Mornin’, everyone! They say the rooster crows at dawn, but it’s the hen that lays the eggs.

Once again, we had some rain through the night, and it’s a touch humid out there this morning. We could see a wee bit of sunshine throughout the day, but for the most part, it will be cloudy with a slight chance of a thunderstorm later on. Just what we need…more rain. My tomato plants are asking for life jackets. Maybe my wife and I should start planting rice instead!

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away cleaning out the shed where we keep our lumber. It sure was a job, let me tell ya, but when all was said and done, I now know where everything is, and it’s easy to get at. And it looks darn nice, too. Now, if only I could convince the lumber to organize itself next time!

Today I am planning on moving some things from one place to another, which should keep me busy for most of the day. That is, if the rain holds off.

Bug Report: Other than a few mosquitoes and some wasps irritating me, things are pretty good these days.

Highway 522 is still very quiet these days.

With that I am once again off for my breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me and will then head on outdoors. After my hot cup of cocoa of course!

You all have a great day and remember: Keep your eyes on the horizon and your feet on the ground!

Tuesday
07/09/24

Major Times
3:09 AM-5:09 AM
3:31 PM-5:31 PM

Minor Times
8:45 AM-9:45 AM
11:00 PM-12:00 AM

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

Sun Data
Rise: 5:36 AM
Set: 9:08 PM

Day Length
15 hrs. 32 mins.

Moon Data
Rise: 9:15 AM
Set: 11:30 PM
Over: 4:31 PM
Under: 4:09 AM

Moon Phase

14%
Waxing Crescent

Advice from an Old Angler: Deep holes in rivers and lakes often hold big fish. They provide cooler water and protection. Drop your bait into these holes, and wait patiently. The big ones are down there, just biding their time.

Isn’t it about time our governments stopped taking almost half of our paychecks in taxes? We already pay enough taxes on everything else.

Good mornin’! The only thing that should be in a rush in the country is the water in the creek. Take your time and do it right.

Highway 522 remains quiet these days. It seems folks are staying closer to home, maybe feeling the pinch in their wallets. With living costs going up, many are choosing local spots over longer trips. It’s a sign of the times—people adjusting to economic pressures by keeping things local. So, if you’re traveling this way, expect an easy drive with fewer cars, reflecting this shift to more budget-friendly choices.

Bug Report: Actually, things are pretty good out there these days. That said, I had to deal with some wasps yesterday while working on one of my buildings. They didn’t appreciate me intruding on their territory. I had to gently relocate them, so I could get on with my work.

Yesterday, like I mentioned, I began cleaning out one of my older sheds where I keep my lumber for making things. Honestly, I didn’t realize I had so much stored away. It was nice to see all of it, though. Today, now that it’s all cleaned out, I’m going to organize everything neatly, so I can easily find what I need when I need it. It looks like I’ll be busy with this task for most of the day.

With that said, I’m heading off for breakfast that my lovely wife is preparing for me…a bowl of porridge this morning, a nice change of pace. Following that, as I do every morning, a cup of hot cocoa, and then it’ll be time to get to work.

You all have a great day and remember: “Hard work keeps the belly full and the heart content!” GW

Fishing Times for Monday
07/08/24

Major Times
2:25 AM-4:25 AM
2:48 PM-4:48 PM

Minor Times But Still Good.
7:37 AM-8:37 AM
10:42 PM-11:42 PM

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

Advice from an Old Angler: Early morning is prime time for fishin’. Fish are active and feedin’ before the sun gets too high. Get up with the sun, grab your gear, and head out. You’ll often find the best bite just as dawn breaks.

Good Morning! Hard work never killed anyone, but why take the chance? So knowing that… let’s pace ourselves and enjoy the day.

It’s another cloudy morning, waking up in the north. However, we should see some sunshine around 9:00 AM. But in saying that, the clouds will remain with us off and on throughout the day. We’ve sure had our share of rain this year…a lot more than we really need…so I am hoping it eases off for a few days. Rain is good, but too much saturates the ground to a point that plants can’t handle it. The world is changing, as it always has done, and there isn’t much we can do about it other than adapt and find the silver linings.

