WINTER 2026
Lifestyle
REDEFINING
COTTAGE LIVING CLEAR LAKE JEWEL
YOUR SOURCE FOR LUXURY LIFESTYLE IN CENTRAL ONTARIO’S COTTAGE COUNTRY
MEDIA
W MARKETING WW K .COTTAGE.ROC
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HOME & COTTAGE | DESIGN | LAKE LIFE | OUTDOOR ADVENTURE | RECIPES
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THE KAWARTHAS
COTT
WINTER IN
A RINK ON THE LAKE
Winter 2026
CONTEN TS
Home & Cottage
08 Choose Your Winter in The Kawarthas 13 The Clear Lake Jewel - In with The New, but keep The Old 18 Redefining Cottage Living 25 Keeping Your Home Organized 26 What's Trending for 2026 28 Designing a bathroom that feels like a Retreat 33 Firewood Tips 35 A Rink on the Lake 38 Take it Outside! Host an outdoor Winter Party!
Recipes
40 Ginger Cookies 41 Savoury Palmer Appetizers
Get Outdoors
43 Top 3 Winter Experiences in the Haliburton Highlands 44 Walking on Water 46 Rising Ethanol 48 Minden White Water Preserve 50 Royal Winter Fair 55 Have you got a Warm Knitted Sweater
Pets & Vets
52 Riverview Park and Zoo's - Caribou Winter Migration 53 Winter Shelter and Survival
Kids Korner with Kenz 52 Snow Painting
Artist Spotlight
56 Meghan Patrick
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08 18
25 43
40
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IN PRINT
ONLINE
ON SOCIAL PUBLISHER, EDITOR & DESIGN Kelly Welsh, Owner COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Emily Ireland CONTRIBUTORS Emily Ireland, Jacob Rodenburg, Don Willcock, Birchview Designs, Craig Nicholson, Rick Whitteker, Joanne Clark & Mike Fitzgerald
Volume 32 • Number 1 705-313-2245
www.cottage.rocks
Published 6 times a year by Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine Inc., 705-313-2245, PO Box 8, Buckhorn ON K0L 1J0. Distributed by Canada Post Publications Mail (to Cottages, Homes & Businesses) and distributed to over 100 drop locations. Also promoted and viewed Online and on Social Media. In Print, Online and on Social. Copyright 1994-2026. All rights reserved.
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WELCOME TO THE
WINTER ISSUE
A fresh year, a fresh start; let go of the old, and welcome the new, “For last year's words belong to last year's language. And next year's words await another voice.” T.S. Eliot As we welcome January here in Cottage Country, I encourage you to fully embrace winter and explore the changes and magic it brings with it to our region. Whether you bundle up and pull up a lawn chair to watch your breath puff up into the night sky while the brightest stars twinkle above, or if you find joy in adventure, get out and strap on a pair of cross country or downhill skis or hike through the winter wonderland of our forests via snowshoes, or lace up your skates and enjoy an outdoor rink. Winter offers just as much fun as summer, and Cottage Country is brimming with excursions, events, and communities that celebrate the frosty season. Welcome to the Winter, January/February 2026 issue On the Cover: The Kawarthas Tourism brings you the best handpicked excursion ideas for enjoying winter here in The Kawarthas with ideas curated for those seeking simplicity, culture, outdoor excursions or purpose driven events - especially great ideas for enjoying the Family Day holiday in February.
Outdoor writer Rick Whitteker invites you on a hike to the Minden White Water Reserve, and Outdoor Education Instructor Jacob Rodenburg educates us on how to build shelter and survive in frigid winter temperatures with the insulation of snow. Kids corner also encourages outdoor play, with a simple snow painting activity that is quick to prepare and will keep the kids busy in the snow for hours. Nik from Weekend at the Cottage serves up the perfect Ginger Cookie recipe, a perfect treat to have after you’ve built your own skating rink on the lake with our tips on how to get that perfect glassy ice. We bring you design inspiration for 2026 renovations from Four Points Construction, Birchview Design and Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc., and beautiful Haliburton Highlands invites you to experience winter in the Highlands with a handpicked list of their top winter activities, including their annual Hike Haliburton Festival. From all of us at Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine, may the year ahead be filled with both big and small successes, simple happiness, unlimited blessings, and lots of adventure. 2026 is going to be a good one.
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CHOOSE YOUR
WINTER IN THE KAWARTHAS Winter is far from the off-season in The Kawarthas. As a true fourseason destination, this is when the region settles into something special - quieter trails sparkle with freshly fallen snow, cozy places come to life with crackling fires, and people gather on cold nights to celebrate connection and community. Whether you’re ready for a well-earned reset after the holidays or looking to becoming energized for the brand-new year ahead, there’s winter waiting for you in The Kawarthas. All you have to do is choose how you want to experience it. For the Simplicity Lovers If you’re drawn to calm moments, familiar comforts, and experiences that invite you to relax and enjoy, this is your season. A Simplicity Lover’s winter in The Kawarthas is about comfort and calm - cozy spaces, gentle outings, and time spent simply being together. Settle in with a locally crafted pint at Belmont Lake Brewery, where
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snow-dusted lakefront views pair perfectly with small-batch English brews. It’s the kind of place where winter feels welcoming, not rushed. Connect with nature and gentle creatures at Wanderlight Alpaca, where meeting fluffy alpacas turns a cold day into a warm-hearted memory. And for a longer escape, book a family day or March Break getaway at a year-round cottage resort, where activities out in the sparkling snow and nights cozied up in the perfect accommodations make time spent together truly special. For the Outdoor Explorers If winter makes you want to move, to explore deeper, go farther, and feel the landscape beneath your boots, then an Outdoor Explorers’ winter is calling. This is the season when The Kawarthas becomes a playground for those who thrive outdoors. Pitch a tent and set up camp in the forests of Kawartha Highlands Signature Site, where winter backcountry camping offers welcome solitude, a unique challenge, and unmatched scenery. For a
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quintessential Canadian experience, try ice fishing on one of The Kawarthas’ hundreds of frozen lakes, where patience is rewarded with both a peaceful day on the lake and the thrill of that big catch. Have a need for speed? The OFSC snowmobile trail network leads to communities, forests, and frozen waterways across The Kawarthas, offering endless opportunities to explore your way. For Purpose Driven Winter can feel like a great chance to reconnect with your family, the community, and the places you’ve been meaning to visit. For the Purpose Driven, winter offers experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways. Bundle up and join the fun at a local winter celebration like Polarfest in Selwyn Township or Fire & Ice in Havelock-BelmontMethuen, where skating, fireworks, entertainment, and seasonal traditions turn cold days into warm shared memories. Indoors, teamwork takes centre stage at Escape Maze, where families and
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friends work together to solve puzzles and complete challenges, laughing all the way! For quieter connection, plan a thoughtful winter hike along one of Kawartha Land Trust’s public access footpaths, where snow-covered trails invite self-reflection and a deeper appreciation for our protected natural spaces. For the Culture Seekers If travel inspires you to collect stories and hands-on experiences, then winter in The Kawarthas is for you. A Culture Seeker’s winter is about curiosity, creativity, and culture - all experienced without the crowds. Indulge in a private wine tour or a workshop with a local artist at Kawartha Country Wines, or uncover something unexpected with a visit to the hidden wine cellar at Elmhirst’s Resort, where winter tastings feel intimate and indulgent. Book a visit to Indigenously Infused to learn how Indigenous ingredients and Anishinaabe knowledge are thoughtfully infused into handcrafted wax melts, body sprays, and candles. Spend an afternoon outdoors at Kawartha Nordic, where skiing, skating, and snowshoeing trails weave through the forest before leading you back to the warmth of the chalet. One Destination. Four Seasons. Endless Ways to Winter. Winter doesn’t close The Kawarthas - it opens it up. Slower, quieter, and more intentional, the season invites you to experience the region in ways that feel personal and purposeful. Whatever your winter energy may be, one thing is certain: The Kawarthas is waiting for you this winter – even after the holidays have passed. Written By: Ryley Gutoskie, The Kawarthas Tourism www.thekawarthas.ca Photo credits: The Kawarthas Tourism
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THE CLEAR LAKE JEWEL IN WITH THE NEW, BUT KEEP THE OLD.
