Travel Den

The river is so quiet right now, and it's incredibly peaceful here in the morning, especially with the fresh snow. The world seems to slow down when it snows like this, and everything gets quiet. I'm thinking about going for a swim, but honestly, I'm a little nervous because it's really cold out here. I will share the video end of this article.

Good morning, everyone! Welcome back to another video from my cozy little spot in the mountains. We've been getting so much snow lately, and this time of year always brings the heaviest snowfalls. There's something so comforting about being in a warm house, sipping on tea, and looking out at the snowy, cold landscape.

Embracing Winter's Peaceful Moments in the Mountains

I love waking up in the dark and turning on the lights to see the fresh snow that fell the night before. These weeks have been so peaceful, with nothing urgent to do, and I've found myself moving slower, taking in the quiet moments. Winter teaches us to slow down and be patient. As much as I love the snow, I can't wait for warmer, sunny days, but for now, I'm just trying to appreciate where I am and what I have in this moment.

It's around 5:00 a.m. right now, and I've been waking up early like this for the past few months. There's something magical about the winter nights—the stars are so bright, and the world feels enchanted, especially when it's snowing outside. It's so quiet, and I really love that.

There's nothing better in life than a warm fire and a hot cup of tea on a cold morning like this. It's about -5°F right now, but the other night, it got down to -20°F, which was so cold. But there's something indescribable about taking a deep breath of cold air—it feels like it cleanses your lungs from the inside out.

It's been an interesting few weeks here in the mountains. We had a crazy freeze where it got down to -20°F, which is the coldest I've ever experienced. All our pipes froze, even though I spent a lot of time in the fall wrapping them up with heat tape. Surviving winter is all about staying on top of things, especially in the kitchen. For me, that means always having something fermenting, soaking, or prepping.

At this point in the year, we're limiting trips to town because the roads are covered in ice and snow. It took us almost two hours to get to town the other day, which meant four hours of driving total. So, it's really important for me to stay on top of making sourdough and bread because bread and soup have been our go-to meals this winter. I probably make soup three times a week, and on the other days, we're eating leftover soup. It's the easiest and most nourishing thing, and soup ingredients like carrots, onions, potatoes, and garlic last a long time in the fridge and pantry.

In this valley, there are so many apple farmers, and a friend of mine gave me some apples a couple of weeks ago. I was going to make apple butter but decided instead to press them into cider. Fresh-pressed apple cider is my favorite taste of all time—it's like drinking candy. If you've ever had fresh apple cider, you know what I'm talking about. It's seriously so good.

I made a loaf of bread earlier, and we had it tonight with a white bean and mushroom stew. I also heated up some of the apple cider with cinnamon and orange, and it was the best thing ever.

So, instead of buying new clothes this year, my plan is to sew all the clothes I need. Right now, I'm working on some pieces for spring when the weather starts to warm up. Last week, I made a long-sleeved dress and an apron, and this week, I'm going to make a short-sleeved dress that's a little bit shorter, just below the knee. I also want to try adding buttons to a dress, so I searched on Pinterest for some inspiration and found exactly what I was imagining.

I want all these dresses to look old-timey, like something you might find in your grandma's closet. I was really excited to start this project because I found some fabric at the store the other day and fell in love with it. It's 100% cotton, and it was on sale for only $5 a yard. I bought four yards, so I only spent $20 on the fabric for this dress. The dress I'm trying to copy from Pinterest was listed at $245, even on sale, so if I can make a similar dress, I'll be very proud of myself.

It was snowing so much this week, and I can't explain how cozy it was to work on this sewing project in my little art studio while watching the snowfall outside. Watching snowfall in general is just so peaceful, and having projects like these keeps me inspired during these very cold winter months.

I want to quickly talk about the sponsor of this video, BetterHelp. Thank you so much to BetterHelp for sponsoring this video. BetterHelp makes starting therapy easier and much less intimidating for a lot of people. They offer sessions via phone call, video call, or even messaging, whichever you prefer. BetterHelp can match you with one of over 30,000 therapists in their network based on your needs, preferences, and location, giving you access to a wider range of expertise than you might find locally.

