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December 12, 2025
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Author: Michael Hardy

Michael is a travel writer and local historian. His work can be found on a number of websites and print publications.
5 beautiful great lakes islands to explore
Travel

5 Beautiful Great Lakes Islands to Explore

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyNovember 23, 2025November 23, 2025

The Great Lakes, a breathtaking expanse of freshwater, are home to some of the most stunning islands just waiting to be explored. From the serene …

10 joys of a cottage life in minnesota
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10 Joys of a Cottage Life in Minnesota

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyNovember 23, 2025November 23, 2025

Experience the charm of rustic living with our exploration of the top 10 joys of a cottage life in Minnesota. Nestled between the serene Boundary …

7 simple wildlife photography tips for late-fall – a cottage season guide
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7 Simple Wildlife Photography Tips for Late-Fall – A Cottage Season Guide

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyNovember 5, 2025November 5, 2025

Late-fall brings calm light, steady wildlife, and quiet shores. These simple photography tips help cottage guests capture birds, deer, and small animals as the Great Lakes settle toward winter.

Cottage reading list – warm hearth books for off-season lake life
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Cottage Reading List – Warm Hearth Books for Off-Season Lake Life

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyNovember 4, 2025November 4, 2025

Cold months at the cottage call for quiet mornings, warm fires, and a good stack of books. This reading list brings novels, history, and gentle nature writing that pair with off-season lake life across the Great Lakes.

Cottage maintenance before snowfall – last-minute checklist
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Cottage Maintenance Before Snowfall – Last-Minute Checklist

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyNovember 4, 2025November 4, 2025

Before the snow flies, spend one last weekend getting your Great Lakes cottage ready for winter. This easy checklist covers p

Great lakes cabin rentals with fireplaces for a cozy november stay – 10 wonderful regions
Travel

Great Lakes Cabin Rentals with Fireplaces for a Cozy November Stay – 10 Wonderful Regions

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyNovember 3, 2025November 3, 2025

From Lake Superior’s cliffs to Ontario’s wine coast, these Great Lakes cabin rentals invite you to slow down, stay warm, and enjoy November’s quiet beauty beside a crackling fire.

10 scenic great lakes fall colors drives for peak colors and marvelous exploring – downloable route maps
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10 Scenic Great Lakes Fall Colors Drives for Peak Colors and Marvelous Exploring – Downloable Route Maps

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyOctober 14, 2025October 14, 2025

Cool mornings, golden forests, and calm lakes define autumn around the Great Lakes. These ten scenic drives capture the season’s beauty, from Michigan’s M-22 to Ontario’s rugged shorelines, offering the best routes for peak fall colors and lakeside charm.

How to winterize your great lakes cottage – 7 must-do steps before winter strikes
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How to Winterize Your Great Lakes Cottage – 7 Must-Do Steps Before Winter Strikes

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyOctober 2, 2025October 2, 2025

Winter is brutal on lakefront cottages. This step-by-step guide helps you winterize Great Lakes cottage properties—covering plumbing, pests, heating, and structural prep.

Improve cottage energy savings by line drying clothes
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Improve Cottage Energy Savings by Line Drying Clothes

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyMarch 12, 2025March 12, 2025

Switching from electric dryers to air drying could save cottage owners thousands while cutting emissions, a new study finds. Why Cottage Owners Should Rethink Their …

The appeal of tiny cabin living in ohio
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The Appeal of Tiny Cabin Living in Ohio

Michael Hardyby Michael HardyFebruary 17, 2025February 17, 20251

Tiny cabin living in Ohio s gaining popularity as more people seek affordable getaways, minimalist lifestyles, and nature-focused retreats. With its diverse landscapes ranging from …

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Best practices using an ozone generator in your cottage or cabin

5 Steps For Using An Ozone Generator In Your Cottage or Cabin – Quickly Zap Musty Smells

September 16, 2024September 16, 2024
Firefly a vibrant photo of a cozy log cabin set in a forest showcasing warm wooden beams and large

This Log Home Show Will Make You Want to Trade Your House for a Cabin

October 20, 2024October 20, 2024
Tiny cabin life in ohio

The Appeal of Tiny Cabin Living in Ohio

February 17, 2025February 17, 2025
"southern illinois cabins

Lakefront Cabin Rentals in Illinois – Why This State Should Be on Your Cabin Getaway Radar

January 16, 2025January 17, 2025
Cottage

Off the Grid in Your Cabin Or Cottage – 6 Areas to Master For Marvelous Lake Living

April 15, 2024April 17, 2024
Beaver island lighthouse

5 Beautiful Great Lakes Islands to Explore

November 23, 2025November 23, 2025
Image 4

10 Joys of a Cottage Life in Minnesota

November 23, 2025November 23, 2025
A house with solar panels on the roof

What It Takes for Off-Grid Cabin Living – Thrive in Style Remotely

November 5, 2025November 5, 2025
Wildlife photography tips,

7 Simple Wildlife Photography Tips for Late-Fall – A Cottage Season Guide

November 5, 2025November 5, 2025
Cottage reading list

Cottage Reading List – Warm Hearth Books for Off-Season Lake Life

November 4, 2025November 4, 2025
Temporary Email - Off the Grid in Your Cabin Or Cottage – 6 Areas to Master For Marvelous Lake Living

Your blog has quickly become one of my favorites I always look forward to your new posts and the insights…

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