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.
Clearing Brush and Eating an Elephant
Growing Perennial Flowers from Seed
Yes you can start perennial flowers from seeds!
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 →
Unleash a Symphony of Shades in Your Garden – Hosta Love!
I dream of a lush carpet of green, a mosaic of leaves in various shapes, textures, and patterns, all dancing to the whims of dappled sunlight under the pine trees. Hostas are the unsung heroes of the shade garden, bringing drama and elegance to forgotten corners. I know it's fall - I know, I know... 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.
We Made Our Own Wine
We had fun making a batch of "home made" wine at our local make your own wine store!
Ontario’s Ice Harvest History
A mysterious island barn is a legacy of Ontario's historic Ice Harvest industry.
Kitchen Island Counter Replacement
We replaced the existing wooden countertop of our kitchen island with quartz. This was a quick refresh to our existing kitchen in our 130 year old home.
Junque from the Sheds
Our island sheds were filled to the brim with old stuff - and a few treasures that I painted blue.
How to Clean Oil Paintings
How to clean old oil paintings at home - a DIY project
Renovating our Master Bedroom
Renovating the Master Bedroom in our century home ourselves. Part 1 of a Before and After story.
Family Room Reno – Before and After
A before and after story about our century home family room makeover.
Midnight Fireplace Surround Makeover
I painted my 1990s green slate fireplace surround to give it an inexpensive makeover
3 Bathrooms Before and After
We renovated three bathrooms in our 1890s home and this is a quick summary
Laundry to Bathroom Progress
We are turning our laundry room back into a bathroom in our century home with a little help