Information from the Old Typewriter on May 14/2025

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Good Morning, and as my old Dad used to say: “Hard work won’t hurt you, but bad habits might.”

It looks as if we are in for another nice day here in the north. The sun is showing herself and nature is waking up after her long winter’s nap, which is fine with me, as I’ve had enough of winter. The snow’s gone from the fields, the robins are pulling worms like no tomorrow, and the grass is greening up faster than I can sharpen the mower blades.

And the thing is, around here, one has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can. That means there’ll be plenty of folks outside today—splitting wood, raking up what winter left behind, or just sitting a spell with a cup in hand, letting the warmth soak into their bones. I know I’ll be doing a little of all three.

As for the weather, today we’re looking at mainly cloudy skies with just a slight chance of a passing shower. The high should hit around 73°F, or 23°C if you’re using the metric side of the tape. Tonight will stay on the mild side, with some clouds hanging around and a low near 59°F, or 15°C. Tomorrow’s shaping up pretty similar—cloudy again with a chance of a few sprinkles and another high around 73°F, or 23°C. Not much to complain about if you don’t mind a bit of gray.

So get out there, breathe deep, and enjoy what the day has to offer. It sure beats shoveling.

Highway 522 is picking up, traffic-wise, a bit more every day. But it’s that time of year, with folks wanting to get away from the cities, and others heading north to open up their cottages for the nice days ahead. You’ll see trucks with canoes strapped on top, trailers bouncing behind, and the odd car packed to the roof like they’re movin’ up for good. Can’t rightly say I blame them, neither. If I had to trade the sound of loons and wind in the pines for honking horns and concrete, I’d be heading north, too.

Bug Report:

Well, them black flies are starting to swarm now, so if you’re one of the lucky ones they can’t resist, best dig out that bug jacket, as you’re gonna need it. They’re zipping around like all get out, and unfortunately, that somewhere is usually your neck or behind your ears.

As for me, well, they buzz around a bit but don’t seem all that interested. I guess I’m not sweet enough, or just not on the menu. Now and then, though, one gets bold and takes a test bite to see if I’ve ripened up since yesterday. Usually it just shakes its head and moves on, disappointed.

At any rate, it’s part of living in the north, and you have to take the good weather with a few freeloaders.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away outside. Decided to put a coat of penetrating oil on our decks—or should I say, two of our decks. It was a nice dry day, so I figured it’d be a good time to get ‘er done. Now, if the sun sticks around for most of the day, it’ll dry up nicely and be all set for the summer.

As for my lovely wife, she’s been busy getting our gift shop ready for the summer, which will be opening this Friday, along with getting things prepped for our huge garage sale, also starting this Friday, May 16th, 2025. So, yeah, we’re both staying busy. But when you love what you do, it never feels like work.

But in saying all that, our bodies sure feel it by the end of the day.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today, with a few showers closing in on us for tomorrow morning, my wife and I are planning on cutting our grass for the first time this year. I have to say, it’s been growing like crazy, and it’s starting to look a bit shabby around the house. So, figured we better get to it if we want everything looking good for our big spring sale. At least that’s the plan—let’s hope everything works out.

With that, I’m off once again for my morning breakfast, courtesy of my lovely wife. After that, I’ll enjoy a cup of hot cocoa—maybe out on the swing out back, since our front porch isn’t quite dry yet from me putting on that penetrating oil.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Typing Like It’s Still 1963 on May 13/2025

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Good Morning… Do what you can with what you’ve got.

So starting things off… It looks as if we are in for another really nice day here in Cottage Country.

The sun’s up, the sky’s clear, and we’re heading for a high of about 72°F, or 22°C. Just warm enough to enjoy without breaking a sweat. Tonight will cool off a bit, down around 50°F, or 10°C, and tomorrow’s shaping up much the same—maybe even a touch warmer. No complaints on this end.

Highway 522 has picked up somewhat, but not as much as it was last year. With the weather being the way it has been, that’s understandable. Things will pick up, though, as the days move forward.

Bug Report:
Well, the black flies are out now. Still not as bad as they’re going to be, but just enough to annoy folks somewhat—especially the deeper you are in the bush. It won’t be long before the critters start roaming alongside the roads and crossing here and there, trying to get away from them, so care should be taken if you’re out and about.

On another note, yesterday I had plans to get some more outside work done around the house here, but I’d forgotten my wife had a dentist appointment in North Bay. So, we headed off to town. While there, we picked up a few things we were in need of, had lunch in our car while people-watching, and then grabbed a coffee before heading back home, taking in all the spring colours along the way.

In my mind, the spring colours are every bit as nice as the fall ones, with all the trees, plants, and flowers starting to show off. Sure is a sight to see them all waking up after their long winter’s nap. All in all, a great day.

So with that, I’m off for the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me, and then I’ll see about tackling the things I planned on doing yesterday. As I keep on sayin’, life is one ongoing mystery, as one never knows what a day will bring.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Back When Pens Wrote Stories, Not Checks on May 12/2025

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Good Morning… It’s all right to not have it all figured out.

Well, it looks as if we’re in for another nice day here in cottage country. The sun’s just peeking up over the trees, the stripe-headed birds are out there picking off black flies, and the trees, still a little shy from winter, are finally starting to show off their leaves for summer. It’s that time again when the whole bush seems to come alive overnight.

Today’s Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario, Canada:
We’re in for mostly sunny skies today, with a high reaching around 76°F (25°C). There’ll be a nice breeze from the southwest at about 5 to 10 miles per hour, just enough to keep the bugs guessing. Tonight, the skies will stay clear and temperatures will dip down to a low of about 53°F (12°C).

