Song - You Smile, I Smile by Justin Bieber - Music & Lyrics

A tribute to Justin Beiber, as one of Ontario's celebrity sweethearts! How can you not love this kid, such a cutie!!

You Smile, I Smile by Justin Bieber - Music & Lyrics

Music...



Lyrics...

Oh
Yeah
Mmmm

I'd wait on you forever and a day
Hand and foot
Your world is my world
Yeah
Ain't no way you're ever gonna get
Any less than you should
'Cause baby
You smile I smile (oh)
'Cause whenever
You smile, I smile
Hey hey hey

Your lips, my biggest weakness
Shouldn't have let you know
I'm always gonna do what they say 

If you need me
I'll come right there
From a thousand miles away
When you smile, I smile (whoa)
You smile, I smile
Hey

Baby take my open heart and all it offers
'Cause this is as unconditional as it'll ever get
You ain't seen nothing yet
I won't ever hesitate to give you more
Cause baby 
You smile, I smile (whoa)

You smile, I smile
Hey hey hey
You smile, I smile
I smile I smile I smile
You smile, I smile
Make me smile baby

Baby you won't ever work for nothing
You are my ins and my means now
With you there's no in between
I'm all in
'Cause my cards are on the table
And I'm willing and I'm able
But I fold to your wish
'Cause it's my command
Hey hey hey

You smile, I smile (whoa)
You smile, I smile
Hey hey hey
You smile, I smile
I smile I smile I smile
You smile, I smile

You smile, I smile
You smile, I smile

Highland Games 2010 - Bracebridge, Ontario

Join the clan in Bracebridge for the 2010 Highland Games and enjoy the Legion's Pipes and Drums, Highland dancers and all those super strong boys and girls in tartan kilts muscling heavy, over sized objects. There will also be Scottish tastings, product and food vendors, a parade and yes, a beer tent.

The hosting clan is the MacDougall's along with the Canadian Scottish Athletic Federation Amateur Canadian Championship.



Bring your pets (on a leash) and the kids too of course (no leash required ;) If they are under 12, they're free so take advantage of all that action and hang out on Friday and Saturday.

Contact the games organizer with questions or visit their website (link posted above).

12th annual Classic Car show in Orillia - Friday the 13th & 14th of August, 2010

If you love the style and romance of classic cars then head over to the 12th annual Classic Car Show in downtown Orillia, Ontario...right there, in cottage country you'll discover over 400 beauties lining the streets!

So yes, even though it's Friday the 13th, it's your lucky day because the car show begins today and goes through until late Saturday afternoon. Lake Couchiching is very close by so bring your swimming gear and take a dip! Downtown Orillia is also full of cute little stores and has some great eateries and live entertainment sooo, enjoy! ;)

Orillia, Ontario (downtown)
Friday, August 13th begins at 5pm and ends at 9 pm.
Saturday, August 14th begins at 9am and ends at 5 pm.

Call the Downtown Orillia office for more information.
Phone# 705-325-3261

Tap Dogs at the King's Wharf - Penetanquishene, Ontario 2010

If you love dance and the performing arts then join in and watch as the world reknowned male dancers known as Tap Dogs put their twist on tap dancing. Get your denim and exit cottage country (stage left) over to Penetanquishene. Shake it up with Dein Perry's Tap Dogs, this talented group of guys have reinvented the dance form and would love to entertain you with their rendition.

Dein Perry's Tap Dogs: The Reinvention of Tap Dancing
Live Theatre Performance at the King's Wharf Theatre in Penetanguishene, Ontario.



Yes, it does cost money but, for a unique live performance, it just may be worth while!

Regular Performance $39
Previews $33
18 & Under $20
Groups of 20 or more $33.

Live Performances until September 2010!!

Phone# 705-549-5555 or Toll Free 1-888-449-4463
Website: http://www.draytonentertainment.com/

Elvis Lives! ...on in Collingwood, Ontario - Elvis Festival July 2010!!

Elvis lives on in the hearts, minds and souls of thousands, if not millions of fans worldwide. He's such a huge freakin' musical icon that Collingwood, Ontario in cottage country celebrates him annually with one of the worlds largest Elvis festivals!!

16th Annual Collingwood Elvis Festival

Begins on Thursday July 22 continues until Sunday, July 25th, 2010 

All day long and how far into the night, depends on you ;)

This year's Elvis Festival will feature an amazing array of Elvis impersonators to entertain the masses of Elvis wanna be's dancing and singing away in the streets, otherwise known as the audience! It's a great party in downtown Collingwood's huge outdoor venue with over 50 activities and concerts being performed throughout this pretty little city on Georgian Bay. So, grab your blue suede sandals and come on out!!

