It's maple season in Canada, eh!

Even as tough Canadians, every year we look forward to Spring. Not just because the snow will soon be gone (not fast enough!) but because it's tree tapping time!

 If you're not from Ontario or Quebec, you may not be as familiar with this saying or process. When the warm weather approaches, the sap from the Maple Trees start to flow and that deliciously Canadian treat- maple syrup is created. For a more lengthy explanation of the process and how it is made, please visit: http://bit.ly/1eiKF8c.

Every year, we pack the kids up and head to our favourite local sugar bush and pancake house; Drummonds, located in Spencerville, On. Last year, we stood in line for an hour to enjoy this incredible breakfast! With three small children (Then 5, 3 and 2) it was not an easy feat- but well worth the end result. This year, as Drummonds is open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, we opted for lunch with the girls and bypassed the line altogether.

Clearly, the pancakes and the local maple syrup was incredibly delicious- but I highly recommend the maple beans as well. Nick ordered a side of sausages with his lunch and also raved about them. Each of the girls did well with their plates, as the pancakes are very large and really liked the friendly farm boys who waited on our table (and arguably gave the best service we've had at a restaurant). 

The season has just begun and there are a few different pancake houses in the area, but Drummonds happens to be our fave! Make sure you get out and enjoy what our area has to offer!

Taking Steps in Leeds Grenville for Autism Awareness

This past November while I was putting the finishing touches on my annual Trees for Children, children's mental health fundraiser- I met Dee Gordon, a mom from Etobicoke, On. Being the social media maven that I am, it's no surprise that we met over a hashtag on Twitter; that hashtag was "Autism".

Dee had retweeted and and commented on a few of my tweets, then one of her posts caught my eye. She was walking (WALKING!) in January from Toronto to Parliament Hill in Ottawa, On. to collect signatures on a petition for a pan national strategy for Autism. I chatted with her via Twitter, learned that her son Jacob had autism and what a struggle it had been for her over the years. I also learned what a loving and intelligent boy Jacob was and that his mom Dee, was one determined and courageous woman. 

I invited Dee and Jacob to my Trees event, asking her if she would share her story and help spread awareness. Without hesitation, Dee jumped at the chance. We had never met in person and she was so eager to help my local cause- I was in awe of this woman's passion for the cause, from the beginning. 

The day of the event, Dee and her son Jacob woke very early and drove to Maitland, where we were hosting the event at the picturesque Maplehurst Manor. I remember watching her and Jacob from across the room, talking to Brockville Police Chief Fraser and just thinking to myself how this woman was determined to journey out in January and walk over 500km to raise awareness for a cause that is so close to my heart and that of many others. It was then, that I was humbled by this woman, who had made a trip down to my event to share her story.

When speeches came- there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Senator Munson had been gracious to join us and discuss his years of dedication and work with special needs, MPP Lisa McLeod spoke of defeating an opponent but keeping her work alive and championing for more autism awareness and funding. We were also joined by our local MP Gord Brown and MPP Steve Clark, who have been tremendous supporters of Trees for Children since the beginning and who have, since then, continued to support various autism events and work done in the local community. MP Patrick Brown had lent his support by donating rare memorabilia items to our silent auction in order to help raise more money.

 We also had local Backpack Editor and autism mom, Laura Wright break down the stigma attached to being a special needs parent and what many people who deal with this daily do not speak about. Dee Gordon then took the podium and spoke so raw of raising her son, Jacob. The struggles of him being in his 13th school since kindergarten because there were not enough resources to give her son the opportunities he needed and he deserved. Dee spoke with such heart and passion, that every single person in that room was moved and truly felt, if even for a moment- what it must be like to live the reality that is autism. 

Dee and I kept in touch after my event, she headed out for her walk on January 16th, in the very frigid Canadian temperatures. On her journey, Dee changed her route to encompass Leeds Grenville (specifically Gananoque) where she had new friends and supporters. Our local MP Gord Brown had generously ensured Dee had free accommodations along her trip. He wanted to ensure that she was able to rest and bring awareness to a cause so dear to our area, without bringing more financial burden to a woman who has already given so much to help her son. 

