Good Morning! You know, after all these years, I’ve come to know that life’s like a good pair of boots—takes time to break them in, but once they’re right, they’re with you for the long haul.

Well, it’s been a few days since I last checked in here, the reason being that my lovely wife and I took a little trip south of us, just to see what the other half is up to. I have to say, after a few days among the hustle and bustle of city life, we sure were glad to get back to the quiet of the country.

First off, the traffic! You know! I have no idea how people handle it day in and day out. Cars whizzing by in every direction, horns blaring… not exactly what we’re used to, that’s for certain. And those houses? Packed in so tight, you could pass your neighbor a cup of sugar right through the window without leaving your kitchen. I think if I lived there long enough, I’d start missing the privacy of my own porch real quick.

Then there was the whole adventure of finding a place to stay. Now, my wife and I have seen our fair share of motels over the years, and I have to tell you, things haven’t gotten any better. Actually, years ago, things were somewhat better in a lot of ways. One thing is that, today, we’ve learned to ask for a look at the room before handing over any money, but even that doesn’t prepare you for what you find once you’re actually in it. Sometimes, what looks fine at first glance ends up being something else entirely by the time you’ve unpacked your bag. I won’t even mention the shower.

We also figured we’d try a night at the movies. Well, here again we’ve been to plenty of theaters in our day, but this one might take the cake. The place smelled like they hadn’t opened a window since the 70s, and the seats? I’d have been better off sitting on a log. As for the popcorn, let’s just say it had a texture that made me think it might’ve been leftover from the last showing of Gone with the Wind. We didn’t even make it halfway through the bucket before tossing it. And believe me, if you knew my wife’s love for popcorn, you’d understand what a tragedy that was.

Now, I know this might sound like a lot of griping, but that’s not really it as hell, I’m more than willing to pay for things if they’re worth the price— but to me, it just seems these days, you don’t always get what you’re paying for.

But all in all, we did enjoy a few days away, even if it mostly reminded us of how good we’ve got it here. There’s just something about coming home, stepping out onto your own porch, or walking around your property, taking in the stillness that city folks couldn’t even dream of. Hell, I’d bet most of ‘em haven’t heard a cricket chirp in years.

Truth be told, after this trip, I’m more convinced than ever that my wife and I got it pretty good here in the country. At least out here, if something smells funny, it’s usually just our compost pile—not the theater seats, or??

On another note, after we got home, my wife and I tackled the grass yesterday, and I must say, the property is looking mighty fine. I also noticed that traffic around here has eased up quite a bit. I’m guessing it’s a combination of the kids being back in school and the price of things, which we got a firsthand look at during our four-day trip.

Today—well, today I’m thinking of cleaning up our driveway a bit, in other words, making it look a touch nicer. Leave a driveway long enough without tending to it, and eventually, it’ll start to look like a lane-way from years ago, with all the grass and weeds that start to take over. I didn’t mind it years ago though, as it gave the place an authentic look of where one was living.

With that, I am glad to be back home, and now going to have my breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me; and then will head outdoors and enjoy the remaining days of summer here in the north. And you know— while the city’s chasing its tail, I think we are pretty darn lucky, to be able to watch the world turn, one slow sunrise at a time. Life is good, my friends, life is good. GW

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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

Good Morning! “You know, the only thing better than a country morning—is sharing it with folks who know what it’s worth.”

It’s a cool morning here in the north, and along with that we are also having some rain. Taking a look at things, based on my observations and the patterns I’ve noticed from past years, it looks like winter 2024-2025 is shaping up to be particularly challenging. We can expect colder-than-normal temperatures and a lot of snow, especially here in Port Loring and the surrounding areas. It should be noted that this winter won’t be the usual cold; it will be the kind that makes you appreciate every log on the fire, and every extra blanket on the bed.

Take the squirrels, for instance. Over the past week, they’ve been working double-time, gathering nuts and acorns like they’re expecting a long, hard winter. The deer in the area are already sporting their thick winter coats, looking like they’re ready for whatever comes their way. And even some of the birds—have begun their migration south, as if they’ve got an early warning about what’s to come. All these signs point to one thing: we’re in for a real northern winter, the kind that brings plenty of cold and snow. So—even though it’s still a bit early, it’s time to start thinking ahead. Make sure your woodpile is ready, the pantry/freezer is stocked, and—that snow shovel is where you can find it.

