Only On The Walters Post

Now, I’m not here to tell folks what to think, I’m just sharing what life has shown me. Take from it what makes sense, leave the rest, but maybe let it sit with you a while.

So, there’s Carney, strutting around the Calgary Stampede wearing a cowboy hat like he owns the place. Now, don’t get me wrong, cowboy hats have their charm, but let’s just say not everyone can pull off the look. And Carney, well, the hat might be doing more work than he is.

Now some folks have that natural cowboy vibe, the face, the swagger, and the confidence that says, “Yeah, I’ve been riding bulls and riding horses since I was knee-high.” But Carney looks more like he just wandered in from a tourist bus, trying to blend in with the locals by borrowing someone’s hat. It’s not that the hat’s bad, it’s just, well, I kind of think, that Carney’s hat is the star of the show and Carney’s playing backup.

Still, you have to admire the effort. It takes guts to wear a cowboy hat in a place full of real cowboys all around. Maybe that’s the point, it’s not about looking perfect but about joining the fun, tipping your hat even if it’s a little sideways, and soaking up the Stampede spirit.

So here’s to Carney, the man, the myth, and the cowboy hat legend in his own way. Truth be told, the hat’s a lot easier to root for than the guy wearing it, but that’s just part of the Stampede story.

Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW

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Good Mornin’ from the North; Where the Sky’s Bigger, the Days Are Longer, and Life’s a Whole Lot Simpler.

So starting things off we’re waking up under a sky that’s partly sunny this morning, The humidity’s hanging around, but nothing one can’t handle.

By midday, temps will climb fast toward a hot 85°F (29°C). Expect plenty of sunshine with just a few clouds drifting by. A light southwest breeze will also roll in around lunchtime, just enough to stir the leaves, but not your hat.

Tonight, things will stay mild and a bit sticky, with the low sitting at 69°F (21°C). You can expect some clouds to drift in, with a 40% chance of a late-day thunderstorm. You might even hear a rumble if you’re on the porch, so keep an eye skyward.

Tomorrow rolls in cooler and wetter: highs near 75°F (24°C), lows around 55°F (13°C). Expect rain and even a thunderstorm, especially in the afternoon, so best to keep your raincoat handy if you’re heading out.

Highway 522 has been picking up traffic every day, which is about what you’d expect for this time of year. And with our gift shop and garage sale set up here at 11588 Highway 522 in Port Loring, we’ve been seeing a steady stream of new faces pulling in.

Selling a few things is always nice, sure, but that’s not the best part. The real pleasure comes from chatting with folks, hearing about what’s going on in their lives, and stepping outside your own little world for a bit. The thing is, most people have a story worth hearing if you take the time to really listen.

You know, it makes my day when someone drops by and shares a tale or two. You could say it reminds you just how connected we all really are, and we are, though not always in ways most folks truly understand. To explain it properly, well, that’s something best done face to face. Some things just don’t come through the same in written words.

But I’ll say this much. It has to do with energy. Not the kind you measure with wires and gauges, but something quieter and deeper. It’s the pull between people, the kind you feel when someone’s really present, or when a story lands just right. That energy is always there, surrounding us, and it ties us together in ways we can’t always explain, but somehow know are true.

So if you ever find yourself heading down this way, don’t be a stranger. There’s always a chair to sit on, some shade out back, and usually a bit of time to share, if the feeling’s right.

Bug Report: This morning, as I was picking rose petals for some health remedies, those pesky mosquitoes were out in full force. It was all I could do to get the petals picked, and I was more than happy to get back inside. That said, they should ease off once the sun comes out… let’s hope so.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today is shaping up to be a nice one, and with rain on the way for tomorrow, I figure I’ll get busy digging some more dandelion roots, along with comfrey roots and mullein leaves. It’s always good to have those tucked away come winter when they aren’t fresh and handy. My wife and I have leaned on them for years now to help with all sorts of aches and ailments, so having a good stock is a kind of quiet insurance.

That’ll keep me busy for most of the day, though if time allows, I might tackle cleaning up my old woodworking shop again. I’ve gotten a bit sloppy in there over the past few days, and it feels good to bring some order back now and then. And of course, we’ll be sure to make time for folks dropping by the garage sale and the gift shop. It’s always a pleasure to see new faces and catch up with old friends.

I have to tell you, this year is shaping up to be one for the books when it comes to selling flutes and the books we’ve put together that are filled with hard-earned knowledge about life, natural health remedies, and gardening. Not to forget all my stories of life in general. You know, for me, it feels good to share those stories and lessons, knowing they might help someone else find their own way. Which is the way things should be, especially in a world as complicated as we all are living in now.

So with that I am off for my breakfast once again that my lovely wife is making for me and will then head out to our front porch for a cup of hot cocoa which will give us a good start on the day ahead. You just never know what a day might bring, and I really mean that.

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

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Good morning, folks. You know, I’ve said and written a lot over the years, but mornings still find new ways to bring something to the surface.

Well, she’s looking like another really nice day here in cottage country.
The sun is shining through the pines, the morning doves are at our feeder, the bluebirds are steadily bringing food to their young who made a home in the birdhouses I built awhile back, and to top it all off, the temperatures are just about perfect.

Right now, it’s sitting at a comfortable 60°F (16°C), and by the time midday rolls around, we’ll be looking at a high of about 79°F (26°C). It’s the kind of day where one should take advantage of the nice weather while you can. Whether that means puttering in the garden, taking a walk around one’s property, or just sitting with your coffee and letting the birds do the talking.

