#all quiet on lake ontario

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

“UPROAR IN PENITENTIARY,” Brantford Expositor. January 6, 1933. Page 5. ---- Possibility of Further Trouble in Institution at Portsmouth --- KINGSTON, Ont. Jan., 6— (CP) —The staff of Portsmouth penltentiary were reported "on guard" to day following information to the effect another outbreak was scheduled for the penitentiary yesterday. 

"News to me," said Lt.-Col. W. B. Megloughlin, warden of the prison, when questioned regarding the reports to-day. 

For some time at fairly frequent intervals, the Convicts have raised an uproar in their cells, indicating a tense atmosphere. The uproar was again heard to-day. 

No support could be found how ever for the rumor that an actual breach of discipline had occurred. None of the usual prison work has gone on since the October outbreak. This is mainly due to the fact that the prison buildings are being gone over and various changes being put into effect in the light of the October experiences. 

Approximately 100 of the prison’s inmates are still in temporary quarters in the new building constructed for women prisoners.

[fleming-o]

Her home

Jessie Fleming x Reader

just had this saved up in my drafts for a while now thought i’d post it

i’m bored recently sooo send some requests

around 3k words

Meeting jessie’s mom for the first time

---

The drive back from the airport feels longer than it should, even with the sun dipping low on the horizon, painting the sky in soft hues of pink and orange. You stare out the window, watching the familiar scenery of Ontario roll by—the tall trees lining the highways, the scattered small towns, and the occasional lake sparkling under the evening light. Jessie’s hand rests on the steering wheel, her other one occasionally reaching over to squeeze your knee in a silent reassurance. It’s a gesture you’ve grown used to, the way she always seems to know when your thoughts start to spiral.

The Olympics were... not what either of you expected. Both your teams didn’t make it past the group stage, and it felt like a harsh punch to the gut. Weeks of anticipation and hard work came crashing down too quickly, and now all that’s left are the long flights home and the sting of regret. The past few days have been a blur of disappointment—watching Jessie put on a brave face, trying to be strong even when you knew it was tearing her up inside.

“You want to stop somewhere for food?” Jessie asks, glancing over at you. Her voice breaks the silence, and you turn to see her tired smile. She’s trying to keep the mood light, but you can tell the weight of it all still lingers in her eyes.

You shake your head. “I’m good... just kind of want to get there, you know?”

Jessie nods, understanding. “Yeah, me too.” There’s a moment of silence before she adds, “I think Mom’s got dinner planned. She’s been texting me all day.”

You can’t help but smile at that. Jessie’s mom seems like the type who always has something cooking, always making sure everyone’s fed and happy. It’s a stark contrast to what you grew up with, and the thought of it makes your chest tighten a little.

As Jessie pulls into the driveway of her childhood home, the soft glow of the porch light welcomes you. It’s a modest house, not overly big or flashy, but there’s something warm about it. Flowers line the pathway leading up to the door, and you can see little trinkets and wind chimes hanging from the porch roof, swaying gently in the breeze. The house feels like it’s been lived in, loved—full of memories that have settled into every corner.

Jessie turns off the car, and the two of you sit in the quiet for a moment, neither of you quite ready to break the stillness. You can feel your nerves bubbling up, the anxious twist in your stomach making it hard to sit still.

“Hey,” Jessie says softly, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear. “You don’t have to be nervous. They’re going to love you.”

You nod, trying to take in her words, but there’s a part of you that can’t help the worry. You’ve never really done the whole “meet the parents” thing before, not like this. And Jessie’s family—they seem so together, so much like what you always wished you had growing up. It’s hard not to feel out of place.

Before you can respond, the front door swings open, and a golden retriever bounds out onto the porch, her tail wagging so furiously it’s almost a blur. She rushes over to Jessie first, jumping up to greet her with happy whines, then turns her attention to you, tilting her head in curious inspection. Jessie laughs, giving the dog a good scratch behind the ears. “This is Ruby,” she says, her tone affectionate. “She’s kind of the welcoming committee.”

You kneel down, feeling Ruby’s soft fur as she presses her head against your hand. There’s something immediately comforting about her; she’s warm and eager, her body language so clearly saying that you’re welcome here. It’s easy, uncomplicated affection, and it makes you smile even though your nerves haven’t completely settled.

Jessie’s mom steps out next, her face lighting up as she sees you both. She’s got the same kind of warm energy that Jessie has—like being around her feels safe. She comes down the steps, wrapping Jessie in a tight hug before turning to you with a smile that makes your heart twist. It’s the kind of smile that says she’s genuinely happy to meet you, and you can’t help but feel a little overwhelmed by it.

“You must be the famous girlfriend I’ve heard so much about,” Jessie’s mom says, pulling you into a hug that’s gentle but firm, like she’s pulling you into a circle you didn’t even realize you needed. “I’m Michaele , but you can call me Mom if you want. Jessie’s been talking about you nonstop.”

You feel your face warm, a mix of nerves and something like gratitude swelling in your chest. “It’s really nice to meet you,” you say, your voice coming out a little quieter than you intended. You’ve never been the type to feel at home right away, but there’s something different here—something that makes you want to try.

Inside, the house is exactly what you’d expect from Jessie’s family. It’s cozy and lived-in, with mismatched furniture and walls lined with photos. You can see pictures of Jessie everywhere—from when she was a little girl in a soccer uniform to more recent ones, like her Olympic moments captured in frames. The kitchen smells like roasted chicken and herbs, and it’s hard not to be struck by how it all feels. It’s a home in every sense of the word, filled with memories and love. For a moment, you can’t help but feel out of place—like you’ve stepped into a world you don’t quite belong in.

Dinner is a casual affair, and you find yourself seated at a table that’s cluttered with mismatched plates and glasses. Michaele serves up the food, and there’s an easy rhythm to it all—Jessie’s mom making sure everyone has enough, Ruby circling the table for scraps, Jessie slipping you reassuring glances every now and then. The conversation flows around you, light and full of gentle teasing between Jessie and her mom. You try to keep up, but there’s an ache in your chest that you can’t quite shake.

It’s strange, being surrounded by so much warmth. You’re used to empty dinners, to nights where food was something you had to scrape together yourself, where silence filled the air like a heavy fog. Being here, with Jessie’s family, feels like stepping into a dream you never quite dared to have.

“So, how was the flight?” Michaele asks, breaking into your thoughts.

Jessie laughs, shaking her head. “Long. And exhausting. I think we’re both ready to just crash.”

Michaele nods sympathetically, glancing over at you. “I’m so sorry you didn’t make it further. We were all rooting for you both. But you know, there’s always another chance.”

You try to smile, but it feels a little forced. “Yeah, maybe next time.” The words taste bitter on your tongue, and you look down at your plate, feeling the familiar sting of disappointment. The Olympics were supposed to be your moment, your chance to prove yourself, and it feels like you let it all slip away.

Jessie reaches under the table, her fingers finding yours and giving a gentle squeeze. It’s a small gesture, but it grounds you, pulls you back from the edge of your thoughts. “We’re both just glad to be home,” she says, her voice soft and reassuring. “And glad we get to spend time with you guys.”

After dinner, Jessie takes you up to her old bedroom. It’s small, but it’s unmistakably hers, with posters of soccer players plastered on the walls and a string of fairy lights that she flicks on as soon as you step inside. Ruby jumps onto the bed, circling around a few times before settling in at the foot, her tail thumping against the blankets.

You stand in the doorway for a moment, taking it all in. Jessie’s room is a reflection of her—simple, comforting, and filled with little touches that make it hers. It’s hard not to feel the sting of what you never had, the bedrooms that never felt like home, the lack of little touches that made you feel like you belonged somewhere.