Looking ahead to Tuesday:
It’ll be a warm one, with the mercury climbing to around 83°F (29°C) under mostly cloudy skies. Winds will be light and variable, and by tomorrow night, it’ll cool off just a bit with a low near 60°F (16°C).

Might be a good couple of days to get some outside work done, or just sit back and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer. Either way, it looks like we’ve got a good stretch ahead.

Highway 522 is getting busier every day. Even our locals are starting to move around, which means spring has officially arrived — folks are dusting off their trucks, checking if the coffee shop’s still standing, and acting like they haven’t seen each other in years, even though they bumped into each other last Thursday.

Bug Report: Well, the black flies are out, but they ain’t in full attack mode just yet. They’re buzzin’ around, testin’ the waters like they’re not quite sure if it’s worth the effort. Might be the cool mornings slowing ‘em down, but one thing’s for sure — once they get that first taste of blood, all bets are off. They go from curious to downright mean, and after that, you might as well be wearing a “Free Buffet” sign on your forehead. For some, that is.

On another note, yesterday I spent the whole day outside, cleaning up around the yard, fixing up our fishpond, and straightening out one of the sheds. I even managed to squeeze in a bit of painting here and there. All in all, it was a busy day — but a good one.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with it being so nice outside today, I figure I’ll spend some time in the woodworking shop. And if I get a chance, I’ll fire up the old rotivator — bought that thing back in the ‘70s, and it works the soil a lot finer than a tiller. Not many folks make ’em like that anymore, if any. The vegetable gardens… are about due for their first turn over, but I think I’ll save the actual work for Wednesday, let the ground dry out a bit more.
And if the day keeps going the way I’m hoping, my wife and I will end up out under the basswood tree on that swing I built awhile back. It’s been calling for company, and I think it’s about time we gave it what it’s askin’ for.

So with that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me — well, after she finishes watering her plants, of course. They’ve been giving her the ol’ “thirsty look” for the past couple of days, so I’m sure she’s got her hands full with that. I’ll just sit tight and try not to let the smell of coffee make me too impatient, while she plays plant whisperer.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Where the Stories Keep Coming on May 11/2025

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Good Morning Folks… Not every day needs to be big to be good.

It’s looking like one fine day here in Cottage Country. The sun is showing off, and the temperature is on the rise.

Today, Sunday: Sunshine from start to finish, with a high around 61°F, or 16°C. There’s a little breeze picking up out of the southwest this afternoon, just enough to keep the bugs from getting too comfortable. A good day to hang laundry, turn soil, or sit with your coffee and let the world drift by. Tonight will cool off to around 43°F, or 6°C, under partly cloudy skies.

Monday: The sun returns and holds steady. Expect a high of 72°F, or 22°C. The wind will ease off, and it’ll feel like spring has finally settled in for good. The evening will stay calm and clear, dipping down to about 50°F, or 10°C.

Tuesday: The heat keeps building, climbing up to 79°F, or 26°C. It’ll be a mix of sun and cloud, still fine weather for just about anything you’ve got planned. There’s a small chance of a shower come nightfall, with the temperature holding at a mild 55°F, or 13°C.

Looks like we’ve got ourselves a stretch of real decent weather for a change. One has to take advantage of it while you can.

Highway 522 is starting to pick up traffic-wise, with plenty of new vehicles moving up and down the road these days.

Bug Report: I’ve been seeing a few Black Flies over the past couple of days. So far, they’re not biting, but that’ll change once the temperature starts to rise. If you’re one of those folks they like to nibble on, it might be a good idea to bring out your bug jacket.

On another note: Yesterday, I worked the day away outside, fixing this and that. I had one heck of a time with the pump I use for my fishpond. In the end, I replaced it with another one I had kicking around. Took a bit of doing, but the old water wheel is back to work again for the summer—well, at least I hope it is. You never know with equipment, they always seem to have a mind of their own.

My wife, on the other hand, has been real busy reorganizing our gift shop and getting things ready for our upcoming sale here at home on May 16, 2025. The sale isn’t just for one day—we’ll keep it going until everything’s sold, even if it takes a month. Daytime hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. So yeah, she’s been, and still is, one real busy lady, let me tell ya.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’ve got a lot on my plate—cleaning up the shop and getting everything ready for the upcoming sale. It’s hard to believe how much stuff we’ve accumulated. We never dreamed we had this much to get rid of! Not sure where it all came from… guess we’ve both been a little too good at holding on to things.

So with that, I’m off for my morning breakfast, and then I’ll see what the day has in store—aside from what I’ve already got planned. It’s always a mystery.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

BIG SPRING GARAGE SALE – Starts May 16th! In Port Loring, Ontario, Canada

Hi folks, I just noticed I had the date of the sale wrong—it’s all fixed now. Sorry about that! I’d really appreciate it if you could help spread the word again.

BIG SPRING GARAGE SALEStarts May 16th! And will keep it going till everything is sold, even if it takes a couple of months. Hours will be 10:00Am to 4:00PM
🌼

We finally finished getting things ready for our big garage sale — and believe me, there’s a lot to go!

We’ve got just about everything under the sun:
🔩 Jars of screws, nails, bolts, nuts, and washers
🍳 Instant Pots and kitchen gadgets galore
🎣 Fishing gear, reels, a fish finder
🛠️ Rakes, hoes, shovels
💻 Electronics – keyboards, a couple computer mouses, speakers, and more cords than you can shake a stick at
📦 Boxes of old tools, electrical and plumbing items, books, toys, even some office supplies and a cash register

And that’s just the start.

