George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Waking Up: What’s On My Mind on June 20/2025

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Good Morning… the air is quiet, and it feels like a good day to get out to the workshop, or maybe even dig around in the garden a bit.

Well, it’s looking like the rain has finally left us, and the sun is starting to break through the clouds. A welcome sight, I’d say.

Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

Today (Friday, June 20)

  • Daytime: A mix of sun and cloud, with things warming up nicely to around 72 °F (22 °C).
  • Nighttime Temperatures: Dropping down to a cooler 51 °F (11 °C), which should make for a good sleeping night.

Saturday (June 21)

  • Daytime: Cloudy skies, with a few showers and maybe a thunderstorm early on. Breezy through the afternoon, with highs reaching 78 °F (26 °C).
  • Nighttime Temperatures: Holding warmer at around 65 °F (19 °C), still a bit humid and damp in spots.

Sunday (June 22)

Nighttime Temperatures: Staying warm and sticky near 66 °F (19 °C)—a sign summer’s really settling in.

Daytime: A muggy one on the way. Cloudy early, then maybe a break of sun before a few pop-up storms roll through in the afternoon. Highs climbing to 87 °F (31 °C).

So, by the looks of things, the warmer daytime temperatures are here to stay for a while.

Highway 522 was still pretty quiet yesterday, though the weather wasn’t all that great, which likely kept folks at home. Out here in the country, that suits us just fine as it means more peace and quiet, which is what most folks living here enjoy. Least my wife and I do.

Bug Report:
Well, there weren’t any bugs to speak of yesterday. With the rain, everything with wings seemed to take the day off. But this morning? The mosquitoes are back at it, raising a bit of hell. They will likely settle down once the sun gets a little higher in the sky.

Of course, that is usually when the deer flies punch in for their shift.

Actually, I have been pretty lucky over the years, as for the most part, none of them actually bite me. They just buzz around my face like they are trying to tell me something. Not sure why that is, but my wife says it is because I am not as sweet as most folks. Could be true.

On another note, with it being a rainy day yesterday, I spent most of my time right here at the computer. Got a couple of stories written up in the morning, and by afternoon I started working on setting things up so I can share my stories on my blog, YouTube, and a few other spots.

What I’ll be doing is taking one story each week from my collection and turning it into a podcast. I used to do that a while back, but after a time I drifted away from it, tried making videos instead, and then drifted from that too. So now I’m heading back to podcasting, which means I’ll be reading my stories out loud once again.

Keep an eye out for them on my YouTube channel and right here on the blog.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning to work on my bird feeder. I had to take it down the other day since it needed a bit of repair. I’ve been experimenting with different ways to keep the larger birds out while still letting the smaller ones in to feed. It’s been a bit of a challenge, but I think I’ve finally figured it out.

So I’ll get it fixed up and back on the post outside our living room window. That way, my wife and I can sit and watch the show throughout the day. We sure enjoy seeing all the different kinds of birds that come to visit.

So yep, that’s what I’ve got on the go today.

With that I’m off for my morning breakfast once again that my lovely wife has put together for me, and then I’ll see what the day has in store other than what I have planned. Every day is a mystery waiting to be made into something.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

What Time Has Taught Me (So Far) on June 19/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. Out here in the country, the coffee tastes stronger, the sky looks w i d e r, and even the silence has something to say.

Well, looking out the old window here by my desk, it looks like we’re in for a rainy day.

Today – Thursday, June 19: Rain’s falling steady this morning, and might keep at it for most of the day. We’ll see a high around 64 °F (18 °C) and dropping to about 49 °F (10 °C) tonight. There’s a rainfall warning on—calling for 40 to 60 mm of rain, which works out to roughly 1.5 to 2.5 inches. We could also hear the odd rumble of thunder in the mix too.

Tonight: Cooler and still damp. The heavier rain should ease into lighter showers by evening, with temps settling near 49 °F (10 °C). Nice for sleeping.

Tomorrow – Friday, June 20: Cloudy for the most part but milder, with the high creeping up to around 73 °F (23 °C) and an overnight low of about 56 °F (13 °C). Might not be bone-dry, but not near as wet as today.

I would say that today would be a good day to stay in, tend to the small stuff, and let the land have its drink. As it sure needs it, especially our vegetable garden.

Bug Report: Other than a few mosquitoes and the odd deer fly irritating folks, things are pretty decent out there these days. Not much to complain about. That said, I have noticed those tiny gnats are starting to show up at night. If you haven’t got the newer style screens on your windows, they’ll slip right through the old ones the minute they see a light on. Not exactly what you want buzzing around your bedroom, especially on a hot night.

Highway 522 was quiet again yesterday. A few locals were out, and some trucks working the area, but not many tourists yet. I expect that will change once July arrives, when the kids get out of school and city folks feel the pull of the country.

The thing is, real country is getting harder to find these days. I mean the kind where no chemicals are sprayed on fields or bushes, the kind that doesn’t kill everything it touches and then spread into the lakes, streams, and rivers. And the worst part is, that, sooner or later, that mess makes its way into our well water too.

Those so-called specialists act like they know it all, but really, they only repeat what they’re taught in fancy schools that have moved away from final exams. Without those traditional tests, it’s hard to tell if students are truly learning anything or just coasting through. Makes me shake my head and wonder where we’re headed here in Canada.

On another note, yesterday being such a nice day I spent most of it outside, working on a few projects and taking care of customers who stopped by our gift shop and garage sale. I have to say, sales went great, with plenty of folks coming by and picking up a good number of our things.

Later, since the grass was dry and rain was expected for the next couple of days, my wife and I figured we’d better get the mowing done. Glad we did, and I have to say, it looks real nice out there now, all cleaned up and tidy.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today being a rainy old day, I figure I’ll be working here at my desk where all the magic happens, at least when I get into writing stories. I’ve got a couple of ideas brewing for my columns that actually pay me to write, so that’s probably what I’ll be doing. But hey, you never know, as every day seems to come with its own agenda.

So with that, I’m off to dig into the breakfast my lovely wife whipped up, pancakes with some good grass fed butter over the top. Then I’ll sink back into my lazy boy chair of mine with a steaming cup of cocoa, just because I can.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Fine Print Nobody Reads

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

I caught something on the news the other morning, just after the weather. They were talking about a new system called Open Banking. It’s meant to give folks the ability to share their financial information with companies outside their bank. That way, you could see all your accounts in one place, manage your money through different apps, maybe even build credit just by paying your rent on time.