To get started, you fill out a questionnaire about the challenges you're facing, and BetterHelp matches you with a therapist who can help. Most people are matched within 48 hours. You can schedule sessions at a convenient time, and if your therapist isn't the right fit, you can switch at no extra cost with just a click. Join over 4 million people who have used BetterHelp and start living a healthier, happier life today. You can click the link in the description or go to betterhelp.com/Isabel for 10% off your first month. Clicking that link helps support this channel, and you can connect with a therapist to see if it helps you.

So, I had to redo the top part of the dress because it didn't fit right, but I finally finished it, and I'm really happy with how it turned out. This afternoon, a couple of friends are coming over for coffee, so I decided to make a cinnamon roll star bread. I had this dough fermenting all night, and now I'm shaping it into the star. I've been trying to think of different things to make using limited ingredients since not much is in season and it's not easy to go to town.

This bread turned out really yummy, and I'll leave the recipe in the description if you want to try making it. I'm also surprised by how much the bread rose, considering I used 100% home-milled flour. When I first got my mill, I wasn't sure what to make with the flour because it's pretty dense whole wheat, and most recipes call for all-purpose flour. But you can make your own all-purpose flour, and it works really well. A lot of people don't realize how versatile a mill can be.

Since we don't have running water in the house right now, I'm refilling big containers and pots with water, warming them up on the stove, and then using them to wash dishes. I'll put soap in one pot for scrubbing and use another pot for rinsing. I ran out of all-purpose flour a few days ago, and I won't be going to town for another week, so I'm making my own all-purpose flour by milling wheat berries and sifting out the bran. I sifted the flour twice to get something close to all-purpose flour, and it works well for baked goods.

Right now, I'm making a batch of kombucha. I've been trying to grow this scoby stronger and get back into the habit of making kombucha because it's so nice to have a cold, fermented drink in the fridge. It just makes life better, honestly.

This is the time of year when I start to feel a little stir-crazy, and I'm so grateful for planning a couple of trips in February. It feels like I'm counting down the days until I leave. Don't get me wrong, I love it here, and I love the winter and snow, but living in such a small space makes me feel a little claustrophobic, and I just need to get out of here soon.

Tonight, I'm making a soup that my grandma taught me, and it's so yummy. The recipe is in my latest cookbook if you want to try it. I also made the best batch of focaccia bread I've ever made. I added a lot of water to the dough, about 90% hydration, and left it in the fridge for 24 hours to proof. I love this kind of bread, and I love Italian food in general. My partner, Logan, is Italian, and I'm always trying to convince him to move to Italy with me. I want to live in a place where people appreciate food as much as I do, but it would be hard to leave my family behind.

This is the bread I made yesterday, and now I'm shaping it into sourdough donuts. As much as I love living in the middle of nowhere, I'm starting to seriously consider moving closer to a city and opening a bakery. I've been thinking about this idea for almost a year, and the fact that I'm still inspired by it means I should probably just go for it. The only thing holding me back is the initial money investment and the idea of taking out a loan, which scares me.

A week later, and I'm bottling up the kombucha for its second ferment. I'm adding some of the apple cider I pressed to make apple kombucha. I'll leave it on the table for its secondary ferment for around two to three days, and I'm really hoping it doesn't explode on me. It's happened before, and once, a cider exploded so badly that my brothers. Watch on Youtube My Life in Mountain on this Winter.

Ontario, Canada's most populous province, has long been considered the economic engine of the country. With its diverse economy, strategic location, abundant natural resources, and highly skilled workforce, Ontario has emerged as a true powerhouse that drives much of Canada's economic growth and prosperity. This article explores the historical, geographical, and policy factors that have contributed to Ontario's rise as an economic juggernaut within the Canadian federation.

Early Foundations: From Colony to Province

Ontario's journey towards economic dominance began long before it became a province. Originally part of the British colony of Upper Canada, the region that would become Ontario benefited from its strategic location along the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. These waterways provided crucial transportation routes for early trade and commerce, setting the stage for future economic growth.

