Hi Folks I just wanted to let you all know, that Karl my son is upgrading my Blog and Weather Station, which will take a few days to complete, the main part is still working, like where I do my morning posts and things, but the weather station and a few other things might take a bit to sort out. We have had a huge increase in traffic here at the Blog since I started my YouTube Channel, which is called Reviving The Simple Life, that Karl figured he had better upgrade a bit. Which he is doing, but he is a busy guy these days, which means he has to work my stuff in when he finds time. But rest assured, he will get to it. Anyway, I thought I would let you know what is going on, as I have gotten a lot of Emails mentioning that some things at the Blog here isn’t working properly. Have a great day. GW
Category Archives: News, Information & Events
This is the place to look for happenings here in Port Loring and surrounding areas. Also any news, events, pictures and things that you folks send me will be put in this category along with what ever I come up with.
Old Timer’s Almanac: A Glimpse into the Past for Today’s Soul on January 11/2024
Good Morning! And as my old Dad used to say. “The early bird catches the worm, but an old feller knows, sometimes it’s just nice to watch the world wake up!
My Dad had a lot of sayings like that, as did Reg and Laura, the folks that raised me in the early days of my life.
Highway 522 is pretty well clear of snow and ice this morning, and it’s still very quiet, which is normal for this time of year. You could say that: “Traffic on 522 moves like the town gossip—slow, winding, and with a few unexpected twists. You’ll get there eventually, just like the latest rumour.
Yesterday once again I worked away getting used to this new camera I bought for taking YouTube Videos and I think I am getting the hang of things. Today I have a few more things to get straight in my mind and will then see how it works in the real world. It has been a challenge … let me tell ya.
On the subject of my YouTube Videos, I am real happy to see so many folks enjoying them, as every day more folks are subscribing. Now some have asked why, at this time in my life, am I doing this? Well the simple truth of it is, is that over the years I have learned a lot, and truth told I just want to share what I have learned. As if I don’t, I feel way down deep, all that I have learned would have been for nothing. And the best part is it doesn’t cost anyone a cent, other than a few minutes of their time, and subscribing to my channel, which there again doesn’t cost a cent. Personally, I think that is a pretty darn good deal. I added a link to my Channel Below where you can watch my videos and subscribe.
Well, that wraps up our morning chat, like a blanket around a cup of hot cocoa. Have a great day and stay safe. I am off for a bowl of oatmeal that my lovely wife has prepared for me and will then see what the day has in store. GW
In The News Today
President’s Choice Chocolate Has Been Recalled Across Canada. The affected product is being recalled from the marketplace because it may contain almonds which are not declared on the label, So for those with nut problem they could cause problems, and for those that doesn’t … well, I will leave that part with you.
Carbon Tax In Theory
In simple terms, it’s like this: Canada trying to tackle environmental issues alone won’t make much of a difference. The problem of climate change is something that affects the whole world, and it needs everyone to work together to fix it. Making laws to reduce things like greenhouse gases isn’t solely the responsibility of either the national government or the local governments. The federal Liberals tried to make a law that would apply a kind of tax on things that harm the environment, like carbon emissions. This was meant to apply to the entire country, in theory. But because it’s a big, complicated issue, it’s causing a lot of trouble for regular folks like us here in Canada. Which is what has been happening for as long as I have been alive.
“The Spirit of October 23/2023: What’s Happening in Our Cottage Country Home”
Good Morning, everyone! Today is a remarkable day, where the stars align – it’s the 23rd day of the 23rd year.
Waking up we are in the midst of some a heavy frost But, on the flip side, the sun’s shining bright, and the sky’s as blue as a robin’s egg. It is a touch cool though, with the temperature sitting at -2.8 C | 26.96 F. And the water in our bird bath is frozen solid. But it is getting on in the year when we can pretty well expect anything weather wise.
On a different note, yesterday was quite a busy day for me. I purchased a brand-new laptop, along with a sleek docking station. The interesting part is that, despite my familiarity with computers, I had never owned one of these modern marvels before. I knew right from the start that setting it up would be a bit of a challenge.
Fortunately, with my son Karl’s expert guidance throughout the day, and his ability to remotely resolve any lingering issues, things started to fall into place. It was impressive to see how smoothly everything began working. The reason for this tech upgrade was simple: now, all the data and applications I had on my main computer are readily accessible on my laptop. Whether I’m on the move or away from home, I can simply disconnect my laptop from the docking station and carry my digital world with me.
