Here is a picture of a small garden we have by our front porch. It has a mixture of wild buttercups, and some perennials. And not to forget the dandelion! We just let nature take its course.
Click on image to enlarge!
Flowers Of All Kinds
All posts by George Walters
Inspiration For the Day
My lovely wife walks out to our backyard, comes into the house, and walla! A nice vase of wild flowers along with some of hers. Simple but nice.
Click on image to enlarge
Soda Anyone
Over the years I have indulged in different drinks. And truth be told, I have enjoyed most of them.
In my younger days, there wasn’t anything that quenched my thirst better than a soda.
However, thing’s has changed a lot over the years, especially when it comes to the container that holds the Liquid Candy.
That’s what some called it back when.
Most containers back when were made from glass, and thinking about that they had some pretty fancy ones too.
From tall to short, fancy lettering, to just plain, they had them all.
I can remember going into what they used to call a Soda Fountain. There you could get a sandwich, hot dog, ice-cream, and sodas of all kinds.
My favorite was a Cherry Coke Float mixed with ice-cream, and blended to a set texture that would be hard to copy today.
I have to tell you they were definitely tasty.
I also enjoyed the environment that I got when walking into the place. Right away you would see a bar, something like in the old Hotels they had at the time.
Actually, they made me feel like a grown up. As I could walk in and sit myself down at the bar on a stool, swirling myself around in a circle, while chatting away to the Soda Jerk.
Most had a nice personality, and it seemed it didn’t matter what you wanted to talk about, that Soda Jerk had an answer for everything.
I honestly don’t know how he did it.
His job consisted of working at the soda fountain, swinging the soda fountain handle back and forth when adding soda water to a fountain beverage.
They prepared some of the best milkshakes I have ever tasted, along with other treats, using mixers, that featured spindles and agitators, that forced air into the drinks.
When them machines finished doing what they were made to do, the drinks came out smooth and fluffy.
The next thing I enjoyed was watching how they took the steel container, pouring the milkshake, or whatever into tall glasses.
It sure was a sight to see, let me tell ya. My mouth still waters thinking about it.
You know! I could sit and watch the feller make them drinks for hours.
And the best part was, that most of the time, they didn’t mind how long I sat there, either.
Yes … things have changed over the years, I grant you that. But to this date I have never found a place that could make a Cherry Coke Float like they used to many years ago.
Anyway now that I have all your taste buds flowing, there is one last thing that I would like to talk about today.
It’s about a feller I got to know while visiting our Cottage in Sarasota, Florida many years ago.
This fellow owned a gas station, and at the back of his store, he had over the years saved, literally, hundreds of different kinds of Coca-Cola Bottles.
When he first showed me, I would have never believed that there were so many kinds.
Quite a sight to see.
Anyway, I thought I would share that with you, if for nothing else than it might make you think twice before throwing certain things away.
He told me, today his collection is worth thousands of dollars.
Until the next time. You can reach George Walters at: [email protected]
Soil PH in Your Vegetable Garden
Have you ever wondered why some plants thrive in certain soils, while others struggle or fail to grow altogether? Well, in my earlier days I sure did. But thanks to my old Dad, I found that the answer often lies in the soil’s pH level. What I discovered was that soil pH plays a critical role in influencing the nutrients that are available to plants and their ability to absorb them. If you’re not too familiar with the pH scale, let me break it down for ya. It’s a tool we use to measure how acidic or alkaline a substance/soil is, and it goes from 0 to 14. When we talk about a pH of 7, that’s right smack in the middle, and we call it neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, while anything above 7 is alkaline. Now, here’s where it gets important for us farmers/gardeners. Different crops need different pH levels to thrive, and we need to be mindful of that to give ’em the best shot at success. I found that some plants like it more acidic, while others prefer it to be more alkaline. The bottom line is; if we don’t pay attention to the pH requirements of our crops, they may not grow as strong and healthy as they could. So … it’s something we have to keep in mind when we’re tending our soil. For instance, asparagus plants prefer a slightly alkaline soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 8.0, while potatoes prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 4.8 and 6.5. Peppers, on the other hand, prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.0, while broccoli thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. The thing is, it’s important to make sure your plants have the right pH balance to keep them healthy and growing well. Then it comes to acidic soil, certain nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus become less available, which causes limited growth and nutritional deficiencies. Whereas in alkaline soil, minerals like iron, zinc, and manganese become less available, leading to yellowing leaves and other symptoms of nutrient deficiencies. So … how can you determine your soil’s pH level? Well, the easiest way is to use a soil test kit, which can be purchased at most garden centres or online. They give you an easy way to measure your soil’s pH level, so you can change it as needed to meet the needs of your plants. It should also be noted that the pH of your soil can be raised by adding lime if it has a high amount of acidity. And on the other side of the coin, adding sulphur can assist lowering the pH level if your soil has a high alkaline content. Furthermore, adding organic matter, such as compost, can also help to stabilize the pH of the soil, creating a more suitable environment for a wider range of plants. Finally, my old Dad used to say: “happy soil, happy crops, happy farmer!” And that’s no lie, as it’s a well-known fact among us farmers/gardeners, that soil pH can make or break a harvest.