The province of Ontario was officially established in 1867 with the creation of the Canadian Confederation. From its inception, Ontario held significant advantages:

Natural Resources: The province was blessed with abundant forests, fertile agricultural land, and rich mineral deposits.

Geographic Location: Situated at the heart of the country, Ontario had access to both Atlantic and inland waterways, facilitating trade.

Population: Ontario attracted a steady stream of immigrants, providing a growing labor force and consumer base.

These factors laid the groundwork for Ontario's future economic success, but it was the province's ability to capitalize on these advantages that truly set it apart.

Industrialization and Economic Diversification

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw Ontario undergo rapid industrialization. The province's abundant natural resources fueled the growth of various industries:

Timber and Paper: Ontario's vast forests supported a booming timber industry, which evolved into paper and pulp production.

Mining: Rich mineral deposits led to the development of mining communities across Northern Ontario, with nickel, gold, and other minerals becoming major exports.

Agriculture: The fertile lands of Southern Ontario became the country's breadbasket, producing a wide variety of crops and supporting a strong agricultural sector.

Manufacturing: Cities like Toronto, Hamilton, and Windsor became manufacturing hubs, producing everything from textiles to automobiles.

The province's strategic location also played a crucial role in its industrial growth. Proximity to the United States market and access to transportation networks allowed Ontario-based businesses to expand their reach beyond provincial borders.

Post-World War II Boom

The period following World War II marked a significant turning point for Ontario's economy. Several factors contributed to the province's explosive growth during this era:

Auto Industry: The auto pact with the United States in 1965 led to massive investments in Ontario's automotive sector, particularly in cities like Windsor and Oshawa.

Immigration: A new wave of skilled immigrants arrived in Ontario, providing the labor force needed to fuel economic expansion.

Infrastructure Development: Significant investments in highways, public transit, and energy infrastructure supported economic growth and improved connectivity.

Education: The expansion of universities and colleges across the province created a highly skilled workforce and fostered innovation.

Financial Services: Toronto emerged as a major financial center, rivaling Montreal and eventually becoming Canada's financial capital.

This period of growth solidified Ontario's position as Canada's economic leader, a status it has maintained to this day.

Adapting to Global Changes

As the global economy evolved, so too did Ontario's. The province demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of changing economic realities:

Shift to Services: As manufacturing declined in importance globally, Ontario successfully transitioned towards a more service-oriented economy.

Technology and Innovation: The province invested heavily in research and development, fostering a thriving tech sector in areas like Kitchener-Waterloo.

Green Energy: Ontario became a leader in renewable energy, particularly in wind and solar power generation.

Creative Industries: Toronto, in particular, emerged as a hub for film, television, and digital media production.

International Trade: The province leveraged its strategic location and diverse economy to become a major player in international trade, particularly with the United States.

Key Policies and Initiatives

Ontario's economic success is not solely the result of its natural advantages. Successive provincial governments have implemented policies and initiatives that have fostered growth and innovation:

Education Investment: Consistent funding for education at all levels has created a highly skilled workforce capable of adapting to changing economic conditions.

Research and Development Support: Programs like the Ontario Research Fund have encouraged innovation and attracted high-tech industries to the province.

Infrastructure Development: Ongoing investments in transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure have supported economic growth and improved quality of life.

Business-Friendly Policies: Competitive tax rates and targeted incentives have attracted businesses and encouraged entrepreneurship.

Diversity and Inclusion: Ontario's welcoming stance towards immigrants and emphasis on multiculturalism has created a diverse and dynamic workforce.

Environmental Leadership: The province's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development has positioned it as a leader in the growing green economy.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite its economic prowess, Ontario faces several challenges that could impact its future growth:

Income Inequality: The benefits of economic growth have not been evenly distributed, leading to growing income disparities.

Housing Affordability: Particularly in the Greater Toronto Area, rising housing costs pose a significant challenge for many residents and could impact the province's ability to attract and retain talent.

Aging Infrastructure: Much of the province's infrastructure, particularly in older urban areas, requires significant investment to modernize and maintain.

Global Competition: Ontario must continue to innovate and adapt to maintain its competitive edge in an increasingly globalized economy.