Welcome to The Clear Lake Jewel by Four Points Construction, a gorgeous newly built cottage nestled among the trees on the shores of sparkling Clear Lake. This custom rebuild shows pride of workmanship in every tiny detail, boasting creative design and flawless execution. The result is a functional, bright, cheery space in which the owners can enjoy the special pace of lake-life.
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The newly built 5000 square foot cottage replaces a century cottage that originally sat on the property, and as a reminder of the history of the land, wall cladding from the original cottage was salvaged from the tear-down, and repurposed in the new build as unique ceiling features; preserving history in the evolution and modernization of the property for years to come. No matter where you look in this cottage you will find interesting details; you will notice a herring bone theme in corners instead of mitre cuts, offering a distinctive interlocking pattern that adds a timeless depth to the room. Finely detailed coffered and vaulted ceiling features create an elegant focus, and were built using the repurposed boards from the original century cottage; a beautiful personal touch to carry on the legacy of this Clear Lake oasis. Another interesting detail to note, not a single bit of drywall was used in this project - each wall is finished with classic red cedar - offering a warm cozy atmosphere, and a rustic touch to compliment the view of the lake and the rugged terrain that surrounds it.
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The Jewel showcases unique quality and attention to detail, every board meticulously measured and nailed; a process of perfection that began in the Fall of 2023, and was completed in May of 2025. The lake itself has been invited inside as a focal point as well; in the dining area a bank of 3 French doors ushers in sunshine during the day as the lake sparkles on the horizon, and catches the magic of starry nights over the inky black water. Bright airy bedrooms with panoramic windows offer an uninterrupted view of the lake and beg to be opened up to let the cool air of night in as you fall asleep listening to the lapping of the waves; the ultimate in soul soothing relaxation. The master bedroom sings promised luxury, with a cozy stone fireplace, and master ensuite complete with a claw foot tub, sauna, and classic antique touches that create a relaxing space to unwind after long days spent enjoying the lake. Outdoor entertaining was definitely considered, and a stone patio complete with outdoor kitchen awaits summer barbecues, and cold
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drinks enjoyed in the sun. Thoughtfully finished in hues of green to match the calming green of the cedar shake exterior, this outdoor space is modelled to compliment the nature that surrounds it, not compete with it. The Clear Lake Jewel - elegant, natural luxury, nestled among the trees on the sparkling shores of Clear Lake. Four Points Construction is a full service, turn-key operation capable of full custom builds, additions, and renovation projects. Four Points works closely with all trades and prides themselves on diligently offering transparent and detailed budget reports to clients in order to maintain deadline and monetary requirements. You can count on honourable customer service before, during and after completion of every project with Four Points Construction; because at the centre of what they do is their desire to make every client’s dreams come true with quality work and trustworthy service. Four Points Construction Specializing in Luxury Cottage Lifestyle in the Peterborough & Kawartha Lakes Regions. www.fourpointsconstruction.ca Project Partners Architect + Interior Design: Louise Mackenzie Hickory Lane Kitchens Nixon Electric Birchview Landscaping Monaghan Lumber Dart Heating Howie Newson Plumbing Chemong Insulation
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FROM WEEKEND ESCAPE TO FOREVER RETREAT:
REDEFINING
COTTAGE LIVING For decades, cottage country was defined by weekends - Friday night drives, quick dips in the water, and Sunday afternoon pack-ups. Today, that rhythm has shifted. More homeowners in the Peterborough and Kawarthas region are reimagining their cottages not as temporary escapes, but as places designed for longer stays, deeper comfort, and even year-round living. This evolution has changed the way we approach design in cottage country, and will continue to shape the wants and needs of those shifting into considering spending more time in our beloved backyard. The modern cottage owner still wants the feeling of escape - but with the functionality, durability, and refinement of a primary residence. It’s no longer about rustic charm alone. It’s about balance.
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DESIGNING FOR LONGER STAYS When a space is only used occasionally, design decisions tend to prioritize novelty. But when clients begin spending weeks - or entire seasons - at their cottage, the focus naturally shifts to livability and longevity. Kitchens need to function for real cooking, not just casual meals (mostly reliant on the BBQ perhaps). Seating must support long conversations, quieter days and cozy evenings. Storage becomes essential, not optional. We often start by asking different questions: How does this home feel on a rainy November afternoon? Where do people naturally gather once the sun goes down? What makes everyday routines feel effortless? How do we keep the comfort of cottage life accessible all year round? These answers guide layouts, furniture selections, and material choices that support comfort without sacrificing style. THE RISE OF REFINED, RELAXED INTERIORS As cottages continue to become more frequently used, with many turning into full time homes, interiors are moving away from overtly themed or seasonal looks. Instead, clients are drawn to palettes, textures, and timeless materials that feel appropriate in every season. Natural stone, warm woods, tailored upholstery, and thoughtful lighting play a key role. Rather than leaning heavily on “cottage” motifs, design becomes quieter and more intentional - spaces that feel grounded in their surroundings without being defined by clichés. The goal is not to replicate a city home, but to elevate the cottage experience through restraint and clarity. SPACES DESIGNED FOR SERENITY & SOIRÉES One of the most noticeable shifts in weekendescape design is how homes support both connection and privacy. Open-concept living areas remain popular, but we are seeing a shift in a return of home designs that optimize smaller moments: pantries, reading nooks, secondary lounges, wellconsidered guest rooms. As cottages host longer visits from family and friends, thoughtful zoning allows everyone to feel comfortable. A well-designed cottage now supports lively gatherings and peaceful solitude (for both guest and host!) in equal measure.
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DESIGNING BEYOND THE SEASON This winter issue is a reminder that some of the most meaningful cottage moments happen off-season - when the lake is frozen, the fire is lit, and the pace slows. Designing for year-round use means considering warmth, lighting, acoustics, and materials that perform beautifully long after summer ends. When design supports these quieter months, the cottage becomes more than a destination. It becomes a retreat in the truest sense. A NEW CHAPTER FOR COTTAGE LIVING The transition from weekend escape to forever retreat reflects more than a design trend - it reflects a lifestyle change. Homeowners are investing not just in spaces, but in how they want to live. Thoughtful interior design helps bridge that shift, ensuring that cottages feel as welcoming on a winter evening as they do on a summer morning. And when done well, the result is a home that doesn’t ask you to leave so soon.
Birchview Design Inc. is an award-winning interior design team serving clientele throughout the Kawartha Lakes, GTA, and beyond. As a full-service studio, the firm offers an all-inclusive, simplified experience with elevated design expertise and Renomark certified project management. www.birchviewdesign.com / @birchviewdesign Classic Luxe Project: design & project management: Birchview Design Hamptons Retreat Project: design: Birchview Design, build: Four Points Construction @fourpointsconstruction Photo Credit: Ashley Adams @flashadams
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KEEPING YOUR HOME
ORGANIZED
Keeping your home organized can be a very taxing job. A lot of people have more stuff than they know what to do with, much less where to put that stuff. Here are a few simple tips for getting your home organized and keeping it that way. First, make sure that everything you have is actually worth having. We often keep things that aren't necessary to have in the house, and that's what causes the clutter. Now, all of those meaningful, sentimental items are not what I'm talking about here. Those are important things to keep, but anything that you have "just in case" that you haven't used in three years or more, has to go.
Keeping your home organized can be very difficult, especially because our lives are very busy. But once you have a system for keeping your house in check, it is much easier to get organized and stay that way.
Next, make sure you only worry about one room at a time - it will be easier to work your way through the house. If you try to do the whole house at once, you will be moving things from room to room which will take much longer - and there may be even more clutter in some places than there was before. Once you have found a place for everything, make sure that those things stay in their place, or get put back in their place after using them. Finally, have a document station. Keep an accordion file folder with pockets labeled for members of the household, bills, and mail. Another key part of this document station is to purge it weekly so that it does not get disorganized and overstuffed. This can really help avoid having way too many papers lying around the house and it will help you from accidentally throwing out important papers mixed in with the clutter.
