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“Good morning! Over the years, life has taught me that the simplest things—like the scent of fresh-turned soil, the warmth of wood under your hands, or the flow of words on a blank page—often hold the greatest lessons.

Today, Tuesday, November 19, 2024, in Port Loring, Ontario, we’re looking at a high of 46°F (8°C) under low clouds. As evening approaches, temperatures will dip to around 41°F (5°C). Moving into Wednesday, November 20, expect rather cloudy skies with a bit of rain, mainly early in the day, reaching a high of 48°F (9°C) and a low of 38°F (3°C).

The temperature at the time of this post was sitting at 0.3 C | 32.54 F.

On another note, my wife and I decided to take a trip to North Bay yesterday to pick up a few things. We had ourselves a fine day, taking in the sights of the city, stocking up on groceries, and treating ourselves to a pizza at East Side Mario’s. They make one great Canadian Pizza! Afterward, we headed back home, enjoying what nature had to offer along the way—which, I have to say, was plenty, given how far off the beaten track we live.

Sometimes, a little getaway is just what a person needs. For us, it serves as a reminder. While we enjoy the city for its stores and conveniences, it’s our home in the country that we appreciate the most. Not saying city life is all bad—far from it—it’s just not for us. But, every so often, it’s nice to step out and see what the other half is up to. Keeps life interesting, don’t you think?

We also noticed that the Highways weren’t all that busy which is to be expected living where we do. Most of the tourists have left us for another year, hunters have had their fill, and the cottagers have closed them up for what lies ahead.

This morning, I’m thinking I’ll see if I feel up to doing a bit of work here at the computer. Sitting for too long doesn’t agree with me much these days, so I have to keep moving—got to keep these old bones limber.

For now, though, I’m off to enjoy a bowl of oatmeal and a slice of homemade bread. My lovely wife bakes our bread herself, and let me tell you, it’s not only delicious but a whole lot healthier too—especially in these times. Nothing quite beats the taste of homemade.

You all have a great day and I will leave you with this: If there’s one thing life’s shown me, it’s that putting your shoulder to the wheel gets results, no matter what you’re doing. Whether it’s mending a fence, jotting down a story, or baking up a loaf of bread, the effort you put in has a way of paying off, sooner or later. So, get out there and make the most of your day—you never know what you might accomplish!

In the past 24 hours, 16,659 real people visited this blog: The Walters Post with a peak of 8,792 unique visitors yesterday. Thank you for your continued suppor—it means the world to me! We’re growing folks! GW

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Good Morning! You know, over the years, I’ve come to see that life’s a lot like a garden. The more you take care of it, the better it grows—even when things get tough.

Port Loring, ON, Canada

Currently: 35°F (2°C) · Cloudy

Today (Sunday, November 17):
Cloudy with a brief shower or two.

• High: 47°F (8°C)
• Low: 37°F (3°C)

Monday, November 18:
Variable clouds with a couple of showers.

• High: 47°F (8°C)
• Low: 34°F (1°C)

Looks like November is settling in nicely!

I’ve said this before, but looking ahead, this winter in Port Loring is shaping up to be colder than usual, with more snow than we’ve seen in recent years. La Niña conditions are expected to bring lower temperatures and increased snowfall, so it’s wise to prepare accordingly.

Highway 522 is wearing a frosty coat this morning, but it’s already starting to shed as the day warms up. Traffic has slowed right down, as it usually does this time of year, and will likely stay that way until spring rolls around. That said, if the snow I’m expecting decides to show up, we might see a few snowmobilers zipping through, soaking up the beauty of our winter wonderland. And let me tell you, we’ve got plenty of that around here!

On another note, yesterday was another day of me working on getting back in shape, and I figure today will be much the same. Like I said yesterday, it’s one day at a time right now—no rushing and hope things gets better.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I’ll head out to the woodworking shop to toss another piece of firewood or two into the old stove. I’ve been keeping it going these days, just in case the mood strikes me to tinker around. It’s nice having a warm spot to escape to—a change from just sitting around the house.

You all have a great day! And remember, it’s the little things—a warm fire, a good breakfast, or just puttering in the shop—that make life pretty darn good.