Highway 522 has quieted down quite a bit this week, which is typical for this time of year. However, it seems even fewer tourists are passing through compared to previous years. On the bright side, our gift shop has been buzzing with new faces, which has been a pleasant surprise. It’s always nice to see folks appreciating our one-of-a-kind items that we have to offer—even if the highway is a little less travelled these days.

On another note, we had a few things on our list that we were in need of, so we took a trip to North Bay yesterday. The weather was a bit on the warm side, but it turned out to be a great day. While there, we picked up everything we needed, treated ourselves to a delicious pizza and a drink at East Side Mario’s—honestly, I don’t think there’s a better pizza around. After that, we picked up a coffee to go, from a coffee shop in town, and enjoyed it on the drive home, taking our time to enjoy the surrounding scenery. All in all, it was a real nice day.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared. After that, it’s time to tackle some painting around the house. I’m hoping to get it all done before the snow flies so we can keep the windows open and let the fresh air in—paint seems to bother me more these days. It’s amazing how the old body changes as the years go by.

You all have a great day, and remember; “Life’s too short to skip the small pleasures, like a quiet morning and a good cup of coffee.”

Good Morning!

You know, I have found that the best thing about living in the country, is waking up to the sound of nature, ‘instead of an alarm clock’.

It’s a foggy morning waking up here in the north. The mist is thick, keeping things quiet and still. But once the sun starts doing its job, things will clear up, and the day will come to life. I have always felt that living away from the cities, mornings like this were made for me. No rush, no noise…just quiet. And there is nothing better than…sipping a cup of coffee on the porch and watching as the sunlight breaks through the trees. ‘Life as it should be.’

Highway 522 did pick up a wee bit yesterday, which brought quite a few folks into our gift shop. They really liked our hand made items, all made right here at our home. No offshore stuff in our shop, just the real deal, and you know…folks these days are starting to appreciate that. ‘Which is nice to see!‘

On another note, my lovely wife and I managed to get our grass cut yesterday. I have to say once finished, our property looks great, all neat and tidy. After we put things away, we got cleaned up and took a break to sit on the porch, while enjoying a cold drink, and taking in the view. It’s nice to see the results of our hard work and enjoy the peaceful setting. Kinda makes me wonder why more folks don’t swap city life for something this relaxing. But then again…living in the country isn’t for everyone. It takes a ‘special kind of person‘ who’s got it in their blood to really make a go of it and appreciate the simple life.

Today once again I am not sure what I will be doing, maybe my wife and I will take the day off and enjoy what we have… other than work. It’s good to do that occasionally. ‘Don’t ya think?’

With that, I am off for my breakfast that my little woman has made for me.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this to ponder on: “A calm day in the country is proof that nature has a better handle on things than we do.”

The Best Times For Fishing on Friday
08/23/24

Major Times
3:25 AM-5:25 AM
3:50 PM-5:50 PM

Minor Times
10:54 AM-11:54 AM
9:32 PM-10:32 PM

Day Rating: Not the best day for fishing, I only give it a 1-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few. But, hey! One never really knows till they have their line in the water. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: You know, fishermen years ago would make their own lures from bits of metal, wood, or even repurposed items like old spoons. I remember my old Dad saying: “If you can’t make it yourself, you weren’t fishing properly…imagination is your best lure!” He’d go on to say.

Good Morning!

Nature’s Got Its Own Clock, and I’m Tryin’ to Keep Up

It’s a bit cool here in cottage country this morning, with the temperature rolling out of bed sitting at 11.2°C (52.16°F). Makes you think twice about stepping outside without a vest or jacket of some kind, that’s for sure. But in saying that, it won’t be long before the sun gets to work, warming things up and reminding us that summer hasn’t quite packed up and left us yet.

Even so, there’s a feeling in the air…a sort of nudge that says, “Hey, don’t get too comfortable. Fall’s on its way.” It should also be noted that, the leaves are starting to think about changing their outfits, and the days… seem to be in a bit more of a hurry, as if they’ve got somewhere important to be. “I’ve always believed that nature often gives us a heads-up about what’s coming. It’s up to us to pay attention and understand its signs.”

Highway 522 was a bit busier than usual yesterday, with town folks buzzing about, going here and there. For a small place, you’d wonder what keeps ‘em all so busy. Most of them weren’t in any big hurry though…just taking’ their time, driving slow, looking around, checking out what their neighbors were up to. You know how it is in the country…if someone’s painting a fence or fixing a shed, it’s a town event! Everyone’s got to have a peek, maybe offer some advice, whether it’s wanted or not. Heck, around here, you don’t even need to read a newspaper to find out what is happening. Just start up your chainsaw, and folks will come a running!

