Category Archives: Gardening

Spot for you to do some reading on gardening and staying healthy. Also a great place to put your feet up and relax for a bit.

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Weather

What’s Coming for Port Loring? Weather Wise

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Only On The Walters Post

Short-Term (Next Week):

  • We’re in for a mixed bag. A few mild days, some rain midweek, and then another cold snap around Thursday.
  • Might see some flurries early Saturday, but nothing major.
  • Nights are still dipping below freezing, so don’t get ahead of yourself thinking spring is here just yet.

Long-Term (Next Month or Two):

  • Spring is trying to push through, but it’ll come in fits and starts—warm one day, cold the next.
  • Expect plenty of rain, and maybe even some late snow squalls before April settles in.
  • If the weather systems don’t shift enough, we could be in for a dry, warm spell later on.

What It Means for the Farm & Garden:

  • Planting: Hold off on putting anything tender in the ground. Frost is still a real threat at night.
  • Soil Moisture: Should be decent for now with the rain coming, but if the weather swings dry later, we might have to keep an eye on it.
  • Fire Risk: If we get some warm, dry air moving in from the south, it could dry things up fast. Don’t go burning brush carelessly.
  • Livestock: If you’ve got animals, they’ll be dealing with some wild swings in temps. Make sure they’ve got shelter from the wind and rain.

In short, spring is trying, but winter’s still got a few punches left. Keep the heavy coat handy, don’t trust the warm days too much, and watch the sky.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open and Your Stories Alive! GW

Gardening, George's Writers Corner, Health, My Opinion Only

Canada, It’s Time to Rethink Our Food Supply

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Take a walk down any grocery store aisle, and you’ll see just how dependent we’ve become on foreign-made products. From fresh produce to processed foods, much of what lands on our tables isn’t grown, raised, or made here in Canada. But lately, we’ve been getting some harsh reminders of the risks that come with outsourcing our food supply.

The latest wave of food recalls from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) reads like a roll call of imported goods gone wrong. Cheese, chocolate, salt, pepper, sauces, even staple ingredients like eggs, many of these products have been flagged for contamination, undeclared allergens, or even the presence of foreign materials like plastic/steel shavings. That’s right, and if that doesn’t make you rethink what you’re eating, I don’t know what will.

The problem? Too much of our food is coming from places where we have little to no control over how it’s produced . Countries with looser safety regulations, mass-production factories churning out products for the lowest possible cost, and supply chains so tangled that by the time food reaches our plates, who knows where it’s been or what’s in it?

And let’s clear something up… some folks like to point fingers at the U.S., but that’s not where most of these recalls are coming from. These products are being imported from other countries entirely, not from the good old USA. This isn’t about avoiding American goods… it’s about realizing just how globalized and risky our food supply chain has become.

Meanwhile, Canada… one of the most resource-rich nations on the planet… is under-utilizing its own land, farmers, and industries. Instead of investing in local agriculture and food production, we’re increasingly importing things we could be making or growing ourselves. It’s not that we can’t produce high-quality food, we just haven’t made it a priority.

But here’s the real kicker: when we rely on other countries for our essentials, we put ourselves in a vulnerable position. Whether it’s food shortages, supply chain disruptions, or just plain bad products slipping through the cracks, we’re at the mercy of outside forces. And let’s not forget how quickly prices shoot up when we depend too much on imported goods.

So what’s the solution? It’s time for a shift in mindset. Instead of treating imported food as the default, we need to make homegrown products the norm. That means supporting local farmers, buying Canadian-made when possible, and pushing for policies that encourage domestic production rather than offshoring everything in the name of cost-cutting.

If you’ve got space, grow your own food. Hell even a small backyard garden can make a difference. If you can buy from local producers, do it. The more we invest in our own food system, the less we’ll have to worry about what’s coming in from who-knows-where.

Canada is more than capable of feeding itself. The question is? Will we step up and start doing it? Or will we keep rolling the dice with foreign-made food until the next big recall makes us regret it?

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive! GW

Gardening, Health

From Field to Fridge: The Hidden Processing of Fresh Fruit and Veggies?

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Only On The Walters Post

In a way, yes, fruits and vegetables today are more processed than they used to be, even if they aren’t what we’d traditionally think of as “processed food” like chips or frozen meals. Here’s the thing: while the fruits and veggies you find at the grocery store might look fresh, they’ve likely gone through some level of processing before they even make it to your kitchen.

Most commercially grown produce is picked before it’s fully ripe to make sure it survives the long journey from farm to store without spoiling. This early harvesting affects the taste, texture, and even nutritional value of the produce. And then there’s the washing and sometimes waxing process to help preserve that “fresh” look for longer. You’ve got fruits and veggies that get coated in chemicals like wax or sometimes even preservatives, all to extend shelf life.

Now, let’s talk about the real processing… there’s the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and growth hormones to make crops grow faster and larger, and to keep pests away. While it gets the job done for farmers trying to feed a growing population, it’s not exactly the same as the kind of produce our ancestors grew in their gardens. Back then, you didn’t need pesticides if you were growing food with care, and you certainly didn’t need chemicals to extend the shelf life.

When it comes to fruits and veggies today, the big difference is the level of treatment they go through before they reach your plate. In some ways, you could say they’ve been processed, but it’s not the same as your pre-packaged, frozen meals or junk food. It’s more of an effort to make produce last longer on store shelves and reduce waste, but at what cost? The flavor, nutrition, and natural benefits are often compromised in the process.