We welcomed Dee to Gananoque at the Holiday Inn Express, where she was greeted by MP Brown, MPP Steve Clark (who also started Dee's walk with her at Queens Park), Gananoque Mayor, Ericka Demchuk and Leeds and the Thousand Islands Councillor John Paul Jackson. Among the dignitaries were also supporters of autism awareness and local group Friends for Autism.

Dee continued from Gananoque on her walk. She posted daily about her journey, the people she met and the stories she collected. One after the other- people opened up to her about their challenges and struggles with Autism. They reached out over social media and in person to encourage and let Dee know that she was walking for each one of them and the significance that meant. 

Today, at 12:30- Dee Gordon made it to Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario.The symbolism of her walk has touched people across our province and likely our country as well. She has made countless speeches, discussing the statistics of autism, her personal journey and where she feels we need to go next to help many others who struggle to cope and provide their loved ones with proper care. Dee Gordon never gave up along her walk. She faced intolerable temperatures, weather and even her own health concerns and continued on because in her own words "This is what it is like with Autism. Every day is a challenge". My congratulations and respect to Dee, she is a complete gem and will likely never know the real impact this has had on so many families. THANK YOU.

Art Battle Canada brushes up the city

The winter months in Ontario can really put a damper on our spirits and respective social lives. It is sometimes tough to become motivated to go out in the blustery cold or tread through the feet of snow. Trendy heels turn to clunky boots, extra layers and more overall planning is needed to execute a successful night on the town! In a city that is often referred to as "retirement geared", it can sometimes take a bit of creativity to find new and exciting things to do. 

That's why, when I received a Facebook invite to attend an upcoming "Art Battle" being held at the St. Lawrence  College Art Gallery, I was very excited! Wait, what's an "Art Battle"? I had never been too, or even heard of this type of event (although I do consider myself a fan of the arts and supporter of the local artistic community). 

I knew I  had some research to do, so I checked out Art Battle Canada , where I learned the event is live competitive painting. Painters create the best work they can across three rounds of public painting. The audience then vote for the winners of each round, and the single winner of each event. A National Championship is held at the end of each season, with competitors representing cities across Canada. As it turns out- this was a big thing- and it was coming to our city of Brockville! 

When I arrived- loyal friend and media junkie Jan Murray in tow- this is what was set up. Immediately I felt like I was in another city. This was so forward thinking and fresh. Not that I don't love Brockville, I do- that's why I choose to live here and tirelessly promote it- but this was something I wouldn't have expected. Quickly, the Marianne van Silfhout Gallery filled up with eager patrons. I had introduced myself to the social media correspondent who was covering the event with a live tweet session- which as you know, I love!  Music started to play, a spirits bar was set up and people were connecting- I was completely in my element. 

The event organizer- Jesse McMahon did an incredible job with the Art Battle. She tapped into the artistic community and brought something to our city that was exhilarating and new. Jesse brought together artists and those who appreciate their work, of all ages and walks of life. We have an abundance of incredibly talented artists in our community and surrounding area. Whether they are painters, writers, sculptors, musicians- supporting their work is incredibly important. Having a vibrant artistic community benefits our residents, economy, tourism efforts and overall quality of life! 

 If you missed the first Art Battle Canada, fear not- there is another one set to take place on February 20th, which will also be held at the gallery. Tickets are selling fast- whether you are an art lover or just looking for a fun night out, make sure you go and see this incredible initiative! 

2014- a year in review!

With 2014 having come to a close and the new year freshly upon us, I have found myself reflecting on the year gone by. With my last blog entry in October (and a short one at that!) I admit, it has been a busy one. Although I enjoyed the last year, I already feel this year is a time for bigger goals, personal growth and change. There were many great events that we attended, organized and also some quiet family moments in 2014 and below is just a small snippet.

This past summer,  I organized and held a motorcycle show in benefit of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Brockville General Hospital. It was well received in the community, raised just under $1000 and shows signs of growing in the years to come. The local motorcycle community was a huge help and I look forward to working with them again this year, to broaden the event and make it an even bigger success!