Apparently, there will be more than '232.5 hours of entertainment' for all ages (yes kids, there is a midway full of rides!) and for those lovers of fair food, mmm loadem' up and open wide! Plus Vegas style entertainment, Tribute Artist competitions, pub crawls, dances, vendors (shopping is a thumbs up), collectibles and classic cars to continue the classic rock n' roll feel.

Order your tickets today by calling toll free 1-866-444-1162 or purchase online Collingwood Elvis Festival

The Collingwood Elvis Festival is a licensee of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (psssst, so you know it's gonna be fantastic ;)

Need more Elvis now, don't cha? ...visit his 'Official Website'... (he must live on if he has a website right?) 

Thane Dunn of Moncton, New Brunswick was the winner from Collingwood's Elvis Festival 2009 &

Davis Campbell from Ontario was a winner in the youth division back in 2008!

50th annual Mariposa Folk Festival - Orillia, Ontario featuring Gordon Lightfoot!

Mariposa Folk Festival 2010
Orillia, Ontario - Tudhope Park on Lake Couchiching

This years July bash will mark the soon memorable, 50th anniversary of the Mariposa Folk Festival therefore, the musical talent for this year is nothing short of fantastic! Orillia's own Gordon Lightfoot will also be performing (check schedule) along with dozens and dozens of performers and musicians that are visiting from across the country.

There will also be an Artisan's village and hands on workshops from belly dancing to rug hooking. The festival is also right on Lake Couchiching so bring your swimwear so you can cool off. It's gong to be an awesome weekend to party like a cottage country folkstar!!

Musicians and artists performing at this year's Mariposa Folk Festival are...  

Alejandra Ribera, Ashley MacIsaac, Beyond the Pale, Breakmen, Caitlin Hanford, Catherine MacLellan, Chris McKhool, Chris Smither, Cindy Church, Dan Mangan, Dave Borins, Dave Gunning, David Francey and Mike Ford, Deep Dark Woods, Dennis Lee, Downchild Blues Band, Elliott BROOD, George Hewison, George Miller, Gordon Lightfoot, Grass Mountain Hobos, Gwen Swick, Holmes Hooke, Ian Tyson, Ianspotting, James Gordon, Jason Collett, Josh White Jr., Joshua Cockerill, Jowi Taylor, Kempencelts, Kennetts, Les Tireux d'Roches, Little Miss Higgins, Liziwe Mahashe, Louis-Philippe Robillard, Lynn Miles, Madison Violet, Magoo, Mark Douglas, Matt Andersen, Métis Fiddler Quartet, Michael Johnston, Mike Stevens, Mose Scarlett, Murray McLauchlan, Northern Jewels, Ohbijou, Oscar Brand, Quartette, Rick Fines & Suzie Vinnick, Serena Ryder, Sharon & Bram, Sherry Lawson, Simone Johnston, Sultans of String, Sylvia Tyson, Todd Crowley's Musical Petting Zoo, Urban Fairytales, Whiteley Brothers, Wooden Sky and Zeus.

Tickets come in many shapes and forms...

The folk festival is an all day all wekend event so you will need to bring some comforts like chairs, blankets, food and beverate or money ;)

Day Passes

Friday Evening Pass $55
Saturday Pass $75
Sunday Pass $75

General Weekend Passes

Weekend Pass General Admission Age 25+ $109
Weekend Pass Young Adult Age 17-24, only $50.
Celebrate Mariposa's 50 for $50!
Weekend Pass Youth Age 13-16 $12

Camping Weekend Passes are available! (see website)

Antique and Classic Boat Show - Gravenhurst, Ontario - July 2010!

30th Annual Antique and Classic Boat Show
Muskoka Wharf - Gravenhurst, Ontario
Cottage country is famous it's outstanding collection of boats and this amazing boat show is where you'll find them! The ACBS takes place at the Muskoka Wharf every year and features antique cars and one of the largest in water displays of classic wooden boats including some of the oldest mahogany boats from this region! This year the show has been extended over two days rather than just one, enjoy ;) ...

- fully restored antique boats and vintage race craft
- antique flea market with loads of vendors
- cardboard boat races for the youngsters! plus++

Antique Classic Boat Show begins July 10th and ends July 11th, 2010

Photographer - Tim DuVernet

If you're looking to restore or buy your own classic wooden boat, visit Brackley Boats in Gravenhurst.

Ontario's Family Fishing Week July 3 - 11, 2010 - No fishing license required!

The time is here for National Fishing Week in Canada...the coast to coast salt water and fresh water free fishing extravaganza! Here in Ontario, from the week beginning July 3rd until the July 11th, every fishable water source within the province can be fished without you requiring a government issued fishing license.
We boost about some pretty amazing fishing right here in cottage country so, I hope you have your angling gear in check and at the ready? All age anglers and wanna be's are invited to stick their lines in the water and make a fishing memory in the great outdoors and if your shy on fun tickets, fishing is an affordable pastime best shared amongst generations of family and friends.

