist, Mayo Landicho. He called his art "Armour of the Serpiente," representing the Filipino people's strength, courage, and resiliency.

The lantern and art display in the Pendulum Gallery showcases Taiwanese stories and culture, and the ones in Benthall Centre are giant lanterns similar to the Robson Square display. All these giant lanterns light up at night, giving vibrant and vivid glow-in-the-dark visuals.

The year 2025 is the year of the Wood Snake. It's a year of creativity, growth, and transformation. The previous years have been auspicious since they brought more extraordinary luck and success in many aspects of life.

I started celebrating the Lunar New Year, popularly called Chinese New Year, in 2013 in Binondo Chinatown in Manila, Philippines. That was the beginning of my journey to experience the Chinese culture and beliefs, which I've learned to adopt in my way of living.


I'm optimistic that this year of the Wood-snake will bring luck and prosperity. With the power of positive affirmations, things will manifest by God's will.

Renewal and transformation

This is the time to let go of the old and obsolete and embrace new habits and beliefs. The courage for personal renewal may be challenging, but our desire can bring meaningful and significant transformation in our lives. 

Wisdom and Growth

Seeking wisdom makes life meaningful as we tend to solve complex mysteries. A life full of wisdom makes us understand ourselves better, leading to a better version and letting go of our old selves. 

Hopes and Desires 

Living in fear only makes life miserable, but living in hope and desires makes life worth living. As we journey, we hope for the best and fulfill our heart's deepest desires. 

The Lantern City reminds us that in times of chaos and difficulty, we always have a chance to pause, enjoy, learn, and live our best lives. Amidst the darkness of life, there's always a lantern that sparks joy, lifts up the spirit, and gives lasting hope.


©️ 2025 Del Cusay


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