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INTERIOR DESIGN & HOME DECOR:
WHAT’S TRENDING FOR 2026 Incoming Trends: Comfort, Connection and Natural Elements. Warm Minimalism: A transition from sleek stark whites, and cool grey tones to more natural palettes like warm beiges, olive greens, terracotta and deeper darker browns. Bringing in accents like wood, stone and linen brings texture and an earthy natural feeling to spaces. Layered Textures and Organic Forms: Bringing interesting tactile elements - rattan, plaster, boucle, velvet - adding pieces are pleasant or attractive to touch offers an approachable, inviting feeling. Curves rather than sharp angles are taking the stoplight; soft rounded edges on furniture and in architectural elements offer a softness that feels relaxing. Modern Nostalgia / Layered Antiques: We are stepping away from pristine, showroom style homes and entering a cozy era of maximalism, mixing in vintage pieces into modern spaces to add personality while also adding a sense of history. Statement Lighting and Wallpaper: Bold rich botanicals and patterns are added into add interest, depth and detail. Paired with lighting that doubles as sculptural art, 2026 is about adding touches of personality; including elements that tell a story. Biophilic Design: An architectural and Interior Design style that connects people with nature in built environments. Not so much a new trend, but a continued emphasis on bringing the outdoors inside with a focus on natural materials, potted plants and earthy palettes. Biophilic design focuses on using elements like sunlight, water, natural materials and patterns to improve well-being by leveraging our connection to the earth and its ability to restore and calm us.
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Give Your Walls a Fresh Start to 2026: Warm natural hues, and refined nature inspired neutrals along with deep rich jewel tones take centre stage, with a refined vibe that echos of sophistication and elegance. Warm Neutrals & Earth Tones - Grounding, Comfortable, Refined, Simple - Universal Khaki (Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year): “Modern. Classic. This mid-tone neutral with a slight yellow undertone embodies the satisfying simplicity at the core of contemporary comfort. Tailored and Timeless.” www.sherwin-williams.com - Cloud Dancer (Pantone Color of the Year): “Cloud Dancer is the perfect anchor for monochromatic dressing. A discrete white with
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an understated presence. Cloud Dancer displays a conscious state of simplification, encouraging true relaxation and quiet focus for those seeking moments of disconnection and rest.” www.pantone.com Deep Greens & Botanical Hues - Tranquil, Moody, Serene, Soothing - Hidden Gem (Behr Color of the Year): “A hue that exudes quiet confidence. A smokey jade with an air of mystery and sophistication, this rich, dynamic colour creates spaces that feel both grounded and alive.” www.behr.ca - Warm Eucalyptus (Valspar Color of the Year): “Naturally restorative and serene. This colour choice is that of mindful living - slowing down time and injecting decorative design to appreciate small moments. Colour that is restful to the eye is restful to the soul.” www.valspar.com
Rich Reds & Dramatic Accents: Bold, Dramatic, Regal, Sophisticated - Warm Mahogany (Glidden Color of the Year): “Outlasts the moment. Owns the mood. Warm Mahogany is a rich, grounded red that’s bold enough to draw immediate attention and reserved enough to make a timeless statement. Any style, any space, any mood.” www.glidden.com - Silhouette (Benjamin Moore Color of the Year): “Refined Elegance. A distinctive colour that weaves luxurious burnt umber with delicate notes of charcoal, Silhouette lends style and grace to the Colour Trends 2026 palette of enchanting pales and handsome midtones.” www.benjaminmoore.com
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BEYOND THE BASICS:
DESIGNING A BATHROOM THAT FEELS
LIKE A RETREAT Today’s bathroom is so much more than a quick stop in your day—it’s become a place to pause, breathe, and take care of yourself. It’s where we wake up slowly, unwind at the end of a long day. When designed with intention, a bathroom isn’t just beautiful; it’s a space that reflects how we live and how we want to feel.
I always begin by asking clients how they want the room to feel. That answer guides everything. For some, the bathroom is a sanctuary—think of a sculptural deepsoak tub bathed in soft light. For others, it’s about function and flow: a generously sized shower with a built-in bench, steam
feature, and clutter-free storage. The materials and finishes should harmonize with the home’s overall style. I favour timeless choices such as warm woods, muted metals, and natural stones that age gracefully. Cabinetry plays a huge
Bathrooms are often overlooked, yet they hold incredible potential to transform the way we experience our homes. They’re where routines begin and end, where we recharge, and where thoughtful design meets everyday life in a meaningful way. Renovating a bathroom isn’t just about picking pretty tiles or upgrading fixtures—it’s an opportunity to create a space that makes you feel cared for every single day. When I tackle a bathroom renovation, I look past the tiles and fixtures and focus on mood, movement, and the everyday moments that happen in the space. A successful design is one that not only looks beautiful but also enhances daily life. Natural textures can create a sense of serenity, while layered lighting can energize a morning routine. Every design choice is driven by one goal: crafting a space that feels effortless, functional, and personal.
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role in both function and aesthetics for bathrooms. Look for solid maple or birch, providing durability in humid spaces while adding natural beauty. Highquality materials not only elevate the look but also ensure long-lasting performance. Function is as important as form. Ensure proper ventilation which preserves finishes and prevents moisture damage. Layout should feel intuitive, whether it’s a compact powder room or a spacious ensuite. Flooring deserves special attention—textured porcelain or patterned ceramic balances safety with style. Trending large wall tiles visually will expand a space, while smaller tiles can add texture and interest underfoot. One feature I rarely skip in bathrooms is radiant in-floor heating. It’s a quite affordable luxury that transforms everyday routines, offering warmth and comfort year-round. Once experienced, it certainly becomes indispensable. Pro Tip: Start with the desired feeling, not the materials. Identify whether you want the space to feel calming, energizing, or indulgent, and let that guide every decision. Pro Tip: Invest in a standout feature, a sculptural tub, artisanal tile, or custom vanity that anchors the room and elevates the overall design. Pro Tip – Faucet Trends: In 2026, look for faucets that combine form and function—think matte black or bronze or brushed gold finishes, minimalistic shapes, and touchless or motion-sensor technology for a modern, convenient experience. Fixtures are more than functional; they define style and
BATHROOM SPACE In this modern principal bathroom, I designed for relaxation, a palette of classic warm neutrals Soft wood tones, creamy marble stone surfaces, and subtle metallic accents to create both warmth and cohesion. The freestanding tub anchors the space, while the fixtures provide contemporary soft contrast creating a serene, modern sanctuary where comfort and style coexist effortlessly.
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Vogt, www.vogtindustries.com
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character. Carefully chosen faucets, showerheads, and hardware introduce texture, contrast, and a sense of luxury. Small details— like the finish on a tap or the shape of a handle can elevate a room from ordinary to curated. I often specify Canadian VOGT fixtures, particularly their wide range of timeless designs, engineering, and customizable finishes. Lighting is another key layer. I combine ambient lighting for overall glow, task lighting around mirrors, and accent lighting to highlight key elements. Technology can enhance comfort when used thoughtfully. In 2026, expect more defogging mirrors, programmable showers, and motion-sensor faucets and toilets to make everyday routines easier.
Proportion is crucial. Oversized vanities or tubs can overwhelm smaller rooms, while floating cabinetry or glass showers create openness. Once the structure is right, finishing touches like textures, soft textiles, and curated accessories will bring warmth and cohesion to the design. Ultimately, a well-designed bathroom blends function, comfort, and style. With planning, attention to detail, and a clear vision, even a modest bathroom can become the most personal retreat in the home. Photo Credit: Mike Chajecki
Jessica Cinnamon is the award winning Principal Designer and founder of Toronto based Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc. The firm is a multi-disciplinary design company that has become known for creating stylish and well curated interiors. They provide complete bespoke residential design services throughout Toronto Ontario, the GTA, Cottage Country, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Jessica_cinnamon_design jessicacinnamondesign.com
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FIREWOOD TIPS The Best Burning Wood for Your Wood Stove or Fireplace There is something about how the heat of a wood burning fire settles into your bones on a blustery winters day, but did you know that the wood you are burning can have an impact on how hot, fast or smokey your fire burns? What wood you burn in your indoor stove or fireplace can affect how much heat output you have, how fast you burn through your wood supply and how clean your chimney stays!
“All firewood is not created equal.” If you are using your wood fire as your main heat source it is important to choose your wood with a few facts in mind.
