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Morning, folks! Another day, another chance to make something out of nothing.

Well—she’s another cold morning with the temperature waking up was sitting at 24.8 C | -12.64 F. But with that in mind, it isn’t as cold as it was yesterday morning. …But hey, that’s winter in Northern Ontario for you—always keeping us on our toes.

As for today’s forecast here in Port Loring, Ontario: expect partly cloudy skies with a few stubborn rays of sunshine trying to warm things up. Highs will creep up to a balmy -6°C (21°F). Tonight, temperatures will drop back down to a crisp -15°C (5°F), so if you’re venturing outside, make sure your coat’s zipped and your hat’s snug and set right.

Tomorrow? Looks like we might see a dusting of snow to freshen things up—Mother Nature’s way of redecorating!

So, grab a coffee, stoke the wood-stove, and settle in. It’s the perfect day to stay warm and cozy!

Highway 522 is partially covered with snow this morning, with a few icy patches just to keep things interesting. It’s nothing we haven’t seen before—around here, we’re practically born knowing how to drive on this stuff. You might see a few locals out early, giving their trucks a good workout or testing out how much snow their boots can actually handle.

If you do have to venture out, take it slow and steady—unless you’re one of those folks who thinks winter driving is a spectator sport. And don’t forget to share a friendly wave with your neighbors; chances are, they’re grumbling about the cold as much as you are!

On another note, I didn’t get all that much done in the old woodworking shop yesterday. That said, I did have a fellow drop by for a chat about this and that, which was a nice change of pace. It’s always good to catch up and see what the other half’s up to these days. Up here where we live, most folks tend to stick to themselves and let others go about their business. It seems to be the way of things nowadays—not like back when I was a young lad. Back then, you couldn’t go a day without hearing from someone, whether they were dropping in unannounced or hollering a greeting as they passed by. Times sure have changed.

At any rate, I did keep the old wood stove going in the shop—just in case the urge struck to get out of the house for a bit. There’s something about the crackle of a fire and the smell of wood smoke that makes a man feel grounded. I did stay busy editing a video however, for my YouTube channel. Still lots to do, but you know how it is—everything starts with that first step, even if it’s just deciding to sit down and do it.

Today—well, once again, I’m not entirely sure what I’ll get up to. I’ve been eyeing a few flutes I’ve been meaning to work on. It’s been a while since I’ve made any, and let me tell you, they’re a challenge even on the best of days. If you don’t keep up with these intricate projects, the mind has a way of misplacing those little but oh-so-important details. Might be best I dust off the tools and get back at it, though, because there’s a lot of work that goes into making them.

If I do get to making them, I might even set up the camera and make a video to show how I’ve been crafting these flutes for over thirty years. They’re one of those projects where people tend to keep their methods close to their chest, guarding their secrets like gold. And that’s fine, I suppose, but I figure, being the age I am, if I don’t share what I know, all those years of learning and trial and error will be lost forever. What a shame that would be. Knowledge is meant to be passed along, not hoarded, and if I can leave behind a little something for others to pick up and run with, I’d call that time well spent.

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared for me. She’s patiently waiting, as always, with her cocoa in hand and her thoughts on country living. She often says life out here has its own rhythm—a quieter, slower pace that lets you appreciate the little things, like a good meal, a hot drink, and the company of someone who gets it.

You all have a great day!

‘Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!’” GW

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Morning, Folks! The sun may be slow getting up, but it’s here—and so are we!

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Well, first off, let me tell ya, folks—it was so cold this morning, I had to wrestle with my long Johns just to get ’em on. Haven’t worn those in a while, but when you step outside and your nose hairs freeze faster than you can say “Jack Frost,” it’s time to layer up. The temperature climbing out of bed this morning was a bone-chilling -31.4°C, which, for my friends south of the border, is a frosty -24.52°F. Coldest morning we’ve had here in Port Loring in a few years, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. I even caught the squirrels and birds holding little campfires under the trees.

Now, for today’s weather report. Today, we’re looking at mostly clear skies, with the sun doing its best to shine but not offering much in the way of heat. Highs will struggle to climb to around -18°C (or just about 0°F for those keeping score). Wind chill? Let’s just say if you spit, it’ll hit the ground frozen solid.

