We are enjoying cottage life in northern Ontario and recently caught a large Northern Pike. A recipe for smoked fish.
Smoked Northern Pike
Dreams of Lavender
Experiments in growing Lavender in Northern and Southern Ontario gardens and efforts to find hardy varieties. Thoughts about planting, soil preparation, and maintenance.
Clearing Brush and Eating an Elephant
Our cottage was previously a Man-Camp, with a forest in disarray. Clearing it involved chopping down 100-foot pines and dealing with massive wood and brush piles.
Painting the Cottage Deck
Stepping onto a wooden deck overlooking a tranquil lake can be one of the most calming experiences. The water's gentle ripples, the chirping birds, and the scent of fresh air all combine to provide a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But as picturesque as it might seem, the wear and... Continue Reading →
Painting the Cottage Wooden Floor
Our summer cottage had an old wooden floor painted forest green which we did not love. We gave it a coat or two of neutralizing paint for a quick makeover.
Blanket Flowers
Blanket Flowers have been the biggest surprise success in our Northern cottage garden this summer!
Blueberry Boy Bait
Blueberry Boy Bait is a recipe for a delicious cake baked with blueberries with a hint of cinnamon. The title is old-fashioned and maybe even inappropriate - but it really is boy bait!
Butter Tart Squares
Butter Tart Squares taste just as delicious as those classic Canadian butter tarts, but they are much easier to make!
Painting a Brick Fireplace
We painted the fireplace in our Northern Island cottage. A DIY Before and After story.
How High’s the Water?
The Water level is rising at our Ontario cottage. We keep asking each other "How High's the Water?", which reminds us of a Johnny Cash song.
Junque from the Sheds
Our island sheds were filled to the brim with old stuff - and a few treasures that I painted blue.