One thing to consider is heat value - heat value (BTU’s) is the measurement of how hot certain woods burn and how much output a certain variety of wood has in comparison to another. The first tip is to choose clean, dry hardwood as your optimal heat provider. Hardwoods such as Maple, Oak, Ash, Birch and many fruit trees offer dense wood that will give you a hot fire with longer burning time; they also have the least amount of pitch and sap and are cleaner to handle and burn. Pitch is a resinous sap carried in many types of softwood like Pine, Spruce, Fir, Cedar and Hemlock; pitch can make handling wood messy and can add buildup to your pipes and chimney over time. Maple: Dry Maple wood is heavy, dense and offers long, steady burns - great for long overnight burning. Oak: A dense hardwood that burns slowly and produces a lot of heat. Ash: Burns steadily and is easy to split. Birch: A good choice for quick heat - although must be very seasoned to reduce moisture content. Apple: A hardwood that burns hot and long, with low flame levels and moderate smoke. Other things to think of when choosing firewood: If you need to cut
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and split it, choosing to split while wood is ‘green’ or wet is actually easier than splitting it after drying. Wood that has freshly fallen from a live tree contains up to 50% moisture, and for burning purposes it is suggested that you season (dry) your firewood by splitting and stacking it out of the weather and rain for at least 6 months. Wood that steams or bubbles and hisses out of the cut ends while burning means it is not dry enough. Moisture should be 25% or less for an optimal clean burn. Why should you not burn green or wet wood? Burning wet wood can be a waste of fuel - imagine doing all the work of collecting, splitting and stacking to only receive 30% of the heat you were planning on. When wood is wet it requires extra energy to boil off the water. It can also be dangerous, burning wet wood or woods full of pitch and sap as it creates creosote - a flammable and sticky tar-like substance that builds up in your pipes and chimney; this build up can lead to chimney fires. If you have an open fireplace creosote can also build up on indoor surfaces and brickwork, creating lowered indoor air quality. Kindling is a great tool to have on hand for quick fire starting, picking dry softwood like Cedar - when dry and cut small - offers a quick burning and easily igniting bridge between your flame source, and Cedar burns long enough for dense hardwood to ignite. While Cedar will not provide a long or hot enough burn to sustain heat output, it is a very aromatic and low smoke option for fire starting, Do Note: Cedar is known to pop and spark, this can be an issue with open burning fireplaces. A great source for Cedar kindling is to contact a local sawmill and stock up on their ‘cutoffs’. Often you can load up on dry kindling for a minimal price, and you save yourself from chopping it all! As someone who grew up in a wood burning household, and who now owns my own wood burning home - I can honestly say I wouldn’t trade the hard work of preparing for winter burning, or the cozy heat of a roaring fire for a simpler heat source. Please remember - always buy local. It is important to only source firewood from your local geographical area, introducing and transporting firewood from somewhere outside of your area increases odds of spreading invasive pests and diseases to our local ecosystems.
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A RINK CANADIAN TRADITION:
ON THE LAKE Is anything more magical than skating on a vast snowy lake, the cold air biting at your cheeks, puffs of hot breath, the slicing sound of your skates on the ice - and that special silence that rumbles in your ears when you listen to the snow falling on the quiet snow-cloaked landscape. Perhaps in your family hockey is the focus, and what better way to enjoy a truly Canadian pastime; a heated game of ‘pond’ hockey gets everyone out of the house and cheering! This winter enjoy the lake just as much in winter as you do in summer - by constructing your own rink.
for any machinery that you take on the ice, by checking it’s weight in regards to safe ice thickness!
*First and foremost you MUST ensure the ice is SAFE, minimum thickness for things like ice fishing, walking and skating is 4inches. Use an ice auger, chisel, or cordless drill to check multiple spots across where you intend to put your rink. Avoid Grey or opaque areas, as these are often air filled pockets and are weak spots.
Once you have the bulk of the snow removed, take a flat metal shovel and try to scrape off some of the sharper bumps from the surface of the ice. Finish with a strong cornhusk broom or pushstyle broom to get all the leftover snow off the ice surface.
Planning and Clearing If the lake has a layer of snow on it, begin by taking a Shovel or stick and tracing out the exterior size you want your rink, now you have lines to shovel within, and the snow will act as natural ‘boards’ around the rink. Clear the snow by shovelling or plowing - again, check ice thickness
Watering and Flooding You need a water source, so drill a hole in the ice (in a safe location in regards to the rink and its traffic, and use a submersible pump, and hose to bring water to the rink area. Letting the water come straight from the hose rather than spraying with a nozzle will create more even layers. Be Patient! Each layer of water needs to be left to fully freeze over night before adding
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another layer of water. Tip: clear cold nights are best for flooding. Use a bucket with warm water in between layers to smooth out imperfections, creating a smooth glassy skating surface - getting the perfect finish can take a few layers of water and freeze time to achieve - but once you do, all you have to do is throw on your skates and enjoy. Tips and Tricks Try to clear new snowfall immediately after it falls as the snow will act as insulation making your rink slushy and soft. To repair cracks, fill them with a slushy mixture of snow and water, and level it out with a shovel. Leave it to freeze fully before skating, otherwise your skate blade will get stuck in the cracks. Tip: If it is a warm sunny day, you can expect that the ice will soften and skate blades will chop up the surface. Simply re-flood or avoid skating in temperatures right around or about freezing. Add a Little Ambiance These are a few of the extra little things we do to make days spent on the lake cozy and comfortable - both for the skaters, and the observers. • Add A Bench: Offering a place to get your skates on and off, or take a quick sit is a great idea. • White lights make everything more magical! Add some solar white lights twisted around branches and stick them in the snow surrounding the rink vertically. Voila! Romantic night time skates await. • Bring a moveable fire pit down to the rink, your guests with thank you for a place to warm themselves by the fire, and those who just want to watch still feel included as they sit by the fire and toast Marshmallows. *do keep in mind it will melt the ice, so either move it to a new location for each use, or keep a close eye on its base tabletop fire pits are best. • Wireless Speaker: While we love the sound of the wind rushing through the trees, sometimes a little music really sets the magical winter mood. • A cooler does a great job of keeping things dry and warm, so we use it to pack everything down to the rink that needs to stay dry, like extra mitts and socks, and thermoses of coffee and hot chocolate.
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Home & Cottage ~ Winter 2026 37
TAKE IT OUTSIDE!
HOST AN OUTDOOR WINTER PARTY! Entertaining outdoors offers a different set of hurdles when it comes to ensuring your guests are comfortable in the cooler temperatures; but here’s to hoping I can convince you of the merit of how you can still enjoy get togethers - but with snow! Plus, winter is really long and we need to find ways to not only get through it, but to enjoy it. By Joanne Clark
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Heat Things Up First requirement ideally is a heat source. The most cost effective is a good old-fashioned campfire. You can use your current setup if you already have a campfire space and organize a zone close to it. Or you can purchase a portable fire bowl that will leave you with the option to place it anywhere and to be able to move it around to change things up. In cottage country we have many options to support local for the purchase of your outdoor firepit or chimenea. A large size fire bowl or in ground campfire pit is going to be the best way to throw the most heat especially as we launch into the later winter months. This is going to come with the requirement for some dry wood delivery but again we are situated in the ideal location to source delivery options. And above all, have your fire cracking before your guests arrive so they can get a feel for your outdoor theme and are comfortable right from the start. Creating Ambiance If your summer patio furniture won’t suffice this is an opportunity to try a new approach for accommodating your guests. A picnic table is ideal for setting up food and drink and will be easy to stage with a creative outdoor look. If you don’t have a picnic table, you can source an inexpensive table at your local hardware or thrift store or try your hand at making something rustic. You can cover your table with a tablecloth and now the fun begins! This can be a continuation of your Christmas efforts by using greenery, pinecones, candles and outdoor lights to add personality and warmth to your party zone. It won’t take much to create an interesting and lively ambiance for your guests. Don’t forget blankets and seat covers. Faux fur fabric can be purchased fairly inexpensively and can be re-used even in the shoulder seasons.