This is a garage sale, so most everything is negotiable — make an offer! We want it all gone.

We’re also clearing out everything from our gift shop, filled with handmade items my wife and I created. Most of those will be half price, including some great deals on the handcrafted flutes I make.

Heck, we’ve even got a good solid cement mixer up for grabs.
Oh! And there are even a few antiques for those who like that sort of thing. I am also going to sell some of my woodworking equipment too, and I also have a bunch of lumber rough cut all kinds and sizes.

Too much to list, really. You’ve got to come see it for yourself.
Starts May16th and goes until it’s all gone!

📍 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario
👋 Hosted by George and Ruth Walters
🚗 For those who know the area: if our driveway’s full, there’s extra parking next door at Bea’s place
📅 Mark your calendar and come on by! May 16/2025

📣 And if you’re seeing this here on my Blog, we’d sure appreciate it if you could help spread the word and let others know about the sale. Oh, and all the items are in our car port, so rain or shine the sale will go on. Might pay to bring an umbrella, though. Thank you kindly!

The Future of Canada’s Produce

Only On The Walters Post

So here we are, talking about growing machine-grown lettuce here in Canada, and some folks are saying it could reduce our reliance on U.S. greens. Personally, I’m all for growing our own produce, as we should be doing more of it and supporting our local farmers. Our grocery stores should be filled with fresh, Canadian-grown vegetables.

Now, while I agree with the idea of growing our own produce, I’m not sure whether we need machines to do it. With systems like this, we risk putting more people out of work, and honestly, I don’t think we need to rely on machines for growing vegetables. Being an old farmer, it just doesn’t feel right to me. There’s something about the human touch in farming—connecting with the land and working alongside nature—that can’t be replaced by automation.

That said, I do believe the U.S. produces some of the best fruits and vegetables out there. There’s no comparison to what they grow—except for us, of course. So, my approach is simple: when Canadian produce is in season, I buy Canadian. When it’s not, I turn to the U.S. It’s a reasonable balance that helps support our farmers and ensures we get quality produce year-round.

I’ve also noticed that some people are boycotting American produce altogether, and I’ve seen more imports from places like Mexico, Israel, Guatemala, Africa and others in stores. While I understand the sentiment, I’m not convinced it’s the best solution. The taste and quality of produce from these countries often don’t match up to what we get from the U.S. or Canada. And here’s another concern: we have no way of knowing what kind of soil that produce is grown in, or what chemicals are being used. Other countries may allow pesticides and practices that we wouldn’t tolerate here in Canada, as our laws are stricter for a reason.

Now, I’m not advocating for more pesticides here in Canada, as I am a big supporter of organic farming and believe that’s the direction we should continue moving toward. But the fact remains, when comparing what we grow, what the U.S. grows, and what comes from other countries, there’s a clear difference in quality and safety.

So in the end, I think the key is finding the right balance. Let’s grow our own produce when we can, support our local farmers, and buy American when our crops aren’t in season. And for anything that can’t be grown in Canada or the U.S., that’s when we should rely on other countries. But there needs to be strict rules about how it’s grown and what’s put on it. If we can’t ensure that, then we’re opening the door to more risks than we should be willing to take.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

What’s Going On With Our Oil, Anyway?

Only On The Walters Post

I’ve been thinking a lot lately, I do that occasionally, about our oil — the stuff under our feet that helped build this country, fuel our trucks, and keep the lights on. Truth is, I don’t think most folks realize just how backwards things have gotten.

Here’s the rundown: we drill it, we pump it, and we send nearly all of it straight to the States. They take that crude, refine it, turn it into gasoline and diesel, and then sell it right back to us — at a tidy profit, of course.

Now, yes, I know we do have some refineries here in Canada — fifteen of them across the country. Some are in Alberta and Saskatchewan, and a few in Quebec and New Brunswick. But even with those, we still send 95% of our crude south, and then turn around and buy it back — especially in the eastern provinces.

So we’re rich in oil, but still buying back the finished product. That’s like raising your own cattle and ordering your steak from down the street.

We’ve got the oil, the land, the workers, and the know-how; so if we started refining more of our oil right here at home, we’d be putting thousands of people to work — skilled trades, operators, truckers, and the whole works. And we’d stop giving away the value of our resources while paying more at the pump.

To me, that’s something worth fixing.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Stirring the Pot for Nothing

Only On The Walters Post

So, here we are again. All that noise, the finger-pointing, and the fearmongering—turns out it was just folks stirring the pot. Just like I said in earlier posts, the whole fuss over Trump, tariffs, and some made-up crisis between Canada and the U.S. was never anything more than a show. And a bad one at that.

People got worked up, shouting about annexation and acting like Canada was about to be swallowed whole. Come on. That kind of talk does more harm than good. Trump didn’t threaten us, didn’t try to take over anything. All he said, plain and simple, was that maybe Canadians would be better off under the U.S. system—lower taxes, better health care, no defense budget. Whether you agree or not, that’s a far cry from invading the country.

And yet, some folks—especially in the media and politics—just couldn’t help themselves. They twisted it all into a story of danger and drama, painting Trump like some villain and lifting up guys like Carney as heroes. Truth is, Carney played his part well, I’ll give him that. Sold a fable, scared some voters, helped the Liberals squeak by again. But don’t kid yourself—it wasn’t leadership, it was politics.