Tonight, we’re in for another doozy, with lows dropping back down to around -28°C (-18°F). It’s the kind of cold where even your thoughts freeze before you can think ’em. Best to keep the firewood handy and the coffee pot full—you’re gonna need both.

And as for tomorrow, there’s a bit of hope on the horizon. Temperatures might crawl their way up to a balmy -15°C (5°F), but don’t get too excited—it’s still colder than a well digger’s boots. Keep your hat on, your scarf wrapped tight, and your sense of humor close by.

Highway 522 is snow-covered in a lot of spots, with some icy patches sprinkled in for good measure—kind of like Mother Nature’s version of a slip-and-slide. Not much anyone or anything can do about that in these temperatures, let me tell ya! Even the road salt throws in the towel when it’s this cold. If you’re out and about, take ‘er slow and steady; no need to set any land-speed records today.

While walking to my woodworking shop I even saw a couple of deer braving the highway this morning, heads down, tails up, probably wondering why they didn’t migrate south with the birds. Can’t say I blame ’em. I stopped so I wouldn’t scare them—they gave me a look that said, “Thanks, but you’re still crazy for being out here.”

And as for the locals, well, it’s a mixed bag. Some folks are hunkered down by the woodstove, probably throwing another log on and wondering if it’s worth stepping outside for anything short of an emergency. Others are bundled up like Eskimos, trudging through the snow like it’s just another day in paradise. You can always tell who’s lived here their whole life—they’re the ones standing in the middle of it all, chatting away about how this is nothing compared to the winter of ’78.

So, if you’ve got errands to run, be sure to dress for the occasion. The cold doesn’t care if you’re local or just passing through—it’s an equal-opportunity frostbite giver. Stay safe out there, folks, and if you don’t have to go anywhere, well, that’s what a good book and a hot cup of coffee are for!

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On another note, I didn’t spend much time in the old woodworking shop yesterday. My wife and I brought in the new Yellow Pine Harvest Table I made for her, and let me tell you, it’s sitting proud in our home now. Looks like it was made for the occasion—well, truth be told, it was. We couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. There’s just something about seeing a piece you’ve worked on find its place that warms a feller’s heart, even in this cold.

Later today, I’ll snap a picture and let you all have a look-see. Still need to find the perfect knob for the drawer, though—a detail my little woman has a sharp eye for. Funny thing is, I’ve got over a hundred knobs in my stash—round ones, square ones, knobs that could double as doorstops—but not a single one passes her approval. So, once the shop warms up a touch, I’ll be digging through my collection again. If I strike out, I guess we’ll hunt one down at Home Depot the next time we head to the big city for groceries and other necessities.

But for now, the table’s sitting there looking pretty, just like it’s always belonged. We even gave it a proper welcome—had our lunch on it yesterday, followed by a game of crib. I think the table brought me luck, though my wife says otherwise. Either way, it’s already making itself at home.

What will old GW be up to today? Well, with it being so damn cold outside, you can bet it won’t involve anything out there—that’s for certain. I’m not about to risk freezing my mustache off! Instead, I’ll see if I can tidy up the woodworking shop a bit later and maybe unearth that elusive knob for the drawer. It’s got to be in there somewhere… unless it ran off to warmer weather.

After that, I’ll settle in here at the computer and tackle some editing on the videos I made while building the Harvest Table. Like I’ve said more times than I can count: “It takes just as long to edit the videos as it does to make the table.” We’ll see how far I get with that today—though knowing me, I might end up distracted by something else along the way.

With all that information filtering through your mind, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has whipped up for me—along with our regular hot cup of cocoa. On a day as cold as this one, that cocoa will be a welcome hug in a mug, let me tell ya. She always knows just how to start the day off right, and I count myself lucky every morning for it.

You all have a great day!

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! The firewood’s stacked, the coffee’s poured, and the day’s off to a solid start.

It’s a downright cold morning here in Port Loring, Ontario, Canada. Waking up, the temperature was sitting at -24.3°C (-11.74°F). However, the sun is making her appearance, which, if nothing else, makes it look warmer.

Today’s Forecast (Sunday, January 19): Expect sunny skies transitioning to cloudiness later in the day. Despite the sunshine, temperatures will remain very cold, with a high of -14°C (8°F). As evening approaches, anticipate increasing cloud cover and a low dropping to -27°C (-17°F).