So, are fruits and veggies today processed? In a modern sense, yes, but they’re not as heavily processed as some other foods. The key is knowing where your food comes from and how it’s grown. If you’re buying from local farms, you’ll often find that it’s fresher, less treated, and closer to the way it was meant to be.

Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

Gardening, Health

Non-GMO Foods: What You Need to Know

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Only On The Walters Post

In Canada, many fruits and vegetables are non-GMO simply because there are no genetically modified versions approved for sale ‘Yet‘ Here are some common non-GMO fruits and vegetables you can find:

Vegetables (Non-GMO in Canada)

✅ Carrots
✅ Beets
✅ Lettuce & Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard, etc.)
✅ Broccoli & Cauliflower
✅ Peppers (Bell, Hot, Sweet)
✅ Tomatoes (Most varieties, except some imported GMO types)
✅ Onions & Garlic
✅ Cucumbers
✅ Zucchini & Squash (Most varieties, but beware of some GMO summer squash in the U.S.)
✅ Potatoes (Unless specifically labeled as GMO)

Fruits (Non-GMO in Canada)

✅ Apples (Except the Arctic Apple, a GMO variety)
✅ Strawberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries
✅ Grapes
✅ Cherries
✅ Pears
✅ Peaches & Plums
✅ Watermelon & Cantaloupe
✅ Oranges, Lemons, Limes

Caution: GMO in Canada

🚨 Corn (Most field corn is GMO, but organic sweet corn is safe)
🚨 Soybeans (Almost all non-organic soy is GMO)
🚨 Canola (Most Canadian canola is GMO)
🚨 Papaya (Imported papaya from Hawaii may be GMO)
🚨 Sugar Beets (Used for sugar production, mostly GMO)

If you’re looking for truly non-GMO produce, buying organic or heirloom varieties from local farmers or growing your own is the best bet.

Gardening, Health

Good Foods for Your Health—Straight from the Farm

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Only On The Walters Post

Foods I Try & Eat now Every Week.

  1. Fatty Fish – Packed with protein and heart-healthy omega-3s. Helps keep the blood flowing smooth and the brain sharp.
  2. Cabbage – A humble veggie that’s full of fiber and vitamins. Great raw, cooked, or fermented for gut health.
  3. Bell Peppers – Bright, crisp, and loaded with vitamins. A perfect snack or a way to add color and crunch to meals.
  4. Cranberries – Tiny but mighty, these berries help fight infections and support digestion. Best enjoyed fresh or dried (without too much sugar).
  5. Blueberries – Sweet, full of antioxidants, and great for the brain and heart. Eat them fresh or toss them into breakfast dishes.
  6. Dark, Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, and arugula pack in vitamins and minerals that boost energy and overall health.
  7. Olive Oil – A natural fat that’s good for the heart and helps with inflammation. A little drizzle goes a long way.
  8. Garlic – Nature’s medicine—good for the immune system, the heart, and adding flavor to just about anything.
  9. Onions – A staple that’s rich in antioxidants and nutrients. Adds depth to dishes and supports overall wellness.
  10. Cauliflower – Crunchy, full of vitamins, and a great substitute for heavier carbs. Roast it, mash it, or eat it raw.
  11. Egg Whites – A clean source of protein without extra fat. Good for muscle strength and energy levels.
  12. Arugula – A peppery green that’s full of vitamins and cancer-fighting compounds. Great in salads or as a garnish.
  13. Apples – An easy, fiber-rich snack that supports digestion and helps balance blood sugar. A true classic.

Farmer’s Wisdom:

If it grows in the ground or swims in clean water, it’s probably good for you. Eat fresh, eat real, and your body will thank you.

Gardening, My Opinion Only

An Old Timers Perspective on Land and Living

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As someone who’s spent a good chunk of his life working the land, I’ve seen many changes come and go. But nothing quite tugs at the old heartstrings like watching our farmlands give way to a sea of new houses. It’s a transformation that feels deeply personal, and I find myself reflecting on what we’re losing in the name of progress.

Let’s take Niagara, once a region defined by its sprawling fields and rich soil, soil that could grow just about anything—is now becoming a hot-spot in Southern Ontario’s real estate market. Recent reports suggest that home prices there are set to rise substantially, and the area is being touted as the “jewel in the crown” of the region, due to its relative affordability. Now this might sound like good news to those in the market for a new home, or for those that make a profit from selling the land and homes, it raises a larger concern for me.

Watching this shift unfold—I can’t help but think about the land that’s being covered up. That fertile soil, which once yielded crops and supported local agriculture, is now being lost under layers of concrete and asphalt. It’s more than just a change in scenery; it’s a profound loss of something that once fed our community and nourished our way of life.

But in saying that, this trend isn’t unique to Niagara; it’s happening all across Canada. As more people move into these areas, driven by high prices elsewhere and the allure of perceived value, we’re seeing our infrastructure struggle to keep up. Our roads, our services, and especially our ability to grow our own food are feeling the strain. The truth of the matter is, that the land that once provided for us is now being sacrificed, and that’s a trade-off that weighs heavily on my mind.

But there’s another pressing issue, that compounds this problem: as I mentioned earlier, our infrastructure is under severe pressure. Our hospitals, schools, and essential services are already stretched thin. I believe that we need to face the reality that we need to pause or, at the very least, control immigration until we can properly support everyone living here. It’s not about being unwelcoming; it’s about ensuring that our systems can handle the growth, and provide for both new and those that have lived here all their life.