Jessie watches you, her expression softening as she sees the emotions flicker across your face. She steps closer, wrapping her arms around your waist and pulling you against her. “Hey,” she murmurs, her voice low. “You’re okay. You’re here, and that’s what matters.”

You lean into her, burying your face in her shoulder as you let the emotions wash over you. There’s a sadness there, a longing for something you never had but always wanted. Jessie’s family feels like the kind of warmth you’ve spent your whole life looking for, and it’s hard to believe you’re allowed to be part of it, even just for tonight.

“I never had anything like this,” you admit quietly, your voice thick with unshed tears. “It’s just... really nice.”

Jessie pulls back just enough to look at you, her eyes filled with understanding. “You’re part of this now, you know? My family... they’re yours too, if you want them.”

The words hit you hard, and you nod, swallowing back the lump in your throat. Jessie’s always been good at knowing what to say, at making you feel like you belong, even when you’re not sure you do. You find comfort in her embrace, in the way she holds you like she’s never letting go.

The two of you climb into bed, and Ruby snuggles between you, her warmth a welcome comfort. Jessie’s room is dimly lit, the soft glow of the fairy lights casting a warm hue across the walls. It feels like a small pocket of peace, a sanctuary away from all the chaos and pressure that’s been weighing on you both.

Jessie traces slow, gentle patterns on your back, her touch lulling you into a sense of calm you haven’t felt in days. “I know it’s been rough,” she whispers, her voice barely audible in the quiet. “But we’ve got each other. That’s all that matters.”

You nod against her, feeling the truth of her words sink in. It’s not perfect, and it never will be. But in this moment, lying in Jessie’s old bedroom with her arms around you and Ruby snuggled at your side, it feels like enough.

---

[rattkachuk]

💛 mattdrai after the scf

💛 reunion kiss / relief - ao3 link !!!!!

It’s a late summer in Ontario, and golden sunshine filters through the curtains through one of Connor and Lauren’s many guest rooms, bird song accompanying the breeze through an open window. Leon is sunburnt and its a few days out from Connor’s wedding, and with the amount of events and activities he’d been a part of as one of the groomsmen it was almost enough to make him feel as tired as he was during hockey season. He had to allow himself an hour or so to just do nothing but mindlessly scroll Instagram in the quiet of his room.

He’s pretty sure everybody staying here is doing the exact same thing, there’s some faint voices from the dock on the lake, someone might be watching TV out in the living room, the doorbell rings (probably another McDavid-Kyle family member) and Leon hears a single set of footsteps go to answer the door. It’s all muffled background noise and several minutes pass without Leon thinking much of any of it, until a text pops up on his screen from Connor.

Connor: hey. don’t be mad. he wouldn’t take no for an answer and he rly wants to see you.

There’s no time to process before there’s a gentle knock at the door.

Leon’s fight or flight kicks, seemingly cancelling each other out so he feels like a deer in the headlights and can do nothing but sit still on the bed. “Yah?

The door handle turns and Matthew is standing on the other side. Fucking perfectly endearing smile on his face, and Leon feels his heart twist.

“Hey,” Matthew speaks first, a duffle bag slung over his shoulder as he rocks back and forth on his feet in the doorway.

Leon blinks, finally finding words, “What are you doing here?”

“Uh. Connor’s wedding?”

“Connor didn’t invite you.”

“I was supposed to be your plus one.”

Leon bites his lip and gives a slight shake to his head before making himself get off the bed, walking over to tug Matthew in by the elbow of his sweater—a Puma sweater that Leon had been missing for months now.

The door clicks shut and Matthew lets his bag fall to the floor, “You don’t want me here?”

“Matthew. I don’t know.”

“Okay…well, you haven’t answered a single call or text from me since June, and I already had the tickets booked, if you didn’t want me here you should have fucking said something. How am I supposed to…I don’t know what to do either, this is new territory for me, too, y’know? But I can’t keep waiting around. I need you to talk to me, Leon. So, I'm sorry if this is the only way I can get a conversation with you.”

Leon walks away to create distance between them, going as far as the walls of the room will let him as he buries his face in his hands. His chest hurts while his head is swimming, and an ache that hasn’t left since that final game 7 buzzer surges to the surface and it makes him feel sick. Underneath it all, there’s the bitter taste of regret like bile in his throat. He wasn’t there for Matthew. Wasn’t able to be a normal fucking partner and celebrate with him because he was too busy nursing one of the worst pains he’d ever felt. Something so gnawing and deep that left him feeling empty most days, and so distant from those he loved. So distant that even with Matthew here in front of him, it's hard to look at him.

When he turns back towards him, there’s tears in Matthew’s eyes and he’s not even trying to stop them as they track down his cheeks.

“I’m not sorry for winning,” Matthew tells him, voice thick.

“No. Matthew. You shouldn’t be,” Leon sniffs and takes a minute to choose his words before continuing, “You deserved it, you deserved every second of it. It just. It hurts. You know?”

“I do know,” Matthew looks towards the ceiling and laughs, dry and devoid of any real humour, “This whole time I just kept thinking about how special it would be to celebrate this whole fucking with you, and I can never do that because I know exactly what it feels like.”

“Fuck.”

“Fuck,” Matthew agrees with pursed lips.

Guilt raises it’s hand for a turn in Leon’s sea of emotions, bustling to the front of the line as he thinks about Matthew’s unanswered texts in his phone. The strings of ‘I love you’s’ from that week of partying with the cup, the ‘just checking in’ and ‘i miss you’s’.

“I’m sorry I haven’t answered you,” Leon says, looking down at his feet as the shame burns hot on his neck, “I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to be what you need. I still don’t know if I can be or if…if we…”

Matthew is the one to close the distance, his hands on Leon’s shoulders causing him to look up with a shock.

“Hey. Stop. I just need you, Leo. I don’t need you to be anything more than you have been, not right now,” Matthew moves a hand to the side of Leon’s face, and there’s desperation in his blue eyes, “We’re getting through this, though. And we’re doing it together now, okay? Come on.”

Something drains from Leon a little as he watches Matthew’s eyes, and the ache under his skin grows. Grows until he feels like he needs to pull away again, hide in some dark corner of the world where Matthew can’t find him until he can fix himself, but then Matthew’s hand gives his shoulder a gentle shake and a different sensation starts to dull the hurt. The touch spreads some rays of warmth to his soul like the forgiving sunshine that curls around them both.

There's a new feeling that he can place almost instantly. Relief. He thinks that maybe the cure for all the hurt and the pain was the exact thing he was avoiding. It was Matthew, of course it was.

Leon kisses Matthew, slow and quiet and different than it had ever been before. He pulls him into his arms and Matthew sighs against him, the lines of their bodies pressed together. Matthew had always carried some infectious energy, always able to crawl under Leon’s skin and make a home there with his smug smile and caring heart. It seeped into him now, making Leon feel the warmest and most content he’d been all summer.

When he pulls back, Leon hides his face on Matthew’s shoulder while the other runs his fingers through Leon’s hair.

“I’m glad you’re here,” Leon breaths quietly against Matthew’s neck.

Matthew’s arms tighten around him, “Me too. We’ve got this, yah?”

Leon nods, and he believes him.

[ndvenvs3000w23]

Blog 1: Current Relationship with Nature

Hey everyone! I'm currently attending my fourth year at the University of Guelph. I am majoring in Environmental Sciences and minoring in Ecology, and I've loved every minute of it. I am also a co-op student which has allowed me to work in multiple different environments and positions, majority of which have involved a large amount of field work.

