All posts by George Walters

George Walters is a Canadian columnist and author with more than forty years of writing experience. For over twenty years he has written a weekly column for Postmedia Network — Canada's largest newspaper chain — never missing a single week, publishing fifty-two stories a year. Combined with his work in Reader's Digest Community Voices, World News, Country Living, The Country Register, and farm and rural lifestyle magazines across Canada, he has published well over two thousand stories drawn from everyday life. He writes about farm work, fishing, old trucks, and the kind of people you only find in small towns — but just as likely he'll hand a voice to a weathered telephone pole, or turn his eye on something happening in the world today and tell you exactly what he thinks about it. No subject is off limits. If there's a story in it, George will find it. He has been called a philosopher of everyday life, a description that came up more than once during his television appearances over the years — and it's not hard to see why. His writing has a way of making the ordinary feel worth sitting with. He is the author of eleven books, including yearly short story collections and the Clay Moretti Files mystery series. Clay is a fifty-year-old private investigator who drives a 1967 Ford Galaxie, smokes cigars, and operates by a code the modern world gave up on a long time ago. The cases are present day. The man handling them is not. All titles are available in paperback and eBook on Amazon. Together, George and his wife Ruth have also created Elmer Finds His Way, the first in what he hopes will be a long series of children's books. Ruth did all the illustrations, as she has for every one of George's books — and beyond that she designed and painted the covers as well. Her work is woven into every page of everything he has published. A few words from readers: "I pulled up a kitchen chair and read your story three times." "You have a way of making a person homesick for a place they haven't been to." "Thank you for writing things that make old people and kids feel the same way at the same time." All my titles are available in paperback and eBook on Amazon.ca here.

Reflections from the Quiet Side of Life on December 31/2024

Click on image to enlarge!

“Good morning, friends! As the final sunrise of 2024 rises over the countryside, it’s a moment to pause and think back on the lessons this year has brought us. Living away from the city, it’s clear that life’s richness is found not in the hustle but in the quiet moments.”

For a bit of wisdom:
“Every ending leads to a new beginning. As we close the chapter on this year, let’s step into 2025 with open minds and steady hearts, ready for whatever the next page might bring.”

It’s been a while since I last posted, and I wanted to explain why. I’ve been dealing with some health issues, but I’m back to writing for now, pushing through as best I can. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m managing, and I’m grateful to be able to get back to sharing my thoughts as we finish up the year.

Things have been pretty quiet around our small town this Christmas. Even the stores have slowed down. One big reason for that is folks just haven’t had much reason to come into town. With Canada Post on strike for the last month, a trip into town wasn’t really needed, so things have felt a little more still than usual.

Highway 522 has also been slow and it will slow down even more now that hunting season is over for the year. Kinda nice to see in a way as my lovely wife and I sure do enjoy the quietness of the country.

On another note, other than dealing with my health issues, I haven’t done much in the old woodworking shop or at my computer. Just haven’t felt like it. But I’m doing my best to pick myself up and clear my mind of those not-so-good thoughts, which is what I need right now. Yesterday, I finally started lighting the stove in the shop. At least it’ll be warm out there, and if nothing else, it’ll give me a place to get some much-needed exercise and fresh air.

I’ve also got a few stories in mind that I want to write, along with some YouTube videos that need some work and need to be made live for folks to watch. So, really, all I need now is the right mindset to get these things done.

For my wife, it’s been a challenge looking after me, not knowing what’s around the next corner. She says she’s aged a bit, and I can’t blame her—it’s probably from all the extra gray hairs I’ve given her! I guess it’s what happens when you’re playing nurse and trying to keep me on my feet.

Weather-wise, there’s no complaints on my end with it being so warm. Right now, most of our snow has melted, and there isn’t much frost in the ground, which is a good thing. It lets the ground soak up all the rain we’ve had, helping to prevent much flooding. Now, I wouldn’t be surprised if the snowmobilers aren’t the happiest folks around, but that’s life. You can’t have everything—at least not here on this planet we all live on. Not these days anyway.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me, then I’ll see what the day has in store. Wishing you all a great New Year ahead. I’ll be back soon to chat again—until then, take care and enjoy whatever comes your way. GW

All my books are available on my Amazon Author Page.

If you purchase a book, a brief Amazon review really helps new readers discover my work—it means a lot.