You know, in all my years of farming, I’ve learned one thing for certain: you’ve got to work and protect the land, not destroy it. But—looking around now, I can’t help but feel like it’s almost too late. The balance we need is slipping away, and I just hope we haven’t crossed the point of no return. GW

Gardening, Weather, What's Happening

An Old Writer’s Morning in Northern Ontario on August 5/2024

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We dug our garlic yesterday. Sure is tasty. I enjoy eating a raw clove or two every day with a piece of 3-year-old cheese.

Click on image to enlarge!

Good morning!

Food For Thought: The best way to remember your wife’s birthday is to forget it once. Trust me!

It’s a cloudy morning here in the north, and we did have a few light showers overnight. Not enough to do any good, though, as it barely wet the ground. Taking a look at things, I kind of figure that this month in Northern Ontario looks to be shaping up in a way that old timers might recognize. The jet stream will stretch from the Pacific Northwest to Atlantic Canada, keeping the cooler air in our area. While our neighbours to the south sweat it out under intense heat, we can expect our typical mix of warm days and the occasional thunderstorm. As the month moves forward, the severe weather should stay closer to the border.

Highway 522 was very quiet over the weekend, caused by folks feeling the pinch these days. And I can’t say I blame them.

Bug Report: There have been some deer flies bothering folks these days.

On another note, with it being so warm yesterday, I decided to stay inside where it was cooler and work on another story. Always good to have a few extra stories on hand.

Early in the morning, though, my wife and I picked tomatoes to get them ready for the freezer. Had a good crop this year, full of juice and flavour, that makes your mouth water, and leaves you wanting more. We’ve been eating them daily, and freezing them will make for some tasty meals come winter. Ain’t nothing like the taste of homegrown tomatoes to brighten up a dish, or my face for that matter, when it’s cold outside.

Today, well… I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be doing. To be honest, Ruth and I have wrapped up nearly everything outside we needed to do for the year. It’s a satisfying feeling to see it all come together, especially since it’s been a long time coming. We’ve spent years working tirelessly, always with something else on our to-do list, and now it feels like we finally have a moment to breathe. At least for a couple of days.

With that I’m off for breakfast, that my lovely wife has prepared for me… a toasted sandwich featuring tomatoes fresh from our garden. Sure, the bacon’s there too, but we all know it’s not exactly the health food of the century. Still, it adds a bit of flavour, even if some health folks might raise an eyebrow. There’s nothing like a bacon and tomato sandwich to start the day right… or end it!

You all have a great day and remember: “Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams, well… they are forever.”

Fishing Times for Monday
08/05/24

Major Times
1:06 AM-3:06 AM
1:28 PM-3:28 PM

Minor Times
6:33 AM-7:33 AM
9:06 PM-10:06 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 3-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: Fish love to hang out in the shadows created by trees or docks. Cast your line just inside the shaded areas. I’ve always said that, “Fish don’t like the sun any more than we do on them hot summer days, they’re lookin’ for shade.”

Gardening, My Opinion Only, Weather, What's Happening

Wakin’ Up in Northern Ontario on July 29/2024

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Comfrey’s been a trusty plant for us old timers. We’d crush its leaves and use them on bruises and sore spots for quick relief. It still works well for that today.

Just be sure not to use it inside the body—stick to applying it on the skin only. Always test a small amount on a patch of skin, like your wrist, first. If it turns red or causes irritation, don’t use it.

Click on image to enlarge!

To make comfrey oil, follow these simple steps:

  1. Harvest: Gather fresh comfrey leaves and flowers.
  2. Dry: Let them dry for a day or two to remove excess moisture.
  3. Infuse: Place the dried leaves and flowers in a jar and cover with a carrier oil (like olive, grape seed, or almond oil).
  4. Steep: Seal the jar and let it sit in a warm, sunny spot for 2–3 weeks, shaking it gently every day.
  5. Strain: After 2–3 weeks, strain out the plant material using a fine mesh or cheesecloth.
  6. Store: Pour the oil into a clean, dark bottle and store it in a cool, dark place.

Use this oil for soothing skin or muscle relief.

Good Morning. Years ago, my old friend used to say. “George, the buffalo moves through the storm, not away from it. Face your challenges head-on.”

This is beginning to sound like, well… anyway, we are looking at another beautiful day here in cottage country. The sun’s shining, the birds are singing, and the mosquitoes are surprisingly polite this year. If this keeps up, I might just start believing the Farmer’s Almanac got it right.

We’ve had enough rain to keep the garden lush, but not so much that we’re growing webbed feet. Although I did have to put on my rubber boots at times. The tomatoes are ripening nicely, and even the carrots seem to be smiling. It’s been a good year weather-wise, so here’s hoping it continues. If nothing else, it’s a perfect day to sit on the porch with a cold drink and take in nature.

Highway 522 was quiet yesterday, but it was Sunday, and most folks seem to stay close to home on weekends, enjoying their time off work. During the week, everyone’s busy, so weekends are when folks can finally catch their breath.

Bug Report: As I stated above, all is well in that department.

On another note, since I was hurting yesterday, I decided to take it easy. Today, well… we’ll see how it goes. I suppose I shouldn’t be pushing myself as much as I have been. You’d think one would learn with age, but some of us just never quite get the hang of it. It’s something I’m going to have to work on sooner rather than later.

With that I am off once again for my breakfast that my lovely wife has made for me and will then retire to the front porch.