On another note, I spent the day fixing up our carport. Got the back wall up, and things are looking good. We should be all set now for when winter hits, and our car will be happy not having to bear the brunt of the snow and ice. It’s something that’s really needed in this part of the country. Who knows, maybe our car will thank me by running a bit smoother this winter!

Today, I’m taking on the task of cleaning out the building where I keep my lumber. With all the other things that have kept me busy, I never quite got around to fixing it up. It’s been a bit of a mess for years now, but as they say, a little at a time gets things done. So, that’s my plan for the day…making some headway on this cluttered space. As always, you never quite know what the day might throw at you.

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has prepared for me. You know… they say the early bird gets the worm, but I’d rather have bacon and eggs!

Fishing Times for Sunday
07/07/24

Major Times
1:36 AM-3:36 AM
2:01 PM-4:01 PM

Minor Times
6:26 AM-7:26 AM
10:19 PM-11:19 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 respond to natural movements in the water. Create a subtle ripple or disturbance with your bait to attract their attention. A gentle twitch or jiggle can make your bait look alive and irresistible.

“Mornin’, folks! The best way to start the day is with a smile and a cup of coffee strong enough to float a horseshoe.”

Starting things off, it’s cloudy this morning, but we should see some sunshine later on. We could also see a passing shower here and there throughout the day. And, it’s a bit cooler today, which will make working outside kind of pleasant. Overall, I have no complaints about the weather here in the north so far this year. It’s been pretty nice, though maybe a touch too much rain for some. But hey, for all those folks grumbling about the weather, I’d say it’s been just about perfect!

Highway 522 is still quiet these days, probably due to rising costs, interest rates, and taxes on the paychecks. There’s some traffic, but folks seem to be cutting back on travel to save a few bucks. And honestly, I can’t say I blame them.

Bug Report: Yesterday, while working on my lean-to where we park our car in the winter, those blood-sucking parasites, the mosquitoes, were relentless. They thrive in shady, windless, damp areas. I was happy to go inside at the end of the day.

On another note, I managed to accomplish a lot outside yesterday while my wife worked hard on fulfilling custom orders for her customers. But she did give me a hand later in the day, which was nice. All in all, it turned out to be a productive day. We also had plenty of customers dropping by our gift shop, which was a nice bonus.

With that, I’m off for my breakfast, which my lovely wife is preparing for me. After that, I’ll be heading out to tackle some work for the day. Well, after I have my cup of hot cocoa, can’t forget that, sheesh!

You all have a great day…and as I have always said: “If you’re lucky enough to live in the country, you’re lucky enough!”

Fishing Times for Saturday
07/06/24

Major Times
12:42 AM-2:42 AM
1:09 PM-3:09 PM

Minor Times
5:15 AM-6:15 AM
9:50 PM-10:50 PM

Day Rating: Another great day to be out there with pole in hand. I give it a 5-Star rating out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: Cast along the edges, where different types of water meet…where shallow water drops off to deeper water, or where currents converge. Fish like to lurk in these transition zones.

“Good mornin’! The sun’s up, and so should we be. Let’s see if we can stay awake ’til lunchtime!”

It looks like it’s shaping up to be another nice day here in Cottage country. Though, there’s a chance we might get a light shower later on … nothing to fuss over, though.

Highway 522 is still pretty slow for this time of year, at least around our neck of the woods. There’s a lot of building going on, though. Folks are adding onto their homes, putting up new houses, and even building garages. I can’t figure out where all these people are coming from, but I guess they’re here to stay, or they simply have a lot of money to spend!

Bug Report: Everything is good in this department other than a few pesky mosquitoes irritating folks.

On another note, my wife and I spent the day yesterday beautifying our country home by mowing the lawn and working in our gardens. It’s a lot of work, but when it’s all said and done, we both know it’s worth it. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing our property looking neat and tidy. It’s a good feeling, knowing that all the effort we put into it really paid off. You could say it, makes our little corner of the world look just right.

My wife and I have also noticed a steady stream of new faces dropping by our gift shop, picking up items of their choice. It’s sure nice to see. While they’re here, we usually end up chatting about all sorts of things. It’s always interesting to hear what’s going on in other parts of the country. Makes us appreciate our piece of the world even more.