Canada's Catch Fishing Program (National Fishing Week) was formed on behalf of the Canadian National Sportfishing Foundation and the National Recreational Fishing Task Group across Canada and is considered a collaborative effort including local sport, fishing tackle and bait retailers, enthusiasts and outdoor organizations.

p.s. here's a bragging shot, just to show you what's really out there...mmm, a beautiful Pickerel fish(be sure to check the fishing regulations though because they may not be in season in your area at this time. And yes, hubby was grinning just not by take5 on my bunk camera ;)

Virgin America contest - Become Toronto's cheeky Provacateur!!

When does your luck begin?

Enter this Contest for your Chance to Win Fantastic Prizes!


Virgin America Toronto Provocateur Contest

Become the 'cheeky brand ambassador' for Richard Branson's Virgin America!! Win 12 free round trip tickets on Virgin to fly anywhere, your own blog, office and budget...!

- Contest is open to residents of the GTA (+ must be a legal resident of Canada)

- You must be 18 years of age or over.


- Contest begins Tuesday, June 29, 2010 and ends Tuesday, August 31, 2010.

- Ten separate entries; one for each per period of the contest.

- Please see the full contest rules and regulations before entering.

- Enter the contest

...what an awesome contest but, I'm not a resident of the GTA, are you?

I know a tonne of cottagers  drive up here weekend after weekend, year after year, maybe your city mouse/country mouse versatility will grant you the unique quality it takes to win!?

p.s. just for a little encouragement...last year my step daughter and I entered a video contest for WFN (shown below) and surprisingly we won a secondary prize with our Fishin' Hole vid, so you just never know what may happen ;)

Celebrate Canada Day, July 1st 2010 in Cottage Country Ontario

Happy 143rd Birthday Canada, you're Awesome!!!

Photo taken by Darren Baker

Canada Day & the Strawberry Shortcake Festival
Beaverton, Ontario

Beaver River Museum & the Beaverton Chamber of Commerce

Presentations, music, entertainment
Phone# 705-426-9641

Collingwood Festival for Canada

Collingwood, Ontario
Collingwood Festival
10 am - until dark

Entertainment, kids activities, sidewalk sale, music, dance demonstrations, contests, food and drink & fireworks at dark!

 
 

Happy Birthday Canada in Gravenhurst

Gravenhurst, Ontario

Gull Lake Rotary Park
All Day Event
Phone# 705-687-3412
(Fireworks July 3rd Walkers Point Marina)
Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce

Orillia Canada Day 2010
Orillia, Ontario
Couchiching Lake Park (downtown)

Lake Simcoe Conservation Association and the community present a Pancake breakfast, parade, birthday celebrations with cake, entertainment, vendors, art show with fireworks at dusk! 

Canada Day Orillia

Canada Day in Washago

Washago, Ontario
Begins at 8 am - 11 am with a Pancake Breakfast
Enjoy talent shows, live entertainment, street dance and karaoke!

Wasaga Beach celebrates Canada Day

Live entertainment & SONY, food & drink for all ages plus reptiles, water sports, a BMX stunt show and wicked Helicopter rides for $40!
Begins at 9 am ends after Fireworks at 10pm 'ish'

Wasaga Beach Community Information

 
 
Canada Day in Owen Sound

Live music, Silly Willy and Clown, vendors with food and drink, water slide, mini golf and amazing fireworks display at 10 pm (rain day July 4 fireworks only)

Owen Sound, Ontario @ Kelso Beach Park
Begins at Noon - Til Dark
 

...many communities have Canada Day celebrations on both July 1st and throughout the weekend (see here), let's keep our fingers crossed for loads of sunshine ;)

 
Or, take a road trip to Canada's capital city, otherwise known as Ottawa, Ontario. The parliament buildings and you, could welcome Her Majesty the Queen of England and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh!! Canada's Capital

 

 

 

Photo taken by Master Corporal Rob Bottrill, Canadian Forces Combat Camera Snowbirds

Pretty Peonies are the perfect Cottage Flower

In late spring to early summer the gardens in cottage country are decorated with gorgeous Peonies that range in color from snow white up to vibrant, lush pinks and rich, velvet crimsons. These gorgeous flowers have such a stunning fragrance too, that they easily fill a room with scent...and ants, if you forget to shake em' before bringing them indoors ;)

Peonies require little to no maintenance and seem to be the perfect perennial! Just secure with string or a cage (so they don't sag from the weight of the blooms) and they Peony do prefer lots of sun. But, I've planted some groupings in dappled shade and although they are slower to expand they seem very happy and their blooms tend to last longer.

Photgrapher Darwinek

Host a Pig Roast at the Cottage!

Every year hundreds of outdoor gatherings are hosted in cottage country and if you're lucky, you'll attend at least one mouth watering Pig Roast, Pig Pickin's, Luau or Redneck BBQ every year! They make the perfect party food for large gatherings with relaxed atmospheres and there's plenty of that going on in this four season paradise.