 Our family also enjoyed a beautiful summer in the 1000 Islands, packed with picnics, trips to parks and many bike rides along the Brock Trail. Our city is stunning all year round but truly shines during the summer months. There is never a lack of parks to frequent or active ways to enjoy family time. 

Late summer also saw my fiance, Nick declare his run for Brockville City Council. He was unsuccessful in winning a seat this term but remains positive and ambitious for the next election. For a first run, it was exciting and a learning experience for our entire family. We had wonderful support from our local politicians, family and friends and can only see a successful future.  

Fall in the 1000 Islands is also a beautiful time of year. Although we do many hikes along the 1000 Islands Parkway, Mac Johnston Conservation area and Limerick Forest, we like to to travel to the Gatineau Hills and take in the breathtaking views. The hills offer a change in scenery and a more vigorous hiking challenge.

As always, we try to show our community support when we can. This year, we attended MP Gord Brown's Hockey Night in Leeds Grenville, in support of the United Way. It was a great family event - especially since our girls love hockey!

With winter wrapping up, I hosted my second annual Trees for Children fundraising event. This year we raised $2500 and expanded our list of guest speakers. We welcomed Senator Jim Munson, MP Gord Brown, MP Patrick Brown lent his support, MPP Steve Clark, MPP Lisa McLeod, Autism Advocate and parent Dee Gordon, Friends for Autism and local editor, keynote speaker and autism activist and parent, Laura Wright. The event was held at the elegant Maplehurst Manor and Carriage House and was very well attended and supported. It was a success all around and I cant wait to see what the future brings for this event. 

As I review 2014, I realized it was an incredible year for my family and I. We are fortunate to live in such a convenient and beautiful location. With only a week in with 2015, there have been some big changes personally and professionally. I already feel a shift in goals and anticipate what the year will bring. There are many great events happening in and around our community- I encourage each and every one of you to get out and get involved. Make 2015 a great year!

Mind, Body and Spirit Fair

If you are in the area come celebrate wellness at the 3rd annual Mind, Body, Spirit Fair this Saturday, October 4th from 10am-5pm at the Quality Royal Brock Hotel & Conference Centre in Brockville.
Here you will find an eclectic blend of fascinating people with some interesting services, products, and energy! Come see what's out there, you never know what you might learn or who you'll meet! Crystals, books, jewelry, wellness products, readings, teas, gluten free foods, & more!

Stephanie Forgues, owner of New Leaf Wellness, started the wellness fair three years ago to bring awareness to the natural aspects of living well. She wanted to focus on heart centered people doing what they love and loving what they do, helping people. She also wanted to showcase products and services that are not so recognized and mainstream.
Admission is FREE however, donations to the Leeds & Grenville Interval House are warmly appreciated! Brought to you by Natural Presence Magazine and New Leaf Wellness.

Trees for Children ready to make a difference!

Children's mental health (and mental health causes overall) are very important to my family and I for various reasons. I have been diagnosed with general anxiety disorder since the age of 17 and since then have been an advocate to end stigma and raise awareness. Since becoming a mother, I have been touched with children's mental health issues and continue to learn and evolve- while hoping to continue to raise awareness.

Through this journey, I have met some wonderful families who face the same daily challenges as we do. Both Nick and I are members of a local mental health support group, board members of Friends for Autism and continue to host the Trees for Children charity event, in hopes to lend our support and help where we can.

This past week, I met with Maplehurst Manor, located in Maitland, On. to discuss the upcoming annual Trees for Children fundraiser. Last year was the inaugural event for this children's mental health fundraiser and was received well by the community. Money raised this year will be split between Friends for Autism and A Dog for Drew (which will help a local child receive a therapy dog). The venue - Maplehurst - is sure to wow visitors, supporters and guests of our celebration party!

When I met with Josie (owner of The Brockberry Grill and new owner of Maplehurst Manor) to discuss the event, I asked Ashley Yeldon and April Kuhlman, who head Friends for Autism to join me. Neither had been to the manor and were both floored from the moment they walked in. Maplehurst has undergone some extensive renovations and decorating over the past few years, all while keeping with the tradition and history that it is known for. April and Ashley couldn't get over the elegance and glamour the home exuded and were not only very excited that Trees for Children would be hosted there, but the ladies also made plans for future Friends for Autism events.