Today, I’m tackling a job I’ve been wanting to do for a few years now … adding a new back wall to our carport. It’s not going to be an easy job, but like everything else, slow and steady gets things done. I’ve learned over the years not to get overwhelmed by the big picture. Just get started, and before you know it, the work is done.

And now I am off for some pancakes that my lovely wife is making for me, topped with an egg yolk, a bit of butter, and drizzled with Mike Clapperton’s Maple Syrup. I kind of thing it’s the perfect way to start the morning … something sweet and tasty to enjoy before getting into the day ahead. Oh, we can’t forget our hot cocoa on the front porch by the fishpond … now, can we?

With that you all have a great day, I am going to tackle my chores and enjoy the quiet. They say a day in the country is worth a week in the city … ain’t that the truth! GW

Fishing Times for Friday
07/05/24

Major Times
–:—–:–
12:13 PM-2:13 PM

Minor Times
4:09 AM-5:09 AM
9:11 PM-10:11 PM

Day Rating: Today, I’m giving it a solid 5-star rating for catching a few. It’s turning out to be one of the best fishing days this year. Tight lines!

Advice from an Old Angler: Keep an eye on your lures. If they’re not swimming straight, adjust the eyelet slightly until they run true. A properly tuned lure can significantly improve your chances of a successful catch.

Good Morning! And remember, every day is a new start. And if it starts with coffee or…., even better!

It looks like we’re in for another nice day here in the north. It is a bit misty now, but the sun is slowly burning it off.

Highway 522 is seeing a bit more traffic lately, though it’s still not as busy as in previous years. I reckon many folks are feeling the financial pinch these days, which means more of them are staying close to home.

Bug Report: All is good in that department, except for a few mosquitoes lurking in the shady, damp areas. It’s also that time of year when they like to sneak into the house, just to irritate folks, right when they’re drifting off to sleep. I guess they think we’re their midnight snack!

On another note, my wife and I took a trip to North Bay yesterday. We got what we needed, had lunch in our car while watching the world go by, picked up a coffee and donut, and headed on home, taking in what nature had to offer, along the way. All in all, it was a good day. There’s something about these little outings that just lifts the spirits!

Today is mowing day for my wife and I, which will keep us busy for the morning. With all the rain and cooler temperatures, everything is growing like crazy. So far, it’s shaping up to be a great summer. As I always say, so much for global warming. Mother Nature has been running the show for millions of years, and no matter what we do, she’s going to keep doing her thing. It’s almost like she enjoys keeping us on our toes!

After we finish that up, being a nice day, I am thinking some front porch sittin’ will be in order, taking in our beautiful piece of property, and maybe a drink of sweet tea… just because we can.

With that, I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me, which will be a bowl of porridge this morning for a change. Kind of a healthy way to start the morning!

You all have a great day, for me: It’s time to get my boots dirty and see what the day brings. A little dirt never hurt anyone, right? GW

Fishing Times for Thursday
07/04/24

Major Times
–:—–:–
11:14 AM-1:14 PM

Minor Times
3:10 AM-4:10 AM
8:18 PM-9:18 PM

Day Rating: Better; Actually, I give it a 4-star rating out of 5 for catching a few. Good Luck!

Sun Data
Rise: 5:32 AM
Set: 9:11 PM

Day Length
15 hrs. 39 mins.

Moon Data
Rise: 3:40 AM
Set: 8:48 PM
Moon Phase

2% Waning Crescent

Advice from an Old Angler: Cast with the wind at your back. Not only does it help with longer casts, but fish often face into the current, so your bait will come to them naturally.

Good Morning! Time to rise and shine, or at least rise. We’ll… work on the shine part later.

It’s looking like another nice day here in cottage country, the kind of morning that makes you glad to be living in the north. The sun is shining, and there’s a crispness in the air that you just don’t get anywhere else. In my mind, it’s a pretty nice part of Ontario to be living.

