The Best Charcoal for Winter Grilling on the Big Green Egg

When it comes to winter grilling on the Big Green Egg, choosing the right type of charcoal is crucial. In colder temperatures, you need a charcoal that can ignite easily, burn hot, and maintain consistent heat over long periods. Living in Toronto, you need to adapt if you want to use your Egg all year round. Just because it snows does not mean you ignore the tasty smoke flavours. Here are some of the best options for winter grilling:

My Favourite TV Shows of 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to once again reflect on the year of television we’ve had. For many of us, TV isn’t just a way to unwind after a long day; it’s a shared experience that brings friends and families together, sparks conversations, and even gives us those much-needed moments of escape. Whether you’re juggling work deadlines, school drop-offs, or the endless chaos of parenting, finding the right show to watch can feel like striking gold.

This year in my opinion has been top-heavy for memorable shows, while still providing something for everyone—from gripping dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies to shows that transport you to unknown worlds. I know how precious those rare moments of downtime can be. That’s why I’ve put together this list.

Whether you’re looking for something to binge solo after the kids are in bed or a series you can enjoy with your partner, these shows are sure to deliver. So grab your remote, and let’s dive into my favourite TV shows of 2024.

Teen Slang Decoded: How to Understand What Your Kids Are Saying

As a parent of two teenage boys, I’ve learned that every generation has its own secret code of slang. Growing up, we had words like rad, bogus, and totally. Now? It’s a jungle of phrases like sus, no cap, and rizz. At first, I tried to pretend I understood what my kids were saying. I’d nod vaguely when they called something drip or accused someone of being sus. Eventually, I realized there was a better way to connect with my teens: embrace their slang and use it in the most embarrassing ways possible.

Here’s a guide to some of the hottest teen lingo right now, complete with their meanings and a few tips for how parents like us can hilariously misuse them to horrify our kids.

Why Ham on the Big Green Egg is the Perfect Holiday Choice

When it comes to holiday meals, turkey often takes center stage. But let’s be honest—turkey can be a bit of a diva. It’s notoriously tricky to cook, prone to drying out, and often leaves you stressed over basting schedules and carving techniques. Personally, I can’t remember many turkey dinners, let alone great turkey dinners.

This year, why not switch things up with a flavourful, juicy ham cooked on the Big Green Egg? Not only is ham easier to prepare, but it also brings bold flavors to the table that pair beautifully with holiday sides. Let’s dive into why ham is the better choice and how you can make a show-stopping smoked ham for your holiday feast.

Rekindling the Christmas Spirit: A Dad’s Guide

Ah, Christmas. The time of year when the air is filled with the scent of pine, the sound of jingle bells, and the sight of… teenagers rolling their eyes at your festive enthusiasm. If you’re like me, a dad trying to keep the Christmas spirit alive, you might have noticed that things change as your kids grow older. Gone are the days when they were thrilled by a visit to Santa or a simple string of lights. Now, everything feels a bit more procedural, like we’re all just going through the motions. But fear not. Here are some tips to shake things up and find that elusive holiday magic again.

Rediscovering the Magic: The Best Toys of the 1980s

Growing up in the 1980s was a unique experience, especially when it came to toys. It was a decade filled with innovation and creativity, where every toy seemed to open a new world of adventure and imagination. If you were like me, the arrival of the Sears Wish Book marked the beginning of the holiday season, and it was our guide to the most coveted toys of the year.

The Sears Wish Book was more than just a catalog; it was a gateway to endless possibilities. It was like everything you wanted all packed into one book. For kids today, this was our iPad. I remember spending countless hours flipping through its pages, dreaming about the toys that I would put on my Christmas list to Santa. Among these, Star Wars and G.I. Joe action figures were always at the top.

Winter Grilling Tips for the Big Green Egg

As the temperature drops in Toronto, grilling outdoors might seem like a summer activity, but with the Big Green Egg, you can enjoy delicious BBQ all year round. Winter grilling brings its own set of challenges, but with the right preparation and techniques, you can fire up your Big Green Egg and create mouth-watering meals even in the coldest months. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of winter grilling.

My oh my I miss my Mum’s spaghetti pie

You know how certain foods just stick with you? Not just in the “wow, that was delicious” kind of way, but in the “this is a core memory now” kind of way. For me, it’s spaghetti pies. These little foil-wrapped wonders were a staple of my second year at university, courtesy of my Mum.

The Best BBQ Spots in Toronto for Family Outings

Believe it or not, Toronto is home to a thriving BBQ scene, with plenty of family-friendly spots that cater to both adults and kids. Whether you’re looking for a casual weekend meal or planning a special family outing, these BBQ joints offer something for everyone. From slow-cooked brisket to kid-approved sides, here are 10 of the best BBQ spots in Toronto that will satisfy your cravings while keeping the little ones happy.

Does Prime Video’s Cross Get Alex Cross Right?

As a long-time fan of James Patterson’s Alex Cross series, I was excited to hear that Prime Video was adapting the character into a TV show. However, after watching the first season of Cross, I can’t help but feel that the show misses the mark in capturing the essence of Alex Cross, despite some strong performances. While it offers an entertaining crime thriller, it falls short of portraying the depth and complexity that has made Alex Cross such an iconic character in modern detective fiction. Cross is probably my favourite literary character, so I was going to be a hard person to please regardless. But hey, let’s investigate.