Visitor Stats
Yesterday (November 16, 2024), around 5,600 real people visited the blog to explore thoughts, photos, and updates. So far today, we’ve welcomed nearly 2,800 readers and counting! I appreciate every one of you who stops by to share in these daily musings—thank you for being part of the journey. GW

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Good Morning! Well, another fine morning has rolled around, and with it comes the opportunity to share a bit of wisdom learned over the years. You know, there’s something comforting about the rhythm of the seasons and the lessons they teach us.

She’s a frosty, cool morning here in Northern Ontario. But I’ll tell ya, the sun’s peeking out, and it sure feels good. Heading out to the woodworking shop this morning, I took in a deep breath of that fresh northern air, felt the sun on my face, and, well, it just hit me—how lucky a feller is to be able to do these things.

Kind of things that remind you life’s worth living.

Highway 522 has settled back down now that deer season’s behind us for most folks. Can’t say for sure how things turned out for everyone, but I’d bet the locals are smiling for the most part. My wife and I, well, we’re all set. Our freezers have enough to hold us over till spring, along with all the preserves she’s done up from the garden. I’ll tell ya, it’s a good feeling having that, especially living back here, away from the cities and big towns. We don’t get to town much, but honestly, we don’t need to.

Now, I know this way of living isn’t for everyone, and that’s alright. But for us, it’s been our life for as long as I can remember. At this stage, I don’t see us changing, and I don’t reckon we’d want to. There’s nothing quite like starting the day with nature right there, waiting to greet you. It’s a kind of peace you just can’t find anywhere else.

On another note, yesterday was one of those days when I didn’t do much besides rest. Sometimes a feller, especially one getting up there in years, knows it’s best to sit back and put his feet up. You don’t fight it; you just go with it.

It’s something you come to understand with time. Pushing through when your body’s telling you to slow down doesn’t do anyone any favors. You could say that there’s a kind of wisdom in knowing when to rest—when to let the world carry on without you for a bit while you recharge. Truth is, taking those quiet moments to pause—might just be one of the most important lessons a person can learn.

Today, well—I am thinking I might try and write up a story or two, not just sure yet, we will see what happens after breakfast.

And with that I am off to enjoy that breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me.

You all have a great day. And hey, don’t forget to take some time to enjoy the little things—it’s those small moments that make life worthwhile. I’ll be back sharing more thoughts and stories soon, so stop by again when you can. Always something to chat about around here!

And thanks for stopping by! Yesterday, November 15, 2024, around 3,400–3,500 real people visited the blog. I appreciate each and every one of you, taking the time to read and support what I share here. GW

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Good Morning! You know, one thing I have learned over the years is that: “The best lessons come from mistakes you’ll never forget.”

So it’s a cloudy morning here in Port Loring Ontario, and we’re starting off the day with the temperature sitting at 1°C (33.4°F—just above freezing. It’s one of those mornings where you can feel winter’s breath creeping in, so you’ll want to grab a jacket and maybe a hot coffee if you’re venturing out.

As the day moves along, we should see the temperature inch up to around 3°C (37°F). There will also be a mix of sun and cloud on the menu today, but don’t expect much warmth—November has its grip on us now. But in saying that, it’s a good day for splitting some wood or tackling indoor projects

Tonight, we’ll see temperatures dip back down to -4°C (24°F), with clear skies overhead. The frost will be thick by morning, so take care on the roads if you’re out and about early.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we’re in for another chilly day. The high will reach about 4°C (39°F), with some sunshine popping through here and there. Mornings like this remind us that winter’s just around the corner, so enjoy the fresh air while you can. Which I did while feeding the birds this morning. I have to say, I sure do enjoy watching them throughout the day.

On another note, I haven’t been up too much the past few days—got a few things going on body-wise, so I’m taking the time to rest up. Seems there’s always something to slow us older folks down, doesn’t it? But hey, I can’t complain too much. I got a lot done over the summer—maybe a bit too much, considering how I’m feeling now. At any rate, it is what it is, and sometimes, you’ve just got to let your body call the shots.

Today, well, today I am not exactly what I will be doing—if it’s anything like yesterday I will be resting, but we will see.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared for me. After that, we’ll see what the day has in store and, more importantly, what I’m up to tackling. Some days, you just have to play it by ear, or how one feels.