You know, I didn’t move to this small town to strike it rich. Truth be told, I came here to escape the noise and rush of the big city. I was looking for elbow room, a bit of space to breathe and stretch out without bumping into someone every five minutes. And let me tell you, my wife and I found it. We settled in, enjoying the peace and quiet, the kind that lets you hear the crickets at night and the birds in the morning.

But as with all good things, time and people bring change. If you stick around long enough, you’ll see it happen. What was once open and free starts to close in on you again. They call it progress. More houses, more people, more hustle and bustle. It’s a bit ironic, isn’t it? Moving to get away from it all, only to have ‘it all’ catch up with you.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying it’s all bad. Where we live is still pretty darn nice. There’s still room to stretch out a bit, and you can still hear those crickets at night if you listen hard enough. And the folks around here are good people, just like us, trying to find their own bit of peace in this fast-paced world.

So, while progress rolls on, I remind myself why we came here in the first place. It wasn’t for the money or the amenities. It was for the quiet moments, the elbow room, and the simpler way of life. And despite the changes, there’s still a lot of that to be found if you know where to look.

Highway 522 did pick up a lot yesterday with a lot of new folks entering into the picture.

Bug Report: Other than those pesky mosquitoes, things are pretty good these days. Honestly, they aren’t all that bad if you stay out of the shady areas. Of course, that’s where the best fishing spots are, so it’s a bit of a trade-off. But hey, it’s summer, and summer is summer here in the north. We take the good with the bad, and the bad with a bit of bug spray. Or at the very least wear long sleeve shirts. I don’t personally care for bug spray.

Yesterday was quite the busy day for my wife and me; as our gift shop saw a steady flow of new faces, each person picking up items of their choice. It was nice, really, because along with the sales, we got to hear about what’s going on in other parts of the world. It’s always interesting to learn something new from folks passing through.

Today I have some outside work that needs attending, like weeding our vegetable garden, cleaning up our woodworking shop and… working on our lean-too where we keep our car, which I will get at after breakfast, that my lovely wife has made for me. Oh, and can’t forget our cup of hot cocoa on our front porch, or swing by our fishpond, taking in our beautiful piece of property.

With that, you all have a great day: I am off to see what the day throws my way. Take it easy, folks! GW

Fishing Times for Tuesday
07/02/24

Major Times
9:17 AM-11:17 AM
9:46 PM-11:46 PM

Minor Times
1:49 AM-2:49 AM
5:58 PM-6:58 PM

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

Sun Data
Rise: 5:31 AM
Set: 9:11 PM

Day Length
15 hrs. 40 mins.

Moon Data
Rise: 2:19 AM
Set: 6:28 PM
Over: 10:17 AM
Under: 10:46 PM

Moon Phase

12%
waning
crescent

Advice from an Old Angler: Keep an eye on the water’s surface. If you see fish jumping, or schools of bait fish, that’s where you want to cast. Fish activity means feeding time

It’s the first day of July: Good Morning! Another day…another chance to not step in something that the cows left behind.

It’s looking as if we are in for a real nice day here in cottage country. The sun has finally made its appearance, hardly a cloud in the sky. Just the kind of mornings I enjoy waking up to.

Highway 522 is still very quiet these days other than the locals roaming around looking for things to do and see. In a small town, the road may be empty, but the stories are always flowing.

Bug Report: All is good… other than a few mosquitoes.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away here in front of my computer writing up a story. You know, some days the words flow like a river, and other days it’s like trying to squeeze water from a rock. Yesterday felt more like the rock, but I did manage to get one out in the open.

Today, I plan on fixing up the building where I keep my lumber. It’s been a mess for over a year now. So today, I’m going to see if I can organize it, so I can get to things. It’s going to be a job, but it needs to be done. There’s nothing worse than wanting to work on a project in my woodworking shop and not being able to get to what I need.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me, and after that, a cup of hot cocoa out in the fresh country air before I settle into the day’s work. Pretty rough life, huh?

With that, you all have a great day: And remember, life’s what you make of it! GW

The Best Fishing Times for Monday
07/01/24

Major Times
8:23 AM-10:23 AM
8:50 PM-10:50 PM

Minor Times
1:22 AM-2:22 AM
4:39 PM-5:39 PM

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

Sun Data
Rise: 5:31 AM
Set: 9:12 PM

Day Length
15 hrs. 41 mins

Advice from an Old Angler: Thread several small worms onto a single hook to make a worm ball. Creates more movement and scent in the water, which attracts more fish!!