Sounds like a good deal at first. But the more I listened, the more it felt like there was something beneath the surface.

Turns out the government passed part of the law to get it rolling, but the rest … the part that sets the rules and says who’s watching over it well, it’s still missing. Nothing’s clear yet. Then after the election, they stopped mentioning it altogether. It wasn’t in the party platform, and the spring budget didn’t touch it either.

When something that big gets quiet all of a sudden, I start to wonder why.

They’re calling it “consumer-driven banking,” but I don’t see anyone asking the consumers what they think. Meanwhile, private tech companies are ready and waiting. Once your financial data is in their hands, there’s no getting it back. They say it’s secure. They say it helps, but here’s the thing, most people don’t read the fine print these days, and that’s where the trouble begins.

It’s not that the idea is bad, and it might work, for some. But when the people pushing it aren’t talking straight, and the rules aren’t nailed down, you’ve got to ask who’s really set to gain.

So if you hear about it too, maybe take a second look. Because once that door opens, it might not be you holding the handle.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only, Old Days, Old Ways

Coffee, Corporations, and What We Lost

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

You know I’ve had coffee in many places over the years, truck stops, fishing/hunting camps, along with old general stores with a pot sitting on a hot plate by the till. Places where folks sat, talked, and shared a laugh or a worry. That was the kind of coffee shop I knew and grew up with. And I should mention that I didn’t go there just for the coffee either, well I did, as they sure made it mighty tasty back then, some even added a touch of Chicory. But I also went for the company, the steady routine, and maybe a doughnut that didn’t look like it was made in a hurry by a machine, or leave a taste in your mouth for hours after eating it.

But I’ve been watching what’s happened to our small Ma and Pa coffee shops, and I don’t like the turn it’s taken. We used to have local spots that stayed open for years, even decades. Then along came the big chains. At first, they seemed alright. Canadian Branding, warm colours, friendly ads. But here is the thing, over time they started replacing the little shops one by one quietly. They Just moved in, and the others couldn’t compete. Lower prices and faster service did the trick.

Another thing I noticed is that coffee today doesn’t taste the same. Oh, my wife and I, we’ve bought bags at the grocery stores, probably more than we should have, but what I found was that you never know what you’re going to get. One bag tastes alright and the next is flat, bitter or just plain dull. Makes me think they are not picking for quality anymore, just for what is cheapest that week. It does not matter if it is from halfway across the world, or grown under poor conditions. As long as it is cheap… it’s in the bag.

Then there is the seating. Years ago, you could sit down with a buddy and take your time, but now they are tearing out the chairs and downsizing the space, telling folks it’s all about efficiency. The truth is, they do not want you hanging around. Less space, means fewer people to clean and less staff to pay and a quicker turnover. Get your drink and get out. That is the new model, and it does not matter if it kills the spirit of the place.

Another thing is, the donuts are smaller than they used to be, no question. Same price less product. It’s what they call… shrinkflation and another quiet trick they do not talk about.

I am also starting to wonder what is in all this stuff. With everything we are learning about PFAS, those forever chemicals showing up in cups lids and wrappers, who is to say we are not getting a dose with every hot drink or baked good? Nobody is out here testing that cup you are handed, and when a company is more focused on saving money than serving people, health usually takes a back seat.

Here is the last bit that makes me think, and in not a good way. One of the largest coffee shops in Canada isn’t even truly Canadian anymore. The branding still plays that tune, sure. Maple leaves on the cups, smiling faces in the ads. But most of the ownership now sits outside the country. Decisions are not being made for Canadians, or by them. They are being made in boardrooms somewhere else by folks who have likely never stepped into a small-town coffee shop in their life. The money leaves the country… just as fast as it comes in.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only, Old Days, Old Ways

Time to Get Back to What Matters

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

So here’s the thing. I read in the paper today, that wine imports from the U.S. are way down, about 94 percent, according to the LCBO. Hard to believe. Anyway, some folks might not think much of that, but to an old feller like me, who used to grow grapes and sell them to folks right here in Canada, who turned them into wine, it says a lot about the direction we’re heading.

But in saying that, maybe that drop isn’t such a bad thing, not if it gives folks a reason to start buying the wine made in our own backyards. The thing is, we’ve got farmers across this country working the land, tending vineyards, and keeping small wineries alive, and that kind of effort deserves more than just a nod. When you pick up a bottle that was grown and made right here at home, you’re not just getting something good to drink, you’re keeping fields in use, putting money in a neighbour’s pocket, and helping this country hold on to something real.

I spent a good portion of my life farming, building, and raising a family through years that taught you to stand on your own feet and lean on each other, when you had to. Back then, we didn’t need to look far for what we needed. What we used was built close to home, grown by someone you knew, and it lasted because pride went into making it. But…somewhere along the way, we gave that up for convenience, and now our shelves are full of goods made in places that don’t hold to the same values or standards. That’s not progress, that’s a problem.

If we want to turn this around, we need to get back to basics, and it starts with how we buy and who we support.

First, we should be choosing Canadian whenever we can, food, wine, tools, lumber, whatever it is. If we can grow it or make it here, that’s what we ought to be reaching for.

Second, when we do need something from outside, it should come from folks who still care about what they’re making, who put in the work to get it right, and who take pride in sending out something that lasts.

Third, we’ve got to think more carefully about the kind of people we’re welcoming in to help build this country. It shouldn’t be about where someone comes from, but about what they bring to the table … good trades, real skills, and a desire to make this place stronger, not just benefit from what’s already here.

We’ve been through tough times before, and we pulled through by sticking together, making do, and standing behind our own. There’s no reason we can’t do that again. The answers aren’t fancy or complicated. They’re plain as day. Support the people around you. Buy what’s built to last. And take pride in what we can still do with our own two hands, right here at home.


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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

From the Porch to the Page: A Life Built in Sentences on June 18/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. I’ve found that the stories worth telling always leave a little silence around them.

So starting things off with this… Looking outside, it seems to be shaping up to be a nice day here in Cottage Country.