In regards to the prompt for this week's post, I've always greatly enjoyed being outdoors and immersed in nature. From camping and hiking in the summer months to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter alongside my family, nature has always been a major part of my life. I've always had a strong passion for the environmental sciences, which is why I decided to pursue it in my post-secondary education. I think a lot of this passion was strongly tied to how often my family involved me in the outdoor activities I mentioned above, and I think it helped to gain an appreciation for nature that I feel many people nowadays do not have.

My first big camping trip was when I was 10 months old where my parents and I visited 4 Ontario provincial parks along our long road trip to Thunder Bay. These included Craigleigh, Windy Lake, Agawa Bay (aka. Lake Superior Provincial Park), and Kakabecka falls. Since then, I have visited and camped at 28 Ontario provincial parks, and 4 national parks in Canada. Of these, my favourites have been Algonquin Park, Bruce Peninsula National Park, Grundy Lake, and Grasslands National Park (SK). It's safe to say that camping is a big part of my life and it has also had a major role in shaping my current relationship with nature. I have greatly enjoyed partaking in hikes and kayaking trips across the lakes during these, and it's always such a breathtaking experience (literally and figuratively). I love the views that the hikes provide, and I always spend a long amount of time taking everything in, and how beautiful nature can be. Often, the views can make you feel small, which is very humbling experience that makes you appreciate nature and, in my experience, creates a sense of responsibility to protect it. My many kayaking trips have provided similar experiences, and I love the many different plants and animals I encounter on these journeys.

Throughout my co-op experiences, I have been able to pursue a position that with a large focus on field work. My favourite has been this past summer which I spent in Indian Head, Saskatchewan working with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in their Agroecosystems section. Saskatchewan was one of the best experiences of my entire life, and I am so grateful to the people who made the trip, and the job, possible. While I was out there, I got to know the 6 other students I was working with and formed strong bonds with them which I will always cherish. I also had the opportunity to explore this province through my field work as well as outside this work and was able to appreciate the different geography and flaura and fauna of the area. It was during the trip out to my placement that allowed me to finally achieve my goal of visiting all 10 provinces of Canada as my last three I needed to visit were Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. I was able to take some time off during my work term to visit Jasper, Alberta, and it was such a beautiful and almost otherworldly experience seeing and experiencing the quiet of the mountains. On my journey back to Ontario, I was also able to stop by Lake Michigan to complete my other goal of visiting all 5 Great Lakes. My next goal is to visit all 3 Territories. Overall, this past summer was one of my favourites, and it deepened my already strong relationship to/appreciation for nature, and I would highly recommend and encourage similar experiences of other people, especially co-op students.

I could likely fill a whole book an my relationship with nature, most of which would consist of my favourite stories and memories of my "adventures", but this post is getting a little long (lol). To answer the question "who offered me 'a sense of place'," I would say my parents who allowed me to visit the many places I have been to. I have so much love and appreciation for both my parents and the experiences they provided for me, and I hope that one day I can do the same for my children. Without them and their passion for camping and exploring what all of Canada has to offer, I would likely not have developed the appreciation for nature that I currently have. Overall, my main takeaway message from this would be that being out and present with nature is an important part of a persons' life, and I strongly advocate for more people to allow themselves time to take a walk in the woods, or even just a regular hiking/walking trail in their city to be able to be present and appreciate nature.

Enjoy some photos I've taken of my travels this summer below :)

[jaydeiswriting]

WIP Intro: What The Water Makes of Us

As long as your heart is worthy, drowning is reversible.

Status: ~6K into the first draft

Genre: adult literary fiction

Setting: small town Ontario, on the lake

Overspecific target audience(s)*: sapphics with complicated relationships with religion, folks who are obsessed with bodies of water and the moon, intellectual agnostics, ruth-and-naomi-as-lovers truthers, unbelongers and misfits & anyone fundamentally changed by the scene in Saved! (2004) where Hilary Faye drives directly into the Jesus figure

Synopsis: A worthy heart always rises.

Despite her marriage to the leader, Vinette never really believed in Lambsong's mantra; it was clearly only an endorsement of the baptism ritual approximating the death and resurrection of Christ. As their son's baptism approaches, Vinette swallows her fear and teaches him how to cheat. After all, ritual drowning can't always end with revival, and she only has one son.

Then, she loses him anyway.

With only a dysfunctional family left outside of Lambsong, Vinette must restrain her grief so as not to shake members' faith and earn herself a shunning. But a sympathetic overture by Nora, the precocious daughter of the newest member, unsettles her careful facade. For a single moment, Vinette doesn't feel as if suspended under the cold weight of the entire lake that drowned her son. 

But it can't last. Vinette's clearly not the only one with doubts. Cary doesn't want her daughter close to the tragedy or Lambsong practices at all.

Vinette must contend with a suspicious death case for her son, while heralding night meetings to settle fearful members and a growing allegiance to Cary and Nora that spikes her anxiety as Nora nears readiness for baptism and Vinette husband's intentions for Cary become clear. If she's going to protect them, Vinette'll have to betray her husband and maybe even herself.

Nora never wanted to leave the rundown city apartment she shared with her mother. Cary's phone number might change every few months, but their apartment number stays the same. Her father would remember it if he ever came back for her. But how would he ever know to look in some middle-of-nowhere beach house?

Lambsong doesn't even offer the quiet better life Cary had promised her daughter anyway. The first ritual Nora witnesses ends in the death of a boy only a few years older than her. But as Nora grows closer to both Vinette and Ezra, the boy who lived on the day that darkened everything, Nora's wariness grows cloudier. Ezra, and the practices and rituals he engages in, pull Nora into the Lambsong orbit, rapidly pulling through the ranks in a devotion she doesn't know whether belongs to the boy or the commune or some belief she can overcome her own depth of guilt and find forgiveness for the mistakes that haunt her. 

But to integrate fully into Lambsong and be washed clean of her sins, Nora needs to expose the non-believers and their attempt at escape, no matter who it hurts.

*inspired by @/kjscottwrites' post here

[psychic-refugee]

Wenvier Bingo: Skating

Wednesday finally managed to run away.

Her opportunity came during a snowstorm that distracted the entire Normie town of Westfield, New Jersey and all classes at Nancy Reagan High were canceled for the week.

She made her way through the border and towards the woods of Canada. She wanted to run away to the most remote place she could think of and spend her days in solitude so she could read and write to her little black heart’s content.

Her parents constantly ignored her desire for privacy, they didn’t seem to understand that Normie highschool was pure torture and that she couldn’t stand it for another minute. While they were busy trying to think of ways of frustrating her efforts or tempt her into staying, she was busy perfecting her plan.

She was able to purchase a remote cabin in the remote woods of Jericho, Ontario. It was a lovely, winterized cabin that was totally offgrid and self-sufficient with a well, water tanks, wood stove, fireplace, solar panels, and with money she embezzled from her trust fund and allowance, was totally renovated for her comfort.

She doubted her parents would ever find her as it would simply be another real estate investment amongst many in their portfolio, and she was careful to cover her tracks.

The cabin was on a lake with a Normie town right across the water. If she wanted food, she could order and have it delivered in two-week increments.

When she got to the cabin, she kicked her feet at the doorframe to get the snow off her boots, and she did her rare smile at how perfect it was.

She enjoyed days filled with reading by the fireplace, heating coffee on the wood stove, and having several hours of quiet time when all that could be heard was the crackling of the fire and her typing.

Soon that peaceful solitude was invaded by the sound of skates on the frozen lake and a hockey stick hitting a puck.

She went to the window that overlooked the lake, and she saw a tall teen her age practicing hockey. It seemed that she wasn’t the only one who preferred solitude, as he was on the more remote part of the lake and the furthest he could get away from town.