Tonight: Cloudy conditions will persist throughout the night, accompanied by frigid temperatures. The low is expected to reach -27°C (-17°F), so ensure you’re well-prepared for the cold if venturing outdoors.

Tomorrow’s Forecast (Monday, January 20): Considerable cloudiness will continue into Monday, with temperatures remaining extremely cold. The high will be around -16°C (3°F), and the low will be near -26°C (-15°F).

Suggestions: Given the severe cold, it’s advisable to limit time spent outdoors and dress in multiple layers to retain body heat. Ensure pets are kept indoors, and check on neighbors who might need assistance during these harsh conditions. If you have any outdoor activities planned, consider rescheduling or taking necessary precautions to stay warm and safe.

Highway 522 is doing its usual winter jig this morning—partially covered with snow and a bit of ice. No shocker there, given it’s colder than a brass doorknob on the shady side of an igloo. If you’re planning a trip to the city, you should make out fine, but remember: this isn’t a summer cruise where you roll the windows down and wave to your neighbors.

Around here, a little prep can save a lot of grief. Be sure to pack the essentials: a warm blanket, a thermos of coffee (not just for drinking but for hand-warming too), a bite to eat (because you never know how long you’ll be stuck behind a snowplow), and a full tank of gas. The last thing you want is to end up frozen like a block of firewood in the back of your truck.

As for the locals, well—you’ll spot them out and about, as usual—probably in old pickups with questionable tires and zero worries. They’ve been living way out here so long they’d rather slide into the ditch than admit winter’s slowing them down. It’s just another day in paradise for us country folks—where icy roads and frostbitten noses are practically a badge of honor! Stay safe, and try not to end up as today’s small-town roadside attraction!

On another note, yesterday I put the final coat of polyurethane on the new Yellow Pine Harvest Table I’ve been working on over the past week or so. Let me tell you, it turned out real pretty—so much so that I might just sit and admire it for a while before putting anything on it! Later this morning, my wife and I will wrestle it into the house, and once it settles into its new home, I’ll snap a picture to give you folks a little “look-see.”

I also recorded videos of the entire process, from start to finish. When the mood strikes and I feel up to it, I’ll get those clips edited and polished. Once everything’s ready, I’ll post the whole thing on my YouTube channel for those curious about how a simple pile of lumber turned into something this fine. So—stay tuned—there’s more to come!

After putting the 4th coat of urethane on the table’s top, I decided to tackle the driveway and decks—again—even though I’d just cleaned them the day before. Why, you ask? Well, it was that heavy, wet snow, and knowing the temperature was set to drop, I figured if I left it, I’d need a jackhammer to clear it this morning. So, I got it all cleaned up, and let me tell ya, I’m glad I did.

I also gave the decks a good clearing, which should make the next snowfall a little easier to manage. Around here, you’ve got to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature. If you blink, she’ll have you buried under a foot of snow and working double time to dig out. Life in this neck of the woods keeps you on your toes, that’s for sure!

What’s on my agenda today? Well, with the harvest table finally finished and the cold biting hard, I think I’ll take it easy. Maybe I’ll treat myself to an extra cup of hot cocoa—or even indulge in a nice cup of coffee later on. My wife and I can sit back, sip on our drinks, and admire that new table like it’s the latest masterpiece in an art gallery. Actually, my wife does have her own art gallery right here in our home, so I guess the table fits right in with the rest of the fine work around here!

I might even get around to editing a few videos I recorded a while back—or maybe I’ll dive into the one I made of building the table. But I’ll have to play it by ear; too much time parked in front of the computer doesn’t do me any favors these days. A relaxed day with a bit of productivity sounds just about right.

So—with all that said, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman has whipped up for me. After that, we’ll settle into our usual morning chat, paired with a good, hot cup of cocoa. There’s nothing quite like it, especially on a frosty day like today. It warms you up from the inside out and makes you forget, at least for a little while, that Old Man Winter’s got his icy grip on us.

You all take care, stay warm, and don’t let the snow sneak up on you. And remember:

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Mornin’! It’s one of those days where even the snow coming down looks friendly.