Same thing with Elon Musk and other straight-shooters. Some people just don’t like truth-tellers. They’d rather stir trouble, push an agenda, and bash anyone who doesn’t play their game. And the sad part? A lot of folks fall for it.

I say enough already. Let’s stop buying into these cooked-up stories and start focusing on what really matters—our country’s resources, our economy, our future. There’s real work to do and real opportunity, especially for Indigenous communities and for Canadians who’ve been left behind while the politicians play pretend.

The truth matters. And we owe it to ourselves and our kids to call out the nonsense when we see it.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Typed with the Same Hands That Once Held Grape Wire on May 10/2025

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Good Morning Folks! The days are stretching, and I suppose I should too.

So, starting things off with this. The sun did show herself early this morning, but writing this, the sky has clouded up somewhat, and it’s shaping up to be one of those in-between kind of days.

Weather for Port Loring, Ontario

Saturday, May 10th:
Mostly cloudy with a high around 58°F, or 14°C. Tonight will be colder, dropping to 31°F, or -1°C, so it might be a good night to toss an extra blanket on.

Sunday, May 11th:
Plenty of sunshine in the forecast, warming up to about 64°F, or 18°C. Overnight low around 44°F, or 7°C.

It’s that kind of weather that keeps a person guessing—do you haul out the rake or head back inside for another cup of coffee? Either way, best to keep your boots by the door and your plans flexible.

Highway 522 Report:
Traffic’s been picking up, more and more each day now. Cottagers are starting to roll in, opening up their places and getting their boats ready for the water. It won’t be long before fishing season kicks off for another year, and that always brings a few more folks into our area.

Bug Report:
Well, like I mentioned yesterday, the blackflies are starting to make themselves known. So far, at least around our place, they haven’t started biting—but you can bet once they get that first taste of blood, there’ll be no stopping them. That said, things won’t stay in their favor for long. Once the birds start picking them off and the dragonflies wake up, well, that’s when the real action begins. Those dragonflies don’t mess around—they clean them up in a hurry. You could call them human and animal lifesavers, and you wouldn’t be wrong.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I spent the whole day outside. She was busy transplanting flowers, placing them in all the right spots to make our property look that much better. She’s got a real eye for it—but then again, she spent years designing homes back when we ran our landscaping business, so it comes naturally to her.

As for me, I worked on a few other things, including getting the pump installed for our fishpond, which runs our water wheel. Had a few issues there, and it took me a while to figure out what was going wrong. I’ll be back at it again this morning—weather permitting, of course.

So, What Are You Up to Today, GW?

Well, like I mentioned, I’ll be working on getting the pump for our fishpond running again. After that, I’ve got to tackle my woodworking shop—it’s a bit of a mess with everything we’ve had on the go lately. Tools and scraps here, there, and everywhere.

And then, if the sun decides to show herself, and it warms up a bit—and the blackflies don’t get too bold—I’m thinking a little time on the swing might be in order. Just sitting back, taking in the view of our place. It really is something special around here, if I do say so myself.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Said I’d Retire. Forgot to Mention the Talking Part on May 9/2025

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Good Morning Folks! The world’s greening up again, slow and sure.

So starting things off this morning, I have to say, in spite of it being a touch cool, it’s sure looking nice outside. It’s got that early spring feel to it, too.

Today (Friday):
We’re in for a pretty decent one. Highs will creep up to around 66°F (19°C) by mid-afternoon. The sun will be playing tag with the clouds all day, but it’s expected to come out the winner more often than not. Light breeze out of the southwest at about 10 mph—just enough to keep the air moving and bugs off your neck.

Tonight:
Once the sun slips away, we’ll cool back down to around 47°F (8°C). The skies ought to stay mostly clear, which’ll make for a good, crisp spring evening. Might be just right for sitting out with a cup of something warm, or tucking in early if you’ve got a big Saturday planned.

Tomorrow (Saturday):
Now Saturday’s looking like the pick of the week. Expect a high near 72°F (22°C) under sunny skies. The wind’ll be mild, and the day should hold steady—perfect for yard work, fencing, cleaning out sheds, or even putting some new line on that fishing pole of yours, if you’re getting anxious.

Highway 522 is—or has been—picking up traffic-wise as each day passes by. Lots of new, or I should say different, vehicles than we usually see roaming around town. And there’s been a steady stream of trucks towing four-wheelers and boats, all heading into the backwoods. It’s only going to get busier as the weather warms up.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away outside, building a new stand for the swing I made a while back. Got it all finished up, and my wife and I set it—and the swing itself—under the old basswood tree at the back of our property. Real nice spot there. We’ve got a pretty good view of most of our land, and when the sun gets a bit warm, that tree will give us some much-needed shade. My wife sure loves that swing, and I do too. It’s nice to have it up and running again.

After lunch, my wife came outside and helped me with some garden work. We did a bit of raking and cleaning up, and even had time to sit on our swing and take in all that nature has to offer. All in all, one great day.

So What Are You Up To Today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning to fill up our fishpond. I cleaned it out about a week ago, so it’s good and ready. Then, if I’m up to it, I’m going to hook up the pump, which gets the water wheel turning on that little mill I built a few years back. It sure looks nice, turning away there through the summer months. Once it’s going, it really adds something special to the yard. My wife and I sure do enjoy sitting on the front porch, taking it all in and listening to the water as it trickles by. Just one of those simple pleasures that makes a day feel complete.