Pig roasts occur internationally, from Cuba to China, on New Year's Eve or Christmas, at Stag n' Does, Jack n' Jill's, family reunions or country wide celebrations like Canada day (which is coming up July 1st, 2010)...

Pig Roast Cooking Process...

Pigs are usually seasoned then roasted on either a rotating spit , the BBQ, charcoal grill, an open fire, a large oven or buried in hole then covered in hot lava rocks.

It takes anywhere from 4 to 24 hours to cook either a half or whole pig. It's also best to cook it meat side down flipping only once when fat has stopped dripping. When the cooking process is complete, the meat should be tender enough that it easily falls off the bone. The meat is then either chopped or pulled or is picked off the roasted pig by the guests.

Popular spices, seasonings and flavours include crushed garlic, black pepper, salt, oregano, olive oil, wine vinegar, BBQ sauce, mesquite or smoked flavours.

This # of people = approx. this much Pig (in lbs.)

- 20 people = 40lb pig  
- 40 people = 50lb pig
- 80 people = 90lb pig
- 120 people = 120lb pig

You will need...

- Pig
- BBQ sauces, seasonings, spices, brine, marinade or get your piglet pre-smoked!
- Meat thermometer
- Heat Gloves
- Sharp knife
- Pig Serving Tray (a large table strictly for the pig is perfect)
- Heat source ie; BBQ, spit, grill, fire pit or hole
- Fuel ie; charcoal, propane, wood or lava rocks 
- Time and planning. Rushing leads to a burnt piggie, start too late and you guests may be eating at 2am!

Determine how you will be serving your roasted pig...

Will it be carved into rough slices, taken off in rough chunks, or pulled and picked off by the guests?
Will it be served with green salad, Caesar, potato, bean or pasta salad?
Will it be accompanied by buns, rolls, sliced bread, baguettes or french bread?
Will your beverage be iced tea, colas, ice cold beer & cider or Dandelion Wine?

p.s. If your guests begin to resemble any of these three characters, perhaps the Dandelion wine has already kicked in!

p.s.s. I experienced a blonde moment when I hosted my first pig roast (without being to one first)...I was expecting a smoked ham taste throughout the meat and instead got plain white pork, duh! So, for future reference I made note to either purchase a pre-seasoned/pre-smoked piggie or to have plenty of condiments at the ready ;)

Stephen B. Leacock Museum - Orillia & Lake Couchiching - History

The Stephen Leacock Museum or the Stephen Leacock Memorial Home is a huge part of Orillia's literary history and has been situated on the shores of Lake Couchiching since 1928. The Leacock House, as it was known then, was built just minutes from the Port of Orillia on Old Brewery Bay and is open for viewing.

Stephen B. Leacock (1869 - 1944) was known worldwide for his profound knowledge, sense of humour and talent for writing; publishing books such as Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town and Nonsense Novels. The highly awarded author, economist and poli-sci fanatic led a very interesting, well rounded life and we are proud have his roots right here in cottage country. As well, the nearby shores of Lake Simcoe was home to Stephen Leacock and his family when he was a much younger lad, and is where he chose as his final resting place.

Leacock Museum

50 Museum Drive
Orillia, Ontario

Phone# 705-329-1908

Open 7 days a week from 9 am - 5 pm

Stroll the gorgeous grounds, gardens and museum then have afternoon tea and sandwiches or plan the perfect lakeside wedding!

Stephen B. Leacock

 

Lake Couchiching Sunset

Update: 2010's G8 & G20 this weekend; security, road closures ect. are in full force!!

Are we anticipating a relaxing weekend in cottage country despite the fact our 'area' is crawling with an additional 5,000+ gun wielding tourists for this year's G8 Summit? ...same situation a couple of hours south in downtown Toronto, another 15,000+ for the G20 Summit!!?

One ought to feel safe with all of the security nearby yet it's probably the least safe I've felt since the morning of 9/11! With worldwide attention being focused on our once quiet and serene 'neighbourhood' we truly do lay helpless in the wake of whatever bad things 'they' anticipate happening. Oh well, I guess it's out of my control but fingers are certainly crossed!

All road closures will be in affect as of tomorrow (Wednesday) with many restrictions already in place throughout both areas. No ID and/or special pass = no enter! Pink, orange, blue and green roads all have restrictions and you are required to have a level of authority or 'right to be there' on all of them. The green roads will be used for those passing through the area and do expect delays and/or detours and/or road checks!

Here's more information about the G8 Summit & the G20 Economic Summit.

p.s. have a safe weekend everyone! And, to all of our temporary visitors...be sure to come back when you can kick back, relax and enjoy cottage country, not guard it! Thanks though, we, the country and the visiting countries leaders and their own all thank you.

p.s.s. no more summit posts for this chic, except perhaps to sum up this landmark experience when it's over!