Tonight, we’ll see things cooling off to a pleasant 57°F (14°C). Good sleeping weather if you leave the window cracked a touch.

Tomorrow’s shaping up to be a hot one. Expect a high near 86°F (30°C) with a mix of cloud and sun. The morning might start off a bit overcast, but it’ll clear some as the day goes on. Overnight temps will only dip down to around 69°F (21°C), so it’ll stay warm right through the evening.

All in all, not a thing to complain about. If you’ve got outside chores, I’d say get at them early before that heat sets in. And if not, well, maybe just enjoy a cool drink in the shade and take the day as it comes.

Highway 522 was busy with traffic yesterday, and we had another good day with folks dropping by the gift shop and picking up items from our garage sale. Hard to believe we had that much stuff tucked away that we never used, but we’re slowly working through it. Judging by how many folks are stopping in, I figure we’ll find a home for whatever’s left before too long.

Now in saying that, we’ve still got plenty to browse through, and that includes more than just garage sale odds and ends, as our little gift shop is also filled with one-of-a-kind pieces we’ve made right here on the property—things you won’t find anywhere else. And the best part? Most everything inside is marked at half price. We have deals outside and inside waiting for ya. What could be better than that?

So… if you’ve got a mind to hunt for a few treasures, drop on by. We’ll be right here at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario, open from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Bug Report:
Well, while we were out mowing yesterday, we sure noticed a fair number of no-see-UMS, mosquitoes, and deer flies buzzing around and bothering us. Now, I’ll admit, they don’t bite me all that often, but they sure do their best to annoy me. My wife, on the other hand, isn’t so lucky. I figure it’s because she’s a whole lot sweeter than I am—and the bugs know it, too.

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman’s fixing up, and after that, we’ll be out on the front porch with a warm cup of turmeric tea, watching the morning unfold. There’s always something to see around here—birds at the feeders, squirrels up to no good, and the wind dancing through the pines. It’s a peaceful place, the kind you don’t come across too often anymore. No matter where you stand on the property, it’s as pretty as a picture.

So, If you’re out and about, feel free to stop in. Between the garage sale and the gift shop, there’s plenty to look at—and while you’re here, take a stroll around the place. This property of ours is up for sale, and I’ll tell you, it’s something special. Folks always talk about waterfront, and sure, that’s nice, but in my books, being tucked just a little inland has its own kind of charm. It’s quieter, more private, and you don’t have to worry about the blackflies breeding right at your doorstep. Ha!

It’s one of those places you have to see for yourself—close to everything, but just far enough away to feel like you’ve stepped into your own little piece of country.

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

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Good morning, folks. Looking outside, it’s the kind of morning that reminds you why the quiet hours matter, and why I keep coming back to this page.

And it is looking like a really nice day. The sun is shining, the humidity has eased off, and we’re in the midst of a light breeze coming in from the west at 2 MPH.

Today will be mostly sunny and pleasant, with a high of 74°F (23°C). Tonight, it’ll cool down nicely, dropping to around 50°F (10°C).

Tomorrow looks just as fine, with mostly sunny skies and a high near 78°F (26°C). The low tomorrow night will settle around 57°F (14°C). Nice for sleeping with your windows open.

Highway 522 is picking up traffic-wise more and more each day. Yesterday, we had a steady stream of folks dropping by our gift shop and the garage sale we’ve been running for the past month. It’s nice to see people stopping in and picking up one-of-a-kind items, like the flutes I make, and my wife brings to life.

We also have books filled with stories from years gone by, and they don’t stop there. I write about what’s happening today and, if the mood strikes, what I think might happen down the road.

And we can’t forget my wife’s paintings and the many creations she’s brought to life—all right here in our gift shop at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario.

It’s a place you won’t want to miss, so be sure to jot it down on your list of things to do. You’ll be glad you did.

Bug Report: Everything’s pretty good in that department, aside from a few deer flies and the occasional mosquito bothering folks these days.

On another note, yesterday was one for the books. My wife and I were kept on our toes from the moment we opened at 9 a.m. straight through to 4 in the afternoon. It was a steady stream of folks coming through the doors, and I don’t think we sat down once.

Sales-wise, it was a fantastic day—but more than that, we made a whole bunch of new friends. That’s the part that sticks with you. Sure, it’s nice when the till’s busy, but it’s the handshakes, the laughs, and the stories shared between strangers who leave as friends that make it all worthwhile.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today’s mowing day, which means my wife and I will be kept busy for most of the morning. Come afternoon—well, that depends on how the mowing goes. Some days we’ve still got a bit of spring left in our step, and other days, those chairs on the front porch start calling our names louder than usual.

That said, our gift shop is still open, and no matter how the day unfolds, we always make time to look after folks who stop by. Whether you’re here for a visit, a chat, or to pick up something special, we’ll be glad to see you.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me, then we’ll see if those mowers are up for a day’s work. You never really know with them—they’re a bit like the two of us, getting older and not always firing on all cylinders.

These days, things seem to break down a little more often than they used to, but that’s just how it goes. What will be, will be.

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

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Good morning, folks. Another morning, another page, and I’ve got a few thoughts worth putting down before the day pulls me away.

Well, looking out my window by my old desk here, it looks as if the day is shaping up to be a nice one. The sun is up, and the birds are feeding at our feeder.