Xavier hated Jericho with every inch of his being, and he couldn’t wait to escape when he graduated from high school. He was the star player on the Jericho hockey team, he knew it didn’t mean much since they were in a small Podunk town that only played other small Podunk towns.

He only had a chance at a scholarship if he practiced and played as if he were a player from a bigger city.

The town loved hockey, but most thought it was foolish of him to think he could do it professionally. Everyone who was born and grew up in Jericho, stayed in Jericho until they died.

That was his worst nightmare.

He went to practice as he always did but was surprised to see that the cabin along the lake was lit up and smoke came from the chimney. He knew that it had been renovated and in such a small town, it was considered juicy gossip.

He idly wondered who occupied the cabin as he tied up his skates, but moved onto practicing his shots and defensive moves.

This went on for a couple of days, he would come to the lake before classes and after school on days there wasn’t practice or a game and would run his drills.

The town was just as curious and they gossiped about the food they delivered, but still no one saw who lived there.

One day, the cabin occupant had ventured out onto her porch, and he was surprised to see it was a girl his age. She had a hot cup of coffee in her hands and dressed in fewer layers than he thought any sane person would wear in the middle of a Canadian winter.

She didn’t seem bothered as she drank her coffee and watched him play.

Wednesday was curious about the boy on the lake, even more so when he opted to ignore her and keep practicing. Most would at least introduce themselves and try to pry into why a 16-year-old girl was there by herself.

In her curiosity, she ordered herself a spy glass to get a closer look without him realizing and found herself rather inspired by his green eyes and determination as he practiced. She could relate to throwing herself into her passions.

It also helped that he was rather handsome with his strong jawline and full lips.

She found herself getting rather frustrated when all the boy would do was come to the lake, skate, then leave. It was probably the first time in her life that she wanted someone to come speak with her.

Wednesday decided that she had enough of writing and reading for a while, even she could get bored of her favourite past times eventually, or at least need a break.

She did own a lakeside property, and she thought she ought to enjoy other amenities. She ordered herself a pair of simple white skates and ventured down when she knew he was there.

She found herself regretting her hubris, and while she knew she was talented in many things, it was becoming apparent that skating was not one of them.

She was awkward as a newborn dear on the ice and couldn’t quite find her balance. She had fallen a few times and was tempted to simply leave to preserve what was left of her pride.

Xavier was not one to leave anyone stranded and had gracefully skated by and offered his stick to help her balance. She took it gratefully and was not shy in her appraising eyes as she looked him up and down.

Jericho was a small town, but he was convinced this was the most beautiful girl in the world.

There were some ridiculous rumours going around that she was a witch, but he didn’t care. Even when she offered him to come inside for hot chocolate, he thought falling into a witch’s trap with her mesmerizing dark eyes was understandable.

Thankfully, she actually provided hot chocolate and he was instantly enamored with her story.

“You could run away anywhere, and you chose Jericho?” he questioned her taste in towns but admired her independence and ferocity in going after what she wanted.

“It’s a remote town with just enough civilization to make me comfortable,” she explained with a small smile as they enjoyed their beverages by the fire. “No one has bothered me. They drop off the food and leave me be, what else could I want?”

“I guess if I didn’t have to deal with anyone from town, I’d find Jericho much more tolerable.”

She laughed and was starting to think of a character to aide Viper de la Muerte that was tall and had an endearing Canadian accent.

Xavier still practiced on the lake, but he added spending time with Wednesday to his routine.

She learned to skate under his tutelage and his father never seemed to notice when he didn’t come home because he was spending the night at Wednesday’s cabin. She liked to joke that he helped save her on heating costs as they kept each other warm each night.

He didn’t bother telling anyone he had a girlfriend, but people figured it out when she would come to his games and cheer him on.

Soon their passionate nights caught up to them and Wednesday decided it was time to go back to New Jersey.

She had finished a few novels, read through all the books she wanted, and was coming home with a swollen belly.

It wasn’t the way Xavier thought he would get out of Jericho, but Morticia and Gomez Addams had welcomed him with open arms and Reagan High did have an excellent hockey team.

As a wedding present before the baby was about to come, her parents gifted her a replica of the Jericho cabin on their estate. They promised that she could spend all the time she wanted there without their interference and they’d support her doing online learning in order to graduate high school.

Several years later he was a center for the New Jersey Devils, he stood proudly in front of the Stanley cup with Wednesday, now a world-famous author, and his daughters Belladonna and Larkspur with a third on the way, a boy they would name Aconite.

Card under cut

And that's bingo!

[dmenvs3000w24]

"A Sense of Place"

Hi everyone! My name is Denise and this is my first post for my nature blog for ENVS*3000!

My relationship with nature is currently one that is unfortunately sort of strained, as it has been for the past few years. Having a busy schedule, with trying to keep up with school work, errands, and working a part-time job is enough to make your head spin, and makes it hard to get out into nature more frequently. Sadly, I believe that as I got older, my connection with nature became almost fragmented, as getting good grades and working towards my goal of going to University became the most important part of my life. 

Growing up, I lived in different communities in rural Ontario, specifically in Grey-Bruce counties close to Lake Huron and the Georgian Bay. Living in these smaller communities meant I was constantly given opportunities to be surrounded by nature. My family was even lucky enough that our home in Hanover backs directly onto the public walking trails and the Saugeen river, meaning that that space was safe from the town’s growing infrastructure (or at least we thought). 

While no building can be conducted directly behind our family home, that has not stopped the town from building as close as they possibly can to the borders of the conserved area.Over the past few years of continuous construction, it is amazing to see just how much humans can interfere with the flow of nature. Our backyard used to be quiet, full of wildlife and an overall soothing environment to be in. However, due to the abundance of noise, the removal of woodlots and agricultural space, the wildlife has seemingly progressed elsewhere where it is safer for them to live. This is another reason as to why I feel I become more disconnected from my relationship with nature, as my quick escape from the world has been taken away from my community. 

I would say that the people that offered me a “sense of place” would have to be my sisters. While this initially was a difficult question to answer, I thought of all the times I have been out in nature in the passing years, and they have been with me every time. From walking on trials at the conservation area, to our overseas trip to Japan, every experience I have had has involved them. They have been there to make these experiences positive, happy, and fun memories and I believe that has helped me to try to mend my relationship with nature and get a true sense of the uniqueness of the atmosphere wherever we go. 

Overall, I now feel a sense of appreciation for the past courses that I have taken that at the time felt pointless or redundant as they had no connection to what I wanted to do with my career. I feel that as we progress through this course, I may learn more about myself and my relationship with nature than previously expected.

[freakscircus]

it is so strange to go to a resort town or a beach town on the off-season... my partner and i went to north topsail island on the carolina coast in february for valentine’s day and it was so quiet.... we were the only ones on the beach most of the time, some of the only people in the restaurants besides locals, and sometimes the only ones on the road. it is a beautiful town but it is clearly geared toward the high season. it was nice and quiet but a little eerie. i want to go back in the summer when its warm and alive, but it was nice to experience it in relative solitude. it was nice to watch the sunrise alone and i got to finish up devil’s knot and start a new novel while he went fishing. we also got to be alone on the pier for the sunset when usually it is full of fishermen who want to fish off the docks. north carolina is a beautiful place though because it is hospitable all year, unlike ontario resort towns that are literal shuttered ghost towns for nine months out of the year because the lake is half frozen over

[fleurcareil]

East Ontario: Bon Echo and Ottawa areas

And off I go! 9am Thursday 1st June I'm starting my cross Canada road trip with an overloaded car and at 54,836km...