Climate Change: The province will need to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability in the face of growing climate concerns.

Despite these challenges, Ontario's economic future remains bright. The province is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging industries such as artificial intelligence, clean technology, and advanced manufacturing. Its diverse economy, highly educated workforce, and strategic location continue to make it an attractive destination for investment and innovation.

Moreover, Ontario's economic influence extends far beyond its borders. As Canada's most populous province and largest economy, Ontario's performance has a significant impact on the national economy. The province's success in navigating economic transitions and fostering innovation serves as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.

Conclusion

Ontario's journey to becoming Canada's economic powerhouse is a testament to the province's ability to leverage its natural advantages, adapt to changing economic realities, and implement forward-thinking policies. From its early days as a resource-based economy to its current status as a diverse, innovation-driven powerhouse, Ontario has consistently demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to growth.

The province's success story is not just about numbers and statistics; it's about the millions of Ontarians who have contributed to building a dynamic and prosperous economy. From farmers and factory workers to tech entrepreneurs and financial professionals, the people of Ontario have been the true drivers of the province's economic success.

As Ontario looks to the future, it faces both challenges and opportunities. The province will need to address issues such as income inequality, housing affordability, and environmental sustainability while continuing to foster innovation and attract investment. However, if history is any indication, Ontario is well-equipped to meet these challenges head-on and maintain its position as Canada's economic engine for generations to come.

The story of Ontario's economic rise is, in many ways, the story of Canada's growth as a nation. As the province continues to evolve and adapt to the changing global landscape, its success will remain crucial not just for Ontarians, but for all Canadians. With its strong foundations, diverse economy, and innovative spirit, Ontario is poised to remain at the forefront of Canada's economic future, driving growth, creating opportunities, and shaping the nation's prosperity for years to come.

Hidden Gems in Canada: Exploring the Great White North's Best-Kept Secrets

Canada, the second-largest country in the world by land area, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities. While many travelers are familiar with iconic destinations like Banff National Park, Niagara Falls, and Vancouver, the country is brimming with lesser-known treasures waiting to be discovered. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through some of Canada's hidden gems, from coast to coast to coast.

The Maritimes: Atlantic Canada's Coastal Wonders

Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador

Off the northeast coast of Newfoundland lies Fogo Island, a remote haven that perfectly balances rugged wilderness with contemporary art and design. The island is home to the striking Fogo Island Inn, an architectural marvel that has put this once-quiet fishing community on the map. Visitors can explore hiking trails, observe icebergs and whales, and immerse themselves in the unique culture of this isolated community.

Joggins Fossil Cliffs, Nova Scotia

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Joggins Fossil Cliffs offer a glimpse into life on Earth 300 million years ago. The eroding cliffs continuously reveal fossilized remnants of the world's first reptiles and amphibians. A visit to the on-site museum and a guided tour of the beach provide an unforgettable journey through time.

Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

While not entirely unknown, the Hopewell Rocks remain an underappreciated natural wonder. These unique rock formations, sculpted by the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy, can be explored on foot at low tide or admired from kayaks when the water rises. The dramatic change in water levels throughout the day makes for a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.

Quebec: French-Canadian Charm Beyond Montreal and Quebec City

Îles de la Madeleine

This archipelago in the Gulf of St. Lawrence offers a unique blend of Acadian and Québécois cultures. With its colorful houses, red sandstone cliffs, and golden beaches, the islands provide a picturesque setting for activities like windsurfing, kayaking, and sampling local delicacies such as fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses.

Parc national de la Gaspésie

Located on the Gaspé Peninsula, this park is a paradise for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. Home to the highest peaks of the Appalachian Mountains in Quebec, it offers breathtaking views and the chance to spot caribou, moose, and white-tailed deer. The park is particularly stunning in autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Ontario: Natural Wonders Away from the Urban Centers

Bruce Peninsula National Park

While Ontarians may be familiar with this gem, many international visitors overlook the crystal-clear waters and limestone cliffs of the Bruce Peninsula. The park offers excellent hiking along the Bruce Trail, opportunities for scuba diving in Fathom Five National Marine Park, and the chance to stargaze in one of Canada's dark sky preserves.