You all have a great day and remember: “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.”

Fishing Times for Monday
07/29/24

Major Times
7:15 AM-9:15 AM
7:42 PM-9:42 PM

Minor Times
–:—–:–
3:49 PM-4:49 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 2-Star Rating for catching a few today. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: Whether it’s minnows, worms, or bugs, live bait gets the job done better than any fancy lure. Hook ’em live and let ’em wriggle. My old Dad always said, “Live bait is fishin’ the way nature intended.”

Gardening, My Opinion Only, Weather, What's Happening

Sunrise in the North on July 21/2024

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Click on image to enlarge!

I took a picture of our Parsley Yesterday, so far this year my wife has put away over a quart, and It’s still growing leaps and bounds. My wife uses it in soups, stews and all kinds of things. I even like eating it raw.

Back in the day, folks used to swear by parsley for a bunch of good reasons. They’d say it’s got all the vitamins and minerals you need to keep your health in check, like vitamins A, C, and K, along with B vitamins and folate. It’s also rich in minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Packed with antioxidants, parsley helps fight off the bad stuff in your body, supports bone health, and is great for your eyes. High in zinc, it’s something us older folks could use more of these days. It’s even got properties that may help in cancer prevention. If you caught a cold or the flu, or were worried about diabetes and blood pressure, parsley was a common remedy. It’s got a knack for settling an upset stomach and soothing bloating. Plus… it’ll freshen your breath right up, and even give your kidneys a hand. With most of all the vitamins and minerals out there today, parsley is one mighty good plant to have in our gardens.

Just a little bit of that green goodness could…. do a world of good, and it’s very easy to grow.

Good mornin’! If you think the grass is greener on the other side, it’s probably over the septic tank.

It’s another nice-looking day here in cottage country. Hardly a cloud in the sky. The good part is the humidity has left us, and things have cooled down to where it’s comfortable for sleeping. It’s the kind of day that makes you appreciate living in a place like this, where nature’s beauty is just outside your door and the air feels fresh and clean. Which is very hard to find these days.

Highway 522 is starting to get busier. Our store was really busy yesterday with lots of new faces dropping by. Folks are discovering the unique items my wife and I make right here on our property. It’s great to see so many people appreciating the work we put into each piece. We’re keeping busy, and it’s nice to share a bit of our world with everyone who stops in.

Today I am not sure what I will be doing. I do have my woodworking shop to clean up, as being so busy with so many different things, I haven’t had time to clean it up. So maybe I will do that later on today.

I also wanted to let you know tonight is the Buck Moon. This full moon in July got its name because this is when young bucks start growing their new antlers. Back in the day, people would keep track of the seasons by watching the moons. So when you see that big full moon in the sky tonight, remember, it’s the Buck Moon. A simple reminder from nature that things are movin’ along just like they should. Keep lookin’ up.

With that I am off for a bowl of porridge that my lovely wife is making for me, or should say has made for me, and then we both will head on out to our front porch and take in some of that fresh clean northern air.

Fishing Times for Sunday
07/21/24

Major Times
12:18 AM-2:18 AM
12:48 PM-2:48 PM

Minor Times
5:01 AM-6:01 AM
9:17 PM-10:17 PM

Day Rating: Today will be one of the best days this year for fishing. I give it a 5-Star Rating out of 5 For catching a few. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: If you’re looking for some good ol’ top water action, you can’t go wrong with a Hula Popper. Just toss it out near them lily pads, or logs, give it a few pops, and hang on to your pole. Them bass’ll hit it like it’s their last meal.

I’ve always said, “The only thing more excitin’ than a Big Old Large Mouth Bass hitting that Hula Popper… is finding a five-dollar bill in your old coat pocket.”

Gardening, News, Information & Events, Weather, What's Happening

Mornings in the Countryside on June 1/2024

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Good Morning! “There’s a whole lot to be thankful for today, so let’s get to it.”

It’s another beautiful morning here in Cottage country. The sun is doing its job and the temperature is sitting at a comfortable 16 C | 60.8 F. Pretty hard to beat that. Other than the trees, plants, wildflowers and grass being so green. I have to tell ya it sure is a sight to see, so nice I did a YouTube Video of our property yesterday, which I will post on my channel when I find some time. Which is scarce at the moment with all that my wife and I have on the go.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I managed to get our grape posts, anchors and wire strung, and once finished we planted our young grape vines into their new home. Waking up this morning they sure look like they’re happy, so in two to three years we will have enough grapes for making jams, jellies and maybe a bottle or two of homemade wine. I can’t wait.

Today, I am planning on installing some bearings I bought on Amazon, for my water wheel on our new fishpond, as the wheel wasn’t turning like I wanted it to. So if things goes to plan, I should have it up and running later on today sometime.

Grand Opening Today!

We are excited to announce the grand opening of our gift shop this morning! Inside, you’ll find a charming assortment of items, each one handcrafted by my wife and me right here at home.

With many years of experience in woodworking and my wife’s artistic touch, we take pride in offering unique, high-quality products that stand out from the rest.

Why visit our shop?

  • 100% Locally Made: Every item is created with skill and passion, ensuring exceptional quality and uniqueness.
  • No Offshore Items: Unlike many stores today, pretty well all our products are made right here at our home.

In a world that’s constantly changing, it’s nice to find something genuine and made with pride. So if you have a few minutes to spare, why not come and discover the beauty of our handmade goods. We look forward to welcoming you!