Eat Drink and Be Merry Moving your BBQ to your party zone can help streamline food preparation and keeping things chilled is not going to be a problem with winter entertaining and will reduce trips to the house. Use thermoses for hot chocolate or mulled wine to further your outdoor theme. Consider serving food in rounds, starting with kebobs or other ideas that are easy to hold and eat without too much effort. Most summer campfire foods can be cycled in like hotdogs, burgers and s’mores for dessert also work. Pinterest has some fabulous campfire warm-you-up food and drink ideas like: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Tortilla roll-ups Cheesy garlic bread in foil Bacon wrapped water chestnuts Grilled foil pack cheesy fries Italian sausage and potato foil dinner Personal pizzas on the BBQ Cup of soup Chili Campfire quesadillas Bailey’s dipped toasted marshmallows Hot buttered rum with apple cider Peppermint schnapps with hot chocolate
I’ll be honest, you will be tired setting this all up, but I guarantee you will want to do it again! I found my guests positive reactions exceeded the effort and attention to detail. It really is a cozy and fantastic way to enjoy winter. There are so many inspiring ideas and recipes online to help build a further case for outdoor winter entertaining. I think you are hardy enough for an outdoor winter party, after all we live here in cottage country!
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Tender, chewy cookies made with ginger, molasses, sugar and spices…
SOFT & CHEWY
GINGER COOKIES INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
3/4 cup shortening 1 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup blackstrap molasses 1 egg, room temperature 2-1/4 cups unbleached all purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 tablespoon ginger 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon cloves 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 cup, finely minced candied ginger
1.
Preheat oven to 350°F
2.
Prepare cookie dough: Sift all of the dry ingredients together. In a separate medium-sized bowl, cream shortening, sugar, egg and molasses together. Add dry mix and stir to combine. Stir in candied ginger.
3.
Take tablespoons of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll the balls in granulated sugar and place them onto parchment-lined trays, about 2-inches apart. Press balls down into a flattened disc shape using a flat-bottomed glass. Slightly twist the glass as you flatten the cookies to ensure they come away without incident.
4.
Transfer to oven and bake for 7-1/2 minutes for a very chewy cookie, 8 minutes for a softer chew.
5.
Remove from oven and immediately transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6.
Store in an airtight container to maximize freshness.
Additional sugar for rolling
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SAVOURY PALMIER APPETIZERS Prosciutto and grated Emmental cheese enhanced with mustard and seasoning, rolled in puff pastry... INGREDIENTS 1 sheet puff pastry, about 200 g 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 cup grated Emmental or Gruyère, grated 1 tablespoon WATC Salad Sprinkles or a dry seasoning blend of your choice 4 - 6 slices prosciutto For the egg wash: 1 egg 1 tablespoon water To serve: freshly chopped parsley
INSTRUCTIONS 1. 2. 3.
4.
5. 6.
7. 8.
Defrost pastry as per packaging directions. Ensure pastry is completely thawed before continuing. Lay one square of puff pastry out on a lightly-floured surface. With a rolling pin, roll out to a rectangle. Spread Dijon mustard across the surface of the dough evenly. Sprinkle with grated cheese followed by seasoning. Add slices of prosciutto across the surface. Beginning at one of the long sides, tuck in the edge and roll the pastry until you reach the centre of the sheet. Do the same on the opposite end until the two rolls meet at the centre. Dab a few drops of water onto the pastry if the rolls don't stick together in the middle. Wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 3 days. To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Whisk egg and water together in a small bowl. Unwrap the roll and cut with a sharp knife into 1/2-inch slices, 16 per roll. Lay slices flat onto parchment-lined baking sheets, 8 per sheet. Brush the tops lightly with egg wash. Transfer to oven baking for 14 minutes or until a rich golden brown. Cool for 2 minutes before transferring to a serving plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Recipes ~ Winter 2026 41
42 Winter 2026 ~ Cottage Country Lifestyle
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TOP 3 WINTER
EXPERIENCES
IN THE HALIBURTON HIGHLANDS When planning a winter escape, I’m always looking for places that offer a variety of experiences, the kind where you can return more than once and try something new each visit. The Haliburton Highlands is one of those destinations, especially in winter. Here are three experiences that stand out and give visitors plenty of reasons to head north.
1
Dog Sledding at Winterdance Dog sledding at Winterdance is the kind of experience that stays with you long after the snow melts. From the moment you meet your sledpulling team, it’s clear these dogs are born to run. After learning the basics, you’re off, guiding your sled through quiet forest trails. It’s equal parts thrilling and peaceful, and a truly unforgettable way to experience winter in the Highlands.
2
3
Snowmobiling at Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve For visitors who love exploring by trail, snowmobiling at Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve is hard to beat. You can bring your own sled, rent one on site, or join a guided tour, making it accessible for all levels of experience. With well-maintained trails and stunning winter scenery, it’s an ideal way to cover more ground and see a different side of the region.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Sir Sam’s Ski/Ride Sir Sam’s Ski/Ride offers classic winter fun with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Thanks to modern snowmaking equipment and a dedicated team, the slopes are in great condition throughout the season. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or introducing kids to the sport for the first time, Sir Sam’s is a winter staple in the Haliburton Highlands.
Each of these experiences offers a different way to enjoy winter in the Haliburton Highlands, and they’re just the beginning. Visitors can also explore many snowshoe trails, discover some of Ontario’s best Nordic skiing, or spend a day ice fishing on one of the region’s many lakes. With so much to do, the Haliburton Highlands is a destination worth returning to throughout the winter season. Learn more at myhaliburtonhighlands.com/winter/ Written By: Eric Casper, Tourism Coordinator - Haliburton County www.myhaliburtonhighlands.com
Get Outdoors ~ Winter 2026 43
WALKING ON WATER CAMERON LAKE
I’ve always felt like the sun both rises and sets with a different palette of colours in winter than it does throughout the rest of the year, and while I’m certain there must be a scientific explanation for this, the tendency to settle on the idea that it’s just part of the magic of the season usually wins, at least for me. This morning was no different as the sun flirted with the idea of coming up in the east. The ice on the lake is safe, and way out there is the unmistakable grey plumes of wood smoke coming from the pipe poking out of the furthest ice fishing hut. The snow is deeper than usual but when that happens, you simply take your time getting out there. Not all of us have a snowmobile to get us to the hot spots where walleye patrol under the ice, so it takes us as long as it takes us because it’s either that or you don’t fish at all. As the sun comes up and lights the entirety of the lake, that smoke plume, as small as it looks from this distance, acts like a beacon because where it’s coming from is out where the shoal that I am hoping to cut a few holes in the ice and hop scotching around for the rest of the morning is. It’s a lot of water to cover, and it’s cold as cold can be this morning, but it’s worth it. Last year I spent considerable amounts of time figuring this lake out, driving to and from it in the dark before dawn, traffic spewing in the opposite direction toward Lindsay, and what I learned was that you don’t have to be jigging right before sun rise. That you can, in fact, take your time, and the fishing will still be good. Maybe not great, but pretty good.
After all, it’s big water out here, but it sure is still and quiet, peaceful and best of all, except for the couple of huts out toward where I’m heading, it’s mostly all mine, too. On the walk out I spot a bald eagle gliding toward town, riding the wind current and doing so in such an effortless manner. Then I cross coyote tracks heading to the west where it looks like some weather has garnered steam over Lake Simcoe many miles away. It’s a dark wall of cloud with that telltale curtained snowfall lacquering the countryside in sheets of pale light grey, but that’s all way over there, and I’m all the way over here, so there’s still time. I’m old enough to remember the generation before me talking about always leaving a marker pointed in the direction of which way you came from, because if whiteout conditions arrived, you’d never know where exactly shore was. I’m also young enough to have never experienced those conditions without the usefulness of GPS being conveniently located in my pocket via an Iphone. It’s a cold comfort, if nothing else, but still, technology can fail you, so my spud, or auger, is always pointed toward shore. Finally reaching where I need to be, the wind starting to kick up a little bit from the southwest, it’s hard not to imagine the anglers inside those wood heated huts. There’s a mysticism about wood heat that lulls anyone who nears themselves to it, so I can’t help but assume that those anglers in the huts have succumbed to the dry heat and are dozing. No one could blame, either.
