While today’s blog might not be considered earth shattering, it might provide some hope for those folks still buried under a mountain of snow. If you’re looking for signs of spring forget the ground hog and head to Costco.

My favourite big box store for cottage accessories is once again for a mecca for cottage “must-haves.” The Hobie Cat wakeboards are back. I can’t say enough good things about these boards. I got mine there two years ago and LOVVVVE it. This year’s price is even lower than last year’s - how do they do it???

Life jackets, kayaks and Muskoka deck chairs for under $40 bucks a chair??? If only we had more deck. Walking into this industrial warehouse in the spring is almost as good as going to the Cottage Life Show. I know summer’s just around the corner when I see these items, including fishing rods, lining the shelves.

The May long weekend is now only 7 weeks away - how exciting is that? For those folks who still have snow on the ground take heart. Once the summer toys arrive at Costco you know spring is just around the corner.

What’s your favourite Costco toy?

Cheers,

Julie

PS - Mine’s my new lawn mower. Now if only I could find a place to fit a trampoline…..

Her pink ski jacket twirls around like a cone in a candy floss machine. Her shrieks of laughter echoed off the forests walls as we stop to stare at her. Her arms are stretched high in the air as her body spins around and around. The tube she is riding in picks up speed with every turn, until it reaches the bottom. Shaking her head she attempts to steady herself and shake off her dizzy fog, as she tumbles out of her tube.

Handing my plastic ring to the attendant, I plunk myself into my own frozen purple circle of fun. I arch my back, taking care to protect my derrieri from any surprise bumps on the ride to the top. The rope jerks, spinning my tube around, as I dragged up the hill to go tubing.

It’s a beautiful blue sky day. We are at Cypress Mountain’s tube park located on Vancouver’s north shore mountains. This is tobogganing at it’s finest. Smooth groomed slopes, with walls high enough to prevent people from crossing over, await us. Attendants hold our tubes while we ready ourselves. There are four of us wanting to go down together. We throw our rope with ring into the tube and then hop in - legs and arms sticking out on 90 degree angles. One hand grasping our own handle and one hand steadying our kids’ handles. Samantha, a young high school student, gives us a big push, launching us down the run. Quickly, we pick up speed. I look over at Jillian, my six-year-old, worried that she is going to start crying, but all I see is a smile, an ear-to-ear grin. The thrills come fast and furious, but before we know it, we’re at the bottom. We pile out, eager to do it again and again.

Snow tubing is one of those activities that anyone can do, provided they’re over four feet tall. All you need are winter boots, warm mitts, hat, ski jacket, snow pants and ideally sunglasses or goggles. According to the Snow Valley website, tubers hit speeds of up to 80 km/hr. Surprisingly no one is wearing helmets, but then again, no one falls out of their tube. Speed and fear are good deterrents. It’s cost about $18 for two hours and includes tube rental.

Our kids love it, but the long line ups for the rope tow dampen their enthusiasm. While Bill and I are eager to keep going, are children are done after two hours. This is a great family activity, or if you have visitors who are getting cabin fever, head for the hills. A word of caution though, we were tubing on a groomed controlled track. If you are sledding or tobogganing anywhere else, wear a helmet especially if it’s icy or there are rocks or trees.

If you are interested in trying it, go to Playday.com, to find a tube park in your area or call your local ski hill to see if they offer it. I’m not sure what is more fun, water tubing or snow tubing, but they both provide a thrilling ride.

Has anyone else tried this ridiculously fun winter activity?

Cheers,

Julie

What are you giving your favourite cottager this year for Christmas? And what are you asking for yourself? I recently posted this question on Cottage Life’s forum and cottagers responded with some interesting gifts. I am sharing a couple of them with you today, including a few of my own. But I would really like to hear from you.