Today – Wednesday, June 18:
It’s sittin’ around 62°F (16°C) this morning, with mostly cloudy skies. Feels calm and kind of gentle out there. If the clouds behave, we might hit a high of 78°F (26°C) later on. There’s a slight chance of a sprinkle this afternoon, but nothin’ much to worry about if you’ve got things to do outdoors.

Tonight:
It’ll stay mostly cloudy and mild. Temperature should dip down to about 60°F (16°C), which is still decent for sleepin’ with the windows cracked. Might get a touch of light rain, but again, not much of it.

Tomorrow – Thursday, June 19:
Cooler air’s blowin’ in come morning, and it’ll be breezy for a spell. High should land somewhere around 71°F (22°C), which is still good workin’ weather. Rain’s supposed to roll in off and on through the day, so best to plan around it if you’ve got anything you need to keep dry. Overnight, we’re lookin’ at a low of 56°F (13°C).

Highway 522’s got a bit more traffic these days, but it’s still moving slow.
Not sure if it’s the shaky economy, or maybe folks just aren’t wandering as far from home this year. Could be all of it, could be none of it. Hard to pin down.

Still, every now and then, you see a camper roll through, which tells us summers still trying to find us here in the north.

Bug Report:
Well, the black flies have pretty well-packed up and left us for another year, thank goodness. But just as one pest moves out, another moves in. The deer flies are wide awake now, and let me tell you, they don’t mess around.

Once one finds you, well, that’s it, as they circle, they hover, and they just don’t take the hint. And if you stand still too long, they’ll settle in and take a bite big enough to make you take notice. Not exactly what you’d call a pleasant experience.

That’s where my old hat earns its keep. Been swatting bugs with it for years, and it still does the trick.

But truth be told, even with a few deer flies buzzing about, things are pretty good these days here in the north. Warm sun, green trees, and enough quiet to think, can’t complain too much.

On another note, my wife and I decided to head on into North Bay yesterday to pick up some supplies and a few odds and ends. We got what we needed, and, as it usually goes, a little more than we planned.

Afterward, we treated ourselves to a pizza and a cold iced tea over at East Side Mario’s. Sat there for a spell, just enjoying the food and each other’s company. It’s funny how a simple meal, when shared with the right person, can feel like the best part of the whole day.

Then before heading home, we stopped by a little coffee shop in town for a hot cup to go, then made our way back home, soaking in what nature had to offer.

And there’s plenty to notice if you take the time to look, with the wildflowers blooming in the ditches, birds circling overhead, and the lakes catching the last bit of sunlight like they’re holding onto something important.

We’ve also been seeing a lot of new folks moving into the area, buying up properties here and there. Seems to be the trend lately. Some are looking for peace and quiet, or for a fresh start. Either way, the north has a way of drawing people in, and I can’t rightly say I blame them.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with the weather looking pretty good. I figure I’ll spend some time cleaning up our woodworking shop. I’ve been out there quite a bit lately working on things, and it’s gotten a bit messy, sawdust everywhere, tools scattered, and off-cuts piled up here and there.

But I’ve always said, a clean shop’s alright, but a messy one means things are getting done. I’ve seen plenty of woodworking shops in my day, and some of them are so clean, you’d swear no one ever lifted a hammer.

To me, they are more for show. Give me a bench covered in shavings, a few boards stacked against the wall, and the smell of fresh-cut wood in the air. That’s a real shop.

Still, I do like to keep mine in decent shape, at least tidy enough that I don’t waste half the morning lookin’ for my tape measure.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife’s made for me, then I’ll be heading outside with a hot cup of Barry’s Tea in hand. It’s a fine-tasting tea if you like something smooth and full of flavor. If you’ve never tried it, I’d say give it a go—they carry it at Metro. You won’t be disappointed.

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

George's Writers Corner, Health, My Opinion Only

Cholesterol What it means

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

You know, somewhere along the line, cholesterol got painted as the villain. Turn on the TV or open a magazine, and you would think it is the root of all evil, blamed for heart attacks, strokes, and everything in between. But the more I have looked into it, and the more I have listened to folks who are not just pushing pills or fear, the more I have come to believe there is no such thing as bad cholesterol or good cholesterol. There is just cholesterol, and we need it.

I learned this the hard way. Years ago, I was told things would only get better if I started taking one of those cholesterol-lowering drugs. At the time, I believed what they told me. “Precautionary measures, George, it’s in your best interest.” But was it?

Now in saying that, it did lower my cholesterol, that much was true, but not without a cost. After a short while, every bone in my body ached. I could not even lift my arms over my head. That pain was constant, so I started looking into it myself and sure enough, all those symptoms I was feeling were listed right there as side effects of the drug I was on. Once I saw that, I spoke with my doctor, and he said it was up to me if I wanted to stop. That was all I needed to hear. I took myself off the drug and, little by little, things started to get better.

What sticks with me most from that time is how, right from the beginning, something deep inside me told me it was wrong. My gut, my body, and my mind were trying to warn me. And still, I pushed those feelings aside and trusted what I was told. Looking back, I know now I should have listened to myself. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to learn from some pretty sharp and insightful people since then. These days, I listen to the instructions that come from within, and I don’t question them.

With cholesterol still on my mind, I asked myself what I could do to really support my health. That is when I learned that cholesterol is the raw material the body uses, with the help of sunshine on our skin, to make vitamin D. That made sense to me. So I decided to do what felt right. I started getting outside more, soaking up the sunshine, staying active, and feeding my body the best food I could find. I let Nature take the lead. And it worked.

I was not always sure how to explain this clearly to others. I had started to write something myself, but then a friend of mine, a smart doctor who does not follow the crowd, sent me an article he wrote. After reading it, I thought this says it better than I ever could. So I asked if I could include it in one of my books. He agreed without hesitation.

What Allan wrote made sense to me, and I think it might to you too. It is written in plain English, and it does not try to sell you anything. It just lays out the truth as he sees it, and I happen to agree with him.

So here it is, from Allan himself. Have a read, and next time someone tells you to fear your cholesterol, maybe give this another look and think it over for yourself.

“Bad” Cholesterol: The Unknown Heart Healer
by Allan Lawry
Originally published in HANS e-News,

If you think that “bad” or “high” cholesterol contributes to heart disease, you have been deceived by those marketing a mythical disease.