Father's Day Weekend 2010 - Cottage Country, Ontario

Father's Day Car Show

Visit downtown Bracebridge for their Father's Day Car Show and enjoy over 100 vehicles of special interest, great oldies music and food!

Sunday - June 20, 2010
Begins at 11:00 am - Until 4:00 pm

Bracebridge, Ontario
Downtown Bracebridge


Wild Wonders at Blue

Flight Shows with Free-Flying Birds of Prey by the Canadian Raptor Conservancy and The Reptile Rob Show featuring animals from around the world! They call it "Edutainment", which is my new word of the day ;) Take in all Blue Mountain has to offer while you're there like hiking, scavenger hunts, the splash fountain, shopping!...

Saturday, June 19th, 2010 & Sunday, June 20, 2010

The Canadian Raptor Conservancey Birds of Prey
Begins at 11:00 am, 1:30 pm & 4:00 pm

The Reptile Rob Show
Begins at 12:00 pm, 2:30 pm & 5:00 pm

Face Painting 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Collingwood, Ontario
Village at Blue Mountain
Phone# 705-445-0231
Village at Blue
 
Father's Day Captain's Feast n' Cruise
 
Dine on the largerst cruising boat within the Musoka named 'Lady Muskoka' who sits 300 passengers and has full facilities!
 
Bracebridge, Ontario
June 20, 2010
Begins at 12:00 Noon
 
Captain's Feast
Reserve your spot by calling... 
Phone# 705-646-2628 or
Phone# 800-263-5239

Or...

- go fishing for the afternoon and eat your catch!
- go for a hike, picnic, swim or all three at any one of Ontario's parks
- give him a foot massage, feed him grapes and just let him be (if, he deserves it ;)

Ideas for an Elegant Cottage Master or Guest Bedroom - Decor

This lovely vignette of products was inpsired by dreams of a pretty country cottage bed & bedbreakfast you'd stumble across in a fairytale. The soft blues, creams and neutrals creates an elegant and romantic room without being too girlie!

Cottage Decor by babblicious featuring Judith Leiber bags

Large cream suitcase with stud detail, 520 GBP
Large Mint Green Linen Suitcase, 520 GBP
Spring Fling fine crystal-embellished clutch, $2,587
Royal Palace Magnifique Scalloped Edge 8' x 10'Wool Rug - QVC.com, $429
Canopy bed Sheherazade - Romantic - Maisons du Monde, 249 EUR
Buy Eliza Mirror, H79xW56cm online at JohnLewis.com, 99 GBP
Plastic Wrought Iron 20" Wall Clock - Bed Bath & Beyond, $40
Point a la Ligne Large Eiffel Tower Candle: Kitchen & Dining, $66
VINTAGE CREAM FRAME SIDE CHAIR

seating
FLEA
Jayson Home & Garden
Gracious Home
Product
curiosities
FLEA
Jayson Home & Garden, $295
Provencial Arrangement, Artificial Floral, Silk Flower: Kitchen &..., $372
Kissenhüllen-Set, 3-tlg. ab 39,95 € im Impressionen Online Shop, 40 EUR
Thomasville Lighting Catherine's Palace Collection Vintage Brass..., $518
Buy Sculptures & Ornaments from John Lewis, 21 GBP
Boxed Gardenia Morris Candle, 9.95 GBP
Zara Home - Bathroom - Pack of 3 Stone Coloured Basic Towels, 5,95 EUR
Pier 1 Imports - Ruffles Pillow - Sand, $30
Z Gallerie - Porcelain Filigree Urn - French Blue, $100
Monsoon Accessorize - Candles & Holders, 18 GBP
english paper brocade pillow in blue by michele varian - ABC Carpet &...
Scatter Silver Foil 20x20 Pillow by Sivaana , $220
ANTIQUE LARGE KEY , $24
tubes noel - Page 59

(p.s. If you love to 'pretend' online shop then head over to polyvore.com and create a styled pic of your own for free! There's way more than just stunning goodies for the home; the fashion is to die for, there are shoes by the cazillion and plenty of oh la la accessories! xo C ya there!!)

The Beauty of Muskoka's Antique & Classic Wooden Boats

Antique wooden boats docked in Muskoka waters...for show or play it's all the way for these fanatics!

To view Antique Wooden Boats or Classic Boats visit Gravenhurst, Ontario in the heart of cottage country! Head down to the waterfront and take a tour on the R.M.S. Segwun, Wenonah II or Wanda III, visit the Muskoka Steamship & Historical Society or the 'floating' boat museum The Grace & Speed Boathouse.

Protect & Accessorize your Toys!