Bug Report:
Well, as much as I hate to say it, the black flies are just starting to show themselves. Yesterday while I was working outside, I saw a few buzzing around. They didn’t bite us yet, but with this warm weather moving in, it won’t be long before they become downright annoying. Especially for my wife—they love to get under her hair, around her neck and ears. When that happens, the old bug jacket comes out of the closet.

As for me, well, they don’t usually bother me too much. I chalk it up to not being as sweet as the womenfolk. That said, they do get me swatting them away from my eyes with my old hat when they get thick. Not sure what I’d do without that hat—it’s got a lot of miles on it over the years.

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has put together for me. After that, we’ll see what the day has in store—right after we sit down for our turmeric tea. Occasionally, I like to spice life up a bit.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

BIG SPRING GARAGE SALE!!! Port Loring Ontario Canada.

BIG SPRING GARAGE SALEStarts May 16th! And will keep it going till everything is sold, even if it takes a couple of months. Hours will be 10:00Am to 4:00PM
🌼

We finally finished getting things ready for our big garage sale — and believe me, there’s a lot to go!

We’ve got just about everything under the sun:
🔩 Jars of screws, nails, bolts, nuts, and washers
🍳 Instant Pots and kitchen gadgets galore
🎣 Fishing gear, reels, a fish finder
🛠️ Rakes, hoes, shovels
💻 Electronics – keyboards, a couple computer mouses, speakers, and more cords than you can shake a stick at
📦 Boxes of old tools, electrical and plumbing items, books, toys, even some office supplies and a cash register

And that’s just the start.

This is a garage sale, so most everything is negotiable — make an offer! We want it all gone.

We’re also clearing out everything from our gift shop, filled with handmade items my wife and I created. Most of those will be half price, including some great deals on the handcrafted flutes I make.

Heck, we’ve even got a good solid cement mixer up for grabs.
Oh! And there are even a few antiques for those who like that sort of thing. I am also going to sell some of my woodworking equipment too, and I also have a bunch of lumber rough cut all kinds and sizes.

Too much to list, really. You’ve got to come see it for yourself.
Starts May16th and goes until it’s all gone!

📍 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario
👋 Hosted by George and Ruth Walters
🚗 For those who know the area: if our driveway’s full, there’s extra parking next door at Bea’s place
📅 Mark your calendar and come on by! May 16/2025

📣 And if you’re seeing this here on my Blog, we’d sure appreciate it if you could help spread the word and let others know about the sale. Oh, and all the items are in our car port, so rain or shine the sale will go on. Might pay to bring an umbrella, though. Thank you kindly!

Still Typing, Still Talking on May 8/2025

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Good Morning… The world’s greening up again, slow and sure.

It’s a cold and cloudy morning here in cottage country. Sure doesn’t feel like spring, more like a late fall day. But the good news is, it’s not raining, and if we’re lucky, we just might see a bit of sunshine later on.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast

Today: Cloudy skies sticking around for most of the day. A few sunny breaks are possible this afternoon if the clouds decide to give us a little grace. High of around 50°F (10°C). Winds staying light, which helps some.

Tonight: Cloudy again and dipping down to a low near 36°F (2°C). Might feel a touch colder if that breeze picks up overnight.

Tomorrow: Still mostly cloudy, though there’s a better chance of some sun peeking through. A little warmer too, with a high near 55°F (13°C). It’s not quite porch-sitting weather yet, but we’re getting there.

Highway 522 is a bit quiet this morning, but that’ll change as the day moves along. Already seeing a steady stream of trucks, cars and 4x4s making their way up and down the highway, which is a sure sign we’re edging closer to tourist season. Folks are starting to open up their camps, check on cottages, and get a feel for how the land made it through the winter.

Bug Report:
Not much to report just yet, with it being such a cool spring. But it won’t be long now before the blackflies come knocking. As a rule of thumb, they usually show up right around Mother’s Day and tend to stick around ’til Father’s Day. So, it might be a good idea to get your bug jacket out and hanging by the door, just in case they decide to show themselves. But one thing is for certain, they won’t be showing up today, being as cold as it is.

On Another Note…
Yesterday was a busy one for my wife and me, even though I wasn’t feeling a hundred percent. We finished cleaning up our basement, and dragged out a bunch more stuff that’s going into our big spring sale. It starts on April 16th and runs until it’s all gone — and believe me, there’s a lot to go.

We’ve got just about everything under the sun. Jars full of screws, nails, bolts, nuts, and washers. Instant Pots, Kitchen gadgets galore, tables, fishing gear, reels, a fish finder, rakes, hoes, and shovels. Electronics galore — keyboards, a mouse or two, speakers, and more wires and cords than you can shake a stick at, enough to hook up just about any gadget out there.

And that’s just scratching the surface. On top of all that, we’ve also got everything from our gift shop — things my wife and I brought to life with our own hands — and it all has to go too. I’m even offering some great deals on the handcrafted flutes I make, and most everything else will be marked half price.

Heck, I’ve even got a good solid cement mixer up for grabs. Truth is, there’s just too much to list. You’ll have to come by and see it for yourself.

I swear, I don’t even remember where half of it came from, but it’s all got to go. So if you’re in need of anything — and I mean anything — drop by. I’m even parting with some of my woodworking tools and gear, which is saying something.

We’ll be putting up signs once things get rolling, but in the meantime, if you know someone looking for a deal or just loves a good treasure hunt, send them our way. We’d sure appreciate the help spreading the word.

Hope to see you next week — and come early if you want the good stuff!