Here they are in no particular order:

The first one is from Debb, (who often leaves great comments on this site)

• Photo-opoly - a game that mimic monopoly, but you use photos of your family on the game board
• Lee Valley’s Rasp & Zest holder - and pretty much anything from that store - cottagers as well as Martha seem to really dig their products
• Siruis Radio (I have XM Satellite and agree, satellite radio is great for the cottage)
• GPS
• Gift Certificates for the Beer Store (Ontario )

Here is my list in case ANYONE is interested

• Malibu or Mastercraft wakeboard boat - does not have to be brand new
• Chantry Island Bathrobe (ladies medium)
• L.L. Bean Hammock with metal frame
• Gift certificates from Chapters & Starbucks (love those Chi Lattes)
• Time - more time. I would love more time to spend with my husband & kids, my awesome nieces and nephews, and my wonderful friends.

If anyone has any great charities or organizations they would like to share with us, please do so. My sister is giving a needy family Christmas dinner instead of buying our mom a gift. Way to go Nat.

That’s my list - now tell us yours.

Cheers,

Julie

The day is bright, clear and sunny as we drive up Capilano road, on our way to the north shore mountains. Heading into higher elevation, the road starts to turn slushy and snowbanks and evergreens line the edges. We follow the winding twisting road. Suddenly the shadowy sky gives way as we enter a snow covered world of Mount Seymour, filled with brilliant blue sunshine. “Welcome to my office,” states Lois Tomlinson, my guide and owner of Natural Trekking, proudly.

Only 25 minutes from downtown Vancouver, lies a snowy mountainous playground. We have come to play. Even though the ski hill has yet to open for the season, the parking lot is full. It seems others are here enjoying the fresh powder too.

Tomlinson makes sure we are well prepared for today’s adventure. Prior to our trip, she advises me on what to wear and what not to wear. “Wool, or polyester tops and bottom should be warn as a base layer, followed by fleece and Gortex. Dress in layers,” she recommends. “Never ever wear cotton. It can accelerate hypothermia and cause death.”

Tomlinson pulls the lightweight metal snowshoes from her bag, along with adjustable ski poles and gaiters, to be worn around our pant cuffs to keep out the white stuff. Weight and height determines the size of a person’s snowshoe. It’s important to factor in the weight of your pack as well. Good snowshoes will have crampons or sharp metal teeth around the bottom of the frame and a big crampon in the toe area. Compared to the old wooden bulky snowshoes I’ve used, these ones are light and feel very flexible when my boot is strapped in. “Snowshoes have come down in price the last couple of years. Expect to pay around $200 - $300 for a pair,” Tomlinson says. “Mountain Equipmnent Co-Op is probably the best place to buy them.”

After adjusting our hats, sunglasses and knapsacks: filled with water, snacks and camera, we are off. The trail has been tramped down, thank God. We start climbing and with a few breaks here and there, don’t stop until we get to the top. The trek, although sweaty, is beautiful. It really should be called snow hiking, because that’s exactly what we’re doing. “It’s actually safer than hiking,” Tomlinson explains. “You’re not going to trip over trees and roots.” Just like hiking though, you can get lost, so it’s recommended that first time snowshoer go with an experienced guide.

The same rules of engagement seem to apply to almost every outdoor activity. Never snowshoe alone. Always tell someone responsible where you are going and when you’ll be back, and be prepared. Tomlinson cautions, “Don’t go light one day, because that will be the day that something happens.” Make sure one of you is carrying:

• a flashlight
• whistle
• candles & matches
• Swiss army knife
• grand sheet - preferably orange so it can be seen
• blanket
• flares
• extra food
• water
• extra clothing

I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed our day on the mountain. Tomlinson is an excellent guide, and her enthusiasm for the sport is contagious. This is a fun activity that anybody, regardless of their age, can do.

Cheers,

Julie

Thirty to forty people will be die this year snowmobiling and more than 300 will be injured, according to Bill Harrison, manager of Safety and Public Education for the Ontario Federation of Snowmobiling Clubs.  The good news, the fatality rate has not changed much in the last 20 years despite the increase in riders. Harrison estimates there are over 200,000 snowmobilers in Ontario alone, who collectively traveled more than 150 million kilometers last year.

“The deaths,” he says, “Are predicable and preventable, and are the result of riders making bad choices. ” When asked what the fatalities can be attributed to, Harrison responds, “Poor riding behavior. Drivers are going too fast, they lose control and then crash into trees, fences or other snowmobiles.”

