If Winter Won't Come to You...

...you'll just have to come to it! There are folks in parts of the province who are calling this season the non-winter of 2012. Poor souls. They don't know what they're missing.

I realize some people are enjoying the uncharacteristically mild temperatures and near-absence of snow in Toronto and other parts of Southern Ontario. After all, who's going to say they miss shoveling out the driveway? Of course it's easier to go about your daily routine—getting to and from work or running errands—when there's less snow on the ground, but really, it's not much fun. 

If you're one of us crazy optimists who love the snow (and we are legion!) then you know what I'm talking about. Winter—and I'm talking about a good, proper winter with deep billows of pure white snow—is a great season to get outside and reconnect with your inner child. 

Imagine snowshoeing through a snow-clad forest the likes of Narnia. Glide on cross-country skis along groomed trackset trails; skate over a frozen pond; fly down a hill on a bright red toboggan. Laughter and glowing cheeks are just about guaranteed.

When the sun sinks in the sky, the quieter pleasures of the snowy season are waiting to be discovered. The night sky is incredibly clear and vibrant in the colder months. A cozy seat by a real wood fire is the perfect way to warm up, perhaps with a favourite beverage in hand. The sounds of the winter world (the crunching of boots on frosty paths, the creaking of trees as the mercury drops) are muffled by the snow, making for a night that is truly silent.

If you hate winter, then I'm not going to try to convince you otherwise. But if you know how wonderful the season can be, there is good news: If winter won't come to you this year, you can come to winter! 

Here at Fern Glen Inn, we're only 2 1/2 hours north of Toronto. Close enough for an easy weekend escape but far enough to feel like you're in another world. And you will be—you'll be in the best part of winter!

Call, email or book online for your getaway where winter comes to play.

Tap the Sap Culinary Event

Savour the tastes of Muskoka with a night of incredible food and entertainment. Tap the Sap is a culinary event celebrating the start of the maple syrup season, hosted by Savour Muskoka, an organization promoting the farmers, producers, chefs, and food artisans of the region.

The evening will showcase dishes prepared by a dozen local chefs with food from twenty local producers. Food will be available from 7-10 pm and served marché-style, similar to the summer Field to Fork Event. All guests will have their own plates and mingle from table to table, tasting large canape size samples from various tables. We expect there will be six appetizers, six mains and three desserts—and you can savour them all.

Fern Glen Inn will be there, too! I'm pairing up with three local producers (ultra premium ice cream maker Belly Ice Cream, Lake of Bays Brewing Co. and Deisel House Coffee Roasters) to create one of the dessert offerings.

There will also be a cash bar offering locally crafted beers and wines as well as live entertainment featuring the music of The Roots/Reggae Jeremy Waterhouse Band.

The event takes place at the Port Sydney Community Hall. For tickets, call 705-646-7118 or visit Savour Muskoka events to find ticket locations. Tickets are $40 per person.

Pie Iron Sandwicherie in Huntsville

Fern Glen Inn • www.ferngleninn.blogspot.com

My choice was the duck confit with brie and cranberry preserves on multigrain bread. Ripple-cut chips and coleslaw on the side.

I'd been meaning to try Pie Iron Sandwicherie since it opened in downtown Huntsville last summer and my interest was piqued anew after guests absolutely raved about it during their visit over the Christmas holidays. So when our friend, Ed, came up for a few days to attend the Banff Mountain Film Festival with us, it was the perfect opportunity to try something new for our pre-show dinner.
I am happy to report it did not disappoint. In fact, we enjoyed it so much I have to share it with you!

That is a sandwich that would make Dagwood proud!

 As a "sandwicherie", the focus is, naturally, on sandwiches -- but don't think that means boring. It's the variety, creativity and quality of the fillings that set the menu apart. The foodie in me loves the well-matched and inventive flavours and the artisanal bread. The generous size and house-made mushroom soup impressed Jim and Ed.

Nothing like a locally-made Lake of Bays Pale Ale to complete a meal like this.