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning on fixing up a proper stand for that swing I made a while back. That way, my lovely wife and I — or maybe some of our customers — will have a nice place to sit and relax. I’m thinking we’ll set it out under that big old basswood tree out back, we’ll see how that works out.

That is, if it warms up a bit. I’ve got to say, I’m not a fan of the cold like I used to be.

With that, I’m off to enjoy my morning breakfast, which my little woman has ready for me. After that, I think a nice cup of hot cocoa will be in order, then we’ll get into our regular morning chat — the one my wife and I do every single day. It’s a good way to start the day, and I’d say it’s one of the things that’s necessary for a good marriage. We never hide anything from each other, always keep things open and honest.

I’ve heard that nowadays some couples even have their own bank accounts. It’s funny, because after fifty-some years together, what I have is hers and what she has is mine — it’s always been that way. Funny how things have changed over the years, isn’t it?

I suppose you’d have to live as long as we have to really understand it. But for the younger folks getting married today, if you want a marriage to last, it might be something worth considering. Just a thought, mind you.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

What the Years Left Me to Write on May 7/ 2025

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Good Morning! The robins are back and so are the potholes, which is a sure sign that winter’s lettin’ go.

It’s a cloudy morning here, waking up in cottage country. The kind of sky that makes you reach for that second cup of coffee.

Today, well today it’s going to stay on the cool side with a high of just 48°F. No real sign of the sun breaking through, just a grey ceiling hanging over us most of the day.

Tonight, it’s going to get downright chilly, as we’re looking at a low of 30°F, which is kind of cool for this time of year. So you might want to toss another blanket on your bed before retiring for the evening.

Tomorrow however looks brighter. We’ll see the sun showing herself and the temperature will climb to a more comfortable 57°F. Still jacket weather, but not bad if you keep yourself moving. Tomorrow night dips back down again to about 33°F, so it’s not time to leave the windows open just yet.

But in saying all that, that’s the way things are here in the north, a typical spring, a little back and forth as the season tries to make up its mind.

Highway 522 is getting busier every day with folks leaving the cities, looking for something quieter. Some are just passing through, but more and more are sticking around, buying up little spots of land or fixing up the old cabins their grandparents left behind. But there’s also a quiet sort of shift unfolding, not loud or rushed, just steady. Kinda makes you wonder what this area will look like in another few years.

On another note, being that I wasn’t feeling the best yesterday, I spent part of the morning working away at some desk work, slow but steady. But when the sun broke through in the afternoon, I couldn’t sit still any longer and had to get outside. It’s one of those things, when the weather’s nice, it’s like something out there calls my name.

So what are you up to today GW?

Well, once again, not feeling quite up to par this morning, I figure I’ll take it easy here at my computer for a while. Although, if I start feeling a bit better, I might make a run to the dump later on this afternoon.

Dump days are always a bit of an event around here. You never know what—or who—you’ll run into. It’s where old things go to die and small talk thrives. Some folks treat it like a social outing, swapping stories over bags of garbage like it’s Sunday dinner.

So with that, I’m off once again for my morning breakfast—made by my lovely wife, who always knows how to get the day started just right. And after that, I’ll see what the day has in store, as around here, you never really know what’s coming next, one minute you’re set on a plan, and the next, life’s handed you something else entirely.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Sunup to Sundown, One Story at a Time on May 6/2025

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Good Morning… One thing at a time, that’s how things get done.

It was a bit damp earlier this morning, but the sun is trying to make an appearance now, which I suspect will be short-lived. The good news is, for the first time this year, we slept with the window in our bedroom open all night long. Kinda nice for a change.

Today (Tuesday, May 6):
Expect a mix of sun and clouds through the morning, with increasing cloud cover and scattered showers developing this afternoon. High around 67°F (19°C). Winds out of the southwest at 5 to 10 mph. There’s a 70% chance of rain, so don’t wander too far without a raincoat or a jacket.

Tonight:
Cloudy skies with periods of rain continuing into the evening. Low near 47°F (8°C). Winds will stay out of the southwest at 5 to 10 mph. Still about a 70% chance of rain overnight, so it’ll be a damp one.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, May 7):
Skies will stay mostly cloudy through the day with a chance of showers in the morning, tapering off as we head into the afternoon. Expect a high around 55°F (13°C). Winds will shift and come out of the north at 5 to 10 mph. Rain chance drops to 30%.

Tomorrow Night:
Things clear up overnight, bringing mainly clear skies. The temperature will dip down to a chilly 29°F (-1°C), so you might want to close that window again. Winds will be light and variable.

Highway 522 is slow this morning, which is normal for our area, but in saying that it has picked up traffic wise a lot over the past few days. Lots of new faces and vehicles roaming around, and it will only get busier as the days goes by.

On another note, yesterday I finally got around to cleaning up my woodworking shop—with the help of my wife, which sure made things a lot easier. It took us all morning, and in the afternoon we tackled the basement. It’s amazing what one can accumulate over the years. At any rate, we’re making a lot of headway these days. The place has never looked so good.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I think I’ll be taking it a bit easy, as I’m not feeling all that well—guess I’ve been overdoing it a bit lately. So, I’m just going to relax for a while.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife made for me. After that, I’ll sit back and enjoy our morning cup of—well, I think I’ll go with green tea this morning for a change. Just feel like something different. And of course, our regular chat. Can’t start the day without that.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Bring Back the Rock, and Let’s Talk About Hard Time Here Too in Canada

Only On The Walters Post

So here’s the thing — when I heard Donald Trump was talking about reopening Alcatraz, I didn’t roll my eyes like some folks might. In fact, I thought, well, that makes a lot of sense. What better place than an island surrounded by frigid waters and unforgiving tides to hold the worst of the worst? It worked before, didn’t it? You couldn’t exactly stroll off “The Rock” and into the nearest town for a coffee.

