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).

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.

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.

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 ;(

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

Ticks in Ontario?! ...ewww,!!

The thought of Ticks hanging latching onto me via their head and gorging on my blood is so gross that I'm finding it hard to do research on this topic! However, that's also exactly why I must let you know there are Ticks in Ontario and you, your pets and livestock could be affected.

Now, don't panic it's not like they're readily flying around the earth, in fact they don't even fly ;) They simply hang out on the tips vegetation like long grasses, bushes and leaves then move onto the 'host' as you walk by and brush up against their immediate area. Once on you they'll poke around to find the best spot to live then bam they'll bury their head inside the soft flesh!

I can't be 100% positive but I'm pretty sure our cat Spooky had a Tick embedded into his body which is why this whole topic surfaced. It looked like a huge pimple ready to pop! After doing some research regarding bugs and pets I came across this picture from the U of N ...and I think it looks just like 'it', eewww, gross!

We removed 'it' from Spooky and a small, circular mark was left behind. The mark is healing nicely (with no other signs or symptoms) but where the heck did it come from? We have untouched bush nearby with plenty of deer and cattle so I guess 'it' is from there? But, I thought Ticks were in the more southern or northern regions. My family has lived in cottage country for decades and have never come across them before, perhaps they are closing in?!.

How to avoid Ticks...

- Stay on the trails and when bushwacking keep bare skin covered with long pants, shirts and socks tucked in wherever possible. Ticks need to attach themselves to the skin in order to feed.

- Use an insect/tick bug repellent that contains DEET on yourself and put a tick and flea collar on your pets. Be sure to check yourself and them periodically once indoors. Ticks love fur, hair, groins, armpits, dark moist areas and the scalp!

I found a Tick!...
 
- immediate removal helps prevent infection (it generally takes about 24hrs. to transmit Lyme Disease).

- use tweezers to pull the Tick straight out (don't squeeze it's head off leaving it inside, this could lead to infection). Do not squeeze the area or the Tick! Once removed be sure to clean the immediate area with soap, water and rubbing alcohol.

- save the Tick and take it to your doctor who can then test it for Lyme Disease etc. (unfortunately, we flushed our cat's little friend without realising we should've taken it to the vet).

Ontario - Ministry of Health
 
University of Quelph - Diagnostic
 

 

May long weekend 2010 Fireworks!! Port McNichol & Town of Blue Mountains ...tonite!!

For those who've made tracks up to the cottage or you live in cottage country all year long the Victoria Day May 24 weekend is always charged with excitement. I was hoping to find quite a few fireworks venues for you to consider but have only managed to turn up a couple of ideas.

With both weather and budget being a factor to having a successful event perhaps not many wish to take on the task. So, you could attend one of the following events or buy your own fireworks and have a display of your own!

Fireworks

The Village at Blue Mountain
There are activities planned all May long weekend up at Blue Mountain with music, hiking, scavenger hunts, face painting, Rusty’s Rib Eating contest and yes, there will be fireworks...tonite at 9:30ish!!

Port McNichol
Portorama is a weekend long festival on the waters of Georgian Bay. Boats will be launching for the first time in 2010 and fireworks finale on Saturday, May 22!! ...tonite too!!
 
Victoria Day - What's Closed on Monday, May 24 2010...?

- liquor and beer stores
- government offices
- schools
- banks
- post offices

...is the Snow Bunting lost or hanging out in Cottage Country for kicks?

It's not snowing in cottage country anymore but one feathered friend, known as the Snow Bunting, doesn't seem to know that. The pretty white bird landed in our yard a couple of weeks ago when the temperatures were hovering around zero plus it was very wet and windy. I guess he must like it here though because he hasn't left, yet.

The stark white feathers of the Snow Bunting stood out against the bright green grass and actually, the poor little birdie looked downright uncomfortable. He was bouncing around all nervous like maybe looking for a... polar bear? I've lived in Ontario's cottage country for almost 12 years but I've never seen a Snow Bunting before, I wonder if he's seen a cat before?

Generally, Snow Buntings nest in the north arctic regions where there's plenty of snow and frozen tundra and they only come down to the southern regions of Canada for warmth...lol, imagine coming to Canada for warmth in the winter!? I'll keep my eyes open for the female version, assuming we've got the male version with the extra pretty plumage.

They may have lifted the Fire Ban but NOT the Littering laws!

