At this time of year I normally have one thing and one thing only on my mind: summer in cottage country. The spring solstice is the pistol shot that starts my countdown to another season of swimming and sunbathing along the great Canadian shield; a long-awaited Gregorian go-ahead for Canadians...

Here are 10 tips for using a smoker to cook your holiday turkey from Ontario Gas BBQ. I'm not sure I could obey No. 4: If you're "Lookin'" you're not "Cookin'" I can resist anything except temptation.

1. Be patient; bring your smoker up to an optimum temperature...

Would you ever expect to see a jellyfish gently pulsating its way through your cottage lake? Probably not, but apparently it's becoming more likely.

Terry Peard, a retired biology professor in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, who keeps tabs on freshwater jellyfish sightings on freshwaterjellyfish.org, told the Star he has "several...

No need to drop $4 every time you want a cup of fancy hot chocolate. Use your favourite mix (or recipe) and these simple add-ins; you'll ward off the winter chill with gourmet cocoa from the comfort of your own cottage. Top with whipped cream -- all that's...

For all we do during the summer months to try to be more "green," hosting dinner for the holidays can really have the opposite effect, not to mention hike up your hydro bill. In case you're hoping to save on energy and be a little better to the environment this...

It's that time of year again -- deer become more active as they search for a mate and the OPP puts out advisories regarding the increase in deer/vehicle collisions. The Ministry of Transportation has taken special measures to reduce these collisions in some parts of cottage country, like...

Deep brown and irresistible, bacon plus caramelized brown sugar makes a tasty snack with drinks, or cut in small pieces and scatter over ice cream. Seriously. Try it, and watch it all disappear!

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lay strips of bacon on a parchment-paper...

Here's a few things to know when you get in the (boat) driver's seat.

Right of way
The vessel being overtaken has the right of way. The boat approaching from the right -- starboard -- also has right of way; the boat coming from the left -- port side...

You might be worried about committing a faux pas and ending up on the host's blacklist. You also may be new to the wilderness, which can be an even bigger concern, for different reasons all together. Whether you're a good friend, an acquaintance or a tag-along, following some simple guidelines...

Do you love grilled cheese at the cottage? Of course you do. If you want to take your sandwich to the next level of deliciousness, try these Cottage Life-tested combinations (use your favourite bread). Bon appetit!

1. Mozzarella + Roasted red peppers + Pesto

2. Brie + Pear slices...