The so-called “bad” or LDL cholesterol is actually part of a natural healing process designed for repairing damaged arteries in your body. This damage is usually caused by inflammation and oxidation. Oxidation causes nicks and cuts on the inside walls of the arteries and leads to inflammation, much like a cut on the outside of your skin. This then sets into motion the body’s healing process. LDL cholesterol has many roles, and one of them is to help heal by forming a waxy “scab” over these cuts. That scab, often called plaque, protects the arterial wall and gives it time to heal from within, while still allowing blood to flow.

It is up to us to supply our bodies with the right ingredients for healing and to build healthy arteries that last a lifetime.

The myths about cholesterol need to be cleared up. Many studies show that people with high cholesterol live longer and suffer fewer heart problems than those with low cholesterol. Other research shows that eating fatty foods high in cholesterol has little or no effect on blood cholesterol levels.

As Dr. Ron Rosedale puts it, “There is only one cholesterol. There is no such thing as good or bad cholesterol.” LDL and HDL are not cholesterol, they are lipoproteins — transport vehicles for cholesterol, which the body needs.

Years ago, mainstream medicine noticed that people with heart disease had higher LDL levels. From that, they guessed that LDL must be the problem. But what they missed was that LDL shows up to patch the damage. It is the body’s attempt to heal, not harm.

It has since come to light that some of the researchers pushing to lower LDL were funded by the same companies making cholesterol-lowering drugs. In fact, over the past few decades, the so-called “safe” cholesterol levels have been lowered several times, not based on new science, but based on the financial interest of drugmakers.

Dr. Uffe Ravnskov, a respected cholesterol researcher, was once asked if lowering cholesterol through diet, drugs, or therapy made sense. He answered, “Absolutely not. This kind of treatment is meaningless, costly, and has transformed millions of healthy people into patients.”

Statins — the most common class of cholesterol-lowering drugs — have become a $29 billion global industry. They work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that makes cholesterol. But lowering cholesterol this way goes against what years of research now shows. It is not in your best interest to lower your cholesterol.

Cholesterol is essential for life. It helps transport fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. It supports the brain, builds hormones, and plays a key role in the immune system and healing.

If you want to protect yourself from cardiovascular disease, the focus should be on lowering inflammation and oxidation. This means avoiding refined carbs, processed oils, and artificial sweeteners. Instead, eat natural foods, get regular exercise, spend time outdoors, and get plenty of sunshine for natural vitamin D. You can also ask your doctor to test for inflammation markers like C-reactive protein, homocysteine, insulin, and blood acidity.

Research shows the fats we should be avoiding are not from eggs or butter, but from processed and overheated oils — margarine, vegetable oils, trans fats, and anything fried. These oxidized fats create free radicals in the body, which lead to inflammation, oxidation, and eventually, damage to the arteries. That is the real cause of heart disease.

So the next time you hear an ad telling you to lower your cholesterol, take a step back and think about who is really benefiting. Your health is more important than their marketing.

I wish you all the best in your search for better health.

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

George's Writers Corner, Health, My Opinion Only

Maybe It’s Time We Got Back to the Old Way of Living

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These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.


By GW

It really does make you wonder, doesn’t it? All this modern medicine, all these pills for everything under the sun, and yet more folks seem sick and tired than ever before. If you ask me, maybe we’re not missing some miracle cure. Maybe we just forgot how to live with nature instead of trying to outrun it.

Back when I was younger, and definitely in my parents’ time here in Ontario, we didn’t run off to the doctor for every little thing. Truth is, most folks couldn’t even afford to if they wanted to. You got a cut, you cleaned it. Got a cold, you rested. There were broths and teas, homemade salves, and a whole lot of common sense. It wasn’t perfect, no, but folks were stronger, and they sure didn’t depend on pills to get through the day.

Now it feels like the first thing we do is reach for medicine. You’ve got an ache, there’s a pill for that. Can’t sleep, there’s another one. And then there’s the pill to handle the side effects from the first two. It just keeps going.

Now, I’m not saying all medicine is bad. There’s good stuff out there that has helped a lot of people. But it’s gotten out of hand. You know, our bodies know how to heal if we let it. The thing is it just needs time, rest, and the right fuel. Instead, we throw chemicals at every symptom and wonder why we’re still not feeling right.

And it’s not just the medicine. These days, we scrub everything down with disinfectants, trying to kill off every last germ. We’ve got soaps, sprays, hand gels, even wipes for wiping the wipes. Some folks won’t even touch a doorknob without a tissue. But our bodies were never meant to be kept in a bubble. A bit of dirt never hurt, in fact, it helped build our strength. Over-cleaning everything, especially our skin and homes, throws off our natural balance. The same goes for what we’re using on the land. You drive down the road and smell the sprays drifting through the air, weed killers, bug killers, brush control. It’s everywhere. And it’s not just outside. Those chemicals get into our food, our water, and into us.

The worst part is, nobody’s asking what caused the problem in the first place anymore. It’s all about covering it up, masking it, keeping the machine running. But our bodies aren’t machines. They’re living systems. And like any good system, if you overwhelm it long enough, it will start to break down.

I really believe we’d be better off if we brought some of the old ways back. Growing your own food, eating what’s in season, moving your body every day. Not at a gym, but doing something real. Getting outside, chopping wood, walking fence lines, or just being part of the land. Sleeping when you’re tired. Letting your immune system do what it was built to do without stepping in to stop it at every turn. Getting out in the sun for Vitamin D3, very important, And giving your body the space to sort itself out now and then.

It’s not complicated. It’s just honest, and it’s the way folks lived for generations before all this modern noise/medicine showed up.

So maybe it’s time to slow down. Pay attention to what we’re eating, what we’re thinking, and what we’re trusting to heal us. Not everything needs a label or a prescription. Sometimes, what we need most is already right here, in the soil, in the kitchen, or just in giving ourselves a little more care, the way the old folks did.

Just something that’s been on my mind.

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

George's Writers Corner

What’s Happening in Canada: A Closer Look

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

We’ve been hearing, and I have been chatting a lot, about tariffs lately and how they’re supposedly a threat to our country. But if we take a step back and look closely, there’s more to the story than meets the eye. More businesses are recognizing the benefits of operating in Canada, signaling that we’re becoming more self-sufficient. Companies are seeing the value in investing locally and supporting our economy. Which is a good thing.

The LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) is a prime example of this growth. With over 400 new job openings across the province, the demand for local employment and services is rising, showing how businesses are adapting to the changing landscape.