I'm sure those residing in cottage country can judge by the recent weather that all fire bans within the central Ontario area have been lifted. So, feel free to responsibly torch away! For those coming up, over or down to this little piece of paradise you've now been enlightened ;)

Firewood will be wet, if it was left uncovered, which is when people tend to get creative with their fire starting skills. What ever do I mean? Well my friend, I'm talking about gasoline or any flammable product. It's dangerous, so please don't do it, talk your buddies out of it too! With the winds kicking up the way they do makes this form of entertainment/firestarting doubly dangerous!!

Check out these 'Redneck's Playing with Fire' and you'll see what I mean...



...and for each and every person that touches the ground when they walk (not just visitors), please don't forget to take your garbage with when you leave paradise! Stashing your junk on some sideroad doesn't count either!! I know garbage is gross and it's much easier to leave it for someone else but seriously, tsk tsk... Yes, I understand there aren't always garbage receptacles nearby so bring an extra bag already, it's not rocket science. Smokers too, just because ciggie butts are small doesn't mean it's okay. I'm not one to scold (well, yes I am ;) but I'm just trying to make a point.

Ontario Ministry of Environment
To Report A Spill, Odour Or Noise Pollution
1-866-MOE-TIPS (1-866-663-8477)

Fire Prevention Website Links

Skip the Room Service & go Camping at Awenda one of Ontario's Provincial Parks

I love to get outdoors and go camping with family and friends. There's something about transporting tonnes of gear to the boonies just to enjoy fresh air and a roaring campfire that makes me smile! Depending on who's included, a camping excursion could range from roughing it with no amenties to deluxe with bathrooms and power. For the most part I prefer to rough it yet with little kids in tow this isn't the easiest task nor always the sanest option ;)

When our kids were younger we made a point of taking one whole summer to visit all of the provincial campgrounds within a two hour radius. We had such an amazing summer with a few camping mini drama's on the side but that's par for the course anytime one attempts to escape 'reality'.

If you haven't already discovered Ontario Provincial Parks has a website where you can view every campground within the province. You can then make online reservations in advance which is incredibly helpful. It's easy to do and sometimes the only chance you may have of securing a spot! Check out the birds eye view of each campground ie; the washrooms, playgrounds, water, garbage, firewood, parking, beaches etc. then pick your ideal spot according to your needs.

The first camping spot we chose was Awenda Provincial Park located in Pentetanguishene, Ontario. With camping gear in check we headed off to nature's paradise... the shores of Georgian Bay overlooking the island known as Giant's Tomb!

Awenda was beautiful and I felt as though I had been transported back to British Columbia (where I'm from). The forest cover was incredibly lush, thick and green and the hills well, that leads me to a little story FYI...

Once settled we figured we'd head down to the water and be back up by dark. So, off we went and went ...it was the longest 'shortcut' we'd been on in awhile, or so we thought ;) Georgian Bay was stunning and the beach was perfect as you can see below our feet. But, downhill there means up hill to get back! Only this time we took the road...the second longest 'shortcut'! ...about 2 hours later we finally reached our campsite, the kids went to bed without a second thought and we hit the cooler for bevies and munchies. That's when we discovered our gigantic bag of M&M's (cracked open earlier and not put away) was now empty and jammed in to the bushes. Hmm, sneaky racoons! Beside's a few silly oversights on our part Awenda was a gorgeous place to camp and I'd recommend it to all nature lovers.

General camping tips...

- Read the map (more accurately than we did ;) or take the car first!
- Do bring enough water to accommodate little 'shortcuts'
- Don't leave food out for the critters, oops!
- Dress appropriately, it can get cool once the sun drops.

While camping at Awenda we did find Poison Ivy within the dry, grassy sand dune areas down at the beach. Stay on the trails or on the sand, don't wander into the bushes or off the beaten path.


Awenda Provincial Park
Phone # 705-549-2231
Penetanguishene, Ontario

Turkey season is officially open for Ontario hunters! Safety tips for Hunters & Hikers

Gobble, gobble to turkey hunters and tree huggers...

Turkey season in cottage country Ontario opened this morning. Meaning, as a recreational user of Ontario's forests, you now need to take precautions to ensure your safety amongst the safety of everyone you are with. Whether toting the shotgun and hiding in the bushes with a turkey call in your mouth or strolling through the woods with a picnic basket, safety is the most important key!

Hunters...

- treat your weapon (shotgun, rifle or bow) with respect and always behave as though your weapon is loaded and ready to shoot. Do not get careless or lazy.

- never point your weapon at anyone, period! Point your weapon safely towards the ground unless shooting at your safe and visible target. Keep your target in front of you and pay attention to what is behind your target.

- always keep your safety on until just prior to taking your shot. The safety is located close to the trigger for a reason!

- clearly identify your chosen target before taking your shot! Be absolutely positive, then shoot.