First stop is one of my favourite things in Ontario; paddle boarding along the Mazinaw Rock in Bon Echo Provincial Park, midway between Toronto and Ottawa. After having traversed the entire GTA one last time on the QEW, Gardiner, DVP and 401 highways, I finally escaped the madness and got to spend a few lovely hours on the water, searching for the pictographs that Indigenous people created a long time ago. The first time I tried to find them was with my mother by kayak, but not having a clue what it exactly was that we were looking for, we found none until we realised on a boat tour that they're tiny and just above the water, whereas we had been craning our neck to scour the high cliffs for anything that seemed remotely like a drawing 😂. Since then, I had already come back once to explore by SUP, however now in the mid-week quiet without other tourists & motorboats it was magical!

Starting my trip during an unexpected heatwave (32C!) has been tiring as I was constantly sweating but at least it meant I was not freezing at night which had been my fear. In the morning I did my regular 20-minute hulahoop wake-up routine but this time on the beach overlooking the cliffs... Great way to start the day and as bonus there were no mosquitos!! I kinda had forgotten how bad it can be in spring, but after two miserable attempts at a hike, I realised I will be doing most of my exploring by water until the bugs have died off. That said, so far it's only been mosquitos which have mass-targeted me, without the deer/black/sand/other nasty flies, so I guess it can & will still get much worse.

Instead of hiking, I ended up paddling two little lakes at Sheffield Conservation Area just south of Bon Echo, which is the most southern location to experience the Canadian Shield... it was not as majestic as up north but the bare granite rocks hold their beauty wherever they are! The channel between the lakes turned out to be blocked by a beaver dam, which made me realize that the pretty water lilies that I had seen earlier were basically the beaver's vegetable garden 😜. I had never seen a beaver dam up close from the water, so it was cool to see how it's constructed with a slope of soil upstream, intertwined with branches for extra stability. I tried to spot the beaver as well, but no luck (the only time I've seen a beaver was at Leslie Spit in Toronto of all places!). Someone had already created a little portage trail around the dam so that I could continue to the next lake and eat lunch on a little island (with my feet out of the water as the fish were trying to nibble).

Am now on a campground on the Quebec side for 3 nights to spend some time around Ottawa; after not having done a campfire on the first night I was looking forward to one and bought a 1-kilo bag of marshmallows and my favourite chocolate (dark, orange & sea salt) for s'mores, but the entire province is under a fire ban due to the many forest fires that are out of control.... Am afraid this is going to be a recurring theme this summer, we need to fix climate change asap!! Without a fire to chase them away, I'm already completely fed up with the mosquitos at the end of the 2nd day, so I spent the evening in my "living room" tent, which is a blissful haven to eat, read and drink some wine.

Spent Saturday very chilled in the capital; although downtown Ottawa is small it is very lively due to all the tourists (like me) and I always enjoy walking around the highlights; I had planned to visit the National Art Gallery but wasn't attracted by any of the current exhibits so gave it a miss and visited the neighbouring Royal Mint instead for what turned out to be a private tour of the facilities - cool to see how they make 99.99% pure silver and gold coins! Thereafter past the Rideau Canal to Parliament Hill which was disappointing because of the construction but also because I couldn't find my favourite sculpture 'Women are Persons!" celebrating the suffragette movement that allowed women to vote...I did find it later in front of the Senate building, but only after I attended (unplanned) the annual D-Day commemorative ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We cannot afford forgetting the horrible impacts of war so it was a sobering but important moment. I ended on a Byward patio; nothing beats drinking a beer in the sun and watch the world go by!

And today I had a beautiful day at Gatineau Park where I had never been despite having wanted to on previous trips, due to rain/snow etc...I initially did not plan to hike and go supping instead but there was a lot of wind and it turned out no mosquitos due to the cooler weather, so I ended up doing several hikes after all, up to some viewpoints that were no longer visible (as is often the case as they don't cut the trees so that beautiful view when the bench was installed 10+ years ago is long gone), around Pink Lake which is green from the many algae, and to a waterfall that hadn't seen a lot of rain but was pretty nevertheless. I always struggle with making forest hike pictures interesting as it's very green without much variation and not able to capture the true essence of hearing the wind & the birds, the dappled light on the forest floor etc. Tried anyway, and also made a picture of the forest along the parkway to capture the bright apple green of the trees in spring, so refreshing! Ended the day at the Champlain lookout over the Ottawa valley.

Not sure I'll keep up writing so much each time but am clearly excited about how the trip has started so far! 😍

Wildlife: 1 marmot (Bon Echo), 2 male mergansers fighting with each other (Bon Echo), 10,000 mosquitos (Bon Echo), 2 snakes (Toronto Island and Sheffield), 2 turtles (Gatineau), 2 deer (along the road in Gatineau)

SUPs: three (Toronto Island, Bon Echo, Sheffield)

Hikes: one small one (eaten alive) and one aborted (more eaten alive), both at Bon Echo. Three hikes at Gatineau (no single mosquito bite!)

[lsdenvs3000w23]

How Relationships with Nature can Evolve to Offer us a Sense of Place, no matter where we are

I have a distinct memory of the time and place where nature became solidified as an important part of my lifestyle. Growing up, my family had a cottage on Lake Muskoka; it was on an island making it fairly isolated. The land beside our cottage was vacant, and I spent a lot of my childhood exploring the forest here. One summer, my best friend Maya and I were looking for salamanders after a huge storm. We came across an oak tree that had been uprooted in the storm. The tree was completely overturned, and there was a wall of tangled roots at the base of a 25 meter long trunk. For the rest of that summer, Maya and I spent all our time at that tree- we named the tree 'Oaklahoma,' and hung up a small flag we drew with crayons. Having made so many memories at this fallen tree, and spending the entire summer in the forest, I came to understand the importance of nature to ones identity.

Maya and I at the cottage

Growing up has changed the way I see nature. As a child, I saw nature as something to play in, something that would bring me joy. While it still serves this benefit, I now know that nature is something I can learn from and can use my knowledge to help conserve it. My relationship with nature has evolved into something much more. I try my best to enjoy nature without taking anything from it, and thoroughly utilize practices such as "Leave No Trace" and staying on marked trails. Studying wildlife biology has taught me the consequences and cascading effects of human disturbance to wildlife and natural spaces. I hope that as I continue my studies, my knowledge will take me even further in the preservation of nature, and I'm looking forward to sharing this knowledge on this blog.

While my first true "sense of place" occurred at the fallen oak tree at my cottage, I continue to feel this sense anytime I am in nature. Whether it's camping in some of Ontario's parks, hiking in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, or simply going for a walk in the park near my house, nature offers me a sense of peace and quiet that can sometimes be hard to come by in ordinary life.

While a "sense of place" can sometimes be associated with comfort, I also hope to establish this connection with nature even when outside my comfort zone. I recently moved from my childhood home in Toronto to the Town of Gravenhurst (only 10 minutes away from where our cottage and Oaklahoma used to be). While I had spent time in Gravenhurst before, moving into a residential house in the town centre was a large adjustment both from living in Toronto and having the cottage on the island. While I didn't miss the hustle and bustle of the big city, I struggled with feeling disconnected to nature since I was living in a suburb. It took some effort to get myself outside and exploring again. While I am no longer surrounded by nature, I only have to walk a short way to find myself at the waterfront, surrounded by wildlife.

I'd like to end this post with an important quote from the painter Robert Bateman:

"If you've got an eye for it, nature is everywhere."