Alcohol is also factor. Harrison states, “Thirty percent of snowmobiling fatalities are alcohol related. Riding on ice is yet another. People go through the ice and drown, or they hit a pressure crack or a tree stump.” He recommends that people who ride on ice need to be prepared mentally and physically to go through the ice.

“Wear a flotation suit and carry an ice pick. People need to keep their composure if they fall through the ice. Riders will experience a gasp reflex where the air is literally knocked out of them. They will also experience mini paralysis. Riders need to mentally understand this and wait. They will regain their breath and mobility. After that, they have about two minutes to pull themselves up onto the ice before they lose control of their limbs or their hands freeze to the ice. You don’t want to die going through the ice. Check the conditions ahead of time and be prepared.”

Harrison also suggestions snowmobilers use extra caution when riding at night. Night riding is five times more risky than riding during the day, largely due to reduced visibility.

If you’re going to be out snowmobiling this winter, ride on a groomed, clearly marked trail. “On the trail is a totally different environment than off trail, where there is a greater element of risk,” Harrison explains. Ontario boasts over 41,000 kilometers of groomed trail, making it the largest trail system in the world.

If you are interested in getting out and trying snowmobiling this winter, there are snowmobiling clubs across Canada, who offer driver training courses and special events.

“If done properly,” Harrison explains, “Snowmobiling is very safe, fabulous enjoyment with many benefits. It’s just as Canadian as hockey.”

Cheers,

Julie

Some people bemoan the onslaught of winter, while others wait for those first flakes of snow with the giddiness and joy of a three-year-old child. I can’t say I love jack frost nipping at my nose, toes and butt, but I do love playing outdoors. Snowmobiling and cottaging seem to go hand and hand. There are over 200,000 snowmobilers in Ontario alone, who enjoy over 41,000 kilometers of groomed territory, making it the largest managed trail system in the world, according to Bill Harrison, Manager of Safety and Public Relations for the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.

For those folks living in Ontario, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs has dubbed this Get Ready for Snowmobiling Week, so we thought we’d tang along and examine the sport of snowmobiling.

The first snowmobile was invented by Joseph Armand Bombardier, a Quebec inventer, in 1937. It rolled out of his small repair shop in Valcourt, Que. giving birth to a new winter sport and a legendary Canadian company. It would not be until 1959 when he would refine his design to what is known today as the modern snowmobile, with an open cockpit, and one or two passenger seating.

Bombardier was trying to create a practical device that would replace the dog sled for trappers. He originally coined the new machine the “Ski-Dog,” but somewhere between marketing and printing the stem fell of the g, by the time Bombardier discovered the mistake it was too late to change it. The Ski-Doo was born.

Around the same time, Edgar and Allen Hetteen and David Johnson of Roseau, Minnesota were also building a more practical snowmobile. The early machines were too heavy (1000 lbs or 450 kg), and too slow (20 mph or 30 km/h). Their company, Hetteen Hoist & Derrick Co., would later became Polaris Industries and remains one of the four largest snowmobile manufacturers.

Snowmobiling hit its peak in terms of sales between 1970 - 1973 when over 2 million machines were sold. Many snowmobile manufactures were forced out of business in 1973 as a result of high gasoline prices and the ensuing recessions.

Snowmobiling is still considered a lucrative sport today, pumping more than $2.1 billion into the winter economy in Ontario. In Canada and the United States it generates more than $28 billion in revenue for equipment, clothing, accessories and vacations.

On average 30 - 40 people die each year in snowmobile related deaths. According to Harrison, “Most snowmobile incidents are predictable and preventable.” We will take a look at what causes the fatalities, and how cottagers can avoid them.

Cheers,

Julie

PS Today’s picture comes from the CBC’s website.

If you had to pick your favourite cottage toy what would it be? Your boat, Jet Ski, wakeboard, fishing rod, or maybe it’s your hammock. Cottages are our playground, and the lake, our sandbox. I firmly believe you can never have too many toys.

Our newest toy, an air hockey table, is proving to be the most popular one yet. It is an excellent choice for those who cottage year round. Anyone can play it, but you do need two people. While air hockey might not be your typical cottage toy, trust me, if you have the space this is a good pick.