That is the thing about Maplehurst Manor, once you have a tour of the main house, carriage house and grounds, plus take in the view- you understand why so many people can't stop talking about this venue.

I look forward to connecting with many people and businesses over the next month, gaining support for the upcoming event. I believe that once the trees, mantles and stunning staircase is decorated to incorporate many festive themes- the manor will come alive with holiday spirit and will be something to marvel at! If you are interested in lending your support to two very deserving local children's groups, please contact me directly to reserve your tree or to purchase tickets to the celebration reception.

(613)803-6501
lindsay@setthebarr.com
https://www.facebook.com/treesforchildren

Let's be Earnest

As many of you know- I am a huge fan of Twitter. One of my favourite things about this social media platform is that it makes it incredibly easy to connect with local people, business and keep informed on what's going on. Recently I had the pleasure of chatting with Riverstone Gananoque and through a Twitter contest, I won tickets to their event at the 1000 Islands Playhouse. What luck!

I had heard rave reviews of "The Importance of Being Earnest" and stoked when I had won two tickets to the closing night show on Saturday evening. Riverstone Gananoque was one of the show's sponsors that evening and was hosting a pre-show cocktail hour. This was a great chance to meet with their Gananoque office team, discuss the plans for the new condos and enjoy an overall great evening. On display were photos of the site plan and various models to showcase this visually stunning development. Nick and I poured over designs and were very excited about this project.

If you're not familiar with the project, I encourage you to check out Riverstone Gananoque's website and also familiarize yourself with The Ivy Club, located in Ivy Lea of the 1000 Islands Parkway and also Gananoque's newest dining experience- Riva (which I've recently blogged about). Both these businesses are a great example of what owner, Joe Pal's completed vision looks like.The team that is bringing you Riverstone has now paired up with  Brennan Custom Homes to continue it's top quality finished product.

I've been to the 1000 Islands Playhouse three times now and each time exceeds my expectations. With a packed house, Creative Director Ashlie Corcoran let us know that "The Importance of being Earnest" has been the highest selling performance over the past five years! Now, after seeing it for myself, I can completely understand why. The characters came alive and took you on an adventure of hilarity and relationship turmoil. Every detail was perfect- including the set changes which were met with much laughter from the entire audience. Earnest was easily the best show I have seen at the playhouse yet and both Nick and I are thrilled to have had the opportunity to go.

Once the entertainment wrapped up, we headed to Riva for a quick drink with one of our good friends, MP Gord Brown. Gord has always been a champion for the town and was happy to hear of our great evening out. The atmosphere at Riva was once again welcoming and the perfect spot to share laughs and stories. If you are headed to the theatre, I recommend it for dinner prior, drinks after- or even both!

I have to say- I am extremely excited for Riverstone to break ground and become part of the Town of Gananoque. Not only will this be a magnificent place to call home - waking up every morning on the famous St.Lawrence River, but it will also increase tourism in the area, help grow the economy and truly showcase what a stunning place Gananoque truly is!

Liana’s Ransom Held Us Captive!

If you are looking for a unique experience on the mighty St. Lawrence River- you have found it with a tour on the Tall Ship “Liana’s Ransom”. Set sail with Captain Tilly and 7 of his crew members for an unforgettable pirate adventure.

Today, I had the pleasure to board the tall ship for their first tour of the day. I was a bit worried with the weather- looking cloudy and as though the sky may open up at any moment- but it held off and the 90 minute tour was incredible. I boarded Liana’s Ransom, an 85 foot, steel hulled schooner and eagerly awaited to set sail from Blockhouse Island on our excursion. Along the way I met up with friends Deidre and her wonderful husband Warren, who were celebrating their anniversary with the tour.

   Many of the people on board were visiting from our Nation’s Capital -Ottawa and area. One lady I spoke with had always wanted to board a Tall Ship and try one of these adventures, she stated it was on her bucket list and was thrilled that this had come to the city of Brockville. Throughout the tour, the captain and crew kept us entertained by telling us the history of the ship, pirate stories and even performing tricks, such as swinging out over the water on the rope! 

