April 2009

Chair Wars

By Douglas Hunter

We love our Muskoka chairs. But should we really be calling them Adirondacks? The secret history of cottage country’s favourite seat.

Web exclusive: Is this chair the missing link between the Muskoka and the Adirondack? Check out this vintage photo and decide for yourself.

All Together Now

By Kim Pittaway

Three generations and multiple cottages on two islands: more than 50 years of making it all work, while staying happy (and sane).

The Race to Rent

By David Hayes

Renting out your cottage so you can afford to keep it? You’re not alone. But is the hassle and possible heartache worth it? Here’s what you need to know.

Web exclusive: 10 Tips for Renting Your Cottage

Five Plus

By Jane Rodmell

5 staples + 5 (or fewer) extras = yummy meals. You’ll be amazed at what you can do with so little in your cottage cupboard.

Find the recipes from this issue online, plus two bonus recipes for Pork Tenderloin with Balsamic Glaze and Honey Mustard Grilled Salmon.

Just Add Water

By Wayne Lennox

Build your own outdoor shower with these exclusive plans by our project-design expert.

Web exclusive - more photos, our videos, and a link to the enlargement of the shower brackets.

In our online store, purchase the plans as a 7-page PDF that will be e-mailed to you.

Cottage Life Boating 2009

Go with the Slow

By Douglas Hunter

Electric boats are greener and quieter, but are they good for the cottage?

Flotation Advice

By Conor Mihell

15 experts share their best tips for keeping your boat shipshape.

Web links from this story:
- gel coat repairs
- trim and tilt tips
- boat storage
- fuel filter installation

Puttering

Saturday Project: Make a shadowbox
Job Jar: Removing rings on furniture
DIY Weekend: Pruning basics
Stuff We Like: Deluxe vehicle liner
Go Green: Alternative decking
Hit List: Pruning tools

Also in this issue:

On the Waterfront

My favourite runabout; a hit CD of cottage stories; assessments update; a lettuce lady; Don’t Ask Zim!; Reporter; mysterious forest rings; celebrating 20 years of the Cottage Life Photo Contest