Jim had the montreal smoked meat on marbled rye and Ed chose the pulled pork with Memphis style BBQ sauce, jack cheese and slaw on a ciabatta bun.

Sushi is a new addition to the menu this weekend. We shared a sample platter and it was delicious. I finally have a local source for good sushi! Also on offer: a selection of desserts, muffins, scones and baked goods, as well as local beers and specialty coffees.

Yay! Good sushi comes to Huntsville!

Another high note of our dinner was the service. Our server was attentive, helpful and genuine. When we told him we were running a little late and had tickets to the theatre, he let the kitchen staff knew and he made sure we got out in plenty of time for the show.

If you go: Pie Iron Sandwicherie is on Main Street in downtown Huntsville, near the bridge, next to the Bookcase, across from Algonquin Outfitters, just a block down from Algonquin Theatre.

January in Pictures

The sunset let us see the world through rose-coloured glasses.

 Whoosh! That was the sound of January flying by at lightening speed. How is it we're one-twelfth of the way through the new year already? 

A short walk on our trails.

Some people would say good riddance to January, infamous as it is for blues, blahs and post holiday malaise. Some would, but not me. I loved this month! It was full of sunshine and fresh powder. There were billows and banks of pristine snow and big puffy flakes the size of a baby's hand drifting lazily down from the sky. Some days I thought I might get a tan, spending so much time out under a bright sun; other days I thought I might be—magically—lost inside a snow globe.

And many days I couldn't resist grabbing the camera and heading outside to try to capture the moment and share it with others. Here are some of the images that captured me.

The Coop in the morning shade.

Snow highlighting every branch.

Inside the snow globe!

Best seats for watching the sun set. 

Now THAT's deep! (yes, Saba is standing)

Good morning!

Reflecting on winter.

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!

Simply serene.

Chores: done. Country living: loving it!

Winter Events in Muskoka & Almaguin

There's plenty happening in Muskoka and the Almaguin Highlands this winter. From outdoor festivals and activities, to live performances and inspiring films, to laidback getaways with wide open schedules, there's something for everyone.

We've started compiling a list of events. Check back often for updates.

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Burk's Falls Winterfest

Burk's Falls

Sleigh rides, indoor and outdoor games, prizes, vendors and live entertainment. At the Burk's Falls fair grounds.
Jan 15

Muskoka Loppet

Arrowhead Park

A classic ski tradition at Arrowhead Park just north of Huntsville, hosted by the Arrowhead Nordic Ski Club. 15 km and 30 km classic events; 3 km and 9 km individual and relay snowshoe events; 5 km classic for social skiers. Visit the Arrowhead Nordic Club website for details.
Jan 22

Banff Mountain Film Festival
Huntsville
Be inspired and exhilarated by a selection of films that take you around the world, to the tops of mountains and down raging rivers. From adrenaline-fueled action sports, to an exploration of wild landscapes and remote mountain cultures, the films in this year's Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour will ignite your passion for adventure.

Algonquin Outfitters is the host for the Huntsville stop on the tour; and the Algonquin Theatre is the venue. Two evenings screening different shows. Discount at the Algonquin Outfitters store for people attending both shows.
Festival Special: Stay two nights at Fern Glen Inn and attend at least one night of the festival and get $32 off your stay. That's the cost of two tickets!
For descriptions of the films, visit the Algonquin Outfitters blog. Purchase tickets online from Algonquin Theatre.
Jan 24 & 25

Jim Cuddy

Huntsville

Juno award winner, Blue Rodeo front man, iconic Canadian singer/songwriter Jim Cuddy returns to the Algonquin Theatre, this time to showcase the release of his third solo album. Purchase tickets online from Algonquin Theatre.