You all have a great day, and maybe take a moment to enjoy the quiet of the morning, or the fresh smell of the outdoors. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the day feel right. Take care, folks, and we’ll catch up again soon! GW

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Good morning! . As my Dad used to say, “A day well begun is a day half done. So let’s start today with purpose and if you can find it, add a smile or two.” I think it went something like that.

Weather for us today, November 11, 2024, in Port Loring, Ontario: you can expect a high of 9°C (48°F) with a chance of brief morning showers, followed by mostly cloudy and breezy conditions. Tonight, temperatures will drop to -3°C (27°F).

Along with the firewood, I did manage to get our vegetable gardens all worked up and put to bed for winter. And just a couple of days back, I got our garlic planted for next year, which will be mighty tasty come next summer. This is the time of year to get it into the ground. I even got around to cleaning out that patch of bush beside our house that’s been bugging me for years. I also got our leaves cleaned up, spreading them around our fruit trees, which will give them a bit of warmth and nourishment when things get really cold.

The mowers and other summer tools? Well—they’re all put to bed too, hibernating until spring. You know there’s something about getting everything ready for winter that just feels right. But I’d be lying if I took all the credit. My lovely wife has been busy too, stocking the freezer with preserves and homemade meals. It’s like having a little bit of summer set aside for those days when the snow’s deep and the wind’s howling. With those meals ready, she’ll have more time for her painting.

For those that hasn’t met her she’s quite the artist, her paintings have found homes all over the world, bringing a bit of northern charm and warmth to places far beyond our little town. This year, she’s been turning our gift shop into her studio, where she can paint to her heart’s content. You could say it’s her sanctuary, filled with the scent of fresh paint and canvases waiting for her touch. Come spring, we’ll be showing off her work, and I’m sure folks will love seeing what she’s created.

But in saying that, she’s also helped me with the outdoor work, too. Makes everything easier with the two of us working together. We’ve always called that teamwork, and it’s just as true now as it was back in the day. As a matter of fact I have written many a story related to what team work really is.

So, yeah, we’ve kept ourselves busy this fall. And that’s not even touching on what we did through the summer, I guess you could say that our days were full to the brim. But the good part of it all is that now, with winter settling in, we’re ready to sit back a bit, enjoy the warmth of our home and take things as they come. Enjoying one day at a time!

Today, well—with it being so wet and cool outside, I figure I’ll stick to what I’ve been doing these past few days—working here at my computer. I’m in the middle of putting together more videos, sharing stories I’ve written that I think will entertain folks of all ages. That should keep me busy for a while.

With that, I’m off for my breakfast, which this morning will be a bagel with cheese made by my lovely wife, paired with a cup of strong, perked coffee. That should keep me awake until lunchtime—though we’ll see about that!

You all have a great day, and remember to find the little moments that make life good. Stay warm, stay safe, and keep those stories alive. Until next time! GW

Good morning! Out here in the country, true wisdom comes from a bit of curiosity, a touch of wonder, and a few well-earned stories. And on top of that, every sunrise holds a secret, and every breeze whispers, “You’ve found the real way to live.”

Well, it looks as if November has put on its moody coat today. This morning is starting off cloudy, leading into light rain for the afternoon, with temperatures reaching a cozy 46°F (8°C). Tonight, the rain lingers as the temperatures cool down to 42°F (6°C). Might pay to keep a raincoat handy if you’re thinking of heading outdoors.

Highway 522 which is the only road in and out of our area, saw quite a bit of action yesterday, with lots of hunters roaming around. It’s the second and final week of deer hunting season for rifles, though those with bows will still have their turn for a while after. This year, I’ve never seen so many ATVs in the back of pickups and on trailers, which just goes to show, that people are still spending their hard-earned money.

You know, back when I hunted with my old Dad, we relied on nothing more than our two feet to take us where we needed to go. Truth be told, we liked it that way. From the moment we stepped out of the camp in the early morning, not a word was spoken. And if any instructions needed giving, they came in a whisper, or a quick hand signal; we wouldn’t dare risk spooking the deer. But times change, and so do people. They call it progress.