When I return home, it’s as easy as plugging my laptop back into the docking station, and I’m all set to dive into my work. It’s remarkable how far we’ve come in recent years with these advancements in technology.
Forging ahead today I suspect it will be a day of getting acquainted with all the new features, as my son figured since we have gone this far he might as well install the new version of Linux which is called Fedora. It takes a bit of getting used to, but it’s miles better than anything Microsoft offers. Along with that, you don’t have to worry about viruses. And what’s even better, it’s free.
I’ve also recently purchased a variety of items to create content for my YouTube channel, which is a new adventure for me. Adapting to this will be a learning process, as it’s quite different from my previous experiences. Although the equipment I needed was a bit costly, I’ve decided to embrace life to the fullest after working for 76 years. Making these videos will not only allow me to enjoy life but also share the knowledge I’ve acquired over the years. I’ll be covering topics like natural remedies, woodworking, gardening, farming, and more. On a related note, I want to express my gratitude to those who have reached out via email or my landline to show their excitement for my upcoming videos. However, it will take some time for me to become comfortable with all the new equipment, so please bear with me during this transition.
Now I am off for my lunch that my lovely wife is making for me and will then get to work here on my new computer. You know, the amount I spent on this high-tech gear could easily surpass what I paid for my first car years ago, and then some.
With that piece of information tucked away,; “May your coffee be strong and your Mondays brief.” – GW
What’s Happening In Cottage Country On July 21/2023
Good Morning!
It is looking like our rain has ended here in Cottage Country, but it is still cloudy. We should see some sunny breaks off and on throughout the day, with a possible shower here and there. But after today things are looking real nice weather wise, with lots of sunshine returning to our area. And along with that, our temperatures are looking quite nice. Which is okay with my wife and I as we have some outside things to do.
Highway 522 is very quiet these days other than the locals moving around. There are a few tourists also taking in the sights that we have to offer.
Bug Report: No problems in that department these days. Things are nice.
On another note, I worked outside yesterday for most of the day getting an old trailer frame ready for a new floor and sides. Today if it doesn’t rain I should be able to make it look like something. But we will see how that works out, I plan my day, but I never plan the results. In doing so, I am never disappointed. I have found that it’s a good way to go through life.
With that I am off for a bagel that my lovely wife is making for me and will then head on out to my old woodworking shop and make some sawdust.
Have a great day! GW
Summer Cottage For Rent in Port Loring Ontario
So after a lot of work, we now have a small cottage for rent here by our home. Sleeps two. None Smoking, No Pets. It has everything one needs and then some.
Other than a nice location, it comes with a barbecue on the deck and a fire pit with free campfire wood. All utensils, air conditioning, electric space heater, Small Fridge with small freezer, High Speed Internet (Star Link) … Satellight TV (Shaw,)
It is also walking distance from two restaurants, two hardware stores, gift shops along with the LCBO almost right across the street. And to top it off, we are surrounded by some great places to fish.
We also have a small gift shop on the property and a vegetable garden with lots of fresh veggies when in season. Nothing like a tasty toasted tomato sandwich.
For more information, pricing and dates, you can call us at 705 757 1640. Your Hosts George & Ruth Walters.
Click on Images to enlarge!
Fire Ban For Port Loring Info
A note by the Argyle Fire Department here in Port Loring issued on July 11/2023 at 3:54 PM
Hello everyone, I’m sure it’s news that a lot of people want to hear, we have just been informed that the fire ban has been lifted for our area. We are still under the no daytime burning ban which means you can only burn from two hours before sunset until two hours after sunrise, we would like to thank everyone for their cooperation and patience during the time of the fire ban and thank you for keeping our area fire safe. Thank you.
Open For the Season!
Click on image to enlarge!
Located at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario, Canada.
Howdy, folks! ?
As the sun peeks over the horizon and the sweet scent of summer fills the air, we’re thrilled to announce that our humble gift shop here in Port Loring, Ontario is throwin’ open its doors once again for another season! It’s a time of renewal, a time to celebrate the craftsmanship and love that goes into every piece we create.