- do not let your emotions get the better of you, use your best judgement at all times.

- do not climb in, out, over or under things with a loaded weapon. Wait until you are at your  desired location to load your weapon.

- you must know and understand the range of your weapon, how many shots can be held in your chamber and how many shots remain in your chamber.

- be sure your weapon is well maintained and clean regularily. It must be in excellent, working order!

- wear your blaze orange vests, hats, coats and whatever else it takes to be seen and not shot ;)

- shooting commences 1/2 hour before sunrise til' 1/2 hour after sunset. No hunting on Sundays.

Hikers...

- try NOT to blend into the surroundings during hunting season. All ages must wear bright colours such as blaze orange, bright pink, yellow or fluorescent. Don't wear a feather cap nor a fur coat and I'd stay away from white, neutral or natural colours like brown, tan, khaki. It's not the time to consider fashion, it's all about function!

- keep your pets on a leash at all times and put a fluorescent collar and/or bright clothing on them too. An old t-shirt will suffice or get one specifically for dogs at a hunting/outdoor supply store. 

- pay attention to your surroundings, listen and watch... all while staying on the marked trails!

- do not hike alone, the buddy system is still best (just like old skool).

Hikers & Hunters...

Although I'm more the tree hugger type I do understand a hunters need to hunt...just please be careful ;) we nature lovers do trust that you will not shoot your weapon until you are absolutely 100% positive of your target yet, accidents still happen every year! Let's all act responsibly to ensure our forests remain a safe haven for everyone who wants to get outdoors for whatever reason!

...p.s. and don't litter either ;)

Identify Poison Ivy in Cottage Country

The geography, climate and elevation in cottage country Ontario is the perfect breeding grounds for Poison Ivy. Yes, that's right folks Poison Ivy exists in this beautiful Canadian nook but you needn't fear the infamous 'leaves of three' and retreat indoors. It's far more important that you are become aware it's existence then take the necessary precautions. Your knowledge of local plant life in most cases is enough however if you, your children or pets tend to wander off the beaten track you need to know more.

Poison Ivy (see Wiki for indepth info) is a plant belonging to the Anacardiaceae family or the Cashew / Sumac family of flowering plants that bear fruits known as Drupes (fruits with a soft fleshy exterior and a hard pit center such as the plum and peach. In some cases, the Anacardiaceae plants produce an irritant known as Urushiol (an oily organic allergen) or Toxicodendron found in flowering plants and woody trees, shrubs and vines like Poison Oak, Poison Ivy and Poison Sumac.

Poison Ivy grows along the edges of wooded areas, roadways and pathways, on and around exposed rocks and open fields hidden amongst the tall grasses or tucked near dappled shade. It can also be found in the forest undergrowths but is not shade tolerant and does rely on sunshine to thrive. Previously rooted up, natural areas such as subdivisions and real estate developments are commonly found to have Poison Ivy.

This itchy nightmare can grow in the form of a shrub (about 4' tall), as a groundcover (4 - 10" tall) or as a climbing vine and despite it's awful side effects is only known as a noxious weed. It grows in thick, lush colonies along roadsides, pathways, in long grasses and sometimes dappled shade and sadly is extremely hearty and durable making it very difficult to get rid of.

When seeking out your next hiking trail or afternoon picnic be sure to search the area first, before trudging through what could be a Poison Ivy colony. Look down! Search for plants with leaves of three, that are almond shaped and typically redish in colour depending upon the time of year. The plant's berries (drupes) are whitish grey in colour. Poison Ivy is decidous, meaning the leaves tend to change colour throughout their lifespan. They can be redish orange in the spring, then switch to a light or dark green in the summer and back again to yellow, orange and bright red in the late summer through early fall. The leaves also have a tendency to droop. 

How to Spot Poison Ivy...

Look down! There aren't many plants on or near the ground that have the following attributes.

a) have three almond shaped leaves that are usually smooth, shiney and have minimal jagged edges
b) that change colours as the season progresses (much like a Maple tree does)
c) and has foliage that looks sad (drooping down, as though it's depressed)
d) growing in groups or clusters

Symptoms of Poison Ivy...

When you've got a case of Poison Ivy you are having an allergic reaction caused by contact with Urushiol. When this agent makes contact with your skin it causes severe itching that develops into inflammed red skin along with red and/or non-coloured bumps that then morph into clear, molten blisters. You can treat the lesions with Calamine Lotion or oatmeal and baking soda baths but absolutely do not scratch the itch! If you've come in contact with Poisin Ivy, I'd suggest you visit the doctor with anything beyond a slight case.