Jan 26

Canadian National Pond Hockey Championship

Huntsville

Teams from across North America come to compete for two weekends of outdoor pond hockey. For info on registering your team, volunteering your time, or schedule of events, visit the Canadian National Pond Hockey website.
Jan 27 - 29, Feb 3 - 5

Comics on the Rocks Comedy Festival

Huntsville and Area

What do you get when you cross a winter weekend getaway with some of the best comedic talent in Canada? The Comics on the Rocks Comedy Festival. Attend one or two evenings of live comedy, spend your day laughing it up as you play in the snow. Comics on the Rocks Getaway Package available through Fern Glen Inn.

Feb 10 - 12

Winter Fun Day

Oxtongue Lake

An activity-packed day with something for everyone. Winter games, ski lessons, winter camping demos, camp fire, door prizes and more. Located at the Algonquin Outfitters Oxtongue Lake store. Visit Algonquin Outfitters for details.
Feb 11 - 12

Valentine's Day

Fern Glen Inn

The best gift you can give your sweety is some time away with you! We think any getaway here at Fern Glen Inn is special, but if you want to add some extra treats, order our Snowshoe with Your Sweetheart package. The package includes 2 nights accommodations, breakfast both mornings, a box of gourmet chocolate truffles, and bath bubbles. Every winter stay includes complimentary use of snowshoes to enjoy on our trails. Book online or email us for details.
Feb 14

Dorset Snowball

Dorset
Enjoy winter activities such as skating, snowball throwing game, chainsaw carving demo, minnow races, horse-drawn wagon rides, hockey shoot-out, Hockey Night in Dorset and more at the 22nd annual winter carnival. Visit Dorset Snowball website for details.

Feb 17 - 18

February Long Weekend

Fern Glen Inn

Make the most of your mid-winter break by getting out of the city and coming out to play in the snow! Go snowshoeing and tobogganing (complimentary on site); hand-feed the chickadees or unwind by a real wood fire. This weekend always fills up so reserve your room soon. Visit Fern Glen Inn or book online.
Feb 17 - 20

Dwight Winter Carnival

Dwight

Celebrate winter with events and activities in this town just west of Algonquin Park. Visit the Dwight Winter Carnival website to see what's in store.

Feb 23 - 25

Reel Docs Film Festival
Huntsville
Reel Alternatives Huntsville is screening five acclaimed films at the Algonquin Theatre over two days. The theme of Reel Docs 2012 is Fascinating Biographies and features both drama and documentaries. Visit Reel Alternatives Huntsville for schedule and ticket information.
Feb 24 - 25

Ontario ParaSport Winter Games

Huntsville

The town of Huntsville is proud to host the 2010 Ontario ParaSport Winter Games. Cheer on as athletes compete in seven sports over three days. For details visit Ontario ParaSport Winter Games.

Feb 24 - 26

Tap the Sap Culinary Event
Port Sydney
Savour Muskoka hosts an evening of incredible food prepared by local chefs with food from local producers. Cash bar features locally crafted beers and cranberry wines. Live roots/reggae band provides the entertainment. Fern Glen Inn will be there, partnering with Belly Ice Cream to bring you one of three dessert offerings. Tickets are $40/person, available at the inn or other locations around Muskoka. See Savour Muskoka Events for details.
March 3, 7pm

Women in Film Festival
Huntsville
In celebration of International Women's Day, two films are being screened at the Algonquin Theatre. The evening begins with the world premier of Fairly Foul, a short documentary on chemicals, cosmetics, women and the environment by Muskoka's very own Virginia Hastings and Katie Ungard. The feature film, Taking Root, will follow. For schedule and ticket information, visit YWCA Muskoka.
March 8

Comics on the Rocks Comedy Festival Weekend

Comedy Festival in Huntsville, Muskoka 

February 10th - 12th 

The first annual Comics on the Rocks features two nights of hilarity from a lineup of top comedians, plus outdoor activities and adventures that'll have you laughing with friends -- and maybe at yourself!

Friday February 10

Cottage Country Comedy Festival Presents... 

Live standup comedy featuring stars of MTV, Much Music Video on Trial and CBC's The Debaters!