I went with my Aunt, Mary Lynn – who is a cruise specialist and travel consultant. I figured she was the best one to check this out with, as she has been aboard many ships and boats. I think she was even more excited than I was- as she volunteered to help hoist the sails, load and fire the cannons and dress up like a pirate! It was way too much fun and I’m really happy that we were able to check it out together.

If you are in Brockville or area, the Liana’s Ransom Adventure is worth the trip. The crew is hilarious and make the voyage an absolute experience-get your tickets today!

The Great Waterfront Trail has gotten me hooked!

Our area has seen a huge increase in cycling tourism over the past few years. As someone who has never cycled much farther than my neighbourhood, I always admired from afar when I saw large groups come to town. I hadn't given much thought to the sport until recently, when a friend mentioned a cycle tour she was doing for the Great Waterfront Trail Adventure.

Kaitlynn Dodge had reached out and let me know about the upcoming cycle tour she was doing. Riding from Brighton, On. to Cornwall, Ontario- a total of 331 KM over a five day period, this ride was going to be a tough adventure but unbeatable when it came to the scenery and experience. There were around 150 registered riders who are taking part of this adventure, which is in it's 7th year. Each year has highlighted a different leg of the trail, with this year being no different. This year is a shorter ride to help accommodate families and less experienced riders- like myself! When the daily leg of the tour was complete, riders would settle at camp (or in hotels for those who wish) and explore the communities. It is a great way to get to know this beautiful area we call home!

When Kaitlynn mentioned the tour and asked if I would ride with them for some of the journey, my heart stopped! I am not physically fit or active on a daily basis. That, and I am also an anxiety sufferer. When you combine all those things, it was terrifying to even think about even taking a leisurely ride. For some reason though, I agreed to join the ride from Gananoque, On to my hometown of Brockville, On - a ride of 47 KM. I suppose it was my competitive nature that made me jump at the challenge, but I am sure happy that I did. Kaitlynn is blogging about her trip at http://www.thekickstandblog.com  - which will give you more insight into a beginners guide to cycling. 

I started training right away, going to Gananoque and riding as far as I could on the trail. The first evening I rode 5.2 KM and couldn't breath when I was finished. My legs felt wobbly, I was sweaty and had no idea what I had just committed too. The next evening I rode again and made it past 7 KM. I was less tired and more eager to get to the next night and beat my personal best. I found that I started looking forward to my nightly rides and to see how far I could ride. 

To date my personal best is 18 KM (which is from Gananoque to the United States Bridge) and I am extremely proud of myself. I am not ready to do the ride tomorrow- as I feel I wouldn't be able to complete it but I am going to continue training on the Great Waterfront Trail until I am able to complete the 47 KM ride. I have learned so much about cycling during this time - the difference between a mountain bike and speed bike, the importance of a helmet, proper stretching and hydration, etc and am looking forward to learning much more! 

What impressed me the most about the Great Waterfront Trail was how serene of a ride it really was. There were parts that were tough for me, but all in all - I found it was a great place to start cycling and highly encourage anyone who is interested in the sport to check it out. Cycle Tourism is gaining popularity and I now know first hand why!  

If you are interested in donating to the Waterfront Regeneration Trust or want to learn more about the Great Waterway Trail Adventure, please check out their website: http://www.waterfronttrail.org

The Newest Destination Hotspot: Gananoque

I have had the pleasure to travel throughout Eastern Ontario, New York State and Quebec over the last few years with my family and for my blog. I have documented some of my favourite restaurants, festivals, hot spots and overall spectacular places to visit- but this past weekend I found my newest favourite and guess what? It’s in our own backyard- Gananoque, On.

Nick and I have driven as far as 8 hours in search of the best food, accommodations and attractions for our date nights. As he travels a lot for work and I’m busy blogging, supporting community events, being a mom and running a business- we truly do covet our date nights. As busy as we are, those who we trust to leave our children with are equally as in-demand. Time is not frequently available, so we make the most of it when we do get it.  That’s why, when my fabulous Aunt offered to take our girls for a night at their farm- we jumped at the chance to book at the newly renovated Comfort Inn and Suites in Gananoque.