So, what’s the takeaway here? While U.S. tariffs and trade policies can create challenges, they’re also pushing us to build resilience. These hurdles force us to rethink our strategies and come back stronger.

So here’s my take on things. Instead of focusing on the negatives, maybe it’s time to acknowledge what we’ve actually achieved, rather than just criticizing the U.S. We’ve been through a lot, and after years of governments falling short, people were desperate to get back on their feet. Now, here we are in Canada, staring down another election, and it feels like we’re about to leap right back into the fire. Watching it all unfold is tough—really tough. It’s baffling how some folks can’t see what’s right in front of them. It makes me shake my head in disbelief. We’ve walked this road before, and it’s a hard one to tread again.

The truth is, the choices we make as voters will shape the future, and it’s frustrating to feel like the lessons of the past still haven’t been learned.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Who’s Really Owning Canada Now?

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Only On The Walters Post

Just a heads-up — these are my own thoughts based on what I’ve seen and experienced. I’m sharing them to get people thinking and talking, not to say I’ve got all the answers.

There’s something going on across this country that more people need to start paying attention to. It’s been happening quietly, without much fuss or fanfare, but it’s changing the landscape of Canada in a way that should concern every one of us. Foreign money, and a lot of it, is buying up this country … not just a little here and there, but in large, sweeping ways that reach into our towns, our cities, and even our farmland.

Over the past few decades, wealthy investors and corporations from overseas have been pouring their money into Canada. They’re not just buying vacation homes or the odd condo. They’re buying major retail chains, malls, commercial buildings, and farmland. Many of them have built their fortunes far away, often in industries that would never pass the smell test here, and now they’re shifting that wealth into Canadian soil and Canadian infrastructure.

They come in quietly, usually through numbered companies or shell corporations set up right here at home, which means most of the time, you won’t even know it’s foreign-owned. But if you follow the money trail, you’ll often find it ends up overseas. What looks like a Canadian business might just be a holding tank for foreign investors, with profits flowing right out of the country.

Farmland is one of the big targets. In some provinces, there are laws that claim to limit foreign ownership, but in practice those rules are full of holes. Land can be bought under different names or through local partners, and once it’s purchased, there’s no guarantee it will be farmed properly or cared for by people who live on it. What was once a working family farm might now be a silent investment for someone who has never stepped foot on Canadian soil.

The real estate situation is just as troubling. Housing prices have gone through the roof in places across the country, and young Canadians are being pushed out of the markets they grew up in. Homes are being snapped up not as places to live, but as investments to park money. Some sits empty for months or even years. Meanwhile, families are struggling to find decent places to rent, let alone buy.

The same thing is happening in retail. Iconic Canadian brands that used to anchor our communities have been sold off, dismantled, or replaced by new operations funded with foreign capital. These businesses might set up shop in our towns, but they don’t build lasting relationships with the people living there. They fill their shelves with imported goods, keep wages low, and design stores for speed, not for connection or community. It becomes less about serving the neighbourhood and more about owning square footage and extracting whatever profit they can.

I want to be clear that this isn’t about pointing fingers at people who come to Canada to build a better life. Immigration has shaped this country and should continue to do so. But what I’m talking about here isn’t about people … it’s about power. And that power is being quietly handed over to foreign interests who are not here to live with us, but to profit from us. That’s not immigration. That’s ownership.

We’ve let it happen because our laws allow it. Our politicians avoid the topic because it makes them uncomfortable or costs them votes. The media rarely digs into it because it’s not flashy enough for headlines, or it risks offending major advertisers. So it continues in the background, quietly changing who owns what, and who controls the future of this country.

If we don’t speak up and take a hard look at where things are headed, we might soon find ourselves as guests in our own backyard. And once we give up ownership, it’s very hard to get it back.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

A Few Thoughts on Selling a Home in the North

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

Living up north, you really learn to see things differently, and that includes what makes a home special. Folks often dream of a lakefront spot, and sure, those can be mighty pretty. But I’ve learned the real gems up here aren’t always right by the water. Sometimes, the best places, the ones that truly fill you with peace, are tucked away a bit further in, where it’s just you and the quiet.

When I talk about a well-kept home with a bit of land and some calm, I’m talking about a feeling, not just a location. It’s about having your own space, where the wind in the trees becomes your music and the stars shine so bright it feels like you could reach out and touch them. And the best part is, you can often find these spots just a short walk from the lake. Being close by means you still get that peace at home, and you can wander down for a paddle, a dip, or to catch the sunset whenever the mood strikes. It’s the best of both worlds. You have your own quiet haven, and the water is never far away.

I’ve been around these parts for a good number of years, and I’ve seen how the home market moves. What stands out is how steady some places are. It’s not just about what the headlines say, whether prices are rising or falling. It’s about finding that place that feels like it was made for you. A home that’s been cared for, with space to breathe and the kind of quiet you only find up here, is worth something. Always has been.

In our neck of the woods, that kind of peace has never gone out of style. And it seems to me the north follows its own rhythm when it comes to what makes a good home. Whether it’s perched above a lake or nestled in a quiet clearing just a walkaway, the true value lies in how it makes you feel.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Father’s Day on June 15/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. I dreamt a whole Blog Post last night. Damn shame, I only remember the part about the pancakes and the sun.

Looking out, right here, from my desk window, where all the magic happens, it seems our day is shaping up to be downright nice. At the moment, there’s plenty of sunshine and hardly a breath of wind, the kind of morning that makes a fellow truly appreciate living in the country.

Weather for us today here in Port Loring, Ontario, Canada.

Today – Sunday, June 15 (Father’s Day): Right now it’s sitting around 58 °F (15 °C) and the sun is working its way through the morning sky. We’re on track for a beautiful Father’s Day, with a high of 77 °F (25 °C)

Tonight: Skies will stay mostly clear through the evening, cooling down to about 50 °F (10 °C). A light sweater might be a good idea if you’re stepping out, but otherwise it’ll be a peaceful, quiet night.

Tomorrow – Monday, June 16: No rain on the radar. It’ll be a mix of sun and cloud through the day, starting off around 59 °F (15 °C) in the morning and climbing to about 80 °F (27 °C) by afternoon. It will feel like a good day to be outdoors, whether you’re getting work done or just soaking up what summer has to offer.