Today’s Forecast (Tuesday, July 1):
Expect mostly cloudy skies, with a high near 78 °F (26 °C). Temperatures will dip to a low of 57 °F (14 °C) tonight, so a light jacket might come in handy.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, July 2):
It should be mostly sunny through the day, with highs around 79 °F (26 °C). Toward late afternoon, there’s a chance for heavy thunderstorms, possibly with some gusty winds and small hail, before cooling to about 57 °F (14 °C) overnight.

Around here, the skies have their own way of keeping us humble, sunshine in the morning, thunder by supper.

Highway 522 is starting to pick up traffic-wise, with tourists making their way into our area for the summer months. But then again, it is July 1. The kids are out of school and folks are itchin’ to find something to do that takes them away from the hustle and bustle of city life. I get it. After months of concrete and commotion, the pull of the quiet, the trees, and the slower rhythm of things starts to look real appealing.

Out here, time moves different. You hear the wind before you hear a car. Nights aren’t filled with sirens or streetlights, they’re wrapped in crickets, the occasional owl, and the kind of silence you can actually feel. We do have bright lights up here, though, they’re called stars. Millions of them, scattered across the sky like someone spilled a bucket of diamonds. And the best part? You don’t have to pay admission or fight for parking to see them.

Bug Report: Things have been pretty good for the past couple days, other than a few mosquitoes seeking out a meal or two.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I kept ourselves busy with folks stopping by the gift shop, picking up everything from handmade pieces to the odds and ends we’ve set out under the carport as part of our garage sale. Rain or not, we had a steady stream of visitors all weekend, which surprised us, in a good way.

I’ve got to say, I’m thankful I spent time last winter making up a good batch of flutes as lately, they’ve been flying off the shelves. Seems like more and more folks are drawn to something real, something made by hand. My books have also been moving pretty well too, and my wife’s paintings and greeting cards have been catching a lot of attention.

What my wife and I sell here isn’t the kind of thing you find in big box stores or tucked into rows of cookie-cutter souvenirs. Everything is one of a kind, made with care, right here at our home. Each piece carries a bit of who we are. Around here, we don’t just sell things. We share stories, whether it’s in wood, paint, or words.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today being such a nice day, we’ll be carrying on with our garage sale while also tending to folks who stop by our gift shop. There are plenty of good deals to be had, if you’re looking.

I’m also planning to put that old hoe of mine back to work. The weeds in our vegetable garden are starting to sneak in again, and it’s always easier to take care of them now rather than later.

So with that I am off for some pancakes that my lovely wife has made for me while they are hot.

You all have a great day and: Until the next time: Keep Your Minds Open & Your Stories Alive. GW

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Well, it’s a sunny start to the day here in Port Loring. It feels fresh out there this morning, sittin’ right around 58 F, which is about 15 C if you’re keeping track that way.

As the day moves forward, it’s looking to stay nice, a bit of sun, maybe a few clouds drifting by, but overall just a good, solid day. High should climb up to about 80 F, or 27 C. Good day to get things done outside or maybe just sit a spell in the shade if you’ve already done enough.

Come tonight, it won’t cool off too much. Expect it to dip down to around 62 F, or 17 C. Should be a quiet evening, maybe a few bugs depending on where you’re standing, but otherwise pretty mild.

Now tomorrow, that’s when things start to shift. It’s gonna cloud up some, and they’re saying we might get a couple showers, maybe even a thunderstorm in the mix. Air’s gonna feel heavier too, real warm and sticky. High’s supposed to hit around 86 F, or 30 C, with the low tomorrow night sittin’ close to 65 F, or 18 C.

Might be one of those days, where you get your outside work done early and then just keep an eye on the sky.

Highway 522: Well, traffic wise, it has picked up a lot. Campers, trailers, you name it, they’re all moving into our area. But it is the long weekend, the kids are out of school, and the city folks are wantin’ to leave that city life behind for a bit.

And I can’t say I blame them, neither. Up here, the air is fresh, the fish are waitin’ to eat some worms and keep the fishermen/women on their toes, and the blackflies are gone for another year.

They call it The Call of the Wild, and there ain’t no stronger force than nature, let me tell ya.

Bug Report:

All is quiet on the bug front… for now. But if this heat keeps creeping in like it might, you can bet those pesky deer flies and mosquitoes will be back out and about.

You see, they have been lying low, holding little bug meetings somewhere out in the bush, just waiting for the right time to come out and start irritating folks. And they always seem to seek out that nice warm city blood first. It’s a real treat to them.

Now, some folks think they are safe with bug spray, but I will tell you, most of that stuff today is not good for your health and truth told, it just works like a dinner bell letting the bugs know exactly where you are.

Instead of piling on bug spray, try not to put on any perfume or strongly scented soap. Wash your clothes in unscented soap, too. I use Dove or Ivory unscented, and it helps a lot.

So if you are heading outside, don’t forget your hat. It is your first line of defense. After that, you might be better off learning to swat fast and doing a little two-step than relying on a can of chemical hope.

On another note, yesterday despite the rain and the not-so-great weather in the morning, I ended up cleaning my woodworking shop. And in the afternoon, I wrote up another story for the newspapers I write for. All in all, it was a good day.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with a day this nice, I’m planning to get outside and work in our vegetable gardens. I already spotted a few weeds trying to sneak in and get a foothold, and I’m not about to let them get the upper hand.

