Happi'Ness
Our little slice of HappiNess
It’s true, this place could be a metaphor for happiness. Depending on your level or need, for urbanism.. This may or may not, be your cup of Starbucks. But for myself and bae ( I’ve always wanted to say that ) it is pretty damn soul filling in all its’ snowy winter wonderland, back to nature splendour.
For me this, Ness Creek mini mid winter get away, was just what the doctor ordered. Metaphorically speaking. Frigid temperatures and all.
Our little cabin was perfect and had everything we needed, aside from a bathroom and running water. If you’re into that kind of thing. I mean, whatever.
Not to worry there are flushing toilets and hot showers in another building just a hop skip and a jump away. Maybe two hops, but not far I promise.
There was plenty of cosy heat provided by some electric heaters and a fresh water jug in our kitchenette. I absolutely loved the wall wisdom, hand written with marker or pencil, on the walls and ceiling throughout the cabin.
A few steps away there was a community cabin called Ness Quarters with a washer/dryer and a fully equipped kitchen for communal use.
I brought a slow cooker, why is this something I needed to share? Well, let me tell you - In times of limited kitchen facilities, this or an insta pot can be your one- stop -pot life saving Swiss Army knife. It also helps fill the gap with no BBQ’ing option because in -30, those little tin grills just can’t keep up.
Had mother nature been a little less manic we would have Barbecued for sure. Brad and I really do love our camping( please refer back to bae reference). So this was a perfect little getaway.
One of my favourite little spots amongst all the cozy cabins and Boreal Forest was the warm and comfy straw bale house. Resident care taker Perry kept the wood burning stove going through out the day and past my bedtime, which isn’t saying much. .
It was glorious and oh so warm. Pretty sure I just got a shiver there. This sweet little straw bale house comes equipped with a kettle, fridge, couches, vintage record player, and an arsenal of vinyl for your groovy listening pleasure. When one talks of vinyl records groovy is perfectly acceptable verbiage.
There is also a flat screen TV. But given where we were, and the purpose of our little get away, it just seemed wrong to engage. I think it would have killed that “remote cabin in the woods vibe” Besides we can watch tv at home right?
Wifi is available but I think it works best in Ness Quarters. We didn’t have much of a signal in our cabin, but the cell service was great.
Cross country ski’s and snowshoe rentals are available, and there are plenty of groomed trails for the light of heart, and hard core outdoorsman. Pick and choose your level of pain my friends.
I really wanted to snowshoe but given the temperatures I was talked out of it. Ok fine, not much persuasion was needed.. so we went on a small hike instead. Which I decided was probably harder than the frickin snow shoeing, being the snow was up to my damn knees, (hence the sole purpose of snow shoes) my ski pants were 2 sizes to big, and I felt like I was hiking in a space suit. It was ridiculous, and I need to burn them, never to be worn again. I shall banish them forever.
But all that aside we were submersed in the tranquility of a Northern forest with towering pines, and plenty of fresh air, I was at one with nature - and calories were burned.
The view from our cabin
Sometimes I forget just what Winter in the Sask can offer. I loved our little hike, caught up on some writing, read a book, and played some Scrabble. Perhaps snow shoeing or cross country skiing next time. Without the Ski pants.
We came, we saw, we kicked its’ ass - Sorry, I couldn’t resist. No ass was kicked, but if anyone remembers what movie that is from let me know in the comments below.
Our Ness Creek cabin was perfect and I really can’t wait to go back.
Side note for the “non” Saskatchewan readers - Numerous functions and annual music festivals are held out at Ness Creek in the summer months, when the air is not so Arctic. I hear it can be pretty busy. The beauty would remain the same, but I’m thinking the quality of mid winter tranquility could be affected. Regardless, I’ve never been in the summer months, so don’t take my word for it. I highly recommend arranging your own little adventure to this cool little gem, in Northern Saskatchewan.
Some buildings throughout Ness Creek camp
Thanks for the the love Ness Creek ♡
Frosty nose hair smiles-
xo
TD
A Seasonal Rant With A Side Of Tea
Well I don’t know about you but I’m feeling this whole summer thing came and went way to fast. There has been no gradual easing into the crisp cool of fall.
Leaves are turning scarlet and crimson, they magically lull me into seasonal tolerance. Yes it’s beautiful, but I am never ready to say goodbye to summer. Never.
A list of some of my favourite coping rituals for easing into the fall season, below.
1. Morning coffee on the deck - although this takes place lately in toque, mitts, and a blanket. I stay true to this ritual until there is risk of frozen appendages.
2. Hot tub - It keeps ya toasty warm but still feels like i’m indulging in an outdoor activity.
3. Shopping for fall wardrobe - Although the fall thing is depressing, the shopping is therapeutic. And I always need a new sweater.
4. BBQ’ing - Until -40 and deathly wind chills make this favourite summer past time impossible.
5. Sunday cooking in my kitchen- Fresh summer produce, and cooler temps make Sunday Funday in my cozy kitchen a must.
6. Drink wine - Although not a seasonally specific past time, it goes exceptionally well with all of the activities listed above.
Enjoy -
xo Tam
YOGI TEA
In big soup pot full of water
WholeBlack peppercorns - about 20
Whole cloves - 15’ish
Whole Cardamom pods split (smack with the flat of a knife) about 20
Cinnamon 3 - 5 sticks
Ginger root - no need to peel. Slice the ginger about 8 slices (I keep mine in the freezer)
Black tea bag
Low boil for 30 - 45 minutes
then add tea bag
low simmer for another 30 mins or more depending on how strong you like your tea
Smells amazing!
Strain it through a mesh strainer and discard.
Pour into mason jars - I use a glass 4 cup measuring cup
Store in fridge
Drink hot (reheat in small pot) microwave not recommended.
Just as delicious cold