If you think you've come in contact with Poison Ivy you need to immediately cleanse the exposed area/s with rubbing alcohol, rinse thoroughly with water then have a warm shower with both soap and water (using soap immediately can spread oils around on the skin, use alcohol first). Oils could cause irritation within 10 minutes of contact and it will also remain on your clothing and your pets. Once you are cleaned up, put gloves on and wipe down everything else that has come in contact such as shoes, socks, pants, tools etc. Keep in mind that the rash itself isn't contagious, it's the oils that have been transferred from the leaves that causes the rash. The symptoms of Poison Ivy can last anywhere from 1 - 4 weeks or longer depending upon the severity, in some cases hospitilization is necessary.

- Do not burn clusters of Poison Ivy in an attempt to rid the area. If the smoke in inhaled into the lungs a rash could appear on the inner lining of your lungs which is extrememly painful and potentially deadly.

- Do not eat Poison Ivy for any reason, it can damage your entire digestive tract, airway, kidneys and other organs used to digest.

Personally...

I've had two, non severe cases of Poison Ivy which luckily stayed contained to my hands and of course occured 'accidently' ;) while collecting rocks for my gardens (and yes, ooops I also knew what it looked like). My symptoms were just a few tiny, raised yet partially clear bumps on my skin that went totally unnoticed by me. It was my spouse who spotted them and alerted me as to what he thought it was. Considering he's an avid bushman, I took his word for it and popped a couple of allergy pills as he suggested. The bumps never did itch nor break open, they just vanished. Two other people that I know, one a local man and the other a visitor, both had extreme cases of Poison Ivy. And yes, they too were aware of it's existence in the area. Sadly though, these two souls both sat in Poison Ivy while relieving themselves in the great outdoors. I understand that sometimes you just gotta go, but watch where you're stooping! That has got to be the utmost of cruel places to be adorned with Poison Ivy!! Both of these gentlemen visited the doctor and the hospital regularily for the next month and were extremely uncomfortable the entire time. Well, you'd think one would learn after a lesson such as that but our local boy just had stumble across it again and you guessed, de ja vu!! OMG once, but twice geez as a female, I'm sooo so lucky... and that's all I can say about that!

 

Keep these 'old' sayings in mind when venturing outdoors...

- Leaves of three, let it be.

- Hairy vine, no friend of mine.

- Raggy rope, don't be a dope! (the climber's)

- One, two, three? Don't touch me.

- Berries white, run in fright!

- Longer middle stem, stay away from them.

- Red leaflets in the spring, it's a dangerous thing.

Whenever you spend time living life, it's always best to be prepared for accidents. Wether on a road trip, at the cottage or just playing at home having a first aid kit that contains a minimal amount of medicinal goodies for minor injuries, scratches, scrapes and in this case rashes, is imperative. 

Poison Ivy Growing Up a Tree Trunk in the Fall, Toxicodendron Radicans, North America

Photographic Print

Buy at AllPosters.com

G8 Summit June 2010 - Huntsville, Ontario

Watch for international exposure for the Muskoka area this June as Huntsville, Ontario hosts the world's G8 Summit for 2010! This is an amazing opportunity to welcome the eyes of the world into 'our' home, to share the spirit of cottage living and our hospitality. This event will have an impact on our community and surrounding areas that will last a lifetime!

The G8 Summit is also known as The Group of Eight... "The Group of Eight is an economic and political forum for the leaders of eight of the world's most industrialized nations, aimed at finding common ground on key topics and solutions to global issues. The G8 includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United States, and the United Kingdom." quoted from the Ontario Government website. This year our Prime Minister, Stephen Harper will be representing Canada at the G8 Summit in Huntsville.

The G8 Summit is on Friday, June 25th 2010 and Saturday, June 26, 2010. The G8 Summit began in 1975 and 2010 will mark Canada's 5th opportunity to host the annual meeting.

Preparations for security, lodging and meeting quarters have been ongoing since the initial event was announced. The Town of Huntsville and it's residents, the media, RCMP, OPP and the G8 Summit Integrated Security Unit (ISU) are collaborating and contributing to ensure a safe and successful summit meeting.

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The Canadian government estimates investing $50 million dollars to host the G8 in 2010. The benefits being left behind are the new Media Centre in Huntsville which will revert to an additional ice surface and the newly resurfaced landing strip in North Bay stays too ;) The G8 summit created an economic boost for the area that will have lasting effects that are beneficial to the wholecommunity and surrounding areas.

For further information visit the Ontario Government - FAQ's , view this PDF document entitled  Town of Huntsville's 2010 G8 Legacy Project  or visit the Town of Huntsville.