Speaking of the garden, I have to say, with all this wet weather we’ve had, things like tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, squash, and a few others have really taken off. They’ve grown so much in just a few days that they’re starting to crowd each other like old neighbors at a family reunion.

That’s good in one way, but in other ways it’s not so great. Looks like I’ll have to do some thinning out soon, give everything a bit more breathing room before they start stepping on each other’s toes.

So with that bit of info out there for you to read, I am off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me. After that, I will head on out to our front porch, with a cup of green tea for a change, since it’s such a really nice day.

My wife and I sure do enjoy sitting outside just taking in our beautiful piece of property. It is one of those small things about living in the country that makes all the hard work worthwhile.

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

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Good Morning, From a Porch with a View of Everything That Matters and Nothing That Doesn’t.

She’s a cloudy morning closing in on the long weekend here in Port Loring. We haven’t had any rain yet, but… it’s still early and the air’s got that heavy feel to it—like something’s waiting to let loose.

Today:
Right now it’s sitting at about 63°F, and we’re on track for a wet one. They’re calling for rain through the day, with a few good cracks of thunder mixed in. If it does come, we could be looking at an inch, maybe closer to two in spots before it’s all said and done. Things should climb to around 74°F before settling back to 58°F by nightfall.

Tonight:
Showers hanging around, maybe another rumble or two after dark. Still damp, still gray, and cooling into the high 50s°F.

Saturday:
There’s a chance of a few leftover spits in the morning, but most of it should be out of here. The sky’ll likely stay thick and low, though. Cooler too, with the high topping out near 67°F, and dropping to 53°F once the sun ducks out.

Sunday’s the bright spot. Some sun, a few clouds, and warming up nicely to about 81°F. Should be a fine day to dry out or get something done outdoors.

So far, it’s just the quiet before the rain—but if those clouds are telling the truth, we’ll be listening to it hit the roof before long.

Highway 522’s been a little livelier the past couple days. Trucks hauling campers, cars with boats tied down in ways that make you hope they’re not going far, and folks doing that familiar summer shuffle—out of the city and into the bush. You can tell it’s the lead-up to a long weekend when the gas stations jack up prices—because nothing says ‘welcome to summer’ like paying more just to fill your tank.

Bug Report: Well, the black flies have left us for another year—they actually packed their suitcases about a week ago. But with all the dampness and hot weather we’ve been having, those bloodsucking parasites, the mosquitoes, are out in full force. It’s hard to get away from them, and if you leave your door open for any length of time, they’ll be in within seconds.

And if they aren’t bad enough, when the sun does come out and the mosquitoes ease off a bit, those damn deer flies take over. Once they find you, they won’t leave you alone—they follow you everywhere and, given the chance, they can sure bite. That’s when my old hat comes in handy, sending them off to meet their maker.

On another note, my wife and I have been keeping busy with a steady stream of customers and friends stopping by our garage sale and gift shop. I have to say, it’s been great seeing so many people picking up things, and who could blame them? As every piece in our shop is designed and crafted right here in our woodworking shop—unique, one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else.

And here’s the kicker: we’re clearing it all out at half price. So if you want something special—something made with care and a little bit of heart—now’s the time to stop in. Once these pieces are sold, the gift shop will close for good. It’s time for us to turn the page and focus on other projects and plans in our life.

On top of that, we have my books on sale—seven of them, each packed with more than fifty short stories. If you’re into tales that capture the land, the people, and the small moments that make life rich, these books might just be your next favorite read.

We’re open every day for the summer from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario. So come on by, say hello, browse the shop, and maybe take home a story or two—whether painted on wood or canvas by my wife, or printed on paper in my books, which she beautifully illustrated with a drawing for each story and painted every cover. Her art truly brings the stories to life.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with all this wet weather outside, I’ll be working on my lawnmower. It’s only two years old, but it’s been giving me trouble the past few days. I have to say, they sure don’t make things like they used to. I have an old rototiller that’s over forty years old, and it’s still going strong, needing only a flat tire fixed and a couple of new drive belts over the years.

We live in a throwaway world these days, where fixing things is almost a lost art. Truth is, it’s usually cheaper to just buy new—even when a lot of that new stuff is made so poorly it’s barely worth the money. But what do you expect when most of what we use here in Canada is made overseas by folks who don’t care much about quality?

So with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife is making for me—thick slices of grass-fed pea meal bacon, sizzling just right, topped with an easy-over egg with that golden, runny yolk spilling onto a toasted English muffin. All finished off with a generous melt of aged cheese that’s just the right balance of sharp and creamy. How about that for a breakfast to start the day?

Once I’ve enjoyed every bite, a warm cup of hot cocoa will be waiting for me. It’s a bit cool this morning, perfect weather to sit back, sip slowly, and take my time before stepping outside.

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

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Good Morning Folks. Well, we are starting things off here this morning with some sunshine, which is always a welcome sight. The kind of morning where the birds seem a bit happier, especially the Robbins, and even our vegetable gardens looks a touch more relaxed.

As for the weather, here’s how things are shaping up for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today: Mainly sunny with just a few passing clouds, high will reach near 75F (24C), with a light breeze from the northwest to keep things comfortable.
Tonight: Clear skies early, then a few clouds drifting in overnight. Low around 54F (12C) — might even be a good night for sleeping with the windows open.
Tomorrow: A mix of sun and cloud, warmer than today, with a high reaching 81F (27C). Slight chance of an afternoon sprinkle, but nothing to fret about.