These days, my kind of hunting looks a little different. I’d sooner stay warm at home with my lovely wife, a strong cup of coffee in hand, writing stories for my columns. And—when or if the mood strikes, I’ll wander out to my old woodworking shop, as there’s always something that needs fixing or making. Truth be told, after a long, busy summer, hunting is the furthest thing from my mind. Still, it stirs up some mighty fine memories. Hmm, maybe later today, I’ll dust one off and write about those good old days. Just because I can.

On another note, yesterday I managed to get outside for a bit. I needed to clear some leaves from the fishpond my wife and I built a few months back—figured it’d keep our fish happy. After that, I filled up our bird-feeders, and while I was at it, I took care of our neighbor’s as well. She’s an elderly lady, around 95 years young, living alone. I built a stand for her a while back and set it up outside her window, thinking the birds might offer her a bit of company. Turns out, she’s really enjoying watching them. Seeing that makes a feller feel good—reminds you that even the smallest acts can mean the world to someone.

Years ago, gestures like that were a part of everyday life, or at least they were for my family. Helping one another wasn’t something you thought twice about; it was just what you did. But today, things have changed. Folks are so caught up in making ends meet and chasing time, that reaching out to help someone else has become a rarity. And it’s the older folks who bear the brunt of that shift, often left to navigate life alone. It’s a shame, really, to see how far we’ve drifted from those simple acts of kindness. Makes you wonder if we’ve lost sight of what truly matters.

Today, as for me, I suspect I’ll spend a good part of it here at my computer. There are still a couple of videos waiting to be edited, and I might even write up a story or two. And if time allows, I’ll wander out to my old woodworking shop and say hello to my tools and the shop itself. Now, some might find that strange, talking to material objects, but I’ve learned over the years that treating them material possessions with a touch of respect, as you would a friend, seems to make them work better.

It might sound odd, but if you really think about it, there’s truth there. Everything, whether it’s a chisel or a living, breathing soul, is made of energy. We’re all connected in that way. Just a bit of food for thought this morning—a reminder that maybe there’s more to the world around us than meets the eye.

So with that I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife once again has made for me and will then enjoy the day for what it is, not for what I think it should be.

You all have a great day and remember, life’s true joy is found in the simple moments and the little acts of care. Take time to appreciate what’s around you and make today count. GW

“Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button down on the left near the bottom of the screen. And with that—keep your minds open and your stories alive!”

Good morning, folks! Just a little thought today: living in the country is about simple moments and quiet days. It’s hearing the birds, feeling the dirt under your boots, and knowing that life is good as it is.

It’s a frosty morning here in Northern Ontario. The temperature dropped well below freezing last night, but the good news is the sun is shining with hardly a cloud in sight. One thing I’ve noticed over the years is just how blue the sky can be out here. It’s nice to see and a good reminder that there isn’t any of that city pollution clouding it up. Today’s forecast calls for a high of 35°F (2°C), staying cold but sunny throughout the day. Tonight, expect clear skies with temperatures dipping to about 15°F (-9°C). Might need an extra blanket on the old bed tonight.

Highway 522 is still quiet traffic wise with most folks back in the bush hoping for that prize buck, which will, as I have said before in other posts, put meat on their table throughout the winter months.

On another note, yesterday I got outside and cleaned up the last of the leaves that had fallen. It makes me smile knowing I won’t have to deal with it in the spring. I like to pile them up and, come spring, spread them around just before tilling up the vegetable garden. It gives the soil what it needs to grow some nice veggies. There’s nothing better than being able to step out your door and pick what you need to make a sandwich, or a nice salad, let me tell ya. Then later on in the day I worked away here on some Videos that I made throughout the summer months. All in all a pretty productive day.

Today, with the chill in the air, I think I’ll stick to working at my computer where it’s nice and warm. I do have some work waiting for me in the woodworking shop, but that can hold off for another day or so. I’m planning on making my lovely wife a new pine harvest table—should be an interesting project. I picked up the wood for the legs while we were taking in the sights in Southern Ontario a few months back. It’s not easy to find clear pine 4x4s around here, but I’ve got my sources, for when I need some.

So with that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my little woman has, or is, putting together for me. After that, we’ll see what the day has in store—one thing’s for sure, you never really know. You just have to go with the flow, so to speak.