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The holes are drilled, grid-like, along the edge of where the shoal increases its topography. I set about erecting the hut, get the heater going (oh, sweet warmth) and settle into the motions, thankful for the heat and hopeful for a few bronze coloured walleye, yet all the while smelling the sweet scent of burning hardwood only a couple hundred yards away, wafting and alluring, making me wonder if what I came all this way out here for was a pretty place to daydream about a fire and a nap. Mike Fitzgerald is an avid outdoorsman and knowledgable homesteader who writes for multiple publications about living off the land. You can follow him on his adventures via instagram as @omnivore.culture
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Home & Cottage ~ Winter 2026 45
RISING ETHANOL
CONTENT THREATENS SMALL ENGINES By Craig Nicholson
Readers may have noticed an ethanol warning with my article in the Christmas issue of this magazine. Since then, we’ve made numerous national powersports and industry associations, and all manufacturers of motorsports products, aware of the looming threat. Plus, every provincial recreational trail group and the Federation of Ontario Cottagers Associations (FOCA). Meanwhile, initial contacts are underway with both federal and provincial politicians to urge remedial action. But nothing’s occurred yet, so as of this writing, here’s what you need to know. What’s Happening?
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Snowmobilers must beware of increased ethanol content at the pumps this winter. But riders aren’t the only ones at risk. Yes, a multitude of other gas-powered, 2-stroke, small engines used daily in the Kawarthas-Haliburton-Bancroft area are also in danger. As of 2023, gasoline contained up to 10% ethanol content (E10), which most small engines can handle. However, that content is now increasing to reach to E15 by 2030. In fact, without much notice or fanfare, the increase has already started in Ontario & Quebec with ethanol increases already exceeding 10% in both regular and mid-grade gas; 15% ethanol
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So far, it looks like the ethanol content increase is happening only in regular (87 octane) and mid-grade (89 octane) fuels. So, we can avoid small engine ethanol damage by going premium, but at a greater cost with each fill-up. It’s also a relief to know that increased ethanol content does not affect automobiles. Their sophisticated closed loop fuel injection systems have built in safeguards. However, small engines, with their carburetors or open-loop injection systems don’t have the same protection. What’s The Bottomline? If allowed to go unchecked, increased ethanol content could make every existing gaspowered, 2-stroke, small engine obsolete. So, get your axes, saws and shovels ready, folks! How Can Snowmobilers Avoid Engine Damage? From a snowmobiling perspective, riders should start using premium gas exclusively, if not doing so already. Also, be more aware of planning fuel stops to access premium fuel. And carry extra premium in a gas caddy on your sled just in case. Crazy as it may seem, on tours through remote areas, maybe even consider calling ahead to make sure a planned gas stop has premium. Regardless, good luck getting your ethanol-damaged small engine covered by any sled manufacturer or extended warranty, so buyer beware at the pumps! This article prepared in collaboration with Michel Garneau, Tech Editor of Motoneige Quebec Magazine, and John Sharrard of Accelerated Technologies in Buckhorn. Craig Nicholson, The Intrepid Snowmobiler, is an International Snowmobile Hall of Fame journalist and a long-time Kawarthas cottager who also provides tips and tour info for snowmobilers at intrepidsnowmobiler.com and for PWC riders at intrepidcottager.com.
warnings are also being posted at some gas stations. Even though anything over E10 is dangerous to small engines. So, anyone who relies on gas-powered small engines (see sidebar list) could be affected. And that includes usage at cottages, homes, farms, workplaces, and for recreational trails and emergency services. What’s The Problem? Overall, our gas-powered, 2-stroke, small engines can handle E10 fuel. Sure, E10 gasoline already causes ongoing small engine concerns, notably corrosiveness and storage issues. But higher ethanol content ups the threat dramatically. Why? Because higher ethanol-induced oxygenation of the
Small Engines Endangered By Ethanol Include: • Snowmobiles • ATV’s • SXS’s • Motorcycles • Boat motors • Snow Blowers • Generators • Chain Saws • Pressure Washers
• Lawn Mowers • Weed Wackers • Leaf Blowers • Brush Cutters • Hedge Trimmers • Tillers & cultivators • Stump grinders • Log splitters • Mini Excavators
combustible mixture results in a more damaging chemical reaction in a small engine’s combustion chamber. Specifically, the ethanolrelated oxygen atoms cause the temperature of the combustion event to rise higher than before. This can cause either carbureted or fuel injected small engines to overheat (an effect similar to leaning out the jetting too much) – and lead to sudden engine seizure. Or over time, internal damage that can compromise its reliability and longevity (the likely outcome for most 4-stroke small engines). To date, no one has come up with an engine fix to handle more ethanol. Nor can any existing additive compensate for the sheer numbers of oxygen atoms now added to the reaction. Are There Any Other Considerations?
Get Outdoors ~ Winter 2026 47
MINDEN WHITE WATER PRESERVE
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What is striking about snowshoeing at the Minden White Water Preserve (MWWP) is the spectrum of sound you will experience on this two-kilometer loop. From the raging rumble of frothy water cascading over icecapped rocks to the quiet of a mature maple forest valley, the two seem more pronounced when paired together. Your visual dopamine will also be engaged by the sights on the trail including towering trees, a deeply gorged river valley and forested ridges. The MWWP is a great destination for a multi-sensory snowshoeing experience. The best winter access is off Horseshoe Lake Road just north of Minden off highway 35 where there is public parking year around. A short walk up Horseshoe Lake Road towards Bethel Road leads you to the newly upgraded Horseshoe Lake Dam where can you cross the river before donning your snowshoes. While following yellow trail markers downstream along the Gull River, your attention will be drawn to the continuous movement and sound below. Appearing natural, there is a very human influence on the rushing waters of the Gull River at the MWWP. The river was modified about thirty years ago by Whitewater Ontario. Loads of fill and rock was dumped by the riverside effectively funnelling the flow into a narrower space creating rapids suitable for competitive kayaking and recreational paddlers. Other modifications included strategically placing sets of boulders to funnel the water into a tighter space generating high volume rapids with calm eddies behind them. Large concrete blocks were placed across the river at these narrow points producing sharp drop offs. This sudden drop leaves a void where the water recirculates back upstream creating holes or hydraulics. For skilled recreational playboaters, these areas are fun zones to practice their tricks like surfing and cartwheels. Moving downstream, the trail is shaded by stands of towering eastern hemlock. Thriving in cooler, damp environments, this shade tolerant tree was ignored by early timber barons in favour of its fancier cousin, the white pine. Overlooked but useful, hemlock is resistant to rot and insect damage due to the high concentration of tannin in its bark and wood fibres. Because of this and its widespread availability, many century old barns in southern Ontario were constructed with hemlock; a testament to its durability. Looking closely, some of the hemlocks have distinctive rows of small holes called sap
wells made by the yellow-bellied sapsucker. The sapsucker has a bush tipped tongue which helps lap up the sweet sap drawn from the cambium layer of trees. Further along the riverside trail, watch for the sign for Whitehorse Falls. This is a great spot to drop down to the riverside for a closer look. The short, rugged drop is worth the effort to fully immerse into the power of the river. Flat, safe space is available for ground level photo opportunities with tree clad shorelines framing the twisting, tumultuous flow and artistic ice sculptures formed by the combination of mist, wind and cold. The river eventually disperses into Minden Lake. Following the now calm water, the trail makes a sharp turn away from the water and into an upland mature forest. Now surrounded by trees and forested ridges, it is stunning how the cacophony of river sound is replaced by the silence of a mature maple forest. The serenity was briefly pierced by the loud, croaking call of a raven. Often mistaken for the crow, the raven is a year around resident, is about 30% bigger, has a throatier call, thicker beak and, when in flight, the raven’s tail feathers are wedgeshaped instead of straight cut like the crow. All members of the Corvid family (blue jays, gray jays, crows and ravens) are mimickers, but ravens are the experts, capable of making up to one hundred different vocalizations, some sounding like bells, a barking dog or a car alarm! Watch what you say around ravens as they can learn how to mimic human words better than parrots! To further emphasize the ability of this intelligent opportunist, ravens have been observed making a call like a howl to attract wolves to a carcass, thereby gaining
access to protein normally inaccessible because their beaks cannot break through the tough hide of a mammal. Eventually the yellow trail markers will lead you to the open camping area and facilities managed by Whitewater Ontario. You can either go straight to Bethel Road and make your way back to your car or you can snowshoe back down to the dam where you started. Either way, you will have completed a wonderful snowshoe hike, filled the senses and exercised the heart at this great snowshoeing destination in northern cottage country. Submitted by Rick Whitteker. You can find Rick at home in the forest, as a seasoned trail guide, nature writer and passionate wildlife enthusiast in the Haliburton Highlands. Photo Credits: Rapids shots by Thom Lambert All other photos by Rick Whittaker
Get Outdoors ~ Winter 2026 49
THE ROYAL WINTER FAIR
EXPERIENCE Each year in November the city goes a little country as Toronto's Exhibition Place transforms into the worlds largest indoor agricultural fair; a 10 day celebration of agricultural excellence in livestock, crops and food and hosts an International Equestrian Competition. “A win at The Royal means something, regardless of whether you’re pickling, jamming, raising beef or driving six-horse hitches.” Since its inception in 1922, The Royal has grown to be the largest indoor agricultural and equestrian event in the world with over
50 Winter 2026 ~ Cottage Country Lifestyle
PICTURED: KEIRA SMITH - GRIT TEAM JUMPER KAYLA WELSH - GRIT TEAM DRESSAGE
300,000 visitors every year. Known as one of the most notable equestrian events in the world, athletes come from many different countries to compete in The Royal Horse Show. Again this year we had the great honour of being able to cover some of the events happening at The Royal Winter Fair in Toronto, as media friends. As a member of the Ontario Equestrian GRIT Team (Dressage) our junior media specialist Kayla was invited to attend the fair to represent her team, and assist curious kids in learning more about riding and horsemanship. So we handed over the reins, for her to report on her time at The Royal!