Looks like we’re in for a stretch of decent weather for a change, good enough to get some outside chores done or just sit back and take it all in. I kinda think my wife and I will do both leaning to the front porch sittin’.

Highway 522 is still pretty quiet, tourist-wise. That said, things should start picking up in another week or so when the kids get out of school for the summer. It usually does — but we’ll see how that works out.

Bug Report:

Well, yesterday morning before the rain moved in, I spent some time working in our vegetable garden, and I have to say I didn’t see a single mosquito, black-fly, or deer-fly. Not one. It’s getting to be that time of year when you can stand, sit, or walk just about anywhere without being pestered too much.

On another note, like I mentioned yesterday, I did manage to work up our vegetable garden — cleared out some of those young weeds that were trying to sneak in without being noticed. I also spread some manure made from grass clippings that’s been rotting down for a few weeks, worked it in nice around our tomato and pepper plants. When I was done, you could almost see those plants smiling.

I have to tell you, folks, when that garden’s all worked up, and the plants are just starting to take hold, it sure is a sight to see. I can never get enough of it.

Matter of fact, now that the sun’s come out, my wife and I are planning to sit under our old basswood tree on the swing I built a while back, just to take it all in.

The thing is, summers are short in our neck of the woods, so when times like this come along, you’ve got to take advantage of them. Least ways, that’s how we see it.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today, with the sun back out and the temperature just right, not too hot and not too cool, I’m thinking I’ll putter around the property a bit along with looking after any customers that happen to drop by our garage sale here at 11588 Highway 522. We’re keeping it going until the end of July, along with our small gift shop. Well, the gift shop will remain open for the whole summer. Just the garage sale will end at the end of July.

And I should mention, everything in the gift shop — all the one-of-a-kind items my wife and I designed and made ourselves — is now half price. So if you’re out and about and feel like browsing, you just might find something special to take home with ya. That is if you drop by.

With that, I’m off to enjoy another breakfast whipped up by my little woman. She sure knows how to start the day right. Once that’s done, I’ll head outside to put up the open signs, then settle into my favorite chair on the front porch with a hot cup of cocoa, and take in our beautiful piece of property — one of the best around, if you ask me. Might not be lakefront, but it’s got everything that matters.

Truth is, not every great place needs a shoreline. Some places just feel right — quiet, peaceful, with room to breathe. Ours is one of them.

You’re always welcome to see for yourselves!

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

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Good Morning… the air is quiet, and it feels like a good day to get out to the workshop, or maybe even dig around in the garden a bit.

Well, it’s looking like the rain has finally left us, and the sun is starting to break through the clouds. A welcome sight, I’d say.

Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario

Today (Friday, June 20)

• Daytime: A mix of sun and cloud, with things warming up nicely to around 72 °F (22 °C).
• Nighttime Temperatures: Dropping down to a cooler 51 °F (11 °C), which should make for a good sleeping night.

Saturday (June 21)

• Daytime: Cloudy skies, with a few showers and maybe a thunderstorm early on. Breezy through the afternoon, with highs reaching 78 °F (26 °C).
• Nighttime Temperatures: Holding warmer at around 65 °F (19 °C), still a bit humid and damp in spots.

Sunday (June 22)

Nighttime Temperatures: Staying warm and sticky near 66 °F (19 °C)—a sign summer’s really settling in.

Daytime: A muggy one on the way. Cloudy early, then maybe a break of sun before a few pop-up storms roll through in the afternoon. Highs climbing to 87 °F (31 °C).

So, by the looks of things, the warmer daytime temperatures are here to stay for a while.

Highway 522 was still pretty quiet yesterday, though the weather wasn’t all that great, which likely kept folks at home. Out here in the country, that suits us just fine as it means more peace and quiet, which is what most folks living here enjoy. Least my wife and I do.

Bug Report:
Well, there weren’t any bugs to speak of yesterday. With the rain, everything with wings seemed to take the day off. But this morning? The mosquitoes are back at it, raising a bit of hell. They will likely settle down once the sun gets a little higher in the sky.

Of course, that is usually when the deer flies punch in for their shift.

Actually, I have been pretty lucky over the years, as for the most part, none of them actually bite me. They just buzz around my face like they are trying to tell me something. Not sure why that is, but my wife says it is because I am not as sweet as most folks. Could be true.

On another note, with it being a rainy day yesterday, I spent most of my time right here at the computer. Got a couple of stories written up in the morning, and by afternoon I started working on setting things up so I can share my stories on my blog, YouTube, and a few other spots.

What I’ll be doing is taking one story each week from my collection and turning it into a podcast. I used to do that a while back, but after a time I drifted away from it, tried making videos instead, and then drifted from that too. So now I’m heading back to podcasting, which means I’ll be reading my stories out loud once again.

Keep an eye out for them on my YouTube channel and right here on the blog.

So, what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning to work on my bird feeder. I had to take it down the other day since it needed a bit of repair. I’ve been experimenting with different ways to keep the larger birds out while still letting the smaller ones in to feed. It’s been a bit of a challenge, but I think I’ve finally figured it out.

So I’ll get it fixed up and back on the post outside our living room window. That way, my wife and I can sit and watch the show throughout the day. We sure enjoy seeing all the different kinds of birds that come to visit.

So yep, that’s what I’ve got on the go today.

With that I’m off for my morning breakfast once again that my lovely wife has put together for me, and then I’ll see what the day has in store other than what I have planned. Every day is a mystery waiting to be made into something.