Evening show at the Algonquin Theatre in downtown Huntsville

Saturday February 11

Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood Improv Show

Two stars of the Emmy nominated "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" present an evening of extraordinary improvisational comedy. Using their quick wit, Colin and Brad take contributions from the audience to create hilarious and original scenes. Throughout the evening, the show becomes truly interactive as audience members are called to the stage to participate in the fun. Evening show at Deerhurst Resort on Hwy 60 in Huntsville

Outdoor Activities

• Friday Night Skate and Bonfire at Kearney Lions Park 
• Saturday Free skating and Workshops at Cann Lake in Huntsville 
• All weekend long: Free Snowshoeing and Tobogganing our private trails

• 
  Comics On the Rocks Getaway Package 

Laugh and play with a winter weekend getaway to Fern Glen Inn and enjoy a show or two of sidesplitting live comedy.

Package Includes: 

• two nights accommodation for two people in any room (queen bed and ensuite bathroom) 
• delicious breakfast each morning 
• free use of snowshoes and toboggans on site 
• map and directions to outdoor activities around the region 
• two tickets for the Friday night Cottage Country Comedy Show AND/OR the Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood Improv Show 

Package Rate (see ONE show): $309 per couple + tax

Package Rate (see BOTH shows): $389 per couple + tax

Call 1-866-311-8519 or email info@ferngleninn.on.ca to reserve your Comics On the Rocks Getaway! 

Herding Chickens

Fern Glen Inn • www.ferngleninn.blogspot.com

Whoever coined the phrase "herding cats" clearly never had chickens. Or at least never had chickens on the run.

I returned from a walk this afternoon to discover that the ladies -- all six of them -- had escaped their pen and were ranging freely. I'm tempted to say they hatched a plan but I don't want to inflict my poultry sense of humour on you (sorry, couldn't resist). Planned or otherwise, they all flew the coop today.

Luckily, they didn't wander too far from their hen house. They had the whole wide world at their disposal but just scratched up the dirt within a 20 foot radius of their home. In fact, I only realized they were out because Saba saw them first.

I knew something had Saba's attention because she stopped suddenly, dropped her head low, cocked her ears forward and took a few slow, measured steps. Just like when she's stalking a squirrel. Or when she's ready to pounce in front of Casey (her buddy, the basset hound) to try to tease him into playing. I don't know if Saba was thinking snack time or playtime, but when I realized her gaze was fixed on one of our own dear hens, I didn't wait to find out.

I escorted Saba safely into the house, grabbed a tub of bird seed and went back to round up the ladies. I also took a moment to wish that Jim, aka the chicken-whisperer, was home to deal with this instead of me.

As I've mentioned, herding chickens is no easy task. For one thing, they're fast. Chickens can run like nobody's business. I've also discovered (during previous jail breaks) that chickens can and will fly if pursued with vigor. If approached slowly, they scatter. There's no catching them, at least not if I'm the catcher, and I'm a little bit afraid of them as I am with all birds. So even if I could get close enough to grab one, I wouldn't. I just couldn't.

So I had to outwit them. First, I propped the door to the hen house wide open then circled way back behind the farthest-ranging chicken. Then I started throwing small handfuls of bird seed toward the open door.

Chickens are remarkably curious and decidedly food-motivated. After half a dozen pings and bounces of seeds against the coop wall and on the hard ground, the chicken closest to the action moved in to see if there was something edible going on. Slowly, one by one, the rest of the ladies came to check out the commotion. I swear chickens have a spidey sense when it comes to food because even the two who were out of sight on the far side of the coop eventually came bobbing around the corner.

As the chickens gathered, I started tossing the bird seed through the doorway into the hen house and the hens just followed the food. As soon as I counted all six little cluckers in the house, I closed the door and that was the end of their adventure for the day. And mine, too.

So perhaps it wasn't such a monumental task after all, but it does leave me wondering one thing: Would it have been easier or more difficult herding cats instead of chickens?