We are in the midst of some more snow here this morning in the north. Here’s the weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:

Saturday, January 18, 2025:

• Morning: Light snow ending, with accumulations of 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 inches).
• Afternoon: Increasing sunshine.
• High: 0°C (32°F)
• Low: -21°C (-5°F)

Sunday, January 19, 2025:

• Overall: Mostly cloudy and very cold.
• High: -14°C (6°F)
• Low: -26°C (-16°F)

Given the chilly conditions, especially with lows dipping to -26°C (-16°F), it’s a good time to stay indoors and perhaps enjoy a mystery novel or what ever strikes your interest. Stay Warm!

Yesterday was a busy one, but a good kind of busy. First thing, I put a coat of urethane on that new Harvest Table I’ve been working on. It’s coming along real nice, if I do say so myself. After that, I tackled the driveway while my wife took care of cleaning off the decks. She’s been my partner/wife for over fifty years now-an artist, a homemaker, a mother, and one of the hardest workers I’ve ever known. She has this way of making every task look effortless, even when I know it’s anything but. I guess I can’t help but brag a little—hell, she’s earned it.

Once the work outside was done, we came in for a bite of lunch, then I got back to it and added another coat of finish on the table. In between coats, I spent a bit of time here on my computer, catching up on things. Just before supper, I gave the table its third coat of finish. This morning, as I sit here looking it over, I’m thinking I might just put one more coat on the top. Why? Well, because I can—and let’s be honest, the top’s the part that takes the most wear and tear. Might as well make it look even better while I’m at it.

If all goes to plan, tomorrow we’ll introduce it to its new home. My wife already made room, moving our old table out to the cottage. I have a feeling this new table will look pretty sharp sitting in its place.

Today, as I mentioned, I’ll put one final coat on the top of the new table. After that, I plan to take it easy for the rest of the day—my body’s letting me know it could use a bit of a break

Highway 522 is snow-covered this morning, which doesn’t make for the best traveling conditions. With the wet snow still falling and the cold planning to move in later today, it’s probably wise to stay put. You know—around here, most folks know better than to hit the road unless it’s for something important—like a trip to the post office or the hardware store to “check the mail” or “browse,” which usually translates to catching up on the latest local gossip!

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife whipped up for me—she’s got a knack for keeping me well-fed! After that, we’ll see what the day has in store, beyond what I’ve got planned. Out here, you never know—might just end up staring out the window, watching the snow pile up, and calling it productive.

You have yourself a great day!

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Mornin’! As my old Dad used to say. ‘The weather might change, but a good attitude will steer you right.

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

Today, Friday, January 17, 2025:

• Morning: Mostly sunny with temperatures around 16°F (-9°C). A great excuse to enjoy that extra cup of coffee indoors.
• Afternoon: Plenty of clouds rolling in, with a brisk breeze. Highs reaching 33°F (0°C). Hold onto your hat—literally!
• Evening: Cloudy skies continue. Temperatures dropping to a low of 28°F (-2°C). Perfect weather for a cozy night by the fireplace.

Tomorrow, Saturday, January 18, 2025:

• Morning: Light snow ending in the morning, with an additional 1-3 cm expected. After a cloudy start, sunshine makes a comeback. Highs around 36°F (2°C). Time to dust off the snow shovel—again.
• Evening: Clear skies with temperatures taking a nosedive to -7°F (-22°C). A night so cold, even the snowmen are shivering!

Stay warm and enjoy the winter wonderland!

Highway 522 is pretty well bare this morning, but there are a few snowy sections here and there—just enough to keep you guessing. Care should be taken if you’re out and about, though let’s be honest, in this neck of the woods, care should always be taken if you’re out and about. Between the snowy patches and that one neighbor who insists their snowmobile is an all-season vehicle, it’s best to stay sharp!

On another note, I spent yesterday working away in my old woodworking shop. I managed to get it tidied up and even put a coat of stain on the new Yellow Pine Harvest Table I made for my lovely wife. Originally, we were going to stain it Early American, but it didn’t quite appeal to her. So—being the artist she is—she whipped up her own custom stain with what we had on hand, and voilà! I have to say, it turned out beautifully. Not too dark, not too light, just perfect, with a hint of that charming old-time yellow mixed in.