On another note, with the nice weather yesterday, I spent some time getting things ready for winter. Seems like there’s always something that needs doing this time of year. My wife, well, she kept busy making tomato sauces and such, which we’ll sure be thankful for when the snow flies. Store-bought ones just don’t have the taste. Some folks claim they like them, but I figure they’ve forgotten what a real tomato’s supposed to taste like. I’ve been eating ours every day since they ripened, and I’ll miss them when they’re gone. But that’s why my little woman’s been putting them up. I’m a lucky man to have her…she’s always one step ahead, making sure we’re set for the long cold days ahead. Truth told, I can’t imagine life without her, and I’m not just talking about the tomato sauce!

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made. After that, I’ll get to cutting the grass. Man, it’s growing like crazy. But that’s what happens this time of year with the cool and wet weather…it sure loves it.

You all have a great day and remember: “If you can’t find peace in nature, maybe you’re not looking hard enough.” Us country folks though…know where to look. Take Care. GW

Fishing Times for Thursday
08/22/24

Major Times
2:34 AM-4:34 AM
3:00 PM-5:00 PM

Minor Times
9:32 AM-10:32 AM
9:11 PM-10:11 PM

Day Rating: Not the greatest day for fishing, I only give it a 1-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few. But in saying that, one really never knows. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: If the fish aren’t biting, try changing your lure. Sometimes, a different colour, or size can make all the difference. I’ve always figured: “If the fish don’t like your first choice, give ‘em a second date, so to speak…just like people!”

Good Morning;

“Lookin’ outside, the dew’s on the grass, the sun’s peekin’ over the northern pines, and today’s just beggin’ for a story to be told.”

Looks like we’re in for another fine day here in Cottage Country. The sun’s shining like it’s got nothin’ better to do, the birds are pickin’ through their breakfast at the feeder like it’s a country diner, and the grass…well, it’s growin’ so fast I reckon I’ll be dustin’ off my old mower by tomorrow morning.

Highway 522’s been pretty quiet for this time of year, not too many new faces passing through. But that’s how it goes when the air starts getting a touch cool, and parents are busy gearing up for the kids to head back to school. It’s hard to believe summer’s nearly packed its bags. Just a reminder that up here in the north, you’ve gotta make hay, while the sun shines…because before long, you’ll be swapping out your garden gloves for a snow shovel, wondering where the warm days went.

On another note, my wife and I took a little trip to North Bay yesterday. We had a list of groceries and a few other things we’d been needing, so we figured it was time to stock things up. We navigated the store, crossing things off as we went, and before long, we had everything we came for…plus a few extras, we didn’t know we needed until we saw them. Seems that always happens!

After all that shopping, we treated ourselves to a Canadian Pizza with the works at East Side Mario’s, washed down with an ice tea. It hit the spot, let me tell you. Then, we couldn’t resist stopping by a local coffee shop for a hot cup of coffee, to sip on the way home.

The drive back was nice, with the trees starting to show the first hints of fall. We took our time, windows down, just letting the breeze and the scenery remind us, why we love living up here in the north. It’s funny how a simple trip can turn into something more, like a reminder to slow down, and take in the little things. In these parts, you learn that a good day isn’t measured by how much you get done, but by how well you enjoy what you’re doing, and yesterday, I’d say my lovely wife and I did just fine.

You know... I’ve seen folks get so caught up in rituals and rules, believing that’s what makes a life worthwhile. In my way of thinking, it’s not about how often you attend services, or having someone tell you their way is the only way. No Sir! A good day, for me, is about finding joy in simple things…like a quiet drive, or a shared meal, with the ones you love.

Today I am not sure what I will be doing, I guess I will have to wait and see.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me and will then get to enjoying this great looking day.! As it should be!

You all have a great day and remember The best things in life are often the simplest. Take care now!

Fishing Times for Wednesday
08/21/24

Major Times
1:44 AM-3:44 AM
2:09 PM-4:09 PM

Minor Times
8:09 AM-9:09 AM
8:52 PM-9:52 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 3-Star Rating for catching a few. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: Poppers create a lot of surface noise, and are great for top water action. Cast them into open water, or near an old stump or a Lillie Pad, and give them a few pops. I’ve always said that: “Poppers are like a knock on the door…with fish come to see who’s causing a fuss!”

Mornin’, everyone! “The best part of wakin’ up in the country? The peace, the quiet, and the chance to do it all again.”