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

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Good Morning, Folks. Out here in the country, the coffee tastes stronger, the sky looks w i d e r, and even the silence has something to say.

Well, looking out the old window here by my desk, it looks like we’re in for a rainy day.

Today – Thursday, June 19: Rain’s falling steady this morning, and might keep at it for most of the day. We’ll see a high around 64 °F (18 °C) and dropping to about 49 °F (10 °C) tonight. There’s a rainfall warning on—calling for 40 to 60 mm of rain, which works out to roughly 1.5 to 2.5 inches. We could also hear the odd rumble of thunder in the mix too.

Tonight: Cooler and still damp. The heavier rain should ease into lighter showers by evening, with temps settling near 49 °F (10 °C). Nice for sleeping.

Tomorrow – Friday, June 20: Cloudy for the most part but milder, with the high creeping up to around 73 °F (23 °C) and an overnight low of about 56 °F (13 °C). Might not be bone-dry, but not near as wet as today.

I would say that today would be a good day to stay in, tend to the small stuff, and let the land have its drink. As it sure needs it, especially our vegetable garden.

Bug Report: Other than a few mosquitoes and the odd deer fly irritating folks, things are pretty decent out there these days. Not much to complain about. That said, I have noticed those tiny gnats are starting to show up at night. If you haven’t got the newer style screens on your windows, they’ll slip right through the old ones the minute they see a light on. Not exactly what you want buzzing around your bedroom, especially on a hot night.

Highway 522 was quiet again yesterday. A few locals were out, and some trucks working the area, but not many tourists yet. I expect that will change once July arrives, when the kids get out of school and city folks feel the pull of the country.

The thing is, real country is getting harder to find these days. I mean the kind where no chemicals are sprayed on fields or bushes, the kind that doesn’t kill everything it touches and then spread into the lakes, streams, and rivers. And the worst part is, that, sooner or later, that mess makes its way into our well water too.

Those so-called specialists act like they know it all, but really, they only repeat what they’re taught in fancy schools that have moved away from final exams. Without those traditional tests, it’s hard to tell if students are truly learning anything or just coasting through. Makes me shake my head and wonder where we’re headed here in Canada.

On another note, yesterday being such a nice day I spent most of it outside, working on a few projects and taking care of customers who stopped by our gift shop and garage sale. I have to say, sales went great, with plenty of folks coming by and picking up a good number of our things.

Later, since the grass was dry and rain was expected for the next couple of days, my wife and I figured we’d better get the mowing done. Glad we did, and I have to say, it looks real nice out there now, all cleaned up and tidy.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today being a rainy old day, I figure I’ll be working here at my desk where all the magic happens, at least when I get into writing stories. I’ve got a couple of ideas brewing for my columns that actually pay me to write, so that’s probably what I’ll be doing. But hey, you never know, as every day seems to come with its own agenda.

So with that, I’m off to dig into the breakfast my lovely wife whipped up, pancakes with some good grass fed butter over the top. Then I’ll sink back into my lazy boy chair of mine with a steaming cup of cocoa, just because I can.

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

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Good Morning, Folks. I’ve found that the stories worth telling always leave a little silence around them.

So starting things off with this… Looking outside, it seems to be shaping up to be a nice day here in Cottage Country.

Today – Wednesday, June 18:
It’s sittin’ around 62°F (16°C) this morning, with mostly cloudy skies. Feels calm and kind of gentle out there. If the clouds behave, we might hit a high of 78°F (26°C) later on. There’s a slight chance of a sprinkle this afternoon, but nothin’ much to worry about if you’ve got things to do outdoors.

Tonight:
It’ll stay mostly cloudy and mild. Temperature should dip down to about 60°F (16°C), which is still decent for sleepin’ with the windows cracked. Might get a touch of light rain, but again, not much of it.

Tomorrow – Thursday, June 19:
Cooler air’s blowin’ in come morning, and it’ll be breezy for a spell. High should land somewhere around 71°F (22°C), which is still good workin’ weather. Rain’s supposed to roll in off and on through the day, so best to plan around it if you’ve got anything you need to keep dry. Overnight, we’re lookin’ at a low of 56°F (13°C).

Highway 522’s got a bit more traffic these days, but it’s still moving slow.
Not sure if it’s the shaky economy, or maybe folks just aren’t wandering as far from home this year. Could be all of it, could be none of it. Hard to pin down.

Still, every now and then, you see a camper roll through, which tells us summers still trying to find us here in the north.

Bug Report:
Well, the black flies have pretty well-packed up and left us for another year, thank goodness. But just as one pest moves out, another moves in. The deer flies are wide awake now, and let me tell you, they don’t mess around.

Once one finds you, well, that’s it, as they circle, they hover, and they just don’t take the hint. And if you stand still too long, they’ll settle in and take a bite big enough to make you take notice. Not exactly what you’d call a pleasant experience.

That’s where my old hat earns its keep. Been swatting bugs with it for years, and it still does the trick.

But truth be told, even with a few deer flies buzzing about, things are pretty good these days here in the north. Warm sun, green trees, and enough quiet to think, can’t complain too much.

On another note, my wife and I decided to head on into North Bay yesterday to pick up some supplies and a few odds and ends. We got what we needed, and, as it usually goes, a little more than we planned.