Highway 522 got busier yesterday, mostly locals just going about their business. And a good bunch of them stopped by our garage sale. That’s small-town life for ya …everyone’s out and about, bumping into folks they know and maybe a few they don’t, and stopping to chat a bit. It’s like a slow dance where nobody’s in a hurry and the main event is just catching up on the local gossip.

Well, once again, other than a few mosquitoes and a couple of deer flies, things are pretty good out there these days. But like I always say, from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day is blackfly season ’round here, and today being Father’s Day, there’s hardly one to be found. At least not near our place.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away taking care of customers at our garage sale, and I have to tell you, we had a steady stream of folks dropping by and picking up all sorts of things. On top of that, our gift shop saw a great day too, with plenty of people snagging some of our one-of-a-kind items, all on sale for half price—who could blame them? Plus, people were in a friendly mood, swapping stories and filling the air with good conversation.

And don’t forget, we’ll keep our garage sale going right through the end of July at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario. We’re open from 10 to 4 every day. After July, the garage sale winds down, but our small gift shop stays open until fall, also from 10 to 4. Just like every other year, we’ll be here for you.

So what are you up to on Father’s Day, GW?

Well, I suspect that most fathers might be taking the day off, but I’ve got a mind to stain the deck that wraps around our small cottage, the one we use for friends and family. After that, some time sitting on our swing under the old basswood tree sounds about right, maybe with a coffee or two to enjoy. Hmm, I might even try something different today, we’ll see how that pans out.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me. It’ll be some pancakes covered with grass-fed butter and a touch of syrup, topped off with raspberries and a few blueberries. Keeps things all healthy, right? Well, at least the fruit part does.

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

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Weather

Weather Outlook for Port Loring Ontario

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ONLY on The Walters Post

A lot of folks these days use apps to find out what the weather is going to be these days. Simply because it’s easier. But for me? That’s another story. I still watch the sky, listen to the frogs, watch the dragon flies and walk the property to see what the land’s telling me. And lately, it’s been speaking loud and clear… wet ground, full creeks, and frogs singing their hearts out. That’s a sure sign it’s been wetter than normal now that we are into June.

But something’s shifting. The air’s got that warm weight to it some mornings, and the sun’s got more sting than it did a couple of weeks back. I figure a hot stretch might finally be working its way north.

Come the end of June and Canada Day, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a string of days in the high 80s, maybe even flirting with 90°F. Nights’ll be sticky, and unless a storm rolls through, the air’ll feel thick from dawn to dusk. It won’t hit all at once, but the heat’s building slow and steady.

So after a good soaking season, which was needed, we’re likely heading into a dry, hot run. We might not get much in the way of soaking rain, just quick downpours or thunderstorms here and there. Best to keep the garden deep-watered, mulch where you can, and keep an eye on the plants.

So for us here in Port Loring:

  • The rain’s been generous, but the tables are turning.
  • Watch for more heat heading into July.
  • And like always, listen close to nature, she will let you know what’s next.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Where the Future Walks Through the Past on June 14/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. Some mornings feel borrowed, like you’ve been gifted time from an old friend. This is one of ’em.

Well, looking out my window here by my desk, it sure feels like we’re in for a good one. The kind of day that starts out soft and slow, with a sky that’s clear enough to lift your spirits before you’ve even had your second cup of coffee.

The sun’s already working its way across the yard, casting long shadows off the fence posts and making the grass look just a little greener. It’s sittin’ at a comfortable 78°F, which is about 26°C for those who like their numbers that way. There’s a light breeze out of the southwest, just enough to rustle the lilacs and keep the blackflies guessing.

Tonight’ll be calm and clear, cooling off to around 58°F, or 14°C, which means good sleeping weather if you’ve got the windows open and a quilt at the foot of the bed. And tomorrow, well, it’s shaping up to be a fine one too. They’re calling for 82°F (28°C) and sunny, so if you’ve got outdoor chores piling up like we do, it might be a good time to cross a few things off the list.

One has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can.

Highway 522 is still quiet these days, traffic wise. But then again, we do live off the beaten track, where not too many folks come pokin’ around until the weather starts to cooperate, which by the looks of things is about to happen with summer now just around the corner.

That said, I’ve noticed more and more new faces showing up these past couple of years. A lot of folks have been packing up and heading north, and honestly, I can’t say I blame them. When you look at what’s going on in the world, or more to the point in the big cities, it starts to make sense. Crime is climbing, houses are being built so close together you could almost shake hands with your neighbor while sipping your morning coffee, and the air down there is thick with things I won’t even get into. Let’s just say it’s no wonder so many folks are walking around with allergies and sniffles they can’t quite explain.

And the crowds, damn! The last time we took a trip down south, it was a full-time job just trying to sort out all the different nationalities bustling around. It’s something to see how much our country has changed. I’m not saying change is always bad, but if I’m being honest, I don’t believe it’s all been for the better.

Bug Report

Well, I’m happy to say most of the blackflies have left us for another year. And with this stretch of warmer weather settling in, them blood-sucking parasites we call mosquitoes might not be too bad either. They’re not fans of the heat, mostly because they’re so small, the sun dries them out and finishes them off pretty quick.

Now in the shade, that’s a different story. One still has to be careful come evening, especially if the doors or windows are open. They’ll sneak their way into the house, and once they’re in, well… when it’s time to sleep, they can sure be irritating.

We picked up one of those bug zappers and set it on the kitchen table. Before heading to bed, we switch it on and let it draw them in. Keeps them off us while we sleep. Works slick too. The thing is, living in the country, you learn quick that you’ve got to be on your toes, whether it’s bugs, weather, or something unexpected showing up at your back door.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I had a lot going on, so we didn’t get around to making a morning post here on the blog. We get a few of those days now and then, days when there’s so much on the to-do list, there just aren’t enough hours to get through it all.

But that being said, we still managed to knock off the things we had planned, and on top of that, we had quite a few folks stop by, picking up things from our garage sale. We’re keeping it going every weekend right through to the end of July.

We sold a fair bit yesterday, but there’s still plenty left, and like I always say, my wife and I don’t know where it all came from. It’s simply amazing how much a person can collect over the years without realizing it.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning on working outdoors, as there’s a few things around the house that need tending to. And with the sun shining the way it is, I sure don’t want to be stuck inside.