That’s the thing about stains and urethanes these days—they’ve lost that classic appeal. The look of yesteryear seems to have been replaced with something dull and lifeless. It’s kind of a shame, really. It reminds me of how food has changed—everything’s been stripped of its flavor, supposedly for the sake of health. Most vegetables and meats today are tasteless unless you jazz them up with your own spices and seasonings. Just like we had to do with the table—add our own flair.

But I’ll tell you this: the table turned out fantastic. One of a kind, for sure. And I couldn’t be happier with it.

Today? Well, earlier this morning, I stoked up the wood-stove in the shop, and it’s already warming things up nicely as I sit here typing. Once I’ve had a good hearty breakfast, I’ll head back out to put the first coat of semigloss urethane on the new harvest table. After that, my wife and I will tackle the driveway and decks, clearing off the five or six inches of snow we got yesterday. Not a huge amount, but enough to warrant firing up my trusty old snowblower and dusting off the shovels.

It looks like a busy day lies ahead for the two of us, but you won’t hear any complaints. These days, we do things on our own schedule—when we feel like it, not when we’re told to. I’d say we’ve earned that right after all these years. And truth be told, there’s something satisfying about a day spent getting things done, knowing you’ve got a warm fire to come back to and a cozy evening waiting at the end of it. Life doesn’t get much better than that.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman has made for me—just like she does every morning. It’s a simple gesture, but one I treasure deeply. After that, I’ll head out to the shop and get started on the day’s tasks.

You all have a great day, and remember: life is like working with wood—you get out of it what you put into it. Take your time, do things right, and don’t forget to appreciate the grain that makes each day unique. As I have always said, “A good life is built with steady hands and a patient heart.”

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Morning, friends! My old Dad had a way of putting it: “‘George—the best days start with work and end with a story.”

We here in the north are waking up to some snow flurries along with cooler temperatures this morning. By the looks of things, it will get a lot colder.

Here is the weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario, Canada:

Today: Light snow at times, with accumulations of about 1 cm. High of -3°C (26°F).
Tonight: Mostly cloudy and much colder, with a low of -12°C (10°F).
Tomorrow: Cloudy with some breezy conditions in the afternoon. High of 0°C (32°F) and a low of -2°C (28°F).

A weather advisory is currently in effect for us here in Port Loring, Ontario, until 4:00 PM EST. Hazards include reduced visibility in heavy snow and blowing snow, with additional accumulations of up to 5 cm. Travelers should exercise caution as conditions on the roads may change suddenly.

Highway 522, at the time of this post, is snow-covered with some icy sections throughout. It might pay to stay home today instead of venturing too far—unless you’re one of our old locals who claim they’ve “seen worse back in ’68” and figure their rusty pickup will make it through anything.

But even the toughest among us might think twice when the snow starts flying sideways and the ice on the roads gets slicker than a greased frying pan. Not that it’ll stop old Joe from heading out in his snowmobile to check his traps or Mrs. Miller from walking to the post office, insisting she “needs to see if that catalog arrived.”

As the saying goes, when the snow gets deep and the wind howls, we don’t stay home because we have to—we stay home because we’re smart enough to know better! So, grab another cup of coffee, sit by the fire, and let the storm have its way. There’s always tomorrow, or at least we sure hope so!

On another note, knowing what was coming for today and the weekend, my wife and I headed to North Bay yesterday to stock up on some groceries and other odds and ends. The roads weren’t bad—just a few snow-covered spots here and there, but nothing to slow us down too much. Well, that’s not entirely true—we did slow down quite a bit, but not because of the roads. It’s pretty hard to pass up all that Mother Nature has to offer along the way.

On the way, later in the day, we spotted a few deer taking their time moseying across a field. Then, a little farther along, we saw some wild turkeys scratching around under a stand of pine trees. And just when we thought we were done with critter sightings, we had to stop as more deer crossed the road. One even stood still long enough for me to snap a picture or two. Nice of him—or her—to cooperate.

Once we got back into town, I couldn’t help but notice the price of gas. It was sky-high when we filled up—$1.69.9 a litre—thanks to the new carbon tax and all the extras they’ve added on. Wouldn’t you know it, this morning it’s dropped to $1.48.9. Figures, doesn’t it? We filled up at the Sunoco on Algonquin Ave, as we always do. Simple reason, really—they still come out to the car and pump the gas for you. Hard to find that kind of service these days.