Highway 522 is really picking up, traffic-wise. We’ve got boats, ATVs, you name it, all closing in on us. It’s a refreshing sight for a change, and folks seem to be eager to leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind.

Bug Report: For the past two days or so, the Black Flies haven’t been all that bad, which is sure nice to see. The mosquitoes are out there, but the dragon flies are cleaning them up, along with a helping hand from the birds. Mother nature is better than any bug spray. We just have to have patience.

With that I am off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has prepared for me and will then get to work on that water wheel.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this: “Fix the fence while the sun’s shining, not when the cows are out.”

Fishing Times for Saturday
06/01/24

Major Times
7:59 AM-9:59 AM
8:23 PM-10:23 PM

Minor Times
2:18 AM-3:18 AM
2:54 PM-3:54 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 2-star rating out of 5 for catching a few.

Fishing tip of the day: “If you see Raccoons, Herons or Beavers near the water, chances are there’s fish around. Those critters know where the good spots are.” GW

Gardening, Weather, What's Happening

Life Away from the City on May 31/2024

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Good morning! There’s nothing like a piece of the country to start the day.

It’s another sunny morning here in cottage country, 7:00 AM, and the sun is well above the tree line, which means summer is almost here.

Lately, my wife and I have been very busy doing things outdoors. Like mowing the grass, planting fruit trees, small shrubs, plants… along with our vegetable garden. We did however have to cover some things up with the frost we had for the past two nights. I kind of think, we have seen the last of it now as tonight the temperature will be hovering around the 50F/10C mark. At least, I hope it does. But in saying all that, things are really growing. Our zucchini, peppers, cucumbers, lettuce and beans are above ground showing off. Which is sure nice to see, as my wife and I are sure looking forward to some fresh, out of the garden, pesticide free salads and things.

Today I am going to see about planting some grape vines. I wanted to do it yesterday, but we had too many other things on our plate, and never got around to planting them. Today, we will see.

Highway 22 is getting a touch busier every day, but not as busy as it has been in other years. But it will probably pick up more once the kids are out of school.

Bug Report: Actually, other than the mosquitoes, things haven’t been all that bad. The black flies are slowly leaving us thanks to the dragon flies. And I am hoping the frost we had keeps the mosquitoes at bay. Again, we will see how that pans out in the coming days.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife has ready for me and will then head on outdoors.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this bit of wisdom I learned over the years: “Hard work never hurt nobody, but it sure makes the porch feel nice at the end of the day.”

Fishing Times for Friday
05/31/24

Major Times
7:11 AM-9:11 AM
7:35 PM-9:35 PM

Minor Times
1:59 AM-2:59 AM
1:35 PM-2:35 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 2-star rating out of for catching a few. Weather wise, it’s a nice day to be out on the water.

Fishing Tip of The Day: “My old Dad used to say the best fishing days are when the cows are layin’ down in the fields, and I have found that to be true over the years.”

Gardening, Weather, What's Happening

Morning Thoughts from the Countryside on May 29/2024

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“Good morning! The day’s young and the possibilities are endless!”

We are finally seeing a wee bit of sunshine for a change here in cottage country. After four days of light rain, it sure is nice to see. But we did need some rain, as there is nothing like a nice rain to get the tomato plants along with other veggies to growing. And I have to say they are growing. Our zucchini is up around an inch or so, along with the cucumbers, sunflowers and squash. Our apple, prune and pear trees are out in full leaf, and it won’t be long before we see some blossoms; our crab apple has already blossomed, and some small apples are beginning to show themselves. It’s an earlier variety.

Yesterday, in spite of the rain, I worked between the drops and tilled up a new spot where we are going to make a raised bed for a new addition to our land… “Asparagus.” We have some nice roots to put in the ground and once planted we should have a few to eat next spring, and for twenty years or so after that. It’s a very healthy plant to eat, especially if you grow it yourself without any pesticide and things. We never put any man made chemicals on our plants. And why should we? With nature all around us providing everything we need.

Today I will make the raised bed and get to planting them. After that we are going to put in some grape posts and string some wire, and once finished we will plant some grape vines that we bought a week or so ago. Once all said and done, I will put in some anchors at the end of each row, which will keep the wires nice and tight that will hold up the vines themselves. So, a full day of working outdoors is ahead for us two old timers. With the wisdom of age and the spirit of youth, remember, you’re only as old as you allow yourself to feel.

On another note, traffic on Highway 522 has city folks questioning their GPS directions more than ever these days Recalculating routes has become the unofficial motto of the summer, with the GPS voice sounding increasingly frustrated. Which is normal for our area. And if I might say is a good thing, as it brings folks back to what is important in life.

Bug Report: “Well, the black flies are easin’ off a bit, thanks to them dragonflies chompin’ ’em up. But now them mosquitoes are starting to throw a party, and guess who’s the main course?”

With that bit of info under your hat, I am off for a waffle with an egg on top, covered with some of Mike Clappertons Maple Syrup, that my lovely wife has prepared for me. Which should give us the energy to make it till dinner time.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this bit of wisdom I learned over the years: “The best lessons I’ve learned came from mistakes, along with a bit of dirt under my nails.”

Fishing Times for Wednesday
05/29/24

Major Times
5:32 AM-7:32 AM
5:57 PM-7:57 PM

Minor Times
1:16 AM-2:16 AM
10:57 AM-11:57 AM

Day Rating: I give it a 1-Star Rating out of for catching a few. Not the best day for fishing, but… one never knows.