Y’see, we’ve been as busy as a beaver on a dam, handcraftin’ a whole slew of new goodies that’ll surely tickle your fancy. Our shelves are brimmin’ with one-of-a-kind creations made by none other than my talented wife and I.
But the true joy of this season lies not just in the display of our handmade items, but in the reunion of some mighty fine friends. The stories shared, the laughter, and the memories—we treasure each one.
And if you’re new around these parts, fret not, for our door swings wide to welcome you with open arms.
So, my friends, old and new, why not drop by and let your eyes wander, and your imagination soar as you discover the artistry and craftsmanship that lies within our small gift shop. Hell, there is even a story behind every piece, a tale of passion and dedication that we’re proud to share with y’all. We even have books that I have written to prove it.
Maybe we can have a game of checkers before you leave while sitting on our porch. As my old Dad used to say: “Playing checkers is like tendin’ to the fields—strategic moves and careful planning. Just like harvest time, it’s a test of wits and patience, where every move counts. Ain’t no rushin’ in checkers, just like there ain’t no rushin’ in farming. It’s a slow dance, but mighty satisfying when you see your pieces fall into place.”
Hope to see you all this summer!
[George & Ruth Walters] at [Handcrafted Creations]
Our Gift Shop
I’m happy to inform you that my lovely wife and I will be reopening our small gift shop on June 1! It’s been a long winter, and we are excited to welcome back all the fine folks who came before and … to make some new friends too!
I can’t wait to see you again and catch up on everything that’s been going on. We’ve got some mighty fine new items in stock that I think you all are gonna love; and we’ll be sure to have some of your old favorites too.
So if you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to stop in and say hello! We’ll be happy to see you. Thanks for your support, and we’ll see you real soon! GW
Computers With Tiny Replicas of Human Brains
Are you ready for a mind-boggling idea? Scientists are working on creating mini-brains that can power our computers. Yes, you heard that right! These mini-brains, called organoids, could revolutionize the field of computing as we know it.
Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Wait, we’re going to put tiny brains in our computers?
But don’t worry, these organoids aren’t sentient beings (at least, not yet). They’re created in a lab using stem cells, and they’re essentially tiny replicas of human brains.
So why are we so excited about these little blobs of brain matter? Well, for one thing, they could help us create more efficient and powerful computers. Organoids are incredibly complex structures that can mimic some of the functions of a real brain, such as processing information and recognizing patterns. By using organoids to power our computers, we could potentially create machines that are better at tasks like image recognition, natural language processing, and even decision-making.
But that’s not all – organoid intelligence could also help us understand more about the human brain and how it works. By studying these miniature brains, scientists could gain insights into conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and schizophrenia. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll be able to use organoids to grow replacement brain tissue for people with brain injuries or diseases.
Of course, there are still some ethical concerns to consider when it comes to organoid intelligence. We need to be careful not to create anything that could be considered conscious or sentient, and we also need to make sure that we’re not exploiting these tiny brains for our own gain. But overall, the potential benefits of this technology are pretty exciting.
So the next time you hear someone talking about putting mini-brains in our computers, don’t be alarmed. It might sound like science fiction, but it could be the key to unlocking a whole new world of computing. And who knows, maybe one day our computers will be smart enough to tell us their own jokes – although I’m not sure I want to know what kind of sense of humor a mini-brain would have!
How Printing Money Effects Canada
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented economic challenges to Canada, and the government’s response to the crisis has included a significant increase in the amount of money in circulation. However, while printing more money can help stimulate the economy in the short term, there are significant risks associated with this approach, and we need to be aware of the potential consequences.
The fact is that we cannot keep on printing money indefinitely without serious repercussions. Inflation is one of the primary risks associated with an increase in the money supply, and it can quickly erode the value of our currency. As prices rise, the cost of living increases, and Canadians’ purchasing power declines. This can lead to a vicious cycle of wage and price increases that can be challenging to reverse.
Moreover, printing more money can also lead to a rise in interest rates, as lenders demand a higher return to compensate for the increased risk of inflation. This, in turn, can increase the cost of borrowing for businesses and consumers, which can slow down economic growth and reduce investment.
But perhaps the most significant risk associated with printing money is the risk of national bankruptcy. If we continue to increase the money supply without corresponding economic growth, we could end up with a situation where our debts exceed our ability to repay them. This could lead to a severe economic crisis, with high inflation, rising interest rates, and a potential default on our debt obligations.