Support my writing: Support My Writing

In Closing, I Would Like to Wish You Well!

George Walters | [email protected]

Country Calm: A Morning Blog from the Backwoods on November 20/2024

Click on Image to Enlarge!

Good Morning Folks,
As I sit here with my morning coffee, I can’t help but think back on the years gone by—farming the land, building with my own hands, tending to the garden, and spinning a tale or two. Life’s taught me that every day’s a gift, and it’s what you make of it that counts. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and see what today’s got in store for us.

Weather Update for Port Loring, Ontario:

  • Today (Wednesday, November 20): Expect rather cloudy skies with mild temperatures. The high will reach around 9°C (48°F), and the low will be about 4°C (40°F).
  • Tonight: Cloudy conditions will persist, with a low near 4°C (40°F).
  • Tomorrow (Thursday, November 21): Periods of rain are anticipated, with a high of approximately 7°C (44°F) and a low around 4°C (38°F).

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, with just a few locals out and about. Now, I’m not sure where they’re all heading—being such a small town and all—but folks around here always seem to find something to keep themselves busy.

On another note, yesterday I wasn’t up to my old self yet, so I stayed inside where it was warm and dry. My lovely wife, on the other hand, climbed up on the roof and gave our chimney another coat of paint. It was starting to rust a bit, but now it’s all fixed up and should last another year or so. I can handle most things around the house, but heights? Nope, that’s not for me. Don’t know why, but it is what it is.

That’s the thing though about my wife and me—we’re a good team. What I can’t do, she can, and when there’s something big to tackle, we do it together. Cuts the work in half and makes life a lot easier. After being married for over 50 years, we’ve figured out what works. These days, couples like that are pretty rare, and let me tell you, I’m sure lucky to have her.

Today, if I’m feeling up to it, I plan to write another story or two for the newspapers I write for—Post Media—the largest in Canada. I’ve been with them for about 20 years now, though back when I started, it was called Osprey Media. Before that, I wrote for the Thorold News in Southern Ontario, and over the years, my work has found its way into a few independent newspapers and magazines across Canada—and even a handful in the U.S.

Looking back, I’d say I’ve done more than my fair share of writing. It’s been a heck of a journey, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. Sharing stories and connecting with people has been a big part of my life, and to this day, it still feels more like a passion than a job. For that, I consider myself pretty darn lucky.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared for me. After that, I’ll see how I’m feeling and take it from there. One day at a time, I always say—though, truth be told, some days it’s more like one hour at a time.

You all have a great day, and who knows? Maybe tomorrow, I’ll have another story or two to share.

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

Oh and thanks to everyone who stopped by my blog yesterday! Over 4,300 real readers took the time to check out my posts, and I can’t thank you enough for that. It truly means a lot to me. Let’s keep things rolling—see you all again soon! GW

All my books are available on my Amazon Author Page.

If you purchase a book, a brief Amazon review really helps new readers discover my work—it means a lot.

Support my writing: Support My Writing

In Closing, I Would Like to Wish You Well!

George Walters | [email protected]

Sunrise in the Sticks: A Country Perspective on November 19/2024

Click on image to Enlarge!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All my books are available on my Amazon Author Page.

If you purchase a book, a brief Amazon review really helps new readers discover my work—it means a lot.

Support my writing: Support My Writing

In Closing, I Would Like to Wish You Well!

George Walters | [email protected]

Rustic Routines: Mornings in the Middle of Nowhere on November 17/2024

Click on Image to Enlarge!

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

Port Loring, ON, Canada

Currently: 35°F (2°C) · Cloudy

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

  • High: 47°F (8°C)
  • Low: 37°F (3°C)

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

  • High: 47°F (8°C)
  • Low: 34°F (1°C)

Looks like November is settling in nicely!

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

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

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

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

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

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

All my books are available on my Amazon Author Page.

If you purchase a book, a brief Amazon review really helps new readers discover my work—it means a lot.

Support my writing: Support My Writing

In Closing, I Would Like to Wish You Well!

George Walters | [email protected]

Nature’s Alarm Clock: Living Far from the City on November 16/2024

Click On Image to Enlarge!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All my books are available on my Amazon Author Page.

If you purchase a book, a brief Amazon review really helps new readers discover my work—it means a lot.

Support my writing: Support My Writing

In Closing, I Would Like to Wish You Well!

George Walters | [email protected]