Cottage life, is livin' the life, whether you're 5 or 65! Kidlets frolic and play while grown up's have fun with their own toys. Boats, cars, trucks, quads, sleds and seadoos are all in use at some point, all year long and have totally replaced lego and skipping ropes. But, there's no easy toss into the toy box solution when the fun is over. Now, as adults, we need to maintain and upkeep our toys with select automotive products and accessories that will protect and enhance our prized investments!

Shopping for automotive products and accessories isn't normally my thing, I prefer handbags and shoes ;) but, the reality is that I also love using the toys and therefore...

...because toys involve travel around cottage country, I'd recommend purchasing a GPS system. You will never, ever have to argue over bad co-piloting skills (just batteries) and this will protect your relationship which is an investment, right!? ;) Then you can personalize and protect your ride with numerous automotive products that look hot and perform the practical, functional side of their job.

Car, boat, truck and ATV covers protect painted surfaces from natural erosion, scratches and dust that can kill a once beautiful paint job. Seat covers guard against general wear and tear, transfer of odours, ciggie burns and slops from your last run at the drive thru. Floor mats are a pain in the woohoo to get lickity clean but imagine the floor without them, ewww! Note to self; spilt milk sours (duh!) and it's beyond foul in an enclosed space!

From Dragonboats to Lobsterfest! - Cottage Country Ontario!

Spring Boat, Cottage & Outdoor Show

Spend the day in the Port of Orillia, Ontario on Lake Couchiching for the annual inwater outdoors show. There will be a great selection of both new and pre-owned boats, marine safety displays, demonstrations, cottage living and outdoor products plus plenty of other vendors. It's free with donations accepted for boat viewing.

Port of Orillia, Lake Couchiching - Downtown
Friday, June 11, 2010 until Sunday, June 13, 2010

Friday -  Begins at Noon until 9:00 pm
Saturday - 9:00 am until 9:00 pm
Sunday - 9:00 am and ends at 6:00 pm
Phone# 705-326-4424
Toll Free# 888-326-4424

Aboriginal Festival

Share a tribute to Canada's First Nations with special on-site activities, crafts and displays.

Midland, Ontario
Saturday, June 12, 2010 - Sunday, June 13, 2010

Satuday & Sunday - Begins at 10:00 am Ends at 5:00 pm
Phone# 705-526-7838
http://www.hhp.on.ca/

Muskoka Lakes Spring Art Tour


Discover unique creations from some of Muskoka's fine artists!
From Saturday, June 12, 2010 until Monday, June 14, 2010
Phone# 705-762-5663
Muskoka Chamber

Settler's Days


Cruise over to Bobcaygeon for Father's Day on Sunday to the annual Strawberry Social and partake in some popular festivities at the historic pioneer village.

Kawartha Settlers Village
Bobcaygeon, Ontario
Sunday, June 13th, 2010
Phone# 705-738-6163

17th annual Antique and Classic Car Show

A day outside with awesome antique cars (parts & registrations etc.) shopping...sidewalk sale ;) music and entertainment along with food and drink!

Gravenhurst, Ontario
Gull Lake Rotary Park
Saturday, June 12, 2010

Phone# 705-687-4432
Gravenhurst Chamber of Commerce

7th Annual Chamber of Commerce Lobsterfest and Art Show

Art show, cocktails, fresh lobster or steak dinner and music by "The Art of Southeast Georgian Bay" Adrein Robitaille. Art Show from 2 till 6 pm. Cocktails 4 pm, Dinner from 5 till 7 pm. This one's not free, go figure ;) but sounds delicious!!

Baxter Ward Community Centre
Port Severn, Ontario
Saturday, June 12th, 2010
Phone# 705-538-2526
Lobsterfest

Dragon Boat Festival

Pack 'er up and tour over to Waubuno Beach for the 9th Annual Parry Sound Dragon Boat Festival! Watch as locals and visitors race along the shores of Georgian Bay in the world's largest fresh water paddle boats. 20 paddlers, a drummer and a steersperson...leads to an exciting photo finish! A great event, fundraiser and day for everyone, thanks to 150+ volunteers who aide in the awesomeness of the day.

Parry Sound, Ontario - Waterfront
Begins Friday, June 11, 2010 & ends Saturday, June 12, 2010

Ontario girl Shania Twain is officially Divorced!

One of my favourite Ontario girls, aka country singer Shania Twain, is officially divorced and available?! Well, maybe not available as she's apparently already seeing somebody special...So, for those Timmins, Ontario boys (or international fans) wishing for the chance to date this lady, you'd best turn on the charm and get her out of Switzerland asap ;) 

How ironic that her exes name is Robert 'Mutt' Lange considering he is a cheating dog!!

Oddly enough, Shania & Mutt will remain connected and not because of their child. More so because of whom they are rumoured (by people.com) to be currently hanging out with...which is each other's ex spouses!!

All I can say is, I'm rootin' for ya Shania regardless of

your 'status' and I'm definitely looking forward to your next album!

Baby Raccoons; Ontario Wildlife at it's Cutest!