Afterward, we treated ourselves to a pizza and a cold iced tea over at East Side Mario’s. Sat there for a spell, just enjoying the food and each other’s company. It’s funny how a simple meal, when shared with the right person, can feel like the best part of the whole day.

Then before heading home, we stopped by a little coffee shop in town for a hot cup to go, then made our way back home, soaking in what nature had to offer.

And there’s plenty to notice if you take the time to look, with the wildflowers blooming in the ditches, birds circling overhead, and the lakes catching the last bit of sunlight like they’re holding onto something important.

We’ve also been seeing a lot of new folks moving into the area, buying up properties here and there. Seems to be the trend lately. Some are looking for peace and quiet, or for a fresh start. Either way, the north has a way of drawing people in, and I can’t rightly say I blame them.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, with the weather looking pretty good. I figure I’ll spend some time cleaning up our woodworking shop. I’ve been out there quite a bit lately working on things, and it’s gotten a bit messy, sawdust everywhere, tools scattered, and off-cuts piled up here and there.

But I’ve always said, a clean shop’s alright, but a messy one means things are getting done. I’ve seen plenty of woodworking shops in my day, and some of them are so clean, you’d swear no one ever lifted a hammer.

To me, they are more for show. Give me a bench covered in shavings, a few boards stacked against the wall, and the smell of fresh-cut wood in the air. That’s a real shop.

Still, I do like to keep mine in decent shape, at least tidy enough that I don’t waste half the morning lookin’ for my tape measure.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife’s made for me, then I’ll be heading outside with a hot cup of Barry’s Tea in hand. It’s a fine-tasting tea if you like something smooth and full of flavor. If you’ve never tried it, I’d say give it a go—they carry it at Metro. You won’t be disappointed.

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

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Good Morning, Folks. I dreamt a whole Blog Post last night. Damn shame, I only remember the part about the pancakes and the sun.

Looking out, right here, from my desk window, where all the magic happens, it seems our day is shaping up to be downright nice. At the moment, there’s plenty of sunshine and hardly a breath of wind, the kind of morning that makes a fellow truly appreciate living in the country.

Weather for us today here in Port Loring, Ontario, Canada.

Today – Sunday, June 15 (Father’s Day): Right now it’s sitting around 58 °F (15 °C) and the sun is working its way through the morning sky. We’re on track for a beautiful Father’s Day, with a high of 77 °F (25 °C)

Tonight: Skies will stay mostly clear through the evening, cooling down to about 50 °F (10 °C). A light sweater might be a good idea if you’re stepping out, but otherwise it’ll be a peaceful, quiet night.

Tomorrow – Monday, June 16: No rain on the radar. It’ll be a mix of sun and cloud through the day, starting off around 59 °F (15 °C) in the morning and climbing to about 80 °F (27 °C) by afternoon. It will feel like a good day to be outdoors, whether you’re getting work done or just soaking up what summer has to offer.

Highway 522 got busier yesterday, mostly locals just going about their business. And a good bunch of them stopped by our garage sale. That’s small-town life for ya …everyone’s out and about, bumping into folks they know and maybe a few they don’t, and stopping to chat a bit. It’s like a slow dance where nobody’s in a hurry and the main event is just catching up on the local gossip.

Well, once again, other than a few mosquitoes and a couple of deer flies, things are pretty good out there these days. But like I always say, from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day is blackfly season ’round here, and today being Father’s Day, there’s hardly one to be found. At least not near our place.

On another note, yesterday I worked the day away taking care of customers at our garage sale, and I have to tell you, we had a steady stream of folks dropping by and picking up all sorts of things. On top of that, our gift shop saw a great day too, with plenty of people snagging some of our one-of-a-kind items, all on sale for half price—who could blame them? Plus, people were in a friendly mood, swapping stories and filling the air with good conversation.

And don’t forget, we’ll keep our garage sale going right through the end of July at 11588 Highway 522, Port Loring, Ontario. We’re open from 10 to 4 every day. After July, the garage sale winds down, but our small gift shop stays open until fall, also from 10 to 4. Just like every other year, we’ll be here for you.

So what are you up to on Father’s Day, GW?

Well, I suspect that most fathers might be taking the day off, but I’ve got a mind to stain the deck that wraps around our small cottage, the one we use for friends and family. After that, some time sitting on our swing under the old basswood tree sounds about right, maybe with a coffee or two to enjoy. Hmm, I might even try something different today, we’ll see how that pans out.

With that, I’m off for my morning breakfast that my lovely wife is making for me. It’ll be some pancakes covered with grass-fed butter and a touch of syrup, topped off with raspberries and a few blueberries. Keeps things all healthy, right? Well, at least the fruit part does.

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

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Good Morning, Folks. Some mornings feel borrowed, like you’ve been gifted time from an old friend. This is one of ’em.

Well, looking out my window here by my desk, it sure feels like we’re in for a good one. The kind of day that starts out soft and slow, with a sky that’s clear enough to lift your spirits before you’ve even had your second cup of coffee.

The sun’s already working its way across the yard, casting long shadows off the fence posts and making the grass look just a little greener. It’s sittin’ at a comfortable 78°F, which is about 26°C for those who like their numbers that way. There’s a light breeze out of the southwest, just enough to rustle the lilacs and keep the blackflies guessing.

Tonight’ll be calm and clear, cooling off to around 58°F, or 14°C, which means good sleeping weather if you’ve got the windows open and a quilt at the foot of the bed. And tomorrow, well, it’s shaping up to be a fine one too. They’re calling for 82°F (28°C) and sunny, so if you’ve got outdoor chores piling up like we do, it might be a good time to cross a few things off the list.