Fishing Tip of The Day: Listen to the Wind: “A few old timers like myself say, when the wind’s from the west, the fish bite the best; when it’s from the east, the fish bite the least. You could say that Nature’s got its own way of tellin’ you when it’s time to fish.” Good Luck! GW

Gardening, My Opinion Only, Weather, What's Happening

Morning in the Countryside on May 26/2024

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Good Morning! The day’s just getting started, and it’s already looking mighty fine.

However, it is a touch foggy in some areas, which should clear out when the sun manages to break through. Now in saying that it looks as if we are in for some more rain tomorrow and into Wednesday, but after that things start to warm up a bit, and we will be seeing a lot more sunshine. At the moment, you could say we are in transition stage from spring to summer. Which is normal for our area. But things were a touch dry, and I was hoping for some rain as we planted our vegetable gardens, and nothing could be better than a nice rain to get them settled into their new home. And I have to say they are doing quite well.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I made a trip to North Bay as we were in need of a few things. We ended picking up, more than we needed, had a pizza at East Side Mario’s, grabbed a coffee at a local shop, and then headed home feeling a bit poorer. Man, things are so expensive these days. And another thing we noticed is that people are in a real hurry. A few times, folks bumped into my shopping cart, telling me to get a move on. I’ve heard of road rage with folks getting upset, but now I see it has moved onto shopping cart rage. Who knew grocery shopping would become so extreme. But all in all, other than my wife getting her hair wet and looking like a shaggy dog, as it was raining and feeling a bit poorer, we had a great day.

Highway 522 we noticed was quite busy yesterday with a lot of campers trucks, boats and ATV’s coming into our area.

Wisdom I’ve learned growing up : Don’t let a small weed turn into a big one. Pull it out fast and keep your fields clear. It ain’t always easy, but it’s got to be done if you want a good harvest.

With that I am off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me and I will then get to installing two new bearings to my water wheel that I made a month or so ago. Which should keep me busy for the morning, that is if the weather stays nice.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this: Life’s full of ups and downs, just like the seasons. You have to roll with it.

Fishing Times For Sunday
05/26/24

Major Times
2:42 AM-4:42 AM
3:12 PM-5:12 PM

Minor Times
–:—–:–
7:06 AM-8:06 AM

Day Rating: Not the greatest day for fishing. I give it a 1-Star rating out of 5 for catching a few. But as I always say… you never know till you throw that line in the water.

Fishing Tip of the Day: When you’re out on the water trying to catch some fish, remember to keep the noise down. Fish get mighty skittish when they hear loud sounds or see too much commotion. So, keep your voices low and the racket down to a minimum if you want to reel ’em in. GW

Gardening, Weather, What's Happening

An Old Feller’s Morning on May 24/2024

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Good Morning! Where the woods, the fields, the critters – they all got somethin’ to teach us, that is… if we just take the time to listen.

It‘s another beautiful day here in the north. The sun is shinning, the birds are enjoying their breakfast at our bird feeder, and our lilacs are showing off, like no get out. And being a white heirloom lilac, they smell absolutely delightful. I brought one into the house for my lovely wife, and it has filled our home with its wonderful fragrance. We don’t need any air fresheners. Actually, we never use them, and for those who don’t know, some products, like Febreze, can mask odors by dulling your sense of smell. Which isn’t a good thing.

On another note, yesterday, my wife and I managed to get the grass cut in the morning. I have to say, it sure looks nice around our property when everything’s all cleaned up. Even more so now, with all our perennials growing nicely. We’re sure lucky to have such a beautiful piece of land. In all my years, I’ve never seen another place so inviting. Well, there was one other, our cottage in Sarasota, Florida, back in the sixties. We sure do miss it. Looking back, if we knew then what we know now, we’d have never let it go.

Well, today my wife and I are planning to finish planting our vegetable gardens, which will likely take up the whole morning. After that, I reckon we’ll get cleaned up and open our gift shop for the season. We’ve got a lot of new products for folks to check out. Now, all our items are handcrafted right here at our home—none of that offshore stuff like you see in most gift shops. My wife and I have pretty much made everything ourselves, putting our heart and soul into each creation. It’s a real labor of love for us.

Highway 522 is still very busy, which will continue now for the remainder of the summer.

Bug Report: Actually, with the wind and cooler temperatures, the bugs haven’t been too much of a bother. The good news is that yesterday, my wife and I noticed the dragonflies have made their grand entrance. While we were mowing, they were flying all around us, gobbling up the bugs. A few even perched on my hat while I was on the riding mower—guess they were enjoying the ride! We sure do love seeing them every year.

Well… I reckon it’s time for my morning cereal, made by my little woman. . After that, we’ll sit on the porch with a hot cocoa and admire what we got done yesterday. Sets us up nice for the work we’ve got today. Ain’t nothing like living where we do

You all have a great day, make it a great day, and I will leave you all with this: “Life’s like farming: you reap what you sow, so plant good seeds.”

Friday
05/24/24

Major Times
12:47 AM-2:47 AM
1:15 PM-3:15 PM

Minor Times
5:18 AM-6:18 AM
10:18 PM-11:18 PM

Day Rating: I give it a Star Rating for catching a few today.