While on a quick tour, this past weekend in cottage country, I came across these adorable baby raccoons while they were en route to an animal shelter. Seeing wildlife in Ontario is quite common yet they're not generally inside a cardboard box ;) ...so, of course I had to see what I was hearing and holly crap these darling little raccoons were so cute, cuddly and hungry! No doubt these 'coon cubs (kits) were also missing their Momma who was most likely killed on the highway ;(

Contests for Canadians - Win a Lund Boat, Cash or a Dodge RAM!!

Contest for Canadians, when does your luck begin?...

Catch, Click & Win photo Contest! Berkley, Coleman, Lund, OFF! & Canadian Tire
...so many goodies, even a boat & cash + weekly prizes!

- Contest is open to Canadian residents who are the age of majority.
- Contest begins Tuesday June 1, 2010 and ends Tuesday August 31, 2010.
- Limit of one entry per category per person, 10 per household.
- Please see rules and regulations before entering.
- Enter the Contest

...yaaay! I love when photos are useful beyond replaying an old  memory ;) and I'd also love that fishing boat & cash package!!



Win a New Dodge 2010 RAM 2500 SLT in this year's Heavy Duty Haul-In Contest!

- Contest is open to Canadian residents who are the age of majority.
- Contest begins Friday May, 14 2010 and ends Friday November 19, 2010.
- Limit of one entry per person with an option for 5 bonus entries!
- Please see rules and regulations before entering.
- Enter the Contest

...I've always been a Chevy girl but these Dodge trucks just keep gettin' sexier and sexier! Plus, with a value of over $35G, she'd look awful purdy in my driveway!

Whatcha' got there, funny pictures?

...sign displayed by tree huggers?

...a warning sign that he's definitely not a tree hugger!

...and a sign in black and white that says to me; he'd best become a tree hugger 'cause with this kind of charm, that's all he'll be huggin'!

Auto flea market, Medieval Fayre, Carden Nature Festival...events in cottage country, Ontario 2010!

Less that one month left then school is out for summer but, what's keeping you entertained this weekend? Of course, the weather is a huge dictator of plans around cottage country so lets hope for a weekend stunner!

If you haven't made plans to host a garage sale, roll around in poison ivy or stake out the G8 Summit, perhaps a visit to one of the following events may be of interest to you.

You could go to the...

28th Annual Spring Automotive Flea Market
This is a great event for classic car buffs but don't worry ladies, you'll find stuff to delve into as well ;) There's lots of parking, washrooms (+ porta potties), food & drink...it was smokin' hot outside the last time I went and finding shade to chillax in was a little tricky.


Burl's Creek
Oro, Ontario
Begins Thursday June 3, 2010 & ends Sunday June 6, 2010
Phone# 705-487-3663

Band Shell Concert Series
Monday & Thursday evenings there will be live outdoor performing arts, concerts & entertainment at the band shell! This is an all ages outdoor presentation that continues throughout the summer months. Free entertainment(but do accept donations) includes all types of live music such as country bands, folk groups with styles from rock n' roll to brass bands, dixie and blues... Be sure to pack (and bring ;) your own comforts like chairs, blankets, bug spray etc. even your pets are welcome!

Bracebridge, Ontario
Phone# 705-645-3037

Great Northern Medieval Fayre
Step back in time and visit one of Ontario's newest festivals! You don't need your Robin Hood tights for this event it's all about the spirit of medieval times. There will be jousting Knights & rustic Vikings, birds of prey, Merlin the Magician, numerous creative artisans, food & drink...

Great Northern Medieval Fayre
Begins Thursday June 3, 2010 and ends Sunday June 6, 2010
Adult - $16 Senior - $14 Kids - $10 (under 6 are free) Group rates are available.

Collingwood, Ontario
Great Northern Expo Grounds
Phone# 705-728-6218

Huron Carol Exhibit
Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons is a historic display and rendition for the upcoming season known as The Huron Carol Exhibit which depicts what is believed to be Canada's first Christmas carol. The exhibit celebrates the Huron Carol with a gallery of illustrations and paintings.


Begins Friday May 21, 2010 and ends Sunday October 10, 2010

Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons
Midland, Ontario
Phone# 705-526-7838 Does have an entrance fee.

Carden Nature Festival
Make like a bird and fly over to Kirkfield in Carden for the Nature Festival this weekend! It's all about the birds and nature at it's finest with hikes and social group fun. There are itineraries for photographers, relaxers, general nature lovers, exercise lovers, botany lovers and one for Birders too!

Begins Friday June 3, 2010 and ends Sunday June 6, 2010
Phone# 705-326-1620 Does have an entrance fee.

Update - G8 Summit 2010 Final Town Meeting announced - Huntsville, Ontario

The Mayor has announced a final town meeting regarding the 2010 G8 Summit meeting in Huntsville, Ontario taking place June 26 & 27, 2010. This is of special interest to local residents and those who have a business or own a cottage in the Huntsville region therefore, you are invited to attend.