Now, I’m not talking about locking up some kid who made a mistake or someone caught with a bit of pot. I mean the ones who keep hurting others, again and again. The violent repeat offenders. The kind who have no interest in changing, who just cycle through the system, leaving a trail of damage behind.

Trump says he wants to rebuild and expand Alcatraz to house these criminals. He wants it to stand as a symbol — not of cruelty, but of law, order, and consequence. And you know what? Whether you like the man or not, the idea isn’t crazy. The prison’s already sitting there. The bones of it still stand. It’s got history. It’s got teeth, and most importantly, it worked — no confirmed escapes, not unless you count the three who vanished in ’62. Even then, chances are the ocean took ’em.

Now, here in Canada, I think we’ve got a different problem. We’re a little too soft on some things. I’m not saying lock everyone up and throw away the key — but I am saying if you’re doing time, you should be doing something. Productive. Useful. Working.

They used to put prisoners on road crews. Cleaning ditches, fixing fences, planting trees, along with learning trades. And giving something back to the community. But these days? Most inmates don’t do much of that. Sure, some have jobs inside — laundry, kitchen duty, sewing uniforms, or making license plates through CORCAN, the federal prison industry. But it’s mostly internal work, tucked out of sight. Rarely do you see a cleanup crew on the side of a rural highway anymore.

And it’s not mandatory. It’s voluntary.

Seems to me, if you’re getting free meals, heat, medical care, and a roof over your head at taxpayers’ expense, the least you can do is give something back. And here’s something worth mentioning — there are millions of people out here on the outside who can’t get a doctor when they need one. Meanwhile, inmates have a doctor on call anytime. It’s a glaring contrast that makes you think. We pay taxes for the system, but many of us are left waiting for care. It’s a reality check on fairness and responsibility. In fact, inmates have access to a full range of medical services, including primary care from physicians and nurses, mental health services with psychologists and psychiatrists, substance use treatments, and even specialized care from doctors and dentists. On top of that, they get pharmacy services, health screenings, and preventive care. All of this at no cost to them. It makes you wonder how much more people on the outside would benefit if they had even a fraction of that same access to healthcare.

I farmed a good portion of my life, and I’ll tell you, hard work never hurt anybody — in fact, it’s saved a lot of people and as my old dad used to say: Idle hands are the devil’s playground, and I believe it more now than ever.

So yeah, bring back Alcatraz if you’re serious about stopping the cycle of violence. And here in Canada? Maybe it’s time we rethink our approach, too. Not out of spite, but out of simple, honest common sense.


Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Heads-Up: Everyday Goods Might Be Delayed — And It Ain’t Trump’s Fault

Only On The Walters Post

So here’s something most folks haven’t heard about yet, but it’s fast approaching. On May 20, Canada’s new import system (CARM) kicks in. If importers aren’t registered and bonded by then, their goods might get held up at the border. That means you and me could be the ones feeling it on the shelves and at the checkout.

Here are just a handful of things that might slow down if this rolls out rough:

🛒 Groceries

  • Cereal, flour, canned goods
  • Juice, soda, and bottled water
  • Pet food

🥩 Fresh & Frozen Foods

  • Fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood
  • Dairy and eggs
  • Anything perishable — delays mean spoiled loads

🛠️ Everyday Essentials

  • Cleaning supplies, hygiene products
  • Clothing and footwear
  • Hardware, tools, light bulbs

🚗 Auto & Farm Supplies

  • Car and truck parts
  • Tractor and equipment pieces
  • Shop supplies

🏗️ Building Materials

  • Lumber, steel, drywall
  • Paint, adhesives, fasteners

And here’s the kicker: when the delays hit, I can just about guarantee some folks will start bellyaching, saying “This is Trump’s tariffs again!”
Well — it ain’t.

This has nothing to do with Trump or tariffs. This is a Canadian policy rollout that importers have to comply with, or their shipments won’t clear. Period.

So before the blame train gets rolling in the wrong direction, let’s get the facts straight. It’s not politics — it’s red tape. And unless it’s smoothed out quick, working folks are going to feel it the hardest.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Trump Orders 100% Tariff on Foreign-Made Movies

Only On The Walters Post

Honestly, I think this is a great move, as these days, most of the movies and shows coming out of other countries are just plain awful. Same plot lines, same acting style, same everything. My wife and I can usually guess what’s going to happen before the scene even finishes. There’s no real story anymore—just recycled themes with no heart.

We’ve found ourselves turning back to the old classics, shows like Becker, The Bob Newhart Show, and Gunsmoke—those had something special. The writing was sharp, the characters had personality, and even the animals seemed to have a sense of humor. And the kids? Well hell, they could really act, not just pose for the camera.

And for the record, I’m from Canada—and I’ll say this, we could use some fresh, good-quality shows and movies made here too. Truth is, most of what’s coming out of Canada these days isn’t much better. Not much substance, nothing that sticks with you.

So yeah, if this tariff brings focus back to real storytelling, solid acting, and something original for a change, I’m all for it. Hollywood used to have soul, maybe this is what it needs to find it again.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

The Country Where Stories Grow on May 5/2025

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Good Morning. As Laura, the lady that raised me used to say: “George, The Day Won’t Wait, But You Never Skip Breakfast.”