Lake Muskoka

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

“Reporter Inspects ‘Pen’ All Present and Correct,” Toronto Star. January 7, 1933. Page 4. ---- Star Representative Allowed In When Riot Rumors Grow ---- AFTER BRIEF WAIT --- By HERBERT HAMILTON Kingston, Jan. 6. - Rumors regarding another prison riot at the Portsmouth penitentiary are flying thick and fast around Kingston and Portsmouth but the prison authorities are not worrying about it. In fact, so much at ease are they theta they allowed this Star correspondent to enter the prison this afternoon at 3.15 and take a look for himself.

I walked up to the main gate without a thought in the world that I would be admitted but considering that it was worth a trial, anyway. I reached in between two bars on the heavily barred door and knocked at the gate. It was immediately opened by a guard.

‘I want to see the warden.’

‘Just a minute,’ said the guard, and closed the gate in my face. I waited anxiously for a full minute. Then the gate opened and the same guard reappeared and said, ‘Come in.’ He swung open the bars and the gates so that I could pass.

‘That door over there to your right,’ he said, pointing to a half-open door. Not a word about ‘who are you and what do you want?’ I was inside the prison gates as easy as that.

Inside the office three men were apparently doing clerical work. Two were in khaki uniforms and one was in civilian clothes.

‘Where is the warden?’ I asked.

One of the men looked up from his typewriter long enough to say, ‘He’s in one of the other buildings. Is there anything I can do for you?’

‘I’m a reporter and I want to find out just what truth there is in another riot pending here. Rumors have it that trouble has broken out again. How about it?’

The three men laughed. The man in civilian clothes said, ‘What, more rumors?’ ‘You don’t see any bullets flying around here do you?’ The men continued laughing. They thought it was a huge joke.

From the office I could see the main yard. Half a dozen convicts were engaged in rolling down cinders.

A guard stood nearby, all was quiet as a tomb. A children’s playground would occasion more disturbance than this peaceful little scene.

I waited half an hour. No warden.

‘Well, I guess I’ll be running along,’ I said. ‘The warden doesn’t seem to be coming, and besides if there is not going to be any more fireworks that what I ave seen already, I might just as well go down town and see if anyone has been run over with a truck or look for some other excitement.’

One of the clerks answered me. ‘Sorry, old man, that we haven’t been able to put on a show for you. There’s just nothing doing here these days.’

I thanked him and went out. In the corridor, four or five guards, obviously unarmed, were leaning up against the wall and chatting. And instead of plotting how to old the convicts in check, they were actually speaking of the mild weather. One of them was smoking a pipe. When I got to the main gate, one guard detached himself from the group and strolled to the door. He unlocked it was a massive key and let me out.

Guthrie Denies Riot Ottawa, Jan. 6. - Unqualified denial was given by Hon. Hugh Guthrie to The Star this afternoon that there was any foundation for the report from Kingston that a new riot was brewing there.

Certain officials are scheduled to be dismissed in the course of a few days, according to The Star’s information, the inference being that their friends have spread rumors which might discredit the present administration and prevent the shake-up from occurring.

[afvenvs3000f24]

Unit 2: Teaching Learners

A photo I took while on our group hike during my school trip in grade 12 at Mount Mary.

My ideal role as an environmental interpreter would entail hiking along trails by waterfalls or any moving bodies of water while teaching others to be present, and appreciative, and to understand the importance of conserving green areas everywhere. To accomplish this, I would teach useful skills such as walking meditations, outdoor yoga and simply the importance of not littering because unfortunately, near my neighbourhood there is consistently litter on most trails. I feel as though there was much more emphasis on being taught not to litter in my early years of elementary school than it is now for the younger generation. I could envision this role at a camp/retreat, far enough from civilization to not hear the sounds of the city but close enough to make the trip there more accessible locally. I've been on two school trips in which I was in this exact environment, accompanied by a camp counsellor or retreat guide interpreting and leading mindful walks and adventures around the campgrounds. The memories from these trips will forever stick with me in gratitude for the experience and respect for nature's ability to bring very different people together. Some skills I would need to learn for this to be implemented would be how to teach yoga properly because (although I know some positions and have taught some family members) the last thing I would want on these trips would be for someone to get injured. Another useful tool to develop would be more knowledge on studies proving how nature can positively affect our psychological well-being and then finding ways to incorporate it into an activity or make all the info generally more accessible and interesting to a more casual demographic.

Picture of a waterfall I took while on a school trip during our Mount Mary Retreat in Ancaster Ontario.

Through this week's unit 2 readings and the learning style quiz, I discovered that my learning preference between auditory, visual, and tactile is split almost equally between all three. With this ideal position as a nature interpreter wanting to bring different people together, I can use my ways of learning to empathize, connect, and help others understand my teachings in a safe, judgment-free and welcoming environment for all. A model execution of this goal, influenced by my experience on school camp trips with a personal twist, would include a day filled with activities such as morning outdoor yoga as a check-in to how the participants' bodies and minds feel going into the day, then a social hike towards a stream, lake, or waterfall, encouraging everyone to get to know each other, while also giving the group some history and fun facts about the grounds. Once reaching the destination, I would tell everyone to form small groups to go on a mindful, quiet walk, adventuring the parameters of the area and coming back with at least three things they saw, heard, or felt that they admired or were grateful for, to share with everyone. After this, I would host a mindfulness circle simply bringing awareness to nature, how we should respect it, and how integrating more of it into your life could result in positive outcomes such as feeling less stressed and more connected and grounded. Then, by the end of the day, I would lead another mindful yoga session, having everyone pitch in on how they felt after the day was over compared to the beginning of it. Finally, I would finish it all with a short, interactive lecture, speaking on the effects of littering and what exactly it affects. Additionally, I would share resources such as YouTube videos or Spotify podcasts that I love to use to guide me in daily gratitude, yoga, and even walking meditations. Through this example of my ideal nature interpreter routine, I could reach my goal of educating and connecting people through appreciating nature.

[nheightsretreatspa]

5 Unique Ontario Romantic Getaways for Couples

Planning a romantic escape can be both exciting and overwhelming. Luckily, Ontario is brimming with charming spots perfect for couples. This picturesque location is home to some truly special spots that cater to every couple's idea of romance, whether you’re into serene nature retreats, luxurious spa experiences, or exploring charming historic towns.

With so many beautiful places to choose from, it is easy to get overwhelmed. But worry not, as we have curated a list of the five most unique and romantic getaways in Ontario that are designed to help you and your partner relax, reconnect, and create unforgettable memories together. So, are you ready to make your next trip unforgettable? Read on!

1. Northumberland Heights Wellness Retreat & Spa

If you’re searching for a peaceful escape where you can rejuvenate both body and mind, Northumberland Heights is the place to be. Nestled in the lush Northumberland county, this retreat offers a perfect blend of luxury and nature, making it an ideal spot for Couples Retreats in Ontario.

Why You’ll Love It:

Spa Couples Package: Northumberland Heights offers a variety of spa couples packages that include massages, facials, and holistic therapies. Isn’t it the perfect way to unwind together?

Wellness Retreat Package: Their wellness retreat packages are designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation, allowing you and your partner to disconnect from the daily grind.

Serene Surroundings: The retreat is surrounded by nature trails and picturesque landscapes, making it perfect for long walks and quiet moments.

2. JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa

If you’re a couple that loves the idea of combining luxury with the great outdoors, JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa is a must-visit Located on the shores of Lake Rosseau, this resort offers stunning views of Lake Rosseau and plenty of opportunities for adventure.

Why You’ll Love It:

Luxurious Accommodations: The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly designed, offering breathtaking views of the lake.

Spa Couples Package: Indulge in a spa couples package that includes signature treatments using locally sourced ingredients. You’ll leave feeling pampered and refreshed.