After that, we picked up what we needed and stopped for lunch at East Side Mario’s. We ordered a large Canadian pizza with some extra Parmesan cheese freshly cut and sprinkled on top. And to go with it, we each had a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon from Barone Montalto in Italy. It’s one of the best wines out there these days—not too sweet, not too bitter, and no aftertaste. And it pairs perfectly with an Italian pizza. We always order a large one so we can take half home for supper. A win-win, as they say.

To finish off the trip, we grabbed a couple of coffees at a local shop and headed home, enjoying the sunshine and each other’s company. All in all, it was a great day. And with what I’ve been going through lately, it was just what we both needed.

Today? Well, today I’m planning to clean up our woodworking shop first thing. Then, I’ll get busy staining the new Yellow Pine Harvest Table I’ve been working on for my lovely wife. If all goes to plan, tomorrow I’ll add a couple of coats of urethane to really bring out the beauty of the wood.

I was up early this morning and got the old wood stove fired up, so it should be nice and toasty out there by the time I get started—right after breakfast, that is. Speaking of which, my little woman has it all ready for me now, so I’d best not keep her waiting!

And as my Dad used to say. “A warm stove and a full belly make for a good day’s work.” There’s a lot of truth in that, if you ask me.

With that bit of info, you all have a great day!

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! If my old Dad were here, he’d tell you, “‘”Sun’s up—don’t let it outwork you!”

It’s a cloudy, cool morning here in the north. The temperature waking up was sitting at -13.6°C | 7.52°F. Here’s what to expect for the weather:

Today: Mainly cloudy with a chance of light flurries. High around -7°C (19°F).
Tonight: Remaining cloudy with a low of -11°C (12°F).
Tomorrow: A mix of sun and cloud, with the possibility of light snow later in the day. High near -4°C (25°F).

Looks like winter’s holding its grip! Stay warm.

Highway 522 is partially covered with snow and ice, making traveling a bit tricky for the time being. With temperatures well below freezing, there’s no chance of it melting anytime soon. So, if you’re planning to venture out, a good dose of caution will be your best travel companion.

And, of course, for our local folks—don’t be surprised if you see someone tackling the icy roads in a beat-up pickup, claiming their snow tires are “good enough for another winter.” Around here, it’s not just the snow that’s unpredictable!

On another note, I finished up the handcrafted yellow pine harvest table I’ve been working on for my lovely wife yesterday. It was a satisfying project from start to finish, and I even made a video showing the entire process, which I’ll share on my YouTube Channel once I’ve had a chance to edit it. The table turned out great—sturdy, good-looking, and built to last a lifetime. But then again, that’s what you’d expect from an old craftsman with over 40 years of woodworking experience under his belt, wouldn’t you?

I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed working on it, so much so that I’m almost a little sad it’s finished. Well, not completely finished—I still need to stain it and slap on a few coats of finish, which I’ll get to in the next day or so. Once that’s done, we’ll find it a home right here under our roof, and then it’ll be time to put it to good use. I think a game of cribbage and a steaming cup of coffee will be the perfect way to break it in. What do you think?

Today? Well, I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be doing just yet. But one thing I do know is that our old wood furnace will be keeping me busy. With it being so cold outside, it’s going to need feeding throughout the day. I don’t mind, though—it’s one of those chores I actually enjoy.

There’s just something about wood heat that no other kind of heat can match. No matter how cold it is outside, the moment you step back in, that warmth wraps around you like an old, familiar blanket. It’s a feeling you can’t quite explain unless you’ve experienced it yourself. And let’s not forget—it’s a lot easier on the wallet compared to oil, gas, or propane. For my wife and me, well, we wouldn’t trade it for anything. There’s nothing quite like the cozy, comforting heat of a wood fire to make a house feel like home. Which is what a home should feel like. Right?

With that, I’m off to enjoy a hearty breakfast my little woman has prepared. And then a steaming cup of hot cocoa will be the perfect companion, for the both of us, especially for a cold winter morning like this, along with our regular chat to start the day off right.

You all have a great day.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! As my old Dad used to say, ‘Every sunrise is a handshake from nature—don’t leave it hangin’.