It’s a cloudy, wet morning here in Cottage country and I have to say since yesterday we’ve been getting a bit of rain here in Port Loring, and while you might think it’s from that hurricane heading up the coast, it’s not directly the cause. What’s happening is a bit more complex. The local weather systems are doing their usual thing, but with the hurricane down south stirring things up, we’re seeing some extra moisture making its way up here. So, even though we’re not in the path of the hurricane, it’s still nudging our weather a bit, giving our gardens a good soak which in truth is needed. It’s just one of those reminders that even when a storm is miles away, it can still reach out and touch us in unexpected ways. Mother Nature has a funny way of keeping us all connected.

Highway 522 has been quiet lately, and that’s just how my wife and I like it. As truth told, we enjoy the peace and quietness of country living. But even with the slow traffic, our gift shop has been quite busy with folks stopping by to see what we’ve got. They’re picking up some of the one-of-a-kind items we make right here in my old woodworking shop. You know, we don’t carry offshore items, the reason being there’s already plenty of that around, and we prefer not to be sending our hard-earned money elsewhere. We’re proud to offer unique, locally crafted pieces that truly reflect the spirit of our work.

Bug Report: All is well in that department.

On another note, with yesterday’s weather being all over the place, I spent the day indoors working on stories for my newspaper columns along with a few magazines. Actually it turned out to be a productive day, though some days flow better than others.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife is or has made for me and will then do some more writing. Not the greatest day for outside work.

You all have a great day, and remember: “Wisdom is like a good pair of shoes—those who need it most often seem to be walking around without it, stumbling over the same old mistakes.”

Fishing Times for Sunday
08/18/24

Major Times
–:—–:–
11:29 AM-1:29 PM

Minor Times
3:54 AM-4:54 AM
7:44 PM-8:44 PM

Day Rating: Actually if it wasn’t for the rain it’s a good day for fishing. I give it a 4-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: Learn a few simple knots to keep your hooks and lures secure. The improved clinch knot is a favorite. I’ve always said, ‘A good knot is like a good handshake—firm and reliable!’

I took another picture of a different kind of sunflower/s we grow here at our home. It brightens my day every morning, as I walk to my woodworking shop.

Click on image to enlarge!

Good Morning!

Being boarded out on a dairy farm years ago taught me one thing: That living in the country means-you get to greet the day-before it even knows you’re coming.

We’re in the midst of some clouds here this morning in cottage country. We did have a wee bit of rain through the night, which was much needed as the ground’s been dry, and the trees and plants were more than ready for a good drink. Furthermore, we could use a bit more, and it looks like we just might get some, off and on throughout the day. But with that said, we should be seeing a bit of sunshine as well, thrown in for good measure. Enjoy the warmth while you can.

Highway 522 hasn’t been overly busy for the past few days, and I suspect it will get even slower now that September isn’t all that far off. With kids getting ready to head back to school, many folks are busy with last-minute preparations. I have to say, summer sure has flown by; seems like just yesterday we were welcoming the warm days of summer, and now we’re already gearing up for the change of season. And not to forget that it’s almost time to start thinking about bringing in some firewood. I like to get ours in before the dampness of fall sets in, which tends to sneak up quickly this time of year.

Bug Report: No major issues this time of year, except for those pesky little nit flies that manage to sneak through the screens at night. They seem to have a knack for finding you, just when you’re cozy in bed, book in hand, ready to relax; I guess they’re just trying to get in on the bedtime story! ‘Just the same, my wife and I would be happy without them.‘

On another note, I’ve been keeping busy around the house these days. I decided to see if I could get an old gas pressure washer working, that’s been sitting around for years, all covered in dust and grime. After a bit of fussing and a lot of sputtering, it finally decided to cooperate. I then washed the whole house and, boy, I didn’t realize how dirty it had gotten! When I finished, the house looked like it had been freshly painted. It’s funny how a bit of old-fashioned know-how, and some elbow grease, can make such a big difference. And now that it’s done such a great job after being neglected for so long, I reckon I’ll have to keep it in good shape; actually I’ve got a nice place where it’ll be nice and dry for the winter-after all, it earned a little rest and comfort after proving it’s still got plenty of life left in it!

On the other side of the coin, my lovely wife has been hard at work on painting orders folks have asked for. On top of that, she’s been busy getting things ready for winter from our garden. I have to say, I feel pretty lucky to have her; she’s always working hard, and keeping everything running smoothly around here. It’s amazing how much she accomplishes, the truth of the matter is, I couldn’t do it without her.