Although they are very bulky, they are easy to assemble - just make sure you know how to operate a power drill. I recently purchased ours at the Superstore for $178.00 plus tax, but other stores, like Sears, also stock them. Note - Costco does not.  Our table is 72 inches long and stands about four feet high, and has a digital display to record goals. It fits nicely into our basement.

What is so surprising is that four-year-old girls, as well as 50-year-old men, enjoy playing this game.

I think this would make an excellent family Christmas present and might give the kids a much needed break from their Playstation. I didn’t think you could break a sweat playing this sport, that is until I played my sister. Caution should be used when playing family members, especially older siblings, like your 43-year-old sister.

We are planing a “tournament” over the holidays and are inviting our friends to sign up. I wonder how many calories I could burn playing air hockey?

If you have purchased any new toys for the cottage, or are considering some for Christmas gifts, we would love to hear what they are, and who they’re for.  And if my husband is reading this, the keys to a new Malibu wakeboard boat would fit nicely into my stocking.
Cheers,

Julie

Note - the photo shown above is taken from the Sears website.

“Hit It!” This past weekend the big and the little took to the water, dragging their parents and friends with them. Boat after boat criss-crossed lakes throughout cottage country, pulling and sometimes dragging water skiers and wanna-be skiers. With the spotter yelling words of encouragement, some made it up out of the water, while others - submarined.

Getting up on water skis is no easy feat, especially if you’re a beginner. Fortunately for little kids, their skis have been modified to help with the whole process. Shorter, wider and with two bars, one in the front to keep the skis from crossing, and one in the back to keep them from separating, they stand a much better chance of making it up (pictured above). They also come with two handles - one for the skier and one for the spotter.

Newer skis come with training DVDs, and as six-year-old, Jarred told me, “I watched the video and learned how to do it.” It must work because he made it up on his first try. Kid’s skis retail for approx. $250 and can be found at any boating store or marina. For the older crowd, sorry, there are no trainers - but go back and check out “Brand New Boards” blog.

But regardless of age, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when starting out with a beginner:

• Make sure they are dressed appropriate - little kids get cold fast, they are also nervous - so if they have a wet-suit make sure their wearing it.

• If at first you don’t succeed - stop after a couple of tries - take a break and try again. It’s hard work and newbies tire quickly. We will try starting a skier off the dock and in the water, but in the water seems to work the best.

• Good idea to have someone in the water with the skier - calm them down, fetch the rope, turn them over if they turtle.

If all else fails, there is always water-ski camp. If you live on Vancouver Island, WSWBC Water Ski Training Camp has an upcoming camp from August 25 - 28. This four day camp costs $500 and is coached by Clint Baikie. For more information go to Waterski and Wakeboard British Columbia.

For all those folks how tried and failed this weekend, don’t be discouraged. Watch the DVD and get back out there, as the 4-H motto goes, “Learn to do by doing.”

PS - it’s always a good thing to help chip in and pay for gas, new skiers go through a lot of fuel.

Cheers,

Julie

With his head barely above the wave, five-year-old Dawson Foreman, road the three-foot wake to victory this past weekend. He and his brothers were competing in the BC Wakeboard Championships held at McIvor Lake, Campbell River. With clenched teeth, and a look of steely determination in his eyes, he hung on to the 75 foot rope and managed to make it through the course with no falls - something the older novices is his class couldn’t pull off. Dawson, the youngest competitor, was just one of the many boarders who impressed the judges and wowed crowds with their strength and courage.

Over the next couple of days we will be showing pictures and videos from Sunday’s competition.

If you think you are too young or too old to compete in these events, held up and down Vancouver Island and throughout British Columbia and across Canada, think again. You don’t need to own a cabin or have a fancy Malibu wakeboard boat. What you really need is courage and the willingness to get wet and take some falls. The clubs offer water skiing, wakeboarding and wakeskating  instructions.

You do need to register. The cost to join Water Ski and Wakeboard British Columbia is $60, for a family and $35 for singles. Check out the site to find a club in your area and get ready to have some fun. The coaches and participants are very friendly and welcoming and especially patient with the younger members. It’s a great way to teach your kids to water ski, wakeboard and wakeskate.

Who knows, maybe you will be competing in next year’s championships.

Cheers,

Julie