Good Morning! Over the years, I’ve learned that life is a lot like farming. You have to put in the work and be patient. As we head into July, let’s take it one day at a time.

It’s a cloudy last day of June here in Cottage Country, and it seems those clouds will hang around most of the day. The cooler jacket weather is perfect for outdoor work, though, which suits me just fine. But a little sunshine would also be a nice-added touch,

Looking ahead, tomorrow promises some sunshine, a welcome sight for those enjoying the long weekend before returning to work.

Highway 522 is still quiet these days, with fewer folks out and about … a sign of the times, I reckon. It’s no surprise, though, especially when you consider that about half of the working man’s paycheck goes to taxes. They already pay enough in taxes on essentials like food, clothes, and gas along with other things; taking more from their paycheck seems like pure greed on the government’s part. Personally, I believe paychecks should be left alone.

Bug Report: Everything’s ticking along just fine, though those persistent mosquitoes are still buzzing around, doing their best to annoy folks … but hey, they’re not as bad as they could be!

On another note, with the rain keeping me indoors yesterday, I spent the day here at my computer. I had planned to write up some stories for my newspaper columns, but it wasn’t quite the day for it. No matter how I tried, nothing worthwhile seemed to materialize. Such is the life of a writer, but there are always days like these. Here’s hoping today brings a bit more inspiration, especially for writing.

With that, I’m heading off for breakfast, prepared by my lovely wife. Perhaps some more bacon and eggs sunny side up, with a slice of toast for dipping, and a couple of cups of coffee to go along with it. Just because I can.

You all have a great day... I’m off to enjoy the morning. And remember: ‘Life’s lessons are found in the fields/country and under the open sky.’ Take care now! GW

Times to be out Fishing on Sunday
06/30/24

Major Times
7:33 AM-9:33 AM
7:59 PM-9:59 PM

Minor Times
1:02 AM-2:02 AM
3:20 PM-4:20 PM

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

Advice from an Old Angler: Use a jig with a pork rind trailer. The combination of the jig’s movement and the pork rind’s scent can be irresistible to bass.

“Good mornin’! Start the day slow and steady, like a good ol’ tractor… that sometimes needs a push to get going.”

Well, the long weekend is upon us, and we are all waking up to some rain. Not that we really need it, as we have had our fair share over the past few weeks. It also hasn’t been all that hot, which I like, as it makes things a lot nicer when working outdoors. Truth told, it has been a great year weather-wise.

You know… over the years, I’ve seen and done a lot. From tending fruit trees on my farm to working on a dairy farm as a boy, to running a tire and landscaping business, and even carving out a woodworking shop. Nowadays, I’m retired and living up north, enjoying the simpler life.

My writing journey has been just as varied. For over 30 years, I’ve penned columns for newspapers around the globe, sharing stories from my life experiences. I’ve published seven books so far, though none of them delve into the sci-fi realm. In saying that, currently, I’m working on a sci-fi mystery novel, hoping it’ll turn into a series.

Speaking of mysteries, there’s one that’s been on my mind lately – global warming. Now, don’t get me wrong, I believe we’re seeing changes in the climate, but I also believe it’s part of a larger cycle. Way back when, millions of years ago, carbon levels were much higher than they are today. The Earth has gone through warming and cooling phases long before we humans started driving cars and burning fossil fuels.

But here’s the kicker – while scientists are scrambling to figure it all out, I can’t help but think that maybe Mother Nature is just having one of her mood swings. After all, she’s been around a lot longer than we have, and she’s got a knack for keeping us on our toes.

So… yes we have to do our part, along with being mindful of our planet, but remember – Mother Nature always has the last laugh.

Highway 522 is quiet this morning, likely because it’s early and raining. But I suspect traffic will pick up later on. Tomorrow, we might see more showers in the morning and a lot of clouds, but later in the day, we could be greeted by some sunshine as this weather pattern moves away. It’ll be cooler, though. Monday should be real nice. Perfect timing for everyone to enjoy the last day of the long weekend!