It’s another nice day here in cottage country, sun is out and things has warmed up some.

Port Loring, Ontario – Weather Forecast

Today (Monday, May 5):
Mild and mostly cloudy throughout the day.
High: 71°F (22°C)
Low tonight: 56°F (13°C)

Tonight:
Staying mostly cloudy with a mild breeze.
Temperatures will dip to about 56°F (13°C) overnight.

Tomorrow (Tuesday, May 6):
Mostly cloudy with a chance of a few afternoon showers.
High: 72°F (22°C)
Low tomorrow night: 48°F (9°C)

Looking ahead to Wednesday:
Cooler with some cloud cover and a possible morning shower.
High: 55°F (13°C)
Low: 29°F (-2°C)

If you’ve got chores to do outside, you best getter done before that midweek chill sneaks in.

Highway 522 is picking up traffic-wise with lots of new faces roaming around town. City folks, you know—they roll in with their fancy coffees, Bluetooth headsets, and cars that look like they ain’t never seen a gravel road.

On another note, my wife and I had a real busy day working in our basement, cleaning things up and sorting through what we’re putting out for the garage sale. By the time we were done, we were more than ready to sit down. I swear, I discovered muscles I didn’t even know I had.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, being so nice out and knowing we’re in for cooler, rainy weather after tomorrow, I’m thinking it’s time to get some outside work done, breathe in the fresh air, and then settle in for some front porch sittin’. One has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can

So with that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my little woman has made for me, and then we’ll enjoy our hot cocoa along with our regular chat. Might even take it outside and soak up some of that sunshine. We’ve got this nice little cove we sit in on these spring mornings—a peaceful spot tucked out of the way where we can take in the nature all around us, and believe me, we’ve got plenty of it right here by our home.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Notes from a Life Lived in Stories on May 4/2025

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It’s looking like a real nice day here in the north. The sun is shining, the grass is greening up nicely, and the buds on some of the trees are starting to look like actual leaves. Especially the white lilac we have by the house—it’s really something. When it’s in full bloom, you can smell it no matter where you walk around the yard. Over the years, I’ve taken shoots from the original and planted others here and there around the place. There’s just something about lilacs that I’ve always liked. Maybe it’s a sign that spring has finally settled in.

On another note, yesterday I was all set to clean up my old woodworking shop. But soon as I stepped outside, I noticed a bunch of water by the house. That didn’t look right, so I took a better look and found the old outside tap had sprung a leak. It’s been there a long time, and I guess it finally gave out.

Fixing it ended up taking most of the morning. It wasn’t the easiest thing, but with the new connectors they’ve come up with these days, it wasn’t as bad as I thought it’d be. Truth be told, I was kind of proud of myself. Plumbing’s never really been my thing—but every now and then, you figure something out, and it actually works the way it’s supposed to. That’s a win in my books.

After I got that all looked after, I had some lunch, and then my wife and I spent the rest of the day doing a bit more cleanup around the property. By the time we wrapped up, the day was pretty much gone.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today my wife and I are planning to get a bit of work done down in the basement, tidying things up. With heating the house with wood all winter, things can get a little messy down there. Not terrible, but it could use some attention.

But first, I’m going to sit down and enjoy the breakfast my little woman made for me—a soft-boiled egg and some sausages from grass-fed critters. You just can’t beat that, especially when it comes to getting a good dose of K2. That’s the stuff most folks are missing these days. Problem is, with what they’re feeding animals now, a lot of the nutrients that used to be in meat just aren’t there anymore. But when they’re raised right—on real grass and the way nature intended—you get all the good things our bodies actually need to stay healthy.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Weather Outlook for Port Loring, Ontario Canada

Only On The Walters Post

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Sunday, May 4
Today will bring mostly sunny skies, with a high of 64°F (18°C). Winds stay light, and the afternoon should feel comfortable if you’re out getting things done. By evening, temperatures dip into the mid-50s before settling near 42°F (6°C) overnight. Skies stay mostly clear.

Monday, May 5
The day starts off with some sunshine and a morning low around 48°F (9°C). By the afternoon, it warms up to about 70°F (21°C), though clouds will start thickening up. Showers are expected to roll in late Monday night, with an overnight low near 55°F (13°C). It won’t be a washout, but enough to keep the ground damp.


Medium-Range Forecast (Through Mid-May)

Looking past Monday, the pattern stays unsettled. We’re in one of those spring stretches where we get a few warm, dry days, then a cold front reminds us we’re not quite there yet. Temperatures will run up and down, with daytime highs generally bouncing between 52°F and 68°F. A few sunnier afternoons might brush 70°F, but that warmth won’t stick around for long.

Nights will remain cool, with several droppings into the mid-30s to low 40s. There’s even the potential for a light frost on the colder ones—still a bit risky if you’re thinking about getting a jump on the garden.

We’ll also see periods of showers mid to late week, with systems tracking through from the west. These will be scattered and hit-or-miss, but enough to keep things muddy between dry spells. Overall, the pattern across eastern Canada is stuck between colder air to the north and brief warm surges from the south, but no strong heat ridges are building in. So, while it’s not cold, it’s not the start of summer either.

Long story short—expect typical up-and-down spring weather. No big extremes, just a slow crawl toward real warmth. Patience will pay off.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Welcome to my little corner of the countryside, where storytelling meets the everyday joys of woodworking, farming, and gardening. I’m GW, a writer and published author with over thirty years of experience.