With that, I’m off for breakfast; a bowl of Shredded Wheat for a change, prepared by my little woman, along with a piece of toast and real butter. I’m not one for that artificial stuff. Actually, I feel no one should be eating it, along with that artificial sugar. After breakfast, I’ll see what the day has in store. Right now, I’m not quite sure what I’ll be doing.

You all have a great day and remember: “Common sense is like deodorant-the people who need it most, never seem to use it.”

Fishing Times for Saturday
08/17/24

Major Times
1:00 AM-3:00 AM
10:31 AM-12:31 PM

Minor Times
2:33 AM-3:33 AM
7:13 PM-8:13 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 3-Star Rating out of 5 today for catching a few. Good Luck! ‘And don’t forget your raincoat.’

Advice from an Old Angler: A classic red-and-white bobber is perfect for beginners. It’ll let you know when you’ve got a bite. I always say; “A bobber is like a fishing alarm clock—it wakes you up to the fact that you’ve got a fish on the line!”

Rise and shine! The sun’s up, the birds are singin’, and the cows won’t milk themselves. So get yourself a movin’.

It’s one beautiful morning here, waking up in cottage country. And there’s something about the crisp northern air that makes you feel like the world is brand new each day. In my mind, there isn’t anything quite like living here in the north.

You know, living where we do, a feller learns to appreciate the simple things—like the sound of loons calling across the lake or the smell of a wood fire on a chilly evening. And there’s wisdom in that; As we don’t need the hustle and bustle to remind us we’re alive; Truth told… the rustle of leaves and the call of crows, do just fine.

Folks down south might have their cities and their fast-paced lives, but I believe that they’re missing out on something special up here—something that can’t be bought or built. Up here, it’s the simple things that remind you of what really matters, the things that make you feel truly alive. And if you ask me, there’s a bit of humor in that too. Because while others might be chasing after the next big thing, we’ve already found it!

Highway 522 is still unusually quiet for this time of year. I guess it’s a combination of being tucked away up here, along with the way the world’s turning lately. With the cost of everything going up, I think folks are keeping closer to home, watching their pocket books. But in saying that, as much as I enjoy seeing new faces passing through, there’s a certain peace in the stillness, that I can’t help but appreciate. It’s like the world has slowed down just a bit, giving us a chance to breathe. Not that I’ve got anything against city folks—everyone’s welcome here—but there’s something special about the quiet moments in our little corner of the world.

On another note, yesterday I was outside wrestling with a window that decided to crack for no apparent reason. Got the old glass out without too much trouble. Next time I’m in town, I’ll pick up a new pane and install it—should help keep us a bit warmer come winter. It’s always something with these little projects, but there’s a certain satisfaction in tackling them myself.

Meanwhile, my wife was hard at work with the tomatoes, prepping them for winter. She never seems to stop—truly a marvel of energy and dedication. I feel incredibly lucky and proud to have her by my side. If there was ever a mold for a hardworking and caring partner, they surely broke it after making her.

Do you think that might get me a pie for supper?

Today, well, to be honest, I’m not entirely sure what I’ll be doing. I’ve managed to tick off most of the things I wanted to do this summer. But you know how it goes—there’s always something that needs doing. Maybe I’ll tackle some painting on the windows, fix a few drafts around the doors, or… pull out some more of those never-ending weeds or clean my woodworking shop, and then there is that firewood that needs to be brought into the basement for winter Oh, hell, who am I kidding? It seems like I’ve still got a mountain of things left to do. Truth is, it’s like the list never ends. But hey, that’s just part of living in the country, isn’t it?

With that once again I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife put together for me, and will then head on out to our front porch and enjoy a cup of Turmeric Tea. Very healthy for ya.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this to ponder on: “A smart life is one where you don’t take yourself too seriously— whereas, laughing at yourself, keeps you grounded.” GW

Fishing Times for Tuesday
08/13/24

Major Times
6:41 AM-8:41 AM
7:07 PM-9:07 PM

Minor Times
–:—–:–
3:26 PM-4:26 PM

Day Rating: Things are getting a bit better these days, I give it a 3-Star Rating today out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: Live bait, such as worms or minnows, often works better than lures. Just remember to keep it fresh and lively. I have always said that; “Fish like live bait because it’s the closest thing to a free meal they’re going to get!”

And Gohm’s Bait and Tackle at; 18 Davis Dr here in Port Loring, Ontario, has everything you need in the way of bait along with other things.

Ask for Reg and tell him George sent ya!