Bug Report: Everything’s fine around here, except for those pesky mosquitoes – those blood-sucking freeloaders!

With that, I’m off for my breakfast… a couple of eggs sunny side up, a couple of slices of bacon, and… a piece of toast for dipping. You know, over the years, I’ve found that the yolk in eggs is what folks should be eating, not just the whites. It’s been proven that yolks hold a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and plenty of other good things that keep a person healthy, especially for the eyes and… well, you get the idea!

You all have a great day, and remember; “If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop digging. Take it easy!” GW

The Best Fishing Times for Saturday
06/29/24

Major Times
6:45 AM-8:45 AM
7:09 PM-9:09 PM

Minor Times
12:42 AM-1:42 AM
2:01 PM-3:01 PM

Day Rating: I give it a 3-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few if you do venture out there, and don’t forget your raincoat.

Advice from an Old Angler: “When reeling in, try a drift and pause technique. Reel in a bit, then pause. This stop-and-go action mimics an injured bait fish, tempting predators to strike.”

Good Morning! A new day means new chances. Try not to mess ’em up too much.

It looks as if another nice day is shaping up for us here in Cottage Country. The sun is shinning, our property is looking nice, and the birds are chirping outside our windows. Pretty hard to beat that.

Yesterday, my wife and I worked the morning away, mowing grass. After lunch, she worked in her flower gardens pulling weeds and grass, and trimming back some bushes that were getting out of hand. Myself, I tackled fixing the deck on our old Roper Mower. One spindle that drives the blades finally gave up the ghost.

While at it, I decided to hunt for some new blades, only to find out that no one carries them anymore. With the mower being so old, they’re as scarce as hens’ teeth. So, unless I can scrounge up a couple, I’ll have to put the old ones back on.

It’s an old mower, well over 30 years, but it runs pretty good. And given the cost of a new one, fixing this old girl, makes a lot of sense. Besides, it’s got character. Just like our place out here in the country—where the grass keeps growing, and the work never ends, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Today I am planning on weeding our vegetable garden, which I was going to do yesterday but got side tracked… which I am finding out happens a lot lately.

Highway 522 has sure picked up lately, likely thanks to folks gearing up for the long weekend. Everyone’s hoping for a good time, but Mother Nature might have other plans. The forecast isn’t too promising… it’s calling for humid weather with a thick cloud cover, along with a few afternoon showers, and maybe even a thunderstorm on Saturday. Sunday isn’t looking much better, cooler with a lot of clouds. Monday is looking beautiful though, sunny with peasant temperatures.

But it is what it is. On the bright side, Saturday and Sunday will be perfect weather for indoor projects—or maybe a good excuse to finally start that book you’ve been putting off. And hey, at least the mosquitoes will have a tough time flying in the rain!

Bug Report; Other than a few mosquitoes, things are pretty good. Even the deer flies aren’t all that bad. We worked outdoors all day yesterday and hardly seen a one.

With that, I’m off for a bowl of porridge this morning, courtesy of my lovely wife. After that, I’ll head out to our front porch, cup of hot cocoa in hand, and take in the view of our beautiful piece of property. We sure do love living here in cottage country, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a great way to start the day, let me tell ya.

You all have a great day and as my old friend Gray Wolf used to say: “Life’s like a river, go with the flow but steer your own course. Stay well!” GW

Fishing Times for Friday
06/28/24

Major Times
5:51 AM-7:51 AM
6:21 PM-8:21 PM

Minor Times
12:24 AM-1:24 AM
12:43 PM-1:43 PM

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

Advice from an Old Angler: “Take the young’uns fishin’. Teach ’em the old ways and share the stories. It’s not just about catchin’ fish; it’s about passin’ down traditions.”

“Mornin’, folks! Time to rise and shine, or at least rise. We’ll work on the shine part later.”

This morning in cottage country started off with some clouds, but now the sun is trying hard to break through. That will be nice, as my wife and I have some mowing to do. It seems there’s always something to be done when you own a home, especially in this neck of the woods.

You know, I retired up here in the north many years ago, wondering what I was going to do. The thing is, I’ve been busier now than I ever was when we had our farm along with two other businesses. Turns out, retirement is a full-time job… without the paycheck!

Highway 522 is picking up a wee bit, traffic-wise. With the long weekend closing in, I suspect it’ll get busier. Then again, if we have a rainy weekend, it might keep a few folks at home. So far this year, most of our weekends have had some rain, which is fine by me but not so good for those who only have weekends off. Not much one can do about that other than to find other things to do inside.

Bug Report: Actually, things are pretty good out there these days. My wife and I worked outside by my woodworking shop all day yesterday, and we hardly saw any. Which made it a real nice day.

With that, I’m off for my breakfast—a bowl of porridge that my lovely wife is making for me. After that, I’ll see if our old mowers are going to run. One never knows, being that they’re getting up there in years. Kind of like me!

You all have a great day and remember, the best fertilizer for the field is the farmer’s footsteps. See you next time!

Thursday
06/27/24

Major Times
5:09 AM-7:09 AM
5:33 PM-7:33 PM

Minor Times
12:05 AM-1:05 AM
11:25 AM-12:25 PM

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

Advice from an Old Angler: “Use a sliding bobber to adjust your bait’s depth easily. This lets you fish at different depths without constantly retyin’ your rig.”

Good Morning, and as my old dad used to say: Life’s like a good cup of coffee; take it slow and savor every drop.

It’s one beautiful day here in the north. The rain has left us, for a while, the sun is shinning with just a couple of fluffy clouds, the humidity is starting to drop, and the wind coming in from the North West is light. You could say it’s been a perfect spring and summer so far. And by the looks of things it is going to continue. “What’s all the fuss about global warming? Sure, there are changes happening in some parts of the world, but it’s nothing the planet hasn’t experienced before.”

On another note, we did have a lot of much-needed rain over the past week or so, which really made everything start growing. Today, I plan on doing some hoeing in my vegetable gardens, as those pesky weeds are starting to show themselves in earnest. I just cut them off and leave them where they fall, since they rot and act as fertilizer. It would be a shame to waste them.

I remember years ago when my wife and I were farming. Every winter, we had to trim our grapevines, which left a lot of brush between the rows. Most people would drag it out in piles and burn it, but I had an idea. I decided to hook up my rotary mower to the back of the tractor and cut the brush into small pieces, thinking I wouldn’t have to burn it anymore, which would save a lot of work. It worked great! Before long, folks from miles around were doing it too. Another benefit was that the small pieces would rot and act as fertilizer, which the plants loved. Sometimes, it just takes a bit of ingenuity, which isn’t as common today.

Highway 522 has picked up a wee bit, but not as much as it has over the past years. But that could change being that we are heading into July. Thinking of that, it seems time is sure flying by fast this year.

Bug Report: As I mentioned in my last post, the black flies have left us for another year, but with all this warm, wet weather, the mosquitoes are having a field day feasting on us humans. Additionally, the deer flies are particularly bad this year. They are so bad that they are forcing deer and moose out of the bush and onto the highways. We saw several spots along the highway going into town yesterday covered with blood where someone had hit one. So, best to be careful if you are out and about.

Today along with doing some hoeing in the gardens I am also going to get this old boat of mine ready to put out front of our home for sale. I was going to do it the other day but got side tracked. Which is normal for my wife and I, as we head off to do one thing and a lot of times do something totally different. Such is life living here in the country.

With that I am off for my breakfast that my little woman is preparing for me and will then, enjoy a cup of coffee on the front porch with my lovely wife, before I get to work, just because I can.

You all have a great day and don’t forget, every day’s a gift. Take care, folks

Fishing Times for Wednesday
06/26/24

Major Times
4:20 AM-6:20 AM
4:45 PM-6:45 PM

Minor Times
–:—–:–
10:05 AM-11:05 AM

Day Rating: I give it a 1-Star Rating out of 5 for catching a few. Not the greatest day for fishing but hey! You never know. Good Luck!

Advice from an Old Angler: Look for bubbles on the water’s surface. They’re often a sign of fish movin’ below, stirrin’ up the bottom. Cast your line where you see the bubbles, and you might find a school of fish.