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We took every chance to pet every animal in the petting zoo, ride the mechanical bull and watch the amazing equestrian events; from Dressage to Jumping, we took it all in. Being on the Ontario Equestrian GRIT Team for Dressage, I had the honour of being part of many special events including a meeting with CBC's Scott Russell this year at the Royal. It was an exciting, educational, and inspiring day of learning from Scott as he worked with us on how to conduct a successful live interview. It was an honour to be interviewed directly by Scott on camera as well. As an Ontario GRIT Dressage Athlete, my favourite part was helping and watching the Royal Dressage CDI-W Freestyle as the Royal Gate Keeper. Seeing Canadian Olympian Brittany Fraser-Beaulieu of St. Bruno, QC, ride Jill Irving’s Jaccardo to win the $20,000 CDI-W Grand Prix Freestyle was amazing! The CDI-W was a qualifying event for the 2026 FEI World Cup™ Finals, taking place April 8-12 in Fort Worth, Texas.
I enjoyed helping with the ‘Rookie Riders Program’ at the Royal also, a program that introduces kids to riding a horse, which was presented by Ontario Equestrian. The Rookie Riders begin by learning to work with horses safely, practicing fundamental movement skills with basic gymnastics and riding a “barrel horse”. We helped the kids learn to safely mount and dismount, and also instructed them on their ability to maintain a balanced and relaxed position, with proper posture while mounted. Rookie Rider kids were also given the chance to become comfortable changing into a variety of positions and holds while mounted. I’m excited to return to The Royal again in 2026, and I am hopeful that one day I may have the opportunity to compete there alongside so many wonderful athletes.
MECHANICAL BULL
ROOKIE RIDERS
The Royal Winter Fair agricultural celebration happens every November (6-15th, 2026) and celebrates the very best food, livestock and horsemanship this country has to offer. Photo Credit TL : Nancy Bowman Photography www.nancybowmanphotography.zenfolio.com
KAYLA & CBC'S SCOTT RUSSELL
Get Outdoors ~ Winter 2026 51
Kids Korner with Kenz
SNOW PAINTING Stuck at home on a snow day? Try this super fun snow dye! All you need to make these these fun, colourful snow painters is food colouring, plastic water bottles and water. Start by collecting as many water bottles as you want colours. In each bottle put at least 12 drops of food colouring, then fill them to the top with tap water. Next, tightly screw the caps back onto the bottles and gently shake each one until the food colouring is fully mixed with the water.
Riverview Park and Zoo’s
CARIBOU WINTER MIGRATION Our caribou are heading South! We are saying goodbye to our two female caribou, Margaret and Marley this winter, as they relocate to live at Toronto Zoo, with their larger herd. A very exciting detail about their journey is that the caribou that live at Toronto Zoo are part of Margaret & Marley’s original herd! Although we are sad to see them leave Riverview Park and Zoo, this is the best option for them and will give them a much improved life amongst a larger herd of caribou. Caribou naturally live in very large groups so this will be optimal for their wellbeing.
Now use a skewer or strong toothpick to poke holes in the lid of the water bottle. Now head outside! Find a clean area of fresh snow. Carefully squeeze or pour the coloured water onto the snow to create designs, patterns, or pictures. You can draw shapes, write words, or mix colours together to see what new shades appear. When you’re finished, leave the snow art to display outside for everyone to enjoy! This activity is great for younger kids and adults too - and makes a great fun excuse to get out of the house for some fresh air.
We have explored every way to try and bring in new caribou and find solutions to keep them here at Riverview Park and Zoo, but have decided, with the guidance of our animal care specialists, that this is the best option for them. Toronto Zoo is an AZA accredited (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) facility, and we are so happy to be able to work with them to ensure that the caribou are giving the best enrichment and animal care opportunities. Caribou are not strangers to migration, some herds can migrate as much as 1,500 miles throughout the year in the wild, that’s like travelling from Montreal to Winnipeg! Canadian caribou herds head north to the tundra habitat in the spring for calving season and venture south for breeding season in the fall. Females avoid bringing their calves to areas of high disturbance so it’s important we protect our northern ecosystems. If you would like to learn more about caribou check out some of these excellent books, cozy winter nights are a perfect time to learn more about our Canadian species! • • • •
Yuka’s Way Home by Abigail Roscoe: Available online from www.caribouconservationalliance.org The Walrus and the Caribou written by Maika Harper: Available from Take Cover Books Caribou Song by Tomson Highway & John Rombough: Available from Take Cover Books My Caribou Migration Journey by Nancy Loewen & Paula Zorite: Available from Take Cover Books
Written by Dawn Pond, Riverview Park and Zoo Illustration by Julli McMillan, local Peterborough Artist
52 Winter 2026 ~ Cottage Country Lifestyle
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WHEN THE SUN STAYS LOW:
WINTER SHELTER AND SURVIVAL When the land grows quiet and the cold deepens, animals face winter’s greatest test. It is a season of stillness, endurance, and survival. On or around December 21, the winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. During this time, the sun follows its lowest path across the sky, never climbing very high above the horizon. Its low, angled rays offer little warmth, signalling that winter has fully arrived.
For all animals, shelter must be well insulated, protected from wind and moisture, and located in a safe place. Whether it is a carefully built nest, a hidden den, or a blanket of snow, good shelter can mean the difference between life and death in winter.
By mid winter, temperatures can plunge below minus 40 degrees Celsius, yet many animals survive these extremes by making use of insulation. Some build nests, dens, or burrows. Others rely on snow itself for protection. Though it feels cold to the touch, fresh snow contains tiny air pockets that slow the movement of heat. When snow blankets the ground, it acts like a thick quilt, shielding plants, insects, and small animals from the coldest air above. Beneath the snow, temperatures can remain surprisingly stable and much warmer than the air. This is why mice tunnel through snow, plants survive deep freezes, and some animals shelter under snowdrifts rather than above them.
You will need a thermometer, a small container with a tight-fitting lid, hot water, and access to natural materials such as dried leaves, grass, twigs, and moss.
What the Hey, Build a Dray! If you are a Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), winter survival begins with building a nest called a dray. In late fall, squirrels gather twigs with leaves still attached and weave them into a sturdy platform wedged into the fork of a tree. Using their teeth and paws, they layer softer materials such as moss, grass, shredded bark, and loose leaves to create thick insulation. A dome of twigs is added on top, and every gap is stuffed tight with leaves to block wind and cold. The finished dray includes two entrances. One faces the trunk to help keep out wind, snow, and rain. The other serves as an emergency exit. Many other animals rely on similar strategies. Field mice weave dried grasses into dense, fluffy nests. Chickadees seek out tree cavities and line them with feathers and moss. Foxes dig dens into hillsides or shelter inside hollow logs. Snakes gather in rocky crevices called hibernacula, coiling together in tight groups to conserve heat.
