Morning, folks! You know, if there’s one thing the country and age has taught me, it’s this; “Slow down, because life will move fast enough without you chasin’ it.”

Starting off the day, we’ve got a rainy morning here in the north. The rain began around 2:00 AM, and it looks like it’ll be with us on and off for most of the day, through the night, and into tomorrow. As I’ve mentioned in earlier forecasts, we’re in for a cool spell over the next few days. But don’t worry, summer hasn’t given up entirely, as we’re still in for a few more sunny days with pleasant temperatures, which suits my wife and me just fine, as we’re not quite ready to say goodbye to summer just yet.

In saying all that, tomorrow will give us a glimpse of what’s to come. It’s almost like Mother Nature is giving us a heads-up to get ready. The trouble is, it seems like fewer people are paying attention to her signals these days. And with all the talk of global warming, you’d think folks would be more tuned in. But the truth is, these changes have been happening for thousands of years, and will keep on going, no matter what we do.

Speaking of being prepared, I spent a couple of days bringing in our firewood I think we’ll need for winter. Let me tell you, my old body was certainly feeling it once all was said and done. But, I’m glad to have it done before the damp, rainy weather sets in—which, as you know, can be quite frequent up here in the north. Dry wood is like a wick; when it rains, it soaks up the moisture and takes forever to dry out. Some folks wait until it’s cold outside to get their wood in, but I have found that early September is the sweet spot.

I also keep the dehumidifier running in the basement to help keep the wood nice and dry. Once the air is less humid and the furnace kicks in, I turn it off for the winter. Little things like that can save you a lot of headaches later on. It’s the way I was taught, and it’s served me well for, let’s just say, many years. Now, I’m not saying I’m old, but I do remember when the only thing on TV was snow.

And I can’t forget to mention my lovely wife, who’s been running herself ragged reorganizing the whole house lately—upstairs, downstairs, and every nook in between. She’s also been cleaning up after me, which truth told, is a full-time job by itself. That woman of mine, she’s been by my side for over fifty some years, and I am darn lucky to have her in my life.

Today, with the rain and my body still aching from yesterday’s hard work, I think I will stay inside. I’m learning that as I age, taking it easy and enjoying some downtime is more important than ever.

Highway 522 has quieted down quite a bit lately, with many folks back in their homes in the cities. I actually like it this way; it’s quieter and gives me time to enjoy what’s truly important in life.

With that I am off for my morning breakfast that my little woman has made for me and will then see what the day has in store, other than what I have planned. One never knows.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this: Out here, life’s about enjoying the simple things—a contrast to the city’s constant rush. Sometimes, the best things are found in the quiet. GW

Good Morning! You know—after decades of working with seeds and words, I’ve learned that patience is what makes them grow strong.

Well, it’s a cloudy morning here in cottage country on this first day of September. We’re getting a few showers, but the good news is we should see some off-and-on sunshine a bit later. Not that I’m complaining, mind you—it’s that time of year when the seasons are changing, and the weather likes to keep us on our toes.

I’ve got to say, we’ve had a pretty good summer, managing to get a lot done around the property—and even inside the house, for that matter. One thing that surprised me was how well the equipment behaved. They only needed a few minor fixes here and there, which is a small miracle with some being a touch old. At any rate, it’s always nice when things go to plan; as there is nothing worse than starting a project, only to have something break down, and having to spend the rest of the day figuring out how to get it back up and running.

On another note, yesterday I spent the day working away inside our home, applying paint and tackling all those little things that seem to pop up out of nowhere. I thought I’d have it all finished, but—well, you know how that goes. It’s funny how just when you think you’re in the home stretch, the finish line decides to move a few more miles down the road.

Today, I’ll get back to work and see how it turns out. The silver lining is that this year, I’m feeling stronger and healthier than I have in the past two. Let’s hope it stays that way. The truth is, good health is the foundation of everything. Without it, all the projects and plans in the world don’t mean much. So, take care of yourselves, eat right, get some exercise, and just do what’s good—for you.