As well in attendance you can expect the Honourable Tony Clement (Minister of Industry), the senior official of the Summits Management Office and the ISU (representatives of/for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police, and the Department of National Defence).

June 1 - G8 Summit Technical Briefing on Security
Media Advisory

Town meeting...


Final Town Hall meeting on 2010 G8 Summit
Sunday, June 6, 2010
2:00pm - 4:00pm

Canada Summit Centre
20 Park Drive
Huntsville, Ontario


For updates follow on Twitter @TOHG8Summit2010 ...and, you may as well follow me too, if you aren't already ;) @central_ontario

Lake Simcoe & Kempenfelt Bay is the backdrop to Barrie's 6th annual Waterfront Festival this weekend!

The weather is supposed to hold up as...'gorgeous' in all of cottage country Ontario! and for the whole weekend too! How would you like to stroll along the sandy shoreline of Lake Simcoe while doing some shopping, eating and people watching or take a swim, a carnival ride or play a game of chance? You're thinking it about it aren't you? When was the last time you had a corn dog on the beach?

The 6th annual Barrie Waterfront Festival is held in the downtown area on Kempenfelt Bay and is great for all ages. There's lots of parking, just pack your beach stuff, sunscreen, water and wallet etc ;) then head out to the blue skies and blue waters of Heritage Park. There will be lots of live entertainment, a B101 & FM93 stage, midway, buskers and street vendors galore!

Festivities kick off at noon on Saturday, May 29th and continue until 11:00pm. On Sunday, the events start off at noon and wrap up at 6:00pm.

At last year's festival we chowed down on the best Poutine ever (twice), lost money on the games, did get a bit of a sunburn, bought some trinkets and we all loved it especially the kids! Everything at the park is somewhat contained yet you're outside so it's spacious, it's also busy yet fun and if we get a chance to go this weekend we'll make a day of it.

Safe journey wherever you're headed and thanks for visiting; feel free to leave a comment!

Santa's Village - Bracebridge, Ontario ...see what Santa is doing in Muskoka this summer!

If you've got children who believe in Santa Claus or simply love to have fun you are going to love Santa's Village!! It's been known as one of central Ontario's most popular amusement parks for over 50 years. As a child growing up near Ottawa I clearly remember the family vacation that took us there and we've also taken our own kids as a flashback to the past!

Santa's Village now also has Sportsland and Eaglecrest Aerial Parks plus camping so you can stay n' play. Bracebridge, Ontario has been Santa's summer home and he greets children and their parents daily from June 21st straight through till Labour Day.

There are Fallow Deer, goats and sheep to interact with or ride Rudolf's Roller Coaster rider and Santa's train. You could take a cruise along the Muskoka River or even send the kids to Santa's Village Day Camp so they can play all day long (without you ;) Test your driving skills in the Sportsland Grand Prix go cart track, take a swing in the batting cage, play miniature golf or even laser tag.

Eaglecrest Aerial Park also provides "The Ultimate Treetop Adventure" for the whole family, teams, groups and corporate training. Travel within a canopy of majestic pines along the Muskoka River.

Phone # 705-645-2512

Maintain Independence with Mobility options from NMEDA

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of NMEDA. All opinions are 100% mine.

Cottage country Ontario is a well known retirement zone for today's aging population of both baby boomers and their parents! As the aging process occurs and/or disabilities arise and take hold concern for one's well being, independence and safety tend to become major points for concern.

Living a full life is about not being limited and for the elderly or those with disabilities today's technologies make being actively mobile, independent and safe an absolute possibility. I wouldn't suggest you grab the first wheelchair in an online classified/auction site or garage sale though because, wheelchairs and other motorized transportation equipment have safety standards to adhere too. That's where NMEDA comes into play...

NMEDA (National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association) is a Non-Profit trade association that does not sell anything instead it educates consumers about quality and health related safety issues with mobility products. NMEDA is the only association that promotes safe driving and equipment for disabled people. Members of the association are required to adhere to safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

When purchasing for your elderly parents or for yourself it's imperative to keep safety a primary focus. Purchasing used or altered equipment can be inexpensive but also dangerous, there are no managed safety guidelines unless you are a member of the QAP.

- Quality Assurance Program (QAP) is the only nationally recognized accreditation program for the adaptive mobility equipment industry and was developed to promote quality, safety, and reliability within the industry. There must be a systematic and documented approach to quality and QAP ensures this occurs.

- A Dealer Member is the actual business that sells safe adaptive mobility equipment. They have been appointed and certified in writing to be a representative of NMEDA.

Visit the  NMEDA website to locate the nearest qualified NMEDA dealer in your area and to help answer any questions you may have.

Is there a dealer near you?
Please feel free to comment, thanks for visiting!