One has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can.

Highway 522 is still quiet these days, traffic wise. But then again, we do live off the beaten track, where not too many folks come pokin’ around until the weather starts to cooperate, which by the looks of things is about to happen with summer now just around the corner.

That said, I’ve noticed more and more new faces showing up these past couple of years. A lot of folks have been packing up and heading north, and honestly, I can’t say I blame them. When you look at what’s going on in the world, or more to the point in the big cities, it starts to make sense. Crime is climbing, houses are being built so close together you could almost shake hands with your neighbor while sipping your morning coffee, and the air down there is thick with things I won’t even get into. Let’s just say it’s no wonder so many folks are walking around with allergies and sniffles they can’t quite explain.

And the crowds, damn! The last time we took a trip down south, it was a full-time job just trying to sort out all the different nationalities bustling around. It’s something to see how much our country has changed. I’m not saying change is always bad, but if I’m being honest, I don’t believe it’s all been for the better.

Bug Report

Well, I’m happy to say most of the blackflies have left us for another year. And with this stretch of warmer weather settling in, them blood-sucking parasites we call mosquitoes might not be too bad either. They’re not fans of the heat, mostly because they’re so small, the sun dries them out and finishes them off pretty quick.

Now in the shade, that’s a different story. One still has to be careful come evening, especially if the doors or windows are open. They’ll sneak their way into the house, and once they’re in, well… when it’s time to sleep, they can sure be irritating.

We picked up one of those bug zappers and set it on the kitchen table. Before heading to bed, we switch it on and let it draw them in. Keeps them off us while we sleep. Works slick too. The thing is, living in the country, you learn quick that you’ve got to be on your toes, whether it’s bugs, weather, or something unexpected showing up at your back door.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I had a lot going on, so we didn’t get around to making a morning post here on the blog. We get a few of those days now and then, days when there’s so much on the to-do list, there just aren’t enough hours to get through it all.

But that being said, we still managed to knock off the things we had planned, and on top of that, we had quite a few folks stop by, picking up things from our garage sale. We’re keeping it going every weekend right through to the end of July.

We sold a fair bit yesterday, but there’s still plenty left, and like I always say, my wife and I don’t know where it all came from. It’s simply amazing how much a person can collect over the years without realizing it.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today I’m planning on working outdoors, as there’s a few things around the house that need tending to. And with the sun shining the way it is, I sure don’t want to be stuck inside.

On top of that, our little gift shop is open for the season now, and between that and all the garage sale items we’ve got set out, there’s plenty to keep us busy. But truth be told, we enjoy it. Especially this time of year, when the days are warm, and folks start getting out and about again.

It’s a good kind of busy, though. The kind where the work feels more like a day well spent.

So with that, I’m off to have breakfast my little woman’s made for me, then I’ll head on out to the front porch with a nice cup of hot cocoa and take in the view of our beautiful piece of property. Sure is a sight to see this time of year.

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

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Good Morning, Folks. The sky’s got that look today, like it’s deciding whether to rain or just brood awhile. I know the feeling!

And with that, here’s the forecast for today for us in cottage country.

Today, Thursday, June 12

Daytime: Expect hazy sun, with a high near 66 °F (19 °C).

• Tonight: Skies will clear out after sunset. Temperatures will dip to around 42 °F (5 °C) under mostly clear skies.

Tomorrow (Friday, June 13)

• Daytime: A mix of clouds and sunshine, with a chance of a passing shower or two in the afternoon. Highs around 61 °F (16 °C).
• Tomorrow night: Remaining cloudy, with lows near 46 °F (8 °C).

Highway 522 is still pretty quiet these days, but we did have a lot of new vehicles going by the house yesterday. There was an accident over near Britt—another one between a transport and a car, so they rerouted all the traffic off Highway 69 across to Highway 11. In all my years, I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many transport-related accidents. It’s no real surprise, though, when you look at who they’ve been letting behind the wheel lately. The old-time drivers, the ones who’d been on the road for decades, they knew how to handle those big rigs. These days, a good number of them just don’t have that same experience or training, and it shows.

Bug Report:
Well, I’m happy to report that yesterday I spent the whole afternoon out in our vegetable gardens and didn’t see a single black fly. Not one. The only pest that showed up was a deer fly, and if you’ve ever met one, you know they don’t come to visit, they come to bite. Once they find you, that’s it. You’re their afternoon project. I swear, those things are like flying bloodhounds with wings and a bad attitude.

On another note, like I mentioned earlier, I managed to clear out some weeds in our vegetable garden and hoe up the soil around the tomato plants. It took some doing, but I’ve always enjoyed working the land. Been that way all my life. There’s just something about the smell of freshly turned soil and being surrounded by growing things that settles a person down.

Back when I was farming full-time, I used to say, “You can tell how your day’s going by how the dirt feels under your boots.” If it’s soft and rich, chances are you’re doing alright. And if the weeds pull easy, well, that’s just a bonus.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today’s mowing day here at the Walters home, which I suspect will take up most of the morning. The good news is the grass has finally slowed down a bit, and we just might be able to start mulching it. That makes things a lot easier in the long run. But we’ll see how it goes once we get into the thick of it, so to speak.

With that, I’m off once again to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me, and then I’ll head on outdoors. One has to take advantage of this nice weather while you can.

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