On top of that, our little gift shop is open for the season now, and between that and all the garage sale items we’ve got set out, there’s plenty to keep us busy. But truth be told, we enjoy it. Especially this time of year, when the days are warm, and folks start getting out and about again.

It’s a good kind of busy, though. The kind where the work feels more like a day well spent.

So with that, I’m off to have breakfast my little woman’s made for me, then I’ll head on out to the front porch with a nice cup of hot cocoa and take in the view of our beautiful piece of property. Sure is a sight to see this time of year.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

Why Does Quebec Get All the Juice?

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Only On The Walters Post

By GW

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

June 12, 2025

So here’s the thing. Every time I turn around, there’s another big, shiny energy announcement coming out of Quebec. A new deal. A fresh agreement. Millions, sometimes even billions, changing hands. This time, it’s Newfoundland and Labrador shaking hands with Hydro-Québec, working out what they call a “genuine partnership” over Churchill Falls and new hydro projects up in Labrador. And the rest of us are left wondering, how come Ontario and the western provinces aren’t part of these kinds of headlines?

It’s not like we don’t have the rivers. It’s not like we lack the brains or the hands to do the work. So why does it always seem like the money and the power, both kinds, flow east and stop at Quebec?

Let’s back up a bit.

Decades ago, Quebec made a major push into hydroelectric development. In the 60s and 70s, they built an empire of dams and transmission lines through James Bay, often at great cost to Indigenous communities and untouched wilderness. But it gave them something nobody else had at the time, energy independence, and a whole lot of export power. Today, Hydro-Québec is one of the largest hydroelectric utilities in the world. They sell clean energy to the northeastern United States, and they use those profits to fund more projects, more infrastructure, and more influence.

Meanwhile, Ontario shut down coal, which was the right call for the environment, but instead of building new public hydro projects, we chased private energy contracts. A little wind here, some solar there, a few natural gas plants, and all the while our electricity bills kept climbing. So…where was the long-term plan? Where were the made-in-Ontario projects that could feed our own grid, and put money back into our communities?

And out west? Alberta has oil and gas, sure, but even there, the rivers are waiting. Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia all have hydro potential. Manitoba Hydro does sell some power to the States, but you don’t hear about billion-dollar deals or sweeping national partnerships coming out of there. You don’t hear about Ottawa investing the same way it does in Quebec.

And that’s the heart of it, federal funding.

Ottawa has a long history of putting big money behind Quebec’s energy projects. They call it nation-building or climate action or green infrastructure, but somehow the dollars keep flowing in one direction. It’s not that Quebec doesn’t deserve support. They’ve done the work. But so have we, and we’re still waiting for equal footing.

So if you’re sitting and asking why your province isn’t getting its fair share of clean energy investment, you’re not imagining things. It’s a mix of political priorities, historical ties, and where the spotlight tends to land.

But here’s something I’ve learned from a lifetime on the land: if you wait around for someone else to hand you a solution, you’ll be waiting a long time. Maybe it’s time Ontario and the western provinces stopped waiting. Maybe it’s time we built our own energy future, in our own way, with our own people, on our own land. We’ve got the water. We’ve got the know-how. Now we need the will, and a government that looks past the St. Lawrence.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Upside of Tariffs For us In Canada

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Only On The Walters Post

By GW

You know, I’ve been saying for a while now that these tariffs, while they might seem like a bumpy road at first, could actually be a good thing for us here in Canada. And reading about a Canadian metal company, it feels like a real “aha!” moment. Here’s a business, sixty years in the making, worried about the impact of these heavy U.S. tariffs, only to find their sales actually climbing. The sales manager really hit the nail on the head when he said, “It’s been good for us. In fact, we have seen an increase, an uptick in builders wanting to use our Canadian metal buildings.” That’s the kind of silver lining you hope for, isn’t it?

It just makes sense, too, when you think about it. We’re loaded with resources, and steel is definitely one of them. As the sales manager points out, why would we buy it from another country after it’s been processed there and shipped back, when we can get it right from our own backyard? That’s not just good for this one company, it’s good for the whole Canadian steel industry. It’s about bringing things back home, supporting our own, and building a stronger foundation from within.

Now, I hear what the president of the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction is saying, and there’s no denying that tariffs can create a lot of uncertainty and challenges for some. Losing a major market is a big deal, and jobs are always at the forefront of everyone’s mind. But there’s also something to be said for the push it gives us to look inward, to innovate, and to truly become more self-sufficient.

To me, this is exactly what’s needed for a healthy country. It’s about taking those challenges and making some good, strong Canadian lemonade. When we rely more on ourselves, our own resources, and our own ingenuity, that’s when we truly thrive. It’s a chance to strengthen our own supply chains and create opportunities right here at home.

It just goes to show, sometimes the difficulties we face are the very things that push us to find new and better ways of doing things. And for us, it might just be the push we needed to become even more resilient and independent.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

When a Nation/Country Loses Its Balance

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Only On The Walters Post

By GW

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

I was reading today about the U.S. Marines getting ready again to deploy in Los Angeles, all because protests and riots are breaking out across the country. The thing is, you can spin that any way you want, but here’s how I see it.

So…when you bring in too many people, from too many different backgrounds, all at once, without a real plan to help them settle, and truly become part of the country, you’re asking for trouble. And I don’t care how unpopular that sounds. It’s not about race, it’s about human nature.

People are no different, in many ways, than animals. Years ago, anyone who kept animals knew better than to toss a bunch of different breeds into one pen, and expect peace. You’d have chaos, fights over territory, over food, and more so…over who’s in charge. That’s just what happens when instincts clash and there’s no clear structure.

Now look at the U.S. people are angry and divided, and it’s not always the folks who were born and raised there causing the damage, at the moment I think it’s those carrying deep-rooted grievances, folks who never really became part of the whole in the first place.

And…. if we’re not careful here in Canada, we’ll be heading down that same road. I’m not saying we shouldn’t help people or open our doors, but we’ve got to be smart about it. “You can’t just keep pouring water into a cup that’s already full.“

This isn’t just about “protests.” It’s about a country losing its balance. And once that balance tips too far, it’s hard to steady things again.

I’ve lived long enough to know that harmony doesn’t just happen, it’s something you have to work at, and protect, or you lose it. Which is the way things are turning out now in the USA. Get ready Canada!!!.