You all have a great day! And if today brings a twist or two, just remember: “Life’s like tending a garden—there’s always a bit of work, but the reward is worth it. GW

Good morning! In the country, we say: take your time, listen to the wind, and don’t be afraid to let the day unfold at its own pace. Nature knows there’s no need to hurry, and neither should we.

A quick update on what Mother Nature has in store for us here in Port Loring today. We’re looking at a bright, sunny day, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable high of 11°C (51°F) and dipping to around 5°C (41°F) tonight. Perfect weather to take a stroll, get some fresh air, or tackle those outdoor projects waiting in the wings. So, whether you’re out in the garden or taking in the sights, today’s a fine one to enjoy. Stay warm when the sun sets, though—it’ll cool off a bit!

On another note, the town’s been mighty quiet this week, no surprise there, as it’s the first week of hunting season (Deer) in our parts. You can just feel that shift in the air. I can picture the camps as clear as if I were there: smoke rising from the old camp stoves, laughter and voices echoing through the woods, and tales that are already starting to grow bigger with each retelling. You know how it goes: “I saw the biggest buck I’ve ever laid eyes on, right there in the clearing, but wouldn’t you know, just as I was set, it melted back into the brush like a ghost!”

Then you’ve got the city hunters out and about. You can spot them plain as day, all decked out in shiny new camo, boots that look like they just came out of the box, and enough gadgets to stock a store. They trudge through the woods with their GPS in one hand and a walkie-talkie’s in the other, making enough noise to send the deer halfway to the next township.

Meanwhile, the locals—the ones who’ve been hunting these woods since they were just kids—are out there too. They’ve got their old flannel shirts, boots that have seen more winters than most folks have birthdays, and a way of moving through the woods like the trees themselves. They don’t need a lot of chatter or high-tech gear, as they know where the deer pass, and how to wait with the patience of an old oak.

Now, for me, well—I don’t head out to the stands anymore, but the memories are there, clear as ever. The mornings with breath fogging the air, the quiet before dawn, and the stories spun by the campfire when the day’s hunt was done. Here’s to those out there this week, hoping for a little luck and a tale or two to tell. And for the deer? Well, may they keep sharp enough to keep it a fair game.

Work wise for me today—well, if you can even call it that at my age. Truth be told, I don’t really think of what I do now as work. After all these years, I’ve managed to fill my days doing what I enjoy, so it hardly feels like work at all. But, you know, there’s the thought of a good cup of coffee out on the porch calling my name, soaking up a bit of that much-needed vitamin D3 we all seem to miss this time of year.

Before that, though, I’ll be spending a bit of time at my computer. I’ve got a few YouTube videos to finish up—getting them ready to roll out week by week through the winter months to keep things interesting. If any of you folks want to take a look at what I’ve been putting together, here’s my channel: Reviving The Simple Life Stop by when you get the chance. You might find something that’ll bring a smile or remind you of a tale or two of your own.

So, with that, and being a touch late getting this post up this morning—and already having had my breakfast, I’m heading off to tackle a few things here at my computer. After that, I’ll be joining my lovely wife for that much-anticipated cup of coffee on the front porch.

You all have a great day. And keep in mind, life isn’t about running from one task to the next. Take a minute to enjoy the little things—whether it’s sharing a laugh, sipping a warm cup of coffee, or just listening to the wind in the trees. It’s those simple moments that truly matter, and they’re always there waiting if you take the time to notice them. GW

A misty morning scene from the heart of the countryside. Take a closer look to soak in the quiet comforts of the day ahead.

Good Morning Folks! I hope you all had a great weekend.

You know, where my lovely wife and I live in the countryside, mornings still unfold in a way that feels untouched by time, filled with a peace that the city could never quite match. I’ve come to treasure the quiet and the space, far from the hum of city life. Yet, I can’t help but notice the world closing in a bit—more folks seeking out this simplicity, drawn by what we’ve known all along. Progress, they call it, but there’s a part of me that wonders.