So what can we do to avoid these risks? One option is to reduce government spending and focus on balancing the budget. This can help prevent the need to print more money to finance deficits, and it can also help restore confidence in our economy among investors and lenders.
Another option is to focus on economic growth and job creation, which can help boost tax revenues and reduce the need for deficit financing. This requires investment in areas like infrastructure, innovation, and education, which can help create new jobs and stimulate economic activity.
In conclusion, while printing more money may seem like a quick fix to our economic challenges, it is not a sustainable solution. We need to be aware of the risks associated with this approach and take steps to address our economic challenges through more responsible and sustainable means. By doing so, we can ensure a stronger, more stable, and prosperous future for all Canadians.
What’s Happening In & Around Port Loring, Ontario on March 7/2023
Good Morning!
Our actual cold weather appears to have left us for the year.
The trees, animals, and air currents are all predicting a shift in the weather.
The evenings, however, will stay cold until the end of the month.
This morning we are having lots of sunshine shinning down upon us, and it will continue for the next week. If you can find a nice spot out of the wind, you would be wise to wake up one of your lawn chairs. I brought ours out a week ago and set them on our front porch, which is on the south side of our home. The temperature sitting out there while enjoying our afternoon tea got up to 80 F. Just as nice as if you were in Florida. Today we will do the same.
Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, which will make travelling good.
On another note, I am still working away on this new novel I have in the works. It’s been a long time coming. I think I started it twenty years ago. But with so much going on in my life, I set it aside. This year I decided to finish it. At any rate, that’s what I will be doing today.
With that I am off for some waffles this morning that my lovely wife is making for me and will get to work. . Stay safe. GW
What’s Happening In Port Loring, Ontario on March 6/2023
Hello and good morning!
I hope everyone who reads my blog is staying healthy.
My lovely wife and I have been doing OK these days, both of us feeling much better than we have been.
It’s difficult enough to get through life without having to deal with illnesses on a daily basis.
Moving along, it is a cloudy morning here in Port Loring. I don’t predict we will be having too much sunshine today. Tomorrow, however, it should return.
My wife and I have been sitting on the front porch for an hour or so, for the last three or four days, soaking in some much-needed Vitamin D3.
It also feels great on the skin.
It makes a person feel alive and motivated, wanting to do things
The temperature has been well above the freezing mark for a while now, and will continue for the next week. Which in turn will get rid of a lot more snow. I myself, am ready for seeing green … instead of white. Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning, which will make travelling good.
With that, I am off for a bowl of cereal this morning and will then see what the day has in store. Stay safe. GW
What’s Happening on Feb 13/2023 In & Around Port Loring Ontario, Canada.
Good Morning!
It’s a cloudy morning, waking up. We didn’t have any snow or rain through the night. The temperature at the time of this post was sitting at -2.5 C | 27.5 F. It will warm up above freezing, as the day moves forward. Which is fine with me. As we still have some ice on our buildings. Highway 522 is pretty well clear of snow and ice this morning. Which ought to make travelling fair.
We have lost a few inches of snow so far with the warm temperatures, but we still have a foot left in certain areas. The melting is more noticed around the trees. Meaning the trees are getting ready for another years of work. Sure is amazing how Nature works if you take the time to notice things.
On another note, I did get a lot accomplished on my new novel I am working on yesterday. My mind is on a roll. Ha ha. I am enjoying it, as it is a complete change from what I usually do or write about. Lots of Characters that want to be noticed. Ha ha. Today I will continue on.
With that I am off for a bowl of Vector Cereal, I kind of like it … as it has lots of protein in it along with other good things. The only issue is it isn’t cheap. Coming in at around $11.00 a box. But they do have sales, occasionally. Which eases the pain. I also found it helps with what is ailing my wife and I. A wee bit.
Have a great day and stay safe. GW
What’s Happening In And Around Port Loring, Ontario, Canada on Jan 4/2023
Good Morning!
We did have a touch of snow overnight, maybe a half an inch, if that. However, they are saying we could have another 2–4 inches throughout the day and overnight. So we will have to wait and see what takes place. With the temperature at the moment sitting at -0.1 C | 31.82 F we could get just about anything. Mother Nature will do as she wants. Highway 522 at the moment is wet but clear, which for a while will make travelling good. But that could change real quick.