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

George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Where the Past & Future Hangs Its Hat

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Good Morning, Folks. The sky’s got that look today, like it’s deciding whether to rain or just brood awhile. I know the feeling!

And with that, here’s the forecast for today for us in cottage country.

Today, Thursday, June 12

Daytime: Expect hazy sun, with a high near 66 °F (19 °C).

  • Tonight: Skies will clear out after sunset. Temperatures will dip to around 42 °F (5 °C) under mostly clear skies.

Tomorrow (Friday, June 13)

  • Daytime: A mix of clouds and sunshine, with a chance of a passing shower or two in the afternoon. Highs around 61 °F (16 °C).
  • Tomorrow night: Remaining cloudy, with lows near 46 °F (8 °C).

Highway 522 is still pretty quiet these days, but we did have a lot of new vehicles going by the house yesterday. There was an accident over near Britt—another one between a transport and a car, so they rerouted all the traffic off Highway 69 across to Highway 11. In all my years, I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many transport-related accidents. It’s no real surprise, though, when you look at who they’ve been letting behind the wheel lately. The old-time drivers, the ones who’d been on the road for decades, they knew how to handle those big rigs. These days, a good number of them just don’t have that same experience or training, and it shows.

Bug Report:
Well, I’m happy to report that yesterday I spent the whole afternoon out in our vegetable gardens and didn’t see a single black fly. Not one. The only pest that showed up was a deer fly, and if you’ve ever met one, you know they don’t come to visit, they come to bite. Once they find you, that’s it. You’re their afternoon project. I swear, those things are like flying bloodhounds with wings and a bad attitude.

On another note, like I mentioned earlier, I managed to clear out some weeds in our vegetable garden and hoe up the soil around the tomato plants. It took some doing, but I’ve always enjoyed working the land. Been that way all my life. There’s just something about the smell of freshly turned soil and being surrounded by growing things that settles a person down.

Back when I was farming full-time, I used to say, “You can tell how your day’s going by how the dirt feels under your boots.” If it’s soft and rich, chances are you’re doing alright. And if the weeds pull easy, well, that’s just a bonus.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today’s mowing day here at the Walters home, which I suspect will take up most of the morning. The good news is the grass has finally slowed down a bit, and we just might be able to start mulching it. That makes things a lot easier in the long run. But we’ll see how it goes once we get into the thick of it, so to speak.

With that, I’m off once again to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me, and then I’ll head on outdoors. One has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can.

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

George's Writers Corner, My Opinion Only

The Elon-Trump Tango: More of a Muddle Than a Meltdown?

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Only On The Walters Post

These are my own thoughts from what I’ve seen and lived through. I’m sharing them to spark some thinking and honest conversation, not because I have all the answers.

Well now, that whole public dust-up between Elon Musk and President Trump has settled, I kinda think that this wasn’t a full-blown fight. It looked more like two powerful men with strong opinions getting their wires crossed. It felt like neither one was quite sure what they wanted from the other, and things just got a little messy.

And once the dust settles and they each have time to cool off and think it through, I wouldn’t be surprised if they come to some kind of understanding. Maybe they won’t be as close as they once were, but I can still see them staying on speaking terms, maybe even crossing paths again when it suits them.

Just think about it. Elon lives and breathes science, always pushing limits with Tesla and SpaceX. Trump’s a dealmaker who built his name in business and knows how to work a crowd. Both are billionaires. Both are sharp in their own way. When minds like that meet, even if they don’t always get along, things tend to happen. And more often than not, something gets done.

And truth be told, we’re going to need minds like Elon’s in the years ahead. The world isn’t standing still. Technology’s racing ahead, the planet’s feeling the strain, and whether we like to think about it or not, there may come a time when we need real ways off this Earth. That’s not science fiction anymore, and the good news is it’s something folks like him are actually working on, and truth told; we’ll be glad someone had the vision and the courage to build the ship before we needed it.

It’ll be worth watching what comes out of this next round.

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

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Weather, What's Happening

Coffee, Dirt, and a Pen That Still Works on June 11/2025

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Good Morning, Folks. The coffee’s hot, the world is quiet, and the words are waking up slow, just like me.

Well, taking a close look at nature this morning, it seems we are in for a pretty nice day. The sun is breaking through the haze, and the robins are enjoying their morning breakfast of fresh worms from our front yard, and there’s hardly a breeze blowing through the pines.

Here’s your weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today (Wednesday, June 11):
Expect a hazy and warm day, with highs reaching around 71 °F (22 °C). Breezy conditions will pick up this afternoon. Tonight, temperatures dip to about 50 °F (10 °C) under clear to partly cloudy skies.

Tomorrow (Thursday, June 12):
The day will turn mostly cloudy, with highs near 67 °F (20 °C). Overnight, it’ll be cooler again, dropping to around 44 °F (7 °C).

Highway 522 is still quiet these days, with folks not quite sure if they want to venture into our area. And with the weather acting up the way it has been, and the Black Flies out doing what they do best, I’d say staying put isn’t the worst idea. Can’t blame anyone for not wanting to be a buffet.

Now, in saying all that, the weather is about to turn for the better, and the Black Flies are just about ready to pack it in. That’ll leave us with only the blood-sucking joy of mosquitoes. But at least when the sun’s out, they disappear, at least till nightfall, that is. Which suits me just fine, since I’m in the house by then anyway.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away fixing up a few things around the yard, between showers, that is. I also managed to get the frames for some windows all fixed up nicely. A few weren’t worth the trouble, so I just made new ones. Sometimes it’s easier to start fresh than fight with something that’s already given up.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I suspect, being that it isn’t raining, I’m going to work up around my tomato plants along with the other vegetables, as I’ve noticed some weeds starting to show themselves. I like to just cut them off with my old hoe and let them lay, as they add more natural fertilizer back into the soil, and the best part is, it’s free. Why pay out of your pocket for that chemical fertilizer when it doesn’t really do your plants any good? Truth told, I never use it. It’s got no real comparison to what nature already gives us. Those chemical mixes might green things up quick, but they don’t feed the soil, and without good soil, you’ve got nothing.

So with that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me. Afterward, I’ll settle in with a nice cup of hot cocoa and enjoy our morning chat. Then I’ll see what the day has in store.

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.