Outdoor Adventures: Whether it's kayaking, hiking, or simply enjoying a sunset by the lake, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy together.

3. Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa

For a touch of history and old-world charm, Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa offers a romantic setting that's both elegant and intimate. This stately country house is located in Cambridge, Ontario, and is a member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group.

Why You’ll Love It:

Historic Charm: The hotel’s rich history and classic decor make it a unique backdrop for a romantic escape.

Wellness Retreat Package: Langdon Hall offers luxurious wellness retreat packages that focus on relaxation and rejuvenation, perfect for couples looking to unwind.

Gourmet Dining: The on-site restaurant is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, offering an exceptional dining experience that you and your partner won’t forget.

4. Ste. Anne's Spa

If you’re looking for a true escape from the hustle and bustle, Ste. Anne's Spa in Grafton, Ontario, is the perfect destination. This all-inclusive spa resort is set in a historic stone mansion and offers a serene country setting that’s ideal for romance.

Why You’ll Love It:

All-Inclusive Packages: Ste. Anne's offers all-inclusive couples spa packages in Ontario, which include accommodations, meals, and a variety of spa treatments.

Relaxing Spa Treatments: The spa menu is extensive, offering everything from hot stone massages to hydrotherapy.

Beautiful Grounds: The property is surrounded by rolling hills and gardens, providing a peaceful setting for outdoor relaxation or a romantic picnic.

5. Elora Mill Hotel & Spa

Set along the scenic Grand River, the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa is a charming and intimate getaway that combines historic charm with modern luxury. This boutique hotel in the village of Elora offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Why You’ll Love It:

Unique Setting: The hotel is housed in a restored 19th-century mill, offering a unique and romantic setting.

Spa Couples Package: Enjoy a spa couples package that includes relaxing treatments in a serene setting.

Quaint Village: Elora is known for its artsy vibe and charming shops. Take a stroll through the village, explore local boutiques, and enjoy the beauty of the Elora Gorge.

Wrapping up

Whether you're looking to relax in a luxury spa, explore historic sites, or enjoy the beauty of nature, Ontario has a romantic getaway that’s perfect for you. From Northumberland Heights to Elora Mill, these five destinations promise unique experiences that cater to every type of couple, offering a special way to celebrate love and connection. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable romantic escape in Ontario!

[bike42]

Saturday July 20

Feldtman Lake 8.8 miles official map, 9.5 actual miles according to my Apple Watch (45’ average). 7 and 1/4 hours total time, 513 ft elevation gain

With the sunrise came the sound of a bird with a beautiful trill, then the sound of zippers and whispers from our fellow adventurers.

Everyone got up and packed up their tents, then we worked through a few stove mishaps as we prepared hot water for coffee / tea and Oatmeal (I thought the gang would be hungry and made 10 servings but we tossed half of it!). We cleaned up breakfast and hiked the short distance back to Windigo, where we tossed our trash, bought a little more fuel for the stove, and used the bathrooms to brush our teeth and enjoy the last toilet flush until Tuesday afternoon.

We headed out at 9am. We heard/saw the seaplane come in and take off from Windigo, but we didn’t actually see much of the lake today. After we left Windigo, we saw only one guy hiking all day - out for a day hike to an observation point.

I packed very few clothes - one pair of “Shants,” pants where the legs zip off into shorts. It wasn’t about an hour until I decided to zip the legs off. I kept my long sleeve shirt on, mainly for coverage from mosquitoes.

The trail was really nice for about the first three miles, but lots of roots and rocks - that, and our heavy packs made for a slow pace with lots of break.

We encountered the young man up here doing trail maintenance for a summer job and chatted with him for awhile. He said they should have a crew of 4 people, but staffing apparently is tough here too! He also told us they make him haul the clippings way off the trail, so it’s slow going for him too. The trail he’d maintained so far was fantastic, but at the end of the day now, we’re beginning to realize just how much hasn’t been maintained!

It was a nice morning with thin clouds, actually warmer than I though it’s be! We heard rumbling thunder all morning, but couldn’t see any weather heading our way (couldn’t see much sky either though!). We mentioned it to the young man doing trail maintenance and he told us that Thunder Bay (Ontario) has a rock feature that makes the sound of thunder echo out onto the lake - so cool! I’d never heard of that before, but we sure experienced it today! Makes sense that it’d be named for that.

The rest of today’s trail was intermittently rough (as we were warned). In the sunshine, thick patches of thimbleberry occluded the trail, sometimes as high as your head! Then we’d head into the forest, and that would be better for a bit. The last several miles, Cow Parsnips was mixed into the thimbleberries - a cause for concern because like Wild Parsnips, supposedly the leaves contain an oil that if it gets on your skin, the sun will cause it to burn (phytophotodermatitus). I learned that it’s true with Wild Parsnips, and I guess in a few days I’ll know about Cow Parsnips as I sure rubbed against a lot of it today!

Mosquitoes were prevalent today, but spray pretty much kept them at bay. I didn’t want to spray around my eyes and my face, but I have a hat that says it’s made of “Insect Shield” and that worked pretty well, other than it sometimes felt too hot to wear a hat! Only Dan broke out his mosquito head net for awhile - the rest of us doused in DEET and that worked well.

When we hit 6 miles, it was 1pm (EST) and we stopped for lunch. Tam brought single serving tuna or salmon, we mixed them with mayo and spread it on sandwich rounds, topped with fresh cucumber slices. Also a treat to have something fresh while on the trail! We followed that by devouring a package of Fig Newtons, and I had some warm tea to rinse it all down.

After lunch, the misery factor increased to about a 7: hot, buggy, overgrown trail (with rocks and roots that you couldn’t see), we didn’t exactly know how much further we had to go, and aches from 4+ hours with a 40 lb pack! The group got quiet and we trudged along. I kept my mind occupied by singing camp songs to myself (“we are the U Nah Li Girls, Ugh!”).

We finally arrived at the Lake Feldtman Campsites, and chose one of the two gorgeous group sites with a nice breeze, shade and access to the lake. The water near the shore was a little silty, so Kent waded out to get clearer water for our purification process - two steps: filtration with a gravity filter, pour the water into 1L Nalgene bottles, then swirl with the UV light for 90 seconds. We set up an assembly line and quickly refilled all of our hydration bladders for tomorrow and all of the Nalgenes we had in camp.

I changed into my swimsuit top and went for a quick dip in my shorts and undies (1 pair of 2 that I brought). I would have swum longer, but the young lady at check in told us about leeches in Lake Feldtman and I was freaked out about that (Kent confirmed he saw one on his last water trip).

I changed into my dry clothes, which double as my jammies: yoga pants, tank top and lightweight hoodie. It would have been easy to fall asleep in the tent, but I forced myself to get up and help coordinate dinner.

Tonight we had a yummy Chicken Cashew Curry with Rice, and collectively we finished eight servings. We followed that with a chocolate bar and a few sips of bourbon from our flask. We were just cleaning up the dinner dishes when Dan whisper-yelled that there was a moose in the opening where Gary had almost pitched his tent. We all ran to get a glimpse - he was frighteningly huge!! He munched on tree and then silently ambled off - so cool!

I brushed my teeth and braved one more walk to the pit toilet, then settled into the tent about 8pm to write and read. Jeff was outside, and I soon heard him “whisper-yell” from the lake: “bring a camera!” I ran down there barefoot - just in time to see the moose enter the water. He waded out until he must have been swimming (I know they’re good swimmers - I think that’s how they originally got out here). He repeated dunked his head and then would come up as munch the weeds. What an awesome site - completely worth the agony of the hike to have an experience like this! We seem to be the only humans for miles around, submersed in this vast and amazing wilderness. If we hear wolves tonight, it’ll complete our Isle Royale experience!!