My wife has also been running on all cylinders—looking after the customers in our gift shop, keeping up with her housework, and following me around cleaning up my messes. Let me tell you, that’s practically a full-time job on its own! I’m sure lucky to have her; as she keeps everything running smoothly and makes each day a lot brighter. We are a team, that’s for sure, as we have worked together now for over fifty some years. Truth is, she knows what needs doing before I even realize it’s a problem!

With that, I’m off for my breakfast, which is my usual morning routine, and then I’ll get to work.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this to ponder on. “Every day is a new page, and it’s up to you to fill it with some great stories.”

Took a picture of a Yellow Rose in our garden yesterday that just opened up. Sure is pretty—and smells down right nice too!

Click on image to enlarge!

Good morning! If there’s one piece of wisdom I’ve picked up over the years, it’s this: “Don’t sweat the small stuff, because most of it is just that—small stuff.”

Looks like we’re in for another fine day up here in the north. The sun’s already peeking through the trees, casting a warm glow on everything it touches. The winds are quiet, coming in from the WNW, barely enough to rustle the leaves. And the temperature? Well, it’s one of those perfect days, when you can’t help but smile just stepping outside. Not a soul could find a reason to grumble about the weather today—it’s one of those rare days, that makes you glad to be alive.

Highway 522 is pretty quiet these days. The reason being is that a lot of folks are sticking close to home, getting things ready for the kids to head back to school next week. And with the price of things climbing, and those big corporations taking more than their share, folks are feeling the squeeze. Not to forget the taxes we have to pay for things these days, as they sure aren’t making it any easier, either. Times are tough, and truth told, people are doing what they can, just to make ends meet.

But in saying all that, living up here in the north is something special. The peace, the quiet, and the natural beauty makes it one of the best places to call home. Every day, you wake up to fresh air and the sounds of nature. It’s a place where you can truly feel at ease, surrounded by the beauty of the land. If you’re looking for a place that feels like home, this is it.

Other than that, my friends, not much else is happening in and around our small little town. It’s one of those quiet mornings where the most exciting thing might just be—a good cup of coffee.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast, prepared by my lovely wife. Afterward, I’ll get back to painting the kitchen—I’m slowly but surely making progress. Might even finish it today.

I will leave you with this to ponder on. The old saying goes; “The best way to predict the future is to create it—but don’t forget to take the time to enjoy each moment along the way!”

In Closing, I Would Like to Wish You Well! GW

This should start my day off right.

Click on image to enlarge!

Good Morning:

You know-–after all these years, I’ve learned that a calm mind and steady hands make for a good day’s work.

And saying that—steady hands, sure come in handy when painting the kitchen cupboards, which is what I have been doing for the past three days, and let me tell you, there’s a lot more work involved in painting a kitchen than meets the eye. This is the third, hmm—maybe fourth time I’ve tackled it in the twenty-some years we’ve lived here.

You’d think I’d have it figured out by now, but every time, it feels like the cupboards have grown more corners and crevices. It’s one of those jobs that starts simple, and then sneaks up on you with just how long it’s going to take. I reckon I’ve got another two or three days before I can finally put the paintbrush down. But hey, at least I’m getting my daily exercise in, without leaving the house.

Highway 522 was quite busy yesterday with visitors dropping by our one-of-a-kind gift shop. It’s been great to see so many people, especially those from out of town, taking the time to explore our beautiful property. It’s clear that word is spreading beyond our small town, and we appreciate everyone’s interest and support.

Other than painting, my wife and I yesterday managed to get the mowing done for the week. I have to say, our property looks absolutely beautiful when it’s all finished. You know, it’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate the simple beauty of country living. Afterward, we love to sit on our front porch, with a cool drink in hand, and take in the view. It’s the sort of setting that makes folks say, “I’d love to own a place like this someday.” And who knows, maybe someday someone else—will get the chance to enjoy it just like we have.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared. After that, I’ll see if my paintbrush is ready to get back to work.

You all have a great day and always remember, “life’s a journey best taken one step (or sip) at a time.” Now—where did I leave my damn coffee! GW