Fishing Tip of the Day: Rub your hands with grass or leaves before handlin’ your bait. This helps mask any human scent that might spook the fish. Good Luck!! GW

Gardening, My Opinion Only, Weather, What's Happening

Morning Moments from the Country on May 23/2024

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Good Morning: The best part of living out here away from the cities is the daily reminder that life’s richest when it’s simplest.

It’s another sunny morning here in the north and all that hoop haw yesterday, about heavy rain, hail and wind never took place, at least for us. However, it has cooled down some with the temperature climbing out of bed sitting at 15.4 C | 59.72 F. It will warm up a bit as the day moves forward, which is good as my wife and I have our mowing to do today, which should keep us busy for the morning. The weather should stay nice now for the next few days, at least that is what Mother Nature is predicting, so we will see.

On another note, my wife and I spent yesterday planting some of our vegetables in the garden. We also moved a few shrubs and other plants to spots where we think they will be happy. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, they don’t do well in the locations we choose, and when that happens, the only solution is to relocate them.

The Wisdom of Generations Past: I found that growing up in the country, means inheriting, learning a wealth of wisdom passed down from generation to generation. Whether it’s learning how to read the signs of an incoming storm or knowing which berries are safe to eat, being a country boy means carrying on the traditions of those who came before. Nowadays, there’s a lot of focus on spiritual beliefs and what comes after this life. But from my years of experience, true fulfillment comes from the here and now—learning from the past and applying that knowledge daily. The practical wisdom our ancestors left us, in my mind, holds more answers than any spiritual teachings. Of course that is just my opinion as always.

With that, I am off for my morning bowl of cereal that my lovely wife has prepared, and then I will see if that old Roper Mower of mine will start. It can be temperamental at times. Kind of like myself more often than not.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you this morning with this: “Old barns and some old folks got a lot of stories. It pays to listen to both.”

Fishing Time for Thursday
05/23/24

Major Times
–:—–:–
12:20 PM-2:20 PM

Minor Times
4:43 AM-5:43 AM
9:09 PM-10:09 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 5-Star Rating once again out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Fishing Tip of the Day: Don’t be too quick to reel in your line. Let the fish take the bait and run with it for a bit before settin’ the hook. Patience is the angler’s best friend. GW

Gardening, Weather, What's Happening

Thoughts from an Old Timer on May 22/2024

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“Mornin’, folks. Another day to walk barefoot in the dew and feel the heartbeat of the earth under your feet.” They call it grounding, that has been lost over the years with the introduction of socks and shoes.

We are once again in the midst of some sunshine this morning. Yesterday morning and throughout the day we did have a few showers off and on, but nothing that raised the water level in my rain barrow. Actually, I added another rain barrow on the other side of our home yesterday, as I have a feeling our veggies will be in need of it later on. As a farmer, I’ve learned there’s nothing better for plants than a good, old-fashioned rain. You can irrigate all you like, but when the rain comes, the crops just flourish.

Yesterday I worked away trying to take the wheel off my rototiller, which didn’t happen, as it is ceased on there, like all get out. So I took the tire off, leaving the rim on the machine. It was a tubless tire, so I went online and ordered a tube from Amazon, which should arrive this week, and the best part is… it cost less than half as much as it would have cost me in the stores in North Bay. And on top of all that, I got two for the price of one, which in total cost me… $18.00 for both delivered right to my home. How can you beat that/ Well simply put… you can’t, especially living where we do.

Today I am planning on planting some lettuce and spinach, since I have my garden worked up nicely, as lettuce and spinach likes the cooler weather, and looking at things there isn’t any frost on the horizon. But even if we do get a touch on Thursday night, as that is when we will have a full moon, the seeds are underground which won’t hurt them a bit. The thing I learned over the years is you have to work alongside Mother Nature… not against it, as you will never win.

Highway 522 is still bustling with new folks roaming around, looking for things to do. It’s like a never-ending treasure hunt, except the treasure is a decent parking spot and the ‘X’ marks the spot where you might find cell service. Welcome to the country, where the GPS is more lost than you are!

Bug Report: The black flies and mosquitoes were awful yesterday for a lot of folks. They don’t bite me, but they sure do annoy me by flying around my face. Some ask, “George, how come they don’t bite you as much as most folks?” I say, “Well, truth be told, we have an understanding: I leave them alone, and they, well, sort of leave me alone. Either that, or they’ve finally realized that biting an old farmer like me is like choosing a dry, tough jerky over a fresh steak!”

With that I am off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife has prepared, and then we both will head on out to our front porch and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa, taking in nature that surrounds us, and we have lots of it.

You have a great day, and I will leave you with this: “Good things take time – whether it’s crops growing or folks learning.”

Fishing Times for Wednesday
05/22/24

Major Times
–:—–:–
11:29 AM-1:29 PM

Minor Times
4:15 AM-5:15 AM
7:56 PM-8:56 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 5-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few. A great day for fishing, but just in case, don’t forget your raincoat. Good Luck!

Fishing Tip of the Day: Follow the feeder streams that flow into larger bodies of water. These streams are like highways for fish, leadin’ ’em right to your doorstep. GW

Gardening, Weather, What's Happening

Welcoming the Day in the Countryside on May 21/24

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Good Morning! “Where the simplicity of life teaches us that happiness isn’t found in what we have, but in who we are.”

Not a bad morning here in the north. The temperature was sitting at 14.8 C | 58.64 F which is about right for this time of year. It will warm up a bit more as the day progresses. We also had a shower or… half a rain barrow full through the night, which worked out perfect, as it always does when my wife and I plant some trees and things. It’s always been that way. Seems Mother Nature is watching what we are doing.

Highway 522 was very busy over the weekend with lots of tourists visiting and driving through our area. Most of them don’t stay long, which ain’t surprising considering how far out we are. But I reckon that’s a bit of a blessing in disguise.

Yesterday, my wife and I kept busy working outside. We put up our American flag for our American friends along with our old Maple Leaf. Kind of nice seeing them blowing in the breeze throughout the summer months.

After that I tilled up our vegetable garden one more time adding a whole mess of grass cuttings beforehand, and then planted one row of potatoes along with some beans, cucumbers and zucchini. Today I am going to see about fixing a tire on my rototiller as it has been leaking slowly for the past ten years, but yesterday it wouldn’t hold air at all, so I will have to see how that works out as it isn’t going to be the easiest thing to change, as the rim rides on a spindle, and it is frozen solid on there with rust and won’t come off. I have been spraying it will WD 40 in hopes it loosens it for the past five years, but it still hasn’t moved. Anyway, I will have to do something, as it’s no good the way it is.

Bug Report: Truth told the Black Flies hasn’t been all that bad for the past two days which made it real nice for my wife and I, as we have or had a lot of outside work that needed doing. Still lots to do though, but in saying that we do enjoy working alongside nature. The Mosquitoes also weren’t all that bad, but there were a few irritating me inside my shop, as I had the doors open for most of the day. They like to get inside buildings as they know there is usually fresh blood around somewhere. Them blood sucking parasites!

Wisdom I have learned: “One thing I’ve learned over the years is that you can’t control everything. Sometimes you just gotta let go and trust that things will work out in the end. It’s like plantin’ seeds in the spring – you do your best, and then you let nature take its course.”

With that, I’m off to have breakfast that my lovely wife has prepared for me. Afterward, I’ll head out to my woodworking shop to fix the tire on my rototiller. It certainly has been a year full of repairs for it, that’s for sure.

You all have a great day, and I will leave you with this: “A rainy day ain’t so bad if you’ve got a good roof and a dry spot to sit. Preparation and a positive outlook make all the difference.”

Fishing Times for Tuesday
05/21/24

Major Times
–:—–:–
10:43 AM-12:43 PM

Minor Times
3:54 AM-4:54 AM
6:45 PM-7:45 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 4-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Fishing Tip of The Day: Some say the best fishin’ happens when the moon’s directly overhead or underfoot. It’s an old wives’ tale, but many like myself swear by it. And there will be a full moon on Thursday.

Gardening, My Opinion Only, Weather, What's Happening

Humor, Wisdom and Northern Living on April 20/2024

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Good Morning! Where the only rush we know is trying to beat the sunset to get the laundry off the line before the dew sets in – talk about living life in the fast lane!

We are all waking up to some sunshine here in the north. The robins are listening for worms, the crackles, sparrows, nuthatches, finches, morning-doves, cow birds, starlings, and the crows all greeted me as I walked to my woodworking shop. Sure nice to see. Some even sit on my hand occasionally. I even spotted a butterfly looking for some flowers, finally settling for some snowdrops in one of our gardens. Pretty hard to top that, for a warm morning greeting.

Highway 522 is bare and dry this morning for those having to do some shopping in the cities. You know, they say good things come to those who wait, and on Highway 522, we’ve got all the time in the world. So what if it takes a little longer to get from point A to point B? It just gives my lovely wife and I more time to enjoy the ride.

On a different topic, yesterday, I spent the entire day in my woodworking shop making the new water wheel for our fishpond. It’s quite a challenging project, but I made some good progress. If things continue as they did yesterday, I should have it completed by tomorrow. Then, once the weather warms up a bit, my wife and I will install the new pond liner. After that, my wife will apply her landscaping design skills. Over the years, she’s created many beautiful gardens for homes. I’ve lost count of how many she’s done, but the ones we worked on together years ago most still look good today.

Today, I’ll be continuing my work in the shop, while my wife tackles washing day with our new machine. The old Sears washer we had served us faithfully for over 40 years. I doubt these newer models will live that long, but only time will tell. My wife has a habit of chatting with household appliances; perhaps that’s why our old washer lasted so long. I can’t deny I engage in a bit of chatter with my tools too, and they seem to appreciate it, believe it or not!

Garden Chatter: You know, there’s a certain rhythm to gardening. It’s like a dance takes place between me, the soil, and Mother Nature herself. Sometimes we step on each other’s toes, but… most times, we end up working together. After all these years, we have gotten to know each other.

With that, I am off for my morning bowl of porridge and an English muffin, with honey on it, that my lovely wife has prepared for me. After that, we will have our regular morning chat over a cup of hot cocoa, and then I will head on out to the woodworking shop, and see how much more sawdust I can make. I made a pile yesterday. Sheesh!

You all have a great day and I will leave you with this: “They say city life is glamorous and exciting, but for my wife and I, there’s nothing nicer than watching the stars come out one by one on a clear, country night.”

Fishing Times for Saturday
04/20/24

Major Times
10:04 AM-12:04 PM
10:23 PM-12:23 AM

Minor Times
4:46 AM-5:46 AM
4:32 PM-5:32 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 2-star rating out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Fishing Tip of The Day: When fishing from a boat, gently tap submerged stumps or logs with your lure to mimic the sound of prey hitting the water. This sometimes attract predatory fish hiding nearby and if you’re lucky, you’ll have fish in the frying-pan come supper time! GW