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

Today (January 14):

• Daytime: Cloudy and colder with a couple of snow showers.
  • High: -6°C (21°F)
• Night: Clear and very cold.
  • Low: -18°C (0°F)

Tomorrow (January 15):

• Daytime: Plenty of sunshine, but cold.
  • High: -8°C (18°F)
• Night: Clear skies.
  • Low: -12°C (10°F)

You know! : “It’s so cold, the chickens are lining up to sit on my old wood-stove!”

Highway 522 is snow-covered this morning in most areas, but it should start to melt off as the morning wears on. Not too many folks are out and about, aside from the locals—though around here, if you see a truck parked in the middle of the road, it’s probably just two neighbors catching up on the latest news!

On another note, yesterday was a solid day in the woodworking shop—after we tackled the snow, of course. I took care of the driveway while my lovely wife handled the decks—all three of them. She says it’s to keep them in good shape, but I think she just likes showing the snow who’s boss. Once the shovels were hung up and the cocoa mugs were drained, I got to work on that yellow pine harvest table I’m making for her. Made a lot of progress, too! If the stars align, I might finish it today, aside from staining it. But, as I always say, you never know what a day will bring—life’s got a way of surprising you, much like finding an extra screw in the bottom of the toolbox when you’re sure you used them all.

With that, I’m off to enjoy my morning breakfast—once again, put together by my little woman. After that, we’ll settle in with our usual cup of hot cocoa and have a good ol’ chat, just like we do every morning. It’s one of those simple joys, like the satisfying sound of the first crack of firewood in the stove—warm, familiar, and the perfect start to a day.

You all have a great day, and remember, the best moments are often the simplest ones—like a quiet morning shared with someone special.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Morning, folks! As my old Dad always said, ‘A slow start’s fine, just don’t stop till the day’s done.

So I noticed walking out to my woodworking shop early this morning that we had another three inches of snow. The good news is, at the moment, it isn’t all that cold, with the temperature at the time of this post sitting at -1.4°C | 29.48°F.

Today’s Weather (Port Loring, ON):
Periods of snow throughout the day, with 3–6 cm expected. High of 2°C | 35.6°F, and a low of -9°C | 15.8°F.

Tonight’s Weather:
Cloudy with a chance of light snow. Low of -9°C | 15.8°F.

Tomorrow’s Weather:
Colder with scattered snow showers, adding another 1–3 cm. High of -6°C | 21.2°F, and a low of -18°C | 0°F.

It’s shaping up to be a chilly one—stay cozy out there!

Highway 522 is partially snow-covered this morning, and with more of the white stuff coming down, traveling won’t be all that great. It might just pay to stay home today.

On another note, yesterday I got a lot done in my woodworking shop on my wife’s new Yellow Pine Harvest Table. If all goes to plan, I should be close to finishing it today. I still have to make the drawer, install the rails for it to slide on, and add the top. So yeah, there are a few things left to do, but it’s coming along nicely.

The best part? I’m really happy with how it’s turning out. It’s going to be a one-of-a-kind table, all handcrafted with care, made especially for my lovely wife. She sure deserves it after all these years. You see, for most of our lives, we’ve spent our time and energy crafting things for others—customers, friends, and our store. But now, before it’s too late, it’s time to make a few special things just for us.

It never ceases to amaze me how, just a few days ago, this table was nothing more than a stack of rough-cut pine boards standing in my storage shed. And now… well, now it’s coming together into something that’ll hold not just meals but memories. This one is special, made for someone who has stood by me through thick and thin. If you ask me, that’s a project worth taking your time on.

However, in saying all that, looking out at the snow falling, we might have to clear some off the decks and driveway before the day is through. That’s the thing about living up here in the north—you never really know what a day will bring. But hey, that’s just the way it is, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

So, with that, it’s time for me to head off and enjoy the breakfast my little woman’s made for me. After that—well, we’ll take the day as it comes. But first, a warm cup of hot cocoa and a good chat to start things off right.

You all have a great day, and remember—take your time, but make it count. And as my Dad always said, “A slow start’s fine, just don’t stop till the day’s done.” GW

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! Rise and shine—or at least rise. The shine will come once the coffee kicks in!

Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

Things are about to get interesting around here. Over the next few days, a big storm system is brewing out west and heading our way. They’re calling it a “Border Tracker” storm, and it’s expected to roll through Ontario, bringing snow and colder air as it moves along.