“So, remember folks, if you want your plants to thrive, you gotta’ test that pH and get it just right. And if you’re feeling a little lost, just remember this age-old gardening wisdom: when in doubt, just give your soil a good talking to. It might not change the pH, but your plants will definitely appreciate the extra attention!”
In Closing I Would Like To Wish You Well.
You can reach George Walters at: [email protected]
Farming Here In Canada
Nurturing Our Soil, Nurturing Our Nation: Why Supporting Our Own Farmers is Crucial for Canada’s Self-Sufficiency
Introduction: In a rapidly changing world, where global supply chains dominate our supermarket shelves, it is becoming increasingly important to reflect on the importance of supporting our local farmers. Ontario, blessed with fertile soil and dedicated agricultural communities, has long been the breadbasket of Canada. However, the current trend of selling off prime farmland and relying on imported produce poses a threat to our nation’s self-sufficiency. In this blog post, let us explore the reasons why it is essential for us to support our own farmers, buy Canadian produce when it is in season, and cultivate a sense of compassion towards those who work tirelessly to feed our nation.
- Preserving Our Agricultural Heritage: Farming is more than just a profession; it is a way of life. The Ontario farmer carries the rich legacy of nurturing the land, passing down agricultural wisdom from one generation to the next. By supporting our farmers, we not only ensure the preservation of this heritage, but also sustain the unique cultural identity that comes with it. The sale of prime farmland robs future generations of the opportunity to carry on this cherished tradition and connect with our agricultural roots.
- Strengthening Food Security: In an increasingly interconnected world, food security is a pressing concern. By supporting our own farmers, we take a proactive step towards securing a stable food supply chain within Canada. Buying locally-produced food reduces our reliance on imported goods and mitigates the risks associated with global disruptions, such as climate change, political conflicts, and trade restrictions. When we prioritize Canadian produce, especially when it is in season, we foster resilience in our food system and ensure that our nation’s citizens have access to healthy, fresh, and nutritious food.
- Environmental Stewardship: Canadian farmers are known for their commitment to sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship. By purchasing Canadian produce, we support farmers who implement responsible land management techniques, prioritize biodiversity, and conserve our natural resources. Moreover, buying locally means reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation, thereby contributing to mitigating climate change. Supporting our farmers not only promotes sustainable agriculture, but also helps protect our environment for future generations.
- Boosting the Local Economy: When we buy Canadian produce, we directly contribute to the growth and prosperity of our local communities. Supporting our farmers means supporting their families, their employees, and the small businesses that rely on agriculture. By keeping our dollars within our own economy, we strengthen the local agricultural infrastructure, create jobs, and foster economic stability. A vibrant farming sector translates into a thriving rural economy, ensuring a higher quality of life for all Canadians.
- Connecting with Nature and the Seasons: Choosing to buy Canadian produce in season allows us to reconnect with the rhythm of nature and appreciate the unique flavours and diversity of our land. It reminds us of the joy of anticipation as we eagerly await the arrival of strawberries in the spring or the crisp apples of autumn. By embracing local seasonal produce, we not only support our farmers, but also savour the freshness and quality of food that is harvested at its peak flavour.
Conclusion: Supporting our own farmers and prioritizing Canadian produce is not merely a matter of economics or national pride; it is an act of compassion towards those who toil under the sun to provide us with sustenance. By doing so, we preserve our agricultural heritage, strengthen our food security, promote sustainable practices, boost our local economy, and foster a deeper connection with nature. Let us embrace the opportunity to become more self-sufficient and ensure a bountiful future for all Canadians. Together, we can nurture our soil and nurture our nation.
When to have that line in the water, here in cottage country
Sunday
06/11/23
Major Times
7:01 AM-9:01 AM
7:26 PM-9:26 PM
Minor Times
1:40 AM-2:40 AM
1:37 PM-2:37 PM
Day Rating
I give it a 3-star rating out of 5 for catching a few today. Good Luck!
What’s Happening In Cottage Country on June 11/2023
Good Morning!
Not too much sunshine here this morning, but we could see a wee bit later on. Along with that, there is a chance of a thunderstorm or some showers. We sure could use the rain, that’s for sure. But in saying that the dry weather has slowed down the grass from growing which eases off the mowing every week. The cool weather will stay with us up till Wednesday. Actually, being that the temperature outside was sitting at 12.7 C | 54.86 F this morning, I turned on our oil furnace for a bit to take the dampness and cold out of the house. The reason being the cold and dampness plays hell on my old legs and lower back. Joys of getting old, but not complaining as I am still able to get out of bed every morning.
Highway 522 is slowly getting busier every day and if we get the rain that we need the forest fires will ease off some which will allow folks from the cities to do more travelling.
Here in Port Loring, we’ve been mighty lucky to not have too much trouble with all that smoke the rest of the world’s been grappling with. It’s like the wind’s been pushin’ it away, swayin’ to the west and east of us for the most part. Now, down yonder in southern Ontario, in St. Catharines where my oldest boy hangs his hat, it’s a whole different story. He was just tellin’ me how their boy’s baseball game got called off on account of the thick smoke. Can’t rightly blame ’em, but there isn’t much you can do ’bout it, especially when it’s so dry and our Canadian land is mostly covered in trees.
But it’s all part of Mother Nature’s plan, her way of thinning out them forests and makin’ room for fresh growth. It’s just the way things go. Funny how some folks tend to point fingers at everything under the sun instead of acceptin’ the natural course of things, just like they do with most of what goes on around us.
Bug Report: Although they are less active now, the Black Flies are still around. But because there are so many mosquitoes around right now, they more than make up for it. They also like sneaking inside your house now that the weather has dropped off a bit. You know, they may have a function, but if there is one thing I believe we could do without in life, it is them.
Yesterday my lovely wife and I in the morning took a drive to Powassan to pick up a few groceries along with some fresh Ontario Grown Strawberries. And I have to say after having a bowl last night, they sure were tasty. When it comes to fruit and veggies, we make it a point to get our hands on them Canadian-grown items, especially when they’re in season. There isn’t a patch of land anywhere else on this here planet that churns out tastier fruits and veggies than what we got right here in our own backyard. No country can hold a candle to the flavours and freshness we find growin’ in these parts.
With that I am off for a fresh bagel and cheese and will then see what the day has in store.
Have a great day. GW
When to Have your line in the water
Friday
06/09/23
Major Times
5:24 AM-7:24 AM
5:50 PM-7:50 PM
Minor Times
12:57 AM-1:57 AM
11:02 AM-12:02 PM
Day Rating
Average+
What’s Happening in Cottage Country On June 9/2023
Good Morning!
Well, we all woke up to a cloudy sky this morning, and we did have a sprinkle of rain through the night, or … early this morning. More is on the way for tomorrow and Monday. We sure need it. But you never know what nature has planned. Time will tell the truth of it. The temperature has dropped a lot, with it sitting at: 12.2 C | 53.96 F. It will warm up some as the day progresses, and if lucky we could see a bit of sunshine off and on.
Highway 522 has slowed down some, caused by the forest fires and the camp fire ban in and around our area. But with things being so dry, the ban was needed. But if we get the rain, I am sure they will reinstate it for nighttime burning. Again, we will have to see how things work out in the coming days.
Bug Report; The Black Flies aren’t all that bad these days, but the mosquitoes are really annoying now. Especially this morning with it being so damp. They love, damp, warm and shady areas. And of course they really like to get inside your home if they can. I always brush myself off before opening the door. I also spray a bit of insect killer around the outside of the door every day, which I found helps a lot.
On another note, I did do some work outside yesterday, but by noon I could hardly walk, so had to sit down for the rest of the day. I guess I am not ready to do too much yet. At any rate, there isn’t much I can do about it, other than take it easy till the old body heals itself. Which I am sure it will, given the right amount of time, and rest.
Today I will take it easy and stay inside, as the damp, cool weather makes the old bones feel not so good.
With that I am off for some Pancakes that my lovely wife is preparing for me along with some of Mike Clappertons world renown Maple Syrup. Sure is tasty.
Have a great day and stay safe, as there is a lot of sickness out there these days, colds, flu and things. GW
What’s Happening In Cottage Country on June 8. 2023
Good Morning!
It’s a cloudy morning here waking up, and the temperature has dropped a lot with it sitting at 13.4 C | 56.12 F. We could see a wee bit of sunshine, but for most parts the clouds will remain with us pretty well all day. Along with that, we will be in the midst of some smoke caused from the forest fires all around us. So far, the smoke hasn’t been all that bad where we live here in Port Loring Ontario. Kind of depends on which way the wind is blowing. At any rate, there isn’t much we can do about that, other than wear a mask or stay inside if it gets too bad. A good mask that is … like an N 95 made here in Canada, I wouldn’t trust the ones made offshore. But as I say so far it hasn’t been all that bad, and if we get the rain that is closing in on us, things will improve a lot, so lets hope. We could or should see some rain starting on the weekend and on into Monday. I hope so, as our vegetable gardens sure needs a good drink, as does the trees and other plants.
Highway 522 is busy with a lot of campers moving into our area. And it will remain that way throughout the next three months, unless them forest fires keep them at home. We will have to see how that pans out.
Bug Report: Actually the Black Flies, and Mosquitoes haven’t been all that bad for the past few days. Yesterday I sat outside, once again, for most of the day without hardly seeing a one. We will see how it is today, I will let you know after we mow our grass here this morning, Not that there is all that much to mow at the moment, but if we can and able, we like to keep it looking nice around our home.
With that, I am off for another bagel and cheese that my lovely wife is preparing for me, and will then see what my body is capable of doing. Take care and have a great day, make it a great day. My wife and I try hard every day to accomplish that. It’s not been easy for the past few weeks, but we make the best of it. We found you have to keep the mind thinking positive. There are ways of doing that that works quite well. GW
Firewood For Winter
There is one good thing about all this warm weather. Our firewood is drying nicely for winter. I took a couple pictures of it sitting on our driveway and after our friends piled it for us as we were unable to it ourselves this year. 18 Cords to be exact.
Click on image to enlarge.
How Fare in Debt is Canada?
Click on link below. Kind of makes a person wonder where we are heading.
When To Put Your Line in The Water
Actually anytime is, but for those that goes by the time of day:
Wednesday
06/07/23
Major Times
3:30 AM-5:30 AM
4:01 PM-6:01 PM
Minor Times
–:—–:–
8:16 AM-9:16 AM
Day Rating
Not the best day for fishing, but hey! You never know, and just being out on the water is pretty nice in itself. Good Luck!
What’s Happening In Cottage Country on June 7/2023
Good Morning!
It’s a touch hazy here this morning, but the sun once again is beginning to burn it off. In saying that, the temperatures have dropped considerably, with it sitting this morning at 10.6 C | 51.08 F. It will warm up some as the day progresses. Highway 522 is busy, which is normal for this time of year. One reason it has gotten cooler is that the wind has shifted from the south to the North North West which is bringing in the cooler air from above us. It will get a bit warmer nearing the weekend.
Bug Report: Yesterday was a good day for us humans and critters, as the Black Flies and Mosquitoes weren’t all that bad. I sat outside most of the day without hardly seeing a one. Nice for a change.
On another note, my lovely wife and I have been steadily watering our veggie gardens as we haven’t had any rain here in our area for a few weeks now. And by the looks of things, there isn’t much if any in the forecast for the next week or so. We sure could use some, which would help with the forest fires that are all around, and north of us. We also managed to put a coat of wood preserver on our front deck yesterday, so that will be good now for a couple more years. My wife did the most of it. Today I will be taking it easy once again.