It makes me think back to those old farmers of the 1800s, folks who went days without seeing a soul, just land stretching as far as the eye could see. I imagine them at the breakfast table, leaning over their coffee, saying, “Well, dear, if this keeps up, we might just have to pack our things and head farther west. It’s getting crowded around here.” They were looking for the same peace we find in our mornings, and when others drew near, they’d keep moving, chasing that quiet as best/long as they could.

So, here’s to enjoying what we’ve still got while it’s ours to hold. May this morning bring you the kind of calm that’s been handed down through the ages—the kind found when neighbors were as scarce as hen’s teeth, and peace stretched from one horizon clear to the other. In a world that’s always changing, sometimes the best we can do is enjoy these moments that remind us of how life was meant to be.

How’s that for a morning’s intro, from an old writer—among other things.

Anyway, it’s a cloudy, wet morning here in the north. We had some rain through the night—not all that much, mind ya, but enough to keep a sensible person indoors, or in my case, out in the woodworking shop. Yesterday, I got to puttering around in both places, and I’ll tell ya, there’s something downright satisfying about moving from one project to the next, knowing time’s finally your own.

They say freedom is for the young, but truth told, I figure it takes a lifetime to understand it. The real trick to freedom isn’t just time on your hands; it’s knowing what you’re doing with it that makes the difference.

Today, well, being it’s a wet one out there, and I don’t much feel like lighting the stove in the shop. I think I’ll stick to the computer this morning. Yesterday, I spent the better part of the day wrestling with my external mic for making videos. Tried every trick I knew, but that thing wouldn’t cooperate for love nor money.

In the end, I threw up my hands and called my son, Karl. Now, he’s a real expert with technology. Linked right up to my computer, and in less than an hour, he had things sorted out. Truth be told, most folks—including the ones who made the mic—probably wouldn’t have been able to fix it. If it wasn’t for him, that mic would’ve probably found its way to the trash.

I’m mighty lucky to have him around. And my other son, Craig, well—he’s just as smart in his own field. Damn fortunate, I am, to have both of them. They’re not always by my side these days, living so far apart, but they are always just a call away when something needs doing, or goes wrong, as family should be.

With that I am off once again for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me and will then see what the day has in store.

You all have a great day and remember, life’s a lot like the weather out here: it may change on a dime, but there’s always something good in it, that is if you take the time to look. GW

Tap on the picture to enlarge it and enjoy the scene up close!

Good morning! Rise and shine, as the sun won’t wait all day, and neither will the coffee pot!

It’s a clear, brisk start for us here in the north, with the temperature sitting around 1°C (34°F)—though with the wind, it feels closer to -10°C (14°F). By mid-morning, it should warm up a touch to about 4°C (39°F). Perfect for a walk or some outdoor work, that is, if you don’t mind bundling up a bit. Clear skies ahead, too!

But I’ve got to say, heading to my woodworking shop around 7:30 AM, watching that sun creep up over the horizon—it’s a sight that never gets old. There’s just something about a Northern sunrise that stirs the soul, makes me feel like it’s going to be a good day.

Highway 522 had its fair share of traffic yesterday, at least, what we’d call traffic up here! Folks were out doing their usual rounds, maybe hoping to spot something new, or just checking in on the usual sights to make sure nothing’s moved since last week!

Yesterday was one of those good, productive days, where I managed to stay at the computer long enough to finish up some new YouTube videos, and even got a fresh story written for my newspaper columns. There’s nothing quite like that feeling of accomplishment when things fall into place. I do enjoy writing, but I’ve come to know over the years, that it only works when I’m in the right frame of mind. If I’m not, well, every word feels like a struggle, and I’m just spinning my wheels, so to speak. But when the mood’s right, it’s a whole different story—the work just flows.

Today’s got that familiar Northern chill, so I’ll likely be inside again, working on a few projects here at my desk. But first, I’m heading out to grab some garden soil—a bit of an odd winter ritual my wife and I swear by. We scoop up fresh soil, pop it in two containers, and come evening, we settle in, resting our feet in it while watching TV or reading a book.

Now, it might sound a bit strange, but there’s real magic in that soil. Grounding like this does wonders, not just for relaxation, but for the whole body. We’ve found it eases aches, soothes tension, and even seems to boost our energy. It also helps with all sorts of ailments, from inflammation to stress, and I can tell you firsthand it makes for some of the best sleep around.