By the way, my toe was about the ONLY thing that didn’t hurt today!

[jackoliverca]

Luxury Apartments for Rent in Mississauga: Your Ultimate Guide

Mississauga is home to a variety of luxury apartments that offer upscale living with top-notch amenities and prime locations. Whether you are a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to downsize without compromising on quality, Mississauga has something to offer everyone. This guide explores why you should consider renting a luxury apartment in Mississauga, the features you can expect, popular neighborhoods, and tips for finding the perfect place.

Why Choose a Luxury Apartment in Mississauga?

Mississauga provides a unique blend of urban sophistication and suburban tranquility, making it an ideal location for luxury living. Here’s why:

Strategic Location

Located just outside Toronto, Mississauga offers easy access to major highways, airports, and public transportation. This strategic location makes commuting convenient and opens up a plethora of options for work and leisure.

Thriving Economy

With numerous corporate headquarters and a strong job market, Mississauga is a hub of economic activity. The city’s robust economy provides excellent job opportunities across various sectors, making it a desirable place to live and work.

High Quality of Life

Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational options. Mississauga boasts numerous parks, community centers, and cultural attractions that cater to all age groups and interests.

Features of Luxury Apartments

Luxury Apartments for Rent in Mississauga come with a range of high-end features designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience.

Modern Design and Finishes

Expect stylish interiors with modern designs, high-quality materials, and elegant finishes. These apartments often feature open floor plans, gourmet kitchens, and spa-like bathrooms.

State-of-the-Art Amenities

Luxury apartments often include amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and rooftop lounges. These amenities enhance your lifestyle by providing convenient options for exercise, relaxation, and socializing.

Smart Home Technology

Many luxury apartments are equipped with smart home technology for enhanced security and convenience. From keyless entry systems to smart thermostats and lighting, these features make everyday living more efficient and secure.

Stunning Views

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline, Lake Ontario, and surrounding green spaces. Large windows and private balconies allow you to take in these beautiful vistas from the comfort of your home.

Popular Neighborhoods for Luxury Apartments

Mississauga offers several desirable neighborhoods where luxury apartments are in high demand.

City Centre

City Centre is a bustling area with upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Living here puts you at the heart of the action, with easy access to places like Square One Shopping Centre and Celebration Square.

Port Credit

Port Credit is known for its waterfront living, with marinas, parks, and a vibrant community atmosphere. This picturesque neighborhood offers a blend of historic charm and modern conveniences.

Erin Mills

Erin Mills is a family-friendly neighborhood with excellent schools, parks, and a suburban feel. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet, residential area with plenty of green spaces.

Clarkson

Clarkson offers a mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, making it a sought-after area for luxury rentals. Its proximity to the lake and abundance of local amenities make it a perfect spot for those who appreciate both nature and convenience.

Benefits of Renting a Luxury Apartment

Renting a luxury apartment in Mississauga offers numerous benefits that enhance your living experience.

Flexibility and Convenience

Renting provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to move easily as your circumstances change. This is ideal for those who may need to relocate for work or other reasons.

Maintenance-Free Living

Luxury rentals often include maintenance services, ensuring that any issues are promptly addressed. This means you can enjoy your home without worrying about repairs and upkeep.

Access to Exclusive Amenities

Enjoy access to exclusive amenities such as concierge services, private gyms, and resident lounges. These features add significant value to your living experience.

Community and Networking Opportunities

Living in a luxury apartment complex provides opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and build a strong community. Many complexes host social events and activities for residents.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Luxury Apartment

Finding the right luxury apartment in Mississauga involves careful planning and research.

Determine Your Budget

Set a realistic budget to ensure you can afford the rent and associated costs of a luxury apartment. Factor in all potential expenses, including utilities and parking fees.

Research Neighborhoods

Explore different neighborhoods to find one that matches your lifestyle and preferences. Consider proximity to work, schools, and recreational facilities.

Visit Multiple Properties

Schedule visits to multiple properties to compare features, amenities, and overall vibe. This will help you make an informed decision.

Read Reviews and Ratings

Check online reviews and ratings to get insights from current and former residents. This can provide valuable information about the property management and living conditions.

Conclusion

Luxury apartments in Mississauga offer an unparalleled living experience with their modern amenities, prime locations, and upscale features. Whether you seek urban excitement or suburban tranquility, Mississauga has the perfect luxury apartment to suit your needs.

[webdesignmaster01]

SEO Kingston: Conquering Online Domains with Strategic Mastery

In the sprawling landscape of digital marketing, one city stands out as a beacon of strategic mastery: Kingston. With its potent blend of innovation, expertise, and unwavering dedication, Kingston has emerged as a powerhouse in the realm of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). In this comprehensive exploration, we delve deep into the strategies and tactics that have propelled SEO Kingston to the summit of online success.

The Rise of SEO Kingston: A Digital Renaissance

Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston boasts a rich history and a vibrant present. But it's not just the cobblestone streets and historic landmarks that define this city; it's also its digital footprint. With an ever-growing community of businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators, Kingston has embraced the digital age with open arms. And at the forefront of this digital revolution is SEO Kingston.

Strategic Keyword Optimization: The Foundation of SEO Kingston's Success

At the heart of SEO Kingston's triumph lies its strategic approach to keyword optimization. From the bustling downtown core to the quiet suburban streets, businesses in Kingston understand the importance of aligning their online content with the most relevant keywords. And at the center of it all is the keyword that reigns supreme: "SEO Kingston." By weaving this key phrase seamlessly into their web content, businesses ensure maximum visibility and relevance in the eyes of search engines.

Content Creation: The Art of Engagement in SEO Kingston

But keyword optimization alone is not enough to conquer the digital domain. In SEO Kingston, content is king. From informative blog posts to captivating videos, businesses in Kingston understand the power of engaging content in capturing the hearts and minds of their audience. And with the keyword "SEO Kingston" strategically integrated into their content, they ensure not only high search engine rankings but also meaningful connections with their target demographic.

Link Building: Cementing SEO Kingston's Digital Authority

In the competitive world of SEO, backlinks are the currency of authority. And in Kingston, businesses spare no effort in building a robust network of backlinks to solidify their digital presence. Through strategic partnerships, guest blogging, and directory submissions, they earn valuable endorsements from reputable websites, further enhancing their credibility in the eyes of search engines. And with the keyword "SEO Kingston" anchoring these backlinks, they reinforce their relevance and dominance in the online arena.

Data-Driven Decision Making: The Key to SEO Kingston's Continued Success

But perhaps the most crucial aspect of SEO Kingston's strategy is its reliance on data-driven decision making. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses in Kingston leverage analytics and insights to refine their SEO strategies in real-time. By closely monitoring key metrics such as traffic, engagement, and conversion rates, they adapt and iterate to stay ahead of the curve. And with each iteration, they inch closer to digital supremacy.

In understanding this, we unravel the secrets of SEO Kingston's unrivaled success. By mastering the art of keyword optimization, content creation, link building, and data-driven decision making, businesses in Kingston have solidified their position as leaders in the realm of SEO. And as the digital landscape continues to evolve, one thing is certain: SEO Kingston will remain at the forefront of innovation, driving growth and prosperity for years to come.

Join us as we explore the future of web design with our series, 'Unlocking SEO Secrets: Kingston's Reign as the Digital Kingdom.' Stay on the cutting edge by learning about the latest trends, gaining insights from leading professionals, and mastering the techniques necessary to create exceptional digital experiences. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to deliver outstanding web design solutions.