With that, I am off for a boiled egg with a piece of toast. That should look after my protein fix along with some extra Vitamin D, which is in the yokes. I don’t eat much of the white part. Have a great day. GW
Butterflies
Here is an interesting project I just finished up. Once I did my part, my lovely wife did her part, making them look pretty.
Click on image to enlarge!
Grass Cutting
My wife figured this might get me out there cutting grass more often.
What’s For Supper Tonight?
Well I’ll tell ya, hmm … better yet, I will show ya. Homemade Cabbage Rolls.
What’s Happening In Cottage Country On June 6/2023
Good Morning!
It looks as if another real nice day is shaping up for us here in Port Loring, Ontario, Canada. The sun is shinning, the Robbins are trying to build a nest under our front porch roof, and the trees and flowers are really showing off. But on the topic of the Robbins, they sure are determined to build that nest, as my wife has taken it down now three times. We would let them alone, but where they are wanting to build it isn’t the best place, as they would make a heck of a mess on our deck. So as much as we love them, we will have to take it down again this morning.
Highway 522 is busy this morning, and it will continue now for the remainder of the summer.
Bug Report: The Black Flies were out yesterday once again, but not as bad as they were a week ago. They are easing off a wee bit, as are the mosquitoes. But it is that time of year. On the subject of Black Flies and Mosquitoes, I hear that our scientists are saying that wearing bright green helps in steering them away, along with white. I suppose it couldn’t hurt to give it a try. For myself they don’t bother me all that much, they swarm around my head, face and neck, but they don’t bite. I keep on telling my lovely wife that we have an understanding, they leave me alone, and I leave them alone. Ha ha. One remedy I found that works pretty good is not to use any scented soap, perfume, underarm deodorant or things like that, as they draw them to ya in droves.
On another note, I did do some work yesterday, cutting down some weeds with my weed eater. I made out okay, but had to stop a few times and rest. Once done, I was finished for the day, having to sit down. As I said in other posts. I am slowly learning to take life a bit easier, but it is hard, being that I have worked hard all my life. But it is what it is. That front porch of mine is beginning to look better every day.
Today I am unsure what I will be doing. I have a mind to get out my roller and put a coat of wood preservetor on it. I never use stain or sealer on my decks or posts, as all that does is make the wood rot quicker. Wood Preserverter is the way to go. Actually, I bought a couple Gallons the other day. What we do is we buy one gallon of clear and one gallon of the normal brown that they are using now on most of all the decking and posts. I then mix them together, which lightens the brown up, which is the colour that we like. Looks rich and lasts a good two years or more. But, as I always say. To each their own.
With that I am off for a bagel this morning, a cheese bagel to be precise, topped with a bit of cream cheese. Have a good day. GW
Old Time Checker Board
Well, I finally finished fixing up half of an old washing machine bottom along with a top. My lovely wife then painted the Checkerboard on top plus two coats of Marine Varnish, and it’s all set for a game or two. Now and old washing machine base destined to the dump, or left rotting away in some field has a new leaf on life so to speak.
Click on image to enlarge!
Have a great day!
What’s Happening In Cottage Country on June 5/2023
Good Morning!
It’s another hazy day waking up, but as yesterday the sun is burning it off. The good news is the past couple days hasn’t been all that hot. Which is fine with me. Highway 522 is getting busier every day with a lot of folks moving around. It’s nice to see folks out and about.
Bug Report: Yesterday I sat outside most of the day enjoying the sunshine and found the Black Flies and Mosquitoes weren’t all that bad. There were a few, but not like they were a few days ago. My theory after all these years is that they stay with us from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day, which isn’t that far off. Only a couple of weeks away. But in saying that the heat also knocks them for a loop as does the birds and the dragon flies, which there are a lot of this year. Actually, I had a few land on my chair where I was sitting yesterday. We had a chat with me telling them they are doing a fine job. Ha ha. Anyway, they are nice to see.
On another note, I am going to see about moving around a bit more this morning, and see how that goes. My old body will soon tell me what I can and cannot do. Just bothers me to no end not being able to do what I want to do, but I have to say this. “I am learning my limits.”
With that, I am off for a bagel with some cream cheese that my lovely wife is preparing for me, and will then see what develops. Have a great day and enjoy the sunshine. GW