Copeland Forest - South Central Ontario

Spending your leisure time wandering thru the beautiful, picturesque forests within cottage country is definetly time well spent! So why not take the whole family outside for a day of play and enjoy the tranquility that nature has provided. The Copeland Forest, located in central Ontario's cottage country, is another amazing slice of our four season paradise. Take a stroll thru the lush Pine forests speckled with fern and wild mushrooms or watch the Salmon run as you picnic by the river. The scenic trails of Copeland are magnificent for cycling, hiking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, dog sledding, horseback riding and Geocaching.

An endless ribbon of wilderness trails meander throughout cottage country and the Copeland Forest trails are ideal for those just learning to appreciate walking, hiking and cycling for fun and recreation. Once you've found your 'legs' you could spread your wings and venture onto the Ganaraska Trail which is over 200 km long! There are hundreds of miles of trail systems just within cottage country that also enable ATVing, snowmobiling and other motorized sporting equipment such as...

• Bruce Grey County Rail Trail - Ontario's West Coast - Port Elgin - 80 km
• CP Trail Southern Georgian Bay and Lake Simcoe - Flesherton - 77 km
• Southern Georgian Bay and Lake Simcoe - Township of Tiny - 22.5 km
• for a complete list visit the Ontario Trails Council

While exploring the trails of Copeland Forest keep your eyes open for wildlife such as White Tailed Deer, Ruffed Grouse and Wild Turkey. In early fall the Chinook Salmon are running in the Coldwater River which makes for fantastic viewing as many of the Salmon are swimming in just inches of water. Geocaching has become very popular for treasure hunt enthusiasts throughout cottage coutry, with Copeland Forest being one of the mapped hot spots. Horse enthusiasts and pets (on a leash) are welcome while motorized vehicles are not which simply enhances this tranquil setting even more.

Copeland Forest Trails
Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR)
2289 Nursery Rd.
Midhurst, Ontario
Phone # 705-725-7500
Spot a Bear! Call Phone # 1-866-514-2327

How to Get to the Copeland Forest - If you visiting from Barrie you can reach the Copeland Forest from Highway 400, north of Barrie by taking Exit 121 and turning east onto Highway 93 towards Craighurst.

If you have any questions, call the MNR before heading out into Copeland Forest. There are reported Bear sightings in the area at times, so if you have concerns call the MNR. Please do not litter or feed the animals and pay attention to your surroundings at all times. Pack a compass, map, flashlight etc. and wear appropriate attire. Safety should always be a factor when going out of doors and into the wilderness. Hunting is a recreational sport within Ontario in general so regardless of what trail or wilderness area you may be in, take extra precautions during hunting season. Wear bright colours, not your fur coat and antlers!

Simcoe County Trails has a  map of cottage country that highlights numerous other Loop and Linear trail systems throughout cottage country.

Winter Carnival 2010! Orillia, Ontario

Celebrate the Chill of February by joining the community of Orillia at Couchiching Park

 for the annual Winter Carnival Feb 12 - 14, 2010!

This is a family oriented, super fun event that takes place over a whole weekend in February. So just when you thought hibernation could set in, jolt yourself awake by exploring the frozen shores of Lake Couchiching! Enjoy a stroll around the carnival, visit the Petting Zoo, join in the Winter Olympics or sample a taste from the Chili Cook Off. May I also suggest you partake in the always frigid, eye opening Polar Bear Dip which raises funds for local, charitable causes.

There are events planned throughout the weekend so be sure to check Orillia's Winter Carnival website for further updates. Events listed for the 2010 Carnival include Shivers Ice Castle home to Shivers the mascot, Dog Sled Rides, Horse and Sleigh Rides, Ball Hockey Tournament, Helicopter Rides, Adult Dance, Teen Dance (at TUX II), Public Skating, KenJen Petting Zoo, Mini Snowmobile Rides, Duck Soup Productions, Toboggan Hill (New), Pancake Breakfast, Chili Cook-Off, O.P.P Kiddies Fish Pond,

Food Tent and the Midway along with...

Snow Sculptures
You need to complete and return a completed registration form to Orillia. Judging Sunday February 14, 2010 from 11:30AM-12PM.

Polar Bear Dip
Applications for proceeds for the 2010 Polar Bear are now being received!
Collect over $50 in Pledges and You Can Jump Too!

See the Orillia Chamber of Commerce for community realated information and other events.

Thank you for supporting Orillia's Winter Carnival!

p.s. If you need an ice sculpture check out Ice Culture Inc. based out of Hensall, Ontario

Visit other Winter Carnivals and Festivals in the area!