Make Your Own Winter Nest You can explore these ideas by building a winter nest of your own.
Fill the container with hot water and imagine it is your “critter.” Measure and record the water temperature, then seal the lid tightly. Now build a nest designed to keep your critter as warm as possible using only natural materials. You might create a twig frame and stuff it with leaves like a squirrel’s dray. You could form a ball of dried grass inspired by a mouse nest. Or you might tuck your critter into a hollow log or tree cavity and pack it with insulating materials. Once your nest is complete, place the container inside and leave it undisturbed for about two hours. When time is up, remove the container and quickly measure the water temperature again. How much heat was lost? What worked well? What could be improved next time? Like animals in winter, you will likely discover that insulation matters most. Thick layers of dry material trap air and slow heat loss, just like insulation in our own homes. In winter, survival depends on noticing what works, adapting, and learning from the quiet wisdom of the natural world. Submitted By: Jacob Rodenburg (B.A., B.Ed., M.Ed), Author, Instructor - Trent University & Executive Director of award winning Camp Kawartha & The Camp Kawartha Outdoor Education Centre/ Environment Centre.
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HAVE YOU GOT A
WARM KNITTED SWEATER? Canadian winters can be cold. Warm clothing is a basic necessity, and was even more important in bygone days – before fast, heated vehicles replaced walking, horse-drawn sleighs and wagons, and open boats for winter transportation. Today we have manufactured wind and waterproof insulated garments to keep us warm and dry in all weather, but for centuries clothing was made by hand from natural fibres such as wool, cotton, flax, and silk. Knitting has been practiced in most parts of the world for hundreds of years – Britain’s Victoria & Albert Museum has a pair of woollen socks made in Egypt that are 1,500 to 1,700 years old! Historic knitting tools include carved wooden, bone, quill, or ivory sticks, metal wires and needles, and plastic needles. Common forms of hand-knitting are “flat” and “in the round”. The former is worked in rows with two needles, turning the piece from front to back on each row; garments such as sweaters when created in flat pieces are sewn together. “In the round” knitting uses four or five needles to make a seamless tube for headgear, socks, mittens, and gloves. My very first project was a rather irregular, striped scarf. I was proud to wear it but was teased at school because knitting was “a girl’s thing”. Unknown to me then was that traditionally it was “a man’s thing” and only came to be considered a “feminine” craft in the 18th Century. The early 1300s saw a rise of male-dominated knitting guilds in Europe; sailors on multi-year voyages had to make clothing replacements from wool provided by onboard sheep; often soldiers on long campaigns would have to do the same. If only I’d known this to rebut my schoolmates! While we may not make as many of our clothes today as in the past, hand-knitting has seen a popularity resurgence since the 1970s. It is a way to be creative and expressive, but also can be relaxing and therapeutic – and satisfying to wear something you have made. Well, time to sign off – I have socks and a scarf to finish before more snow flies! Happy knitting. By: Don Willcock, The Peterborough Museum & Archives, 300 Hunter St E, Peterborough, 705-743-5180 www.peterboroughmuseumandarchives.ca
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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
MEGHAN PATRICK “She playfully blends her tough-as-nails exterior with a casual, cool narrative—showing the world that women can be sexy, strong, intimate, and gritty.” Meghan Patrick, nominated for three 2025 CCMA Awards, including Album Of The Year has won back-to-back CCMA Female Artist of the Year, and boats 19 CMAOntario Awards under her belt, and isn’t slowing down any time soon. We caught up with her after her performance at Boots & Hearts Music Festival and on the heels of her new album release ‘Golden Child. What a memorable and impactful conversation it was to hear her passion for music; listening to the stories her honest lyrics have to tell leaves no mistake - Meghan Patrick is leaving a musical legacy that encourages strong women everywhere. Her deeply personal single ‘Golden Child’ starts off with the line “If I could send a letter back in time, to a younger me in her wilder days…” and goes on to share a beautiful message about temptation, peer pressure, confidence, and self love, “Just be careful what you wish for honey, You never know it might come true…” the chorus continues, reminding us all that sometimes what we wish for isn’t all we hoped “‘Cause everything that glitters ain’t golden, child”. ’Golden Child’ finishes with a powerful message of resilience and reassurance. When I asked her to tell me more about ‘Golden Child’ and the inspiration behind it, Meghan replied, “Very long story short. I've been doing this for a long time and over the last few years, I went through a lot of really big changes and transitions both professionally and in my personal life. I lost my first record deal and
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then signed a new record deal and had a lot of big changes in my team that were all really positive and landed me with this incredible team that just finally made me feel like I really had the freedom to truly be myself and make the music that I wanted to make. On top of that, it was also just what I was going through in my personal life, which was a lot of healing and dealing with past traumas. My relationship or lack of relationship with my mother, being a survivor of domestic violence and all of those things that shaped me in terms of the person I am now, and really deeply affected me. I feel like God gave me the gift of songwriting and gave me this voice, not just to have a career, but to help others. And I think my way of helping others is to talk about what I've been through and hopefully people can find pieces of themselves in there, and it may be a little bit of advice that helps them feel and and work through what they've been through, to open up the conversation and to feel a little less alone.” She continued to say “Of course, I’m chasing success in my career, but more and more I am chasing fulfillment, and fulfillment doesn’t just come from making money and winning awards and having success,” Patrick explains. “I have had those things and it did not fulfill me in the way I thought it would.” The day we spoke I got a quick email from Meghans PR team, she was about to release a new single ‘Jessica, Jezebel’, and we got to ask her some questions about where the inspiration for this new music is coming from.
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Praised as a modern day ‘Jolene’, the single ‘Jessica, Jezebel’ has been described as the newest “Homewrecker Anthem”, pointing the finger at women who habitually pursue married men. The song hooks you with a beat that gets you in the chest, and raw, gritty storytelling that hits you in the gut. “In my opinion Jessica is worse than Jolene because she’s not just doing this in one situation, she has a habit of chasing married men, and that to me is pretty reprehensible and therefore worthy of a song. I wrote it for any woman who just needs a relatable song to jam out to, that validates them and whatever they are going through, because that’s a pretty painful situation.” When I asked what she was looking forward to most about releasing this song, Patrick replied. “I just hope people can relate - well, actually, I hope that people can't relate to this song, but I know that a lot of women, unfortunately can. So hopefully it's kind of validating for them, and makes them feel like - ok this woman who is singing this song is on my side. I am a girl's girl for sure and I love to write songs that are inspiring for women.” When I asked what it was like to come ‘home’ to Ontario and play local festivals like Boots and Hearts, Meghan explained: “I mean, it was a dream come true and just a huge, huge milestone for me in my career. I’ve been playing Boots and Hearts since the very first Since 1994
year that it started. I played in the emerging artist showcase. That festival really played a huge role in leading me into country music as an artist myself. It's been a big part of my life for all the years that it's been running and, you know, to get to come back and sing that song [‘Wait In The Truck’] with Hardy, for Hardy to become a friend - it was just so awesome that he asked me to do that, especially going back to my album, I've been very open about my experience with domestic violence and to get to sing that song, at a hometown festival - I know there were tons of people there that know me and that grew up with me, and for all I know, my abuser comes in there as well - and so, you know, it was such a victorious ending moment for me to get to sing that song, to that crowd, at that festival.” For Meghan Patrick there is no other path than music, with a determination to foster creativity in her career she has ushered in a fresh era of emotionally charged music that gets the heart thumping, her vulnerable, honest lyrics tell stories we can relate to proving that a little self love, goes a long way. She says “I made this record [‘Golden Child’] exactly how I wanted to, I told exactly the story I wanted to tell, I told the truth and when you tell the truth, you have nothing to worry about.” Meghan Patrick reminds us all that a fresh start can bring the most authentic versions of ourselves to the surface, a change for her that has allowed her to release her most impactful music yet.
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