Yesterday I worked most of the day on a story for my columns, and today will be working on a new program that I can use for my podcasts. We will see how that pans out. So with that I am off for a bowl of Porridge that my lovely wife is preparing and will then see what the day has in store. Oh. First I will go put another stick of wood in the wood furnace. Sure feels good. Just something about wood heat that takes all the not so good things out of the body.
In Closing, I Would Like To Wish You Well!
What’s Happening In & Around Port Loring, Ontario, Canada on Dec 16/2022
Good Morning!
It’s a cloudy morning here in Port Loring. But it still isn’t all that cold outside with it sitting at 0.6 C | 33.08 F. Overnight the snow we were having eased off, and I would say we had around 3 inches. Today we could see another inch or two. Highway 522 is wet and bare for most parts, but there are some snow and ice covered sections. Which will once again make travelling pretty good. At least till it snows some more.
On another note, yesterday I worked most of the day inside the house here on a few projects. Today, my wife and I will clean up the snow in our driveway and on our decks. It will give us some exercise along with some fresh air. Which is needed to stay healthy. Not too much strenuous work, though. We both have to kind of take it easy in that department nowadays, it seems.
So with that I am off for a bowl of cereal that my lovely wife is making for me, and will then see how things develop. You never know what a day might bring. Stay safe as there are a lot of people still sick here in town.
In Closing, I Would Like To Wish You Well! GW
The Truth about Electric Cars
This guy says what I have been saying here on my Blog from the very start. Regarding Electric Cars. I know he is in the USA, but it doesn’t matter, what he is saying applies for us here in Canada too. Maybe more so with the way things are going now.
Just In
The data shows that Canadian renters are dishing out an average of $2,024 every month to just keep a roof over their head. The figure covers all types of housing, from bachelor apartments to detached homes.
It’s amazing how they can justify these prices.
What’s Happening On June 26/2022
Good Morning!
It’s another nice looking day so far here in Port Loring, Ontario. The sun is shinning accompanied by a light breeze that is coming in from the South, South West. The temperature getting out of bed was quite nice, sitting at 21.8 C | 71.24 F. A great day for doing almost anything, if you’re up to it. My suggestion is, take advantage of the days you can do things and enjoy them to the fullest. Myself, and my wife in spite of not being in the greatest health at the moment is trying hard to make the best of things. Yesterday I didn’t do hardly anything but sit in the shade, giving this old body a rest and chatting to a few folks that dropped by our store. Actually, we had a real good day yesterday with folks dropping by. And I would like to thank all those that did. Truth be told, most of our customers for the past few days, were locals, which was sure nice to see. I suspect, though, the out-of-towners will be dropping by in July and August, which will be nice also. New faces, new ideas brings new life. Or so they say. After two years of being closed, any faces to my wife and I, is a real treat.
Highway 522 is becoming real busy these days with cars, campers moving up and down the highway. I am thinking, in spite of the gas prices, people are fed up with staying at home and are yearning for the country. And I can’t say I blame them one bit. I am hoping that I get better soon, so I can do some fishing with my old fishing buddy Barry this summer. I miss our time together. He did drop by the other day to see how I was doing, and we had a great chat. Made my day, actually.
On another note, my wife has been picking fresh vegetables from our garden for the past few days. Lettuce of all kinds, along with some real nice Kale. If there is anyone that would like some, feel free to drop by, and you can have some. We hate to see it go to waste, as we have more than we can eat. Our tomatoes I see has some small ones starting, so I am thinking in a month we should be having our first tomato sandwich. I am hoping I am able to eat them, as I sure like them. Our decade old pumpkins that my Grandfather had that my Dad gave me a long time ago, are growing leaps and bounds, so it will be interesting to see if they produce a pumpkin or two. Sometimes they only grow leaves. And these pumpkins seeds, being over a 100 years old, I don’t rightly know what to expect. Time will tell. I also found some old sunflower seeds that my Grandfather had, which I planted. They are just starting, so we will see how they make out in the coming days.
With that I am off to see if I can eat a bowl of porridge that my lovely wife is preparing for me and will then retire to the front porch.
In Closing, I Would Like To Wish You Well!