I've been eyeing this hotel for months now, seeing it undergo an amazing transformation- I couldn't wait to check it out. We booked a Jacuzzi suite (why not!?) and jetted off for the evening. Upon check-in we were greeted by very friendly staff. The ladies let us know the amenities of the hotel and also informed us of some wonderful near-by attractions, restaurants and other town favourites. We checked into our room and had a short rest before heading to dinner. The room was spacious, immaculately clean and very romantic. We had a fireplace, Jacuzzi tub and wonderful big windows with lots of natural light. Best of all- the King-sized bed! It was so comfortable and full of pillows. I could have stayed in bed all night, but we had dinner reservations at another local hot spot- Riva. Also worth mentioning is their fabulous INDOOR POOL. We didn't get a chance to take a dip, but the pool was always well-attended and looked great. Next time!

Riva, also newly renovated- was a stunning restaurant next door to the Comfort Inn and Suites. This stone building has undergone extensive renovations in the past few years and the completed project is worth the visit alone. Nick and I started with the antipasto platter and spirits. It was complete with local cured meats, cheese and Italian favourites such as olives and spiced green beans.

Next we moved onto the main course, I ordered “brasato di manzo” which is Tuscan-style braised beef short rib, roasted garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal veggies. Writing about this dish simply does not do it justice. If taste could only leap off the page, you would understand how flavorful and tender this dish was. It fell apart as I made my way through and each bite was a taste of heaven. It was THAT good. Nick ordered the ravioli stuffed with ricotta and spinach in a fresh, local tomato cream sauce. He is a huge fan of fresh pasta and said this was the best he has ever had.

Although comfortably full, we had to try dessert (I mean, who wouldn’t?). I ordered the flour-less chocolate cake with walnuts and Nick wanted to try the tiramisu. Both, like the proceeding courses, did not disappoint. It seemed that every detail was important to Riva. From the exceptional service (Thanks Emma!) to the delicious food, laid back and trendy atmosphere - we were very well taken care of and will definitely be back.  

After dinner we had plans to meet with Leeds Grenville MP, Gananoque Businessman and good friend, Gord Brown. Gord had arranged a tasting at the newest attraction, The Gananoque Brewing Company. As he has mentioned great things about the Brewery in the past, we were really looking forward to checking this out. I had never been to a Brewery before so I had no idea what to expect. I have read countless blogs on Brew Pubs and the entire culture that seems to be popping up around them but this was different.

The Gananoque Brewery is not a restaurant or pub. In fact, they don't ever want to be. When talking with Bruce Davis, the owner – he mentioned how the area has a tremendous amount of wonderful eateries that carry his beer and he would never want to compete with them. To Bruce, it is all about supporting local. Even the ingredients in most of his beers are local.  The hops, Wheat and rhubarb (Yep- they have a rhubarb beer!) are all sourced from local farms. Although you can’t eat at the Brewery, you can certainly sample their different brews and soon will be able to see production first-hand. You can find their Beer in the LCBO, GananoqueInn and Spa, Stonewater Gastro Pub, The Socialist Pig and quite a few other great local places. There is also a very cool festival (Gananoque Brewing Company Festival) happening August 22^nd to September 21^st.  You can tour the farms involved, the brewery, check out the markets, the historic mills and enjoy entertainment and local cuisine. It is a “Must-see” on my list of attractions.

After the busy evening, we decided to head back to the hotel, enjoy the room and rest up. The next morning we had planned to check out the Socialist Pig, which in my humble opinion- has the BEST coffee around. We ordered a delish breakfast to share (spiced sausage, fresh eggs, and sautéed potatoes with onions, bacon and ham). It was plentiful, so we were very happy to share and we enjoyed that famous French-pressed coffee. It was the perfect end to our stay in beautiful Gananoque.

I was very impressed with the whole stay. Gananoque has a renowned theatre, popular boat cruises, helicopter tours, great beaches and parks and the Harbour District that we stayed in was the icing on the cake. If you pick one spot to travel to this year- make it Gananoque, Ontario- The Gem of the 1000 Islands!