We’ve been at this for years, and honestly, it’s become as essential as a warm cup of tea on a cold night. There’s nothing quite like the feel of rich, earthy soil, as it connects us to nature, leaves us feeling rejuvenated, and gives the neighbors something to wonder about when they see me hauling dirt indoors in November!

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made. After that, it’s time to get to ‘work’—although, I’m not sure, I can really call it that. For me, the things I do each day feel more like a mix of tinkering, creating, and a good dose of just plain enjoying life. It’s hard to call it work when every project is something I look forward to, whether it’s working in the workshop, jotting down a new story, or getting my hands dirty in the garden.

I suppose that’s the beauty of doing what you love. You don’t watch the clock or count the hours. You just follow where the day takes you, and somehow, it all feels right. So here’s to another day of good food, good company, and good work that doesn’t feel like work at all.

You all have a great day, and may it be filled with just the right balance of work and a bit of simple enjoyment along the way. And if things start to feel a little too heavy, pause for a moment and let yourself take in the small comforts—a warm drink, a quiet moment, a glimpse of sunshine. Sometimes, it’s those little things that carry us through. GW

Hi folks, a while back, I wrote a post about what we might expect for the cold season here in Northern Ontario, but with all the signs pointing to a more intense winter than usual, I thought it was worth another look.

As the days get shorter and there’s more frost on the ground each morning, we know winter isn’t far off. Now, I could tell you what the weather folks are predicting, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that nature has a way of telling us what’s coming, long before we hear it on the news.

You just have to look around.

What the Animals Are Telling Us

I’ve been watching the squirrels this year, and let me tell you, they’re hustling like I haven’t seen in a while. They’re packing away food faster than ever, even those stubborn little chipmunks around my garden. In my experience, when the critters get busy like this, it usually means one thing: a cold, hard winter. Those little guys seem to know we’ll be getting our fair share of snow and cold, and they’re making sure they’re ready for it.

And the birds—well, they packed up and left pretty early this fall, in big groups, too. When the geese take off that fast, it’s nature’s way of saying, “Buckle up. Winter’s coming in full force.” They don’t wait around if they know it’s going to be tough here. If the birds are leaving early, we’d better start thinking about battening down the hatches ourselves.

Trees and Plants Giving Their Clues

The trees have a way of telling us what’s coming, too. The evergreens around here are as thick as I’ve seen them in a while, almost like they’re bundling up for what’s ahead. And if you look closely, some of the older trees have rougher bark this year, which isn’t something I take lightly. It’s like the trees themselves are putting on another layer to protect against the cold.

Even the maple and oak leaves seem to be hanging on longer this fall. It’s like they know they’ll be buried under a heavy load of snow before too long, and they’re taking their time letting go.

Early Frost and Heavy Dew – Cold Signs All Around

I’ll tell you, we had some pretty thick frost early on this year. That frost isn’t just pretty to look at; it’s a warning that the ground’s cooling off quicker than usual. When that happens, it usually means we’re in for a deeper freeze come winter. And the morning dew has been heavier than normal too—nature’s way of saying there’s more moisture in the air, which probably means more snow.

What We Can Expect

So, here’s my take, based on what nature’s telling me: get ready for a good, old-fashioned Northern Ontario winter. We’re probably looking at colder temperatures, maybe even a few long stretches of real bitter cold, and more snow than we’ve seen in a while. It’ll be one of those winters where we’ll all have to keep the shovels handy and make sure the woodpile’s well stocked.

If you ask me, here’s what to do:

1. Get Ready Now: Follow the squirrels’ lead—get your supplies together, stock the pantry, and have a backup plan for those cold snaps.
2. Check the House: Make sure the place is sealed up tight. Cold drafts have a way of sneaking in during winters like the one that seems to be headed our way.
3. Embrace It: Winters like this can make for some good stories by the fire, so let’s enjoy what’s coming our way.

So, if you’ve got a gut feeling this winter’s going to be one for the books, you’re probably right. Nature’s been giving us the signs for months now, and they’re hard to ignore. Here’s to a season of braving the cold, watching the snow fall, and making the most of these long winter days here in the north.

Stay warm, everyone! And don’t sell them Snowmobiles just yet. GW