Thousand Islands

Straddling the border between Ontario and New York State, the Thousand Islands region is a scenic wonderland of over 1,800 islands dotting the St. Lawrence River. Visitors can take boat tours, stay in historic castles, and explore quaint riverside towns. The area is particularly famous for its fishing and is the birthplace of the popular Thousand Island salad dressing.

The Prairies: More Than Just Wheat Fields

Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba

This oasis of wilderness in the midst of prairie farmland offers a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, and lakes. The park is home to a thriving population of black bears, elk, and bison. Clear Lake, at the heart of the park, provides excellent opportunities for boating and beach activities in the summer months.

Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan

One of the few remaining areas of undisturbed prairie grasslands in North America, this park offers a unique opportunity to experience the landscape as it was before European settlement. Visitors can spot bison, prairie dogs, and endangered species like the burrowing owl. The park is also an ideal location for stargazing, with some of the darkest skies in Canada.

The Rocky Mountains: Beyond Banff and Jasper

Yoho National Park, British Columbia

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Banff and Jasper, Yoho National Park is a hiker's paradise with turquoise lakes, thundering waterfalls, and towering peaks. The park is home to the Burgess Shale fossil beds, one of the most significant fossil discoveries in the world, offering insight into marine life from over 500 million years ago.

Kootenay National Park, British Columbia

Another gem in the Canadian Rockies, Kootenay National Park features diverse landscapes ranging from glaciers to grasslands. The park is known for its hot springs, colorful canyons, and abundant wildlife. The Paint Pots, mineral springs that have stained the earth vibrant orange, yellow, and red, are a unique attraction within the park.

The Pacific Coast: Vancouver Island's Hidden Treasures

Tofino and Clayoquot Sound

While Tofino has gained popularity in recent years, it still retains much of its rugged charm. This small town on the west coast of Vancouver Island is surrounded by ancient rainforests and wild beaches. It's a haven for surfers, storm-watchers, and nature lovers. The nearby Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, and exploring pristine wilderness.

Strathcona Provincial Park

Located in the heart of Vancouver Island, Strathcona is British Columbia's oldest provincial park. It offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from hiking and rock climbing to canoeing and fishing. The park's diverse ecosystems range from alpine meadows to old-growth forests, and its numerous lakes and waterfalls provide endless opportunities for exploration.

The North: Canada's Final Frontier

Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is centered around the South Nahanni River and features deep canyons, huge waterfalls, and a unique karst landscape. The park is a paradise for adventurers, offering opportunities for whitewater rafting, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Virginia Falls, nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls, is a highlight of the park.

Auyuittuq National Park, Nunavut

Located on Baffin Island, Auyuittuq (which means "the land that never melts" in Inuktitut) offers a true Arctic wilderness experience. The park features granite peaks, glaciers, and fjords, and is home to polar bears, Arctic foxes, and caribou. While challenging to access, it provides unparalleled opportunities for hiking, skiing, and experiencing Inuit culture.

Conclusion

These hidden gems represent just a fraction of the incredible experiences Canada has to offer beyond its well-known attractions. From the rugged coastlines of the Maritimes to the arctic tundra of Nunavut, Canada is a country of immense diversity and natural beauty. By venturing off the beaten path, travelers can discover the true essence of the Great White North, connecting with its wild landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm, welcoming communities.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking unique and authentic experiences, Canada's hidden gems provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. As you plan your next Canadian adventure, consider incorporating some of these lesser-known destinations into your itinerary. You'll not only avoid the crowds but also gain a deeper appreciation for the vast and varied tapestry that makes up this remarkable country.

Best Places to Visit in Canada - List of top places in Canada where people travel to enjoy their leisure. Though most of the people know about these places but we are mentioning all of them only for people who want to go there, here is the destinations where to visit in Canada.










These top places of Canada are listed with the popularity of most of the traveler visited there.

Canada is the country of peace and tourism though its so far from most of the countries and its beside USA and Russia but it have huge traveller. So let us show the Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Canada.

Best Tourist Attractions in Canada