Tonight and Tomorrow (Jan 12-13)

Tonight, the clouds will thicken up, and some light snow will start falling. Temperatures will hover around -2°C (28°F). By tomorrow, Monday, we’ll see on-and-off snow through the day, adding up to about 3–6 centimeters. It’ll warm up a touch, reaching 1°C (34°F) by afternoon, but expect it to cool right back down to -8°C (18°F) at night.

Looking Ahead

As we get into Tuesday and Wednesday, colder air will really settle in. Tuesday will see light snow again, with highs of -3°C (26°F) and dropping to a bitter -18°C (0°F) overnight. Wednesday looks to be the coldest so far, with daytime highs of -5°C (23°F) and nighttime temperatures sinking to -19°C (-3°F). It’ll stay cloudy, and we might see more flurries.

The Bigger Picture

Later this week, we’ll start feeling the effects of that Arctic air moving south from the Yukon. If the forecasts hold along with Nature, we could be in for heavier snow and some icy conditions, especially as the storm front moves in. Best to stock up on what you need and keep the snow shovels handy. I went out this morning and gave my snowblower a pat telling it to get ready.

Stay safe and stay warm. Winter isn’t done with us yet!

Highway 522 is partially snow-covered, with a few icy spots here and there, but overall, if you need to head to the city, the roads aren’t too bad. Just take your time and drive according to the conditions. That said, this is Northern Ontario, and we all know how quickly things can change.

Before you head out, make sure you’ve got a good warm blanket, a set of battery cables, a basic medical kit, and a couple of bottles of water—or better yet, a thermos of hot coffee. And don’t forget to top off your gas tank. It’s always better to be prepared than caught off guard. They call it preventative maintenance, but I call it good old-fashioned common sense.

Keep safe out there, folks! You never know what you might run into on these back-roads.

On another note, I spent the better part of yesterday working away in my woodworking shop. I managed to get the legs and rails all glued up for the Yellow Pine Harvest Table I’m making for my lovely wife. She’s been wanting one of these for over twenty-five years—designed by her and brought to life by me.

I did make her one many years ago out of white pine, but back then, times were a bit tighter. A fellow came along who wanted one in the worst way, and, well, we sold it. I’ve always felt a twinge of guilt over that. She never complained, of course, but I knew it meant a lot to her. Now that life has slowed down some, I figured it’s about time I make it right and build her another one.

She deserves it, let me tell you. There isn’t a harder working woman in the world, and I can say with certainty that I wouldn’t be where I am today without her by my side. She’s been my rock, my partner, and my biggest supporter through thick and thin. This table might just be wood and glue to some folks, but to me, it’s a way of saying “thank you” for everything she’s done and continues to do.

Today, well, I’m hoping to finish cleaning up the glue on the legs where I joined them together. After that, if time allows, I’ll get started on making the drawer. She wanted one to tuck a few things into—our crib board, for one, and a couple of other odds and ends she has in mind. Now’s the time to get that done and put it all together while the top is still off.

After that? Well, I’m not quite sure. Maybe I’ll sit down here at my computer and write up a story. It all depends on where my mind’s at—or, more importantly, how my body’s feeling. We’ll see how the day unfolds.

And if my old Dad was still around I reckon he’d lean back in his chair, maybe with his mug of coffee in hand, and say something like this:

“Son, you don’t rush a good thing. Whether it’s building a table or writing a story, you do it when your mind’s clear and your hands are steady. A job done half-hearted ain’t worth doing. But when you take your time and put your heart into it, well, that’s when you end up with something worth keeping—just like that table for your wife.

And don’t forget—sometimes it’s okay to let the day decide what gets done. Life has a way of leading you where you’re supposed to go, if you’re willing to follow.”

Seems to me, there’s a lot of truth in those words.

So, with that, I’m off to enjoy some homemade cranberry pancakes this morning, topped with a handful of fresh raspberries we froze from last year’s pickings. That should hold me over till lunchtime, no problem. After that, my lovely wife and I will sit down for some hot cocoa and a good chat. Not much we don’t talk about, and the best part is, our conversations always seem to wander into the most interesting places. It’s those little moments that make the day special.

You all have a great day. Take a moment to enjoy the little things—whether it’s a good meal, a warm chat, or just the quiet of the day. Life’s made up of those small moments, and they’re worth holding onto.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW