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Good Morning! The snow’s knee-deep, the shovel’s worn thin, and the only thing keeping my wife and I going is the thought of spring, that is, whenever it decides to show up.

Well folks, she’s a downright cold morning here in good old Northern Ontario, Canada. Waking up, the temperature was sitting at -21°F (-29.6°C)—the kind of cold that makes you question why you got out of bed in the first place.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast

Today (Sunday, March 2):
Mostly sunny, but don’t let that fool you, it’s still cold. High of 16°F (-9°C) with a light breeze that makes it feel a touch cooler. I would think its probably not the best day for standing around outside unless you enjoy frost forming on your mustache, if you had one.

Tonight:
Clear skies, which means it’s going to get even colder. You can expect a low of -3°F (-19°C), so if you were thinking of sitting out on the porch looking at the stars, you might want to rethink that.

Tomorrow (Monday, March 3):
Clouds moving in, bringing a 30% chance of flurries. High of 27°F (-3°C), so at least it’s trying to warm up.

Tomorrow Night:
Still cloudy, still a 30% chance of flurries, and a low of 23°F (-5°C). Not tropical, but better than tonight.

Looks like a good day to keep the wood-stove going and maybe work on a project indoors.

Highway 522 is quiet this morning, with a light covering of snow, just enough to remind us it’s still winter. Might be why folks are staying put, that and the fact that it’s a lot more enjoyable to admire winter from inside with a hot coffee in hand. I went out earlier and plugged in my old car to warm it up a bit, not that I’m planning on going anywhere. Just figured I’d give it a fighting chance against the cold. The only problem is, with hydro prices these days, every time I plug it in, I feel like I should be taking out a loan. So, I don’t leave it on long—just enough to keep the old girl from freezing up solid.

You know, after all these years, I’ve found that living in a small town up here in Northern Ontario has its charms, that is if you don’t mind everyone knowing your business before you do. News travels faster than the internet, and by the time you finish your morning coffee, half the town already knows what you had for breakfast. Saves time on visiting, though, no need to update anyone, when they already have the full report!

On another note, yesterday my wife and I managed to get our decks and driveway cleared of snow, but I have to tell ya, it sure was a struggle, to say the least. I kind of think that the snow doubled in weight overnight! Anyway, by the time we finished, we were more than happy to head indoors and enjoy a cup of hot coffee, let me tell ya. This aging thing sure takes a toll on a feller, or gal, I’ll tell ya that much.

So, what are you up to today, GW? Well, with it being so downright cold, I’m thinkin’ I’ll just hang around inside the house and maybe write up a story or two for my columns. Them flutes can wait for a warmer day. Now, I’ve got the shop stove going, so if the urge hits, I might head out there later on in the day. We’ll see how it goes, one never really knows what a day’s gonna bring.

With that I am off once again for my bowl of porridge my lovely wife has made for me along with a piece of toast. Should hold me over till lunch time.

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

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Good Morning! The plow just went by, which means I have two choices—grab the shovel or pretend I didn’t see it.

March 1st – A Lion of a Start!

Well folks, March has rolled in, and as the old-timers used to say… if it comes in like a lion, it’ll go out like a lamb. And let me tell you, this morning that lion ain’t just growling, he’s got his claws dug in deep.

As of 7:59 AM, my own weather station recorded a chilling 4.82°F (-15.1°C) with a north-northwest wind gusting up to 5 mph, some higher at times, but seems to be easing up a touch now. Still, it’s enough of a bite to make you pull that coat a little tighter.

Here’s what the weather’s looking like for Port Loring:

Today (Saturday, March 1st)

• A few flurries drifting in and out.
• Cloudy and staying downright cold.
• High: 12°F (-11°C)
• Low: -12°F (-24°C)

Tonight

• Clear and bitterly cold. A night to keep that fire stoked.

Tomorrow (Sunday, March 2nd)

• Mostly sunny, but don’t let that fool you… it’s still winter’s grip.
• High: 17°F (-8°C)
• Low: -2°F (-19°C)

So if you’re heading outside, dress warm… layers are your friend, and if you’ve got the chance, today’s a good day to hunker down with a hot coffee and wait for that lamb to show up later in the month.

Highway 522 is snow-covered this morning, which isn’t much of a surprise after the snow we got yesterday and through the night. I’d say we had close to a good foot, maybe more in the drifts. The snow itself is light, but with this much of it… well, let’s just say it’s going to take some good old-fashioned elbow grease to clear it all. If you’re planning on heading out, best give yourself some extra time and be ready to do a bit of shoveling first!

On another note, I spent the day yesterday out in the old woodworking shop, getting back into the swing of things. I managed to tune up a few of the Native Flutes I’ve been working on. So far, only one has given me trouble, not bad, considering I’m making twenty of them and haven’t made any in over five years. But that’s the way it goes with woodworking; sometimes the wood has a mind of its own. I’ll tinker with it over the next few days and see if I can bring it back to life. If not, well, every piece of wood has its purpose, some just take a different path than planned.

So, what’s on the agenda today, GW?

Well, the plan was for my wife and me to tackle some of this snow, but I think we’ll hold off until the wind settles down a bit. It’s bad enough out there without the wind whipping things around. Then again, we’ll see how much energy I can muster up after a good breakfast.

Which, by the way, is calling my name right now… my lovely wife has it all ready and waiting. One thing’s for sure, though, before we head outside, we’ll be enjoying a good cup of hot cocoa. A little warmth before the storm, you might say.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good morning! The coffee’s hot, the wood’s stacked, and the words are waiting…let’s see what today builds.

Starting things off, it’s a cool morning here in the north, but the good news is it’s the last day of February, which means… spring isn’t all that far off. And by the looks of things, a few days from now, temperatures are going to warm up a lot. That’s just fine with my wife and me, as we’re ready for some spring flowers.

Weather Forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today, Friday, February 28, 2025:

• Morning: Sunny, with temperatures around 2°F (-17°C).
• Afternoon: Breezy and colder with considerable cloudiness; snow at times this afternoon, accumulating 0.4 to 1.2 inches (1-3 cm); untreated surfaces will be slippery. High: 23°F (-5°C).
• Evening: Snowfall continues into the evening hours. Low: 10°F (-12°C).

Tonight:

• Snowfall warning in effect from 10:00 AM EST until Saturday, 1:00 AM EST. Significant snowfall is expected, with total accumulations near 6 inches (15 cm), and higher amounts possible. Peak snowfall rates of 0.8 to 1.6 inches (2 to 4 cm) per hour may reduce visibility. Travel could be challenging due to rapidly accumulating snow.

Tomorrow, Saturday, March 1, 2025:

• Morning: Breezy with snow in the morning, accumulating up to an inch (1-2 cm); cloudy and very cold. High: 17°F (-8°C).
• Afternoon: Cloudy conditions persist, with temperatures remaining low.
• Evening: Temperatures dropping further, with lows reaching -10°F (-24°C).

An Alberta clipper will bring snow, heavy at times, over the area. The heaviest snowfall is expected this afternoon and will taper to light flurries overnight. Rapidly accumulating snow will make travel difficult.

So seeing what is about to take place, it might pay to get your running around out of the way this morning. But you wouldn’t know it looking outside this morning with the sun shinning and not a cloud in the sky.

Highway 522 at the time of this post was clear of snow.

On another note, yesterday, I spent the day in my woodworking shop, bringing to life the Native American flutes I’ve been working on these past few weeks. Things are rolling along nicely, and I’m now at the final stage, tuning them.

The thing about making these flutes is that every step matters. If a single thing isn’t done just right, all the work leading up to this point could be for nothing. The spirit of the flute lives in the wood, but it won’t sing unless you shape it with patience, respect, and the right touch. As my friend Grey Wolf once told me, “A flute is not made; it is awakened. Shape it wrong, and it remains silent. Shape it right, and it will carry the wind’s voice to those who listen.”

Late in the day, I tuned one for the first time, just to see if it would speak, and let me tell you, it didn’t just sing; it called out like a bird with a voice meant to be heard. Made me smile, that’s for sure.

So what are you up to today, GW?

Well, today, I’ll get back to tuning those flutes. I’ve calibrated my old tuner, the shop’s warming up nicely, and with a bit of luck, I won’t have to argue with a flute that refuses to sing. If all goes well, by day’s end, I’ll have a few more making music.

With that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman has made for me, just like she has every morning for more years than I can count. Then we’ll settle in for our usual chat over a cup of hot cocoa, a simple routine that means more than words can say.

After all these years, it’s not the big things that matter most, it’s these quiet moments, the ones that make up a life well lived. We’ve walked this road together for over fifty years, and we’re still making the best of every day. Which is the way it should be.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! If you want to become a writer like GW, you……must embrace typos like old friends, ‘cause they’ll never leave you alone.

It’s a cloudy morning here waking up in cottage country. But it isn’t snowing or raining, which is something for this time of year. Although we are crowding into March. Hard to believe spring is just around the corner.

Today:
Cloudy skies will be hanging around, with a few snowflakes drifting down here and there. Nothing to write home about, just enough to remind us it’s still winter. Temps will reach about 38°F (3°C) this afternoon, so not too bad for this time of year. Might even feel a little mild if the wind stays down.

Tonight:
Staying cloudy, and it’s going to cool off quite a bit. Looking at around 0°F (-18°C) overnight, so if you’re heading out, bundle up.

Tomorrow:
A cloudy start to the day, with a chance of more snow in the afternoon. Not a big storm, but enough to freshen things up a bit. Temps will be around 19°F (-7°C) in the morning, then dropping to 12°F (-11°C) by evening.

Typical late-winter weather—just enough to keep us guessing.

Highway 522 is pretty well clear of snow and ice this morning, making travel easier for those needing to stock up on supplies. As for my wife and me, we’re all set, as yesterday, we took a trip to North Bay to pick up what we needed. Turned out to be a great day. The sun came out, it wasn’t all that cold, and there weren’t too many people getting in our way, which is a plus these days.

After finishing up our shopping, we had lunch in the car with a cup of coffee from a new place in town. Truth be told, it wasn’t anything special, so once we wrapped up our meal and spent some time watching the world go by, we swung by a spot we knew had good coffee and grabbed a proper one for the drive home.

It’s nice to get away once in a while, aside from what everything costs these days. But all in all, we had a great day, and really, what could be better than that?

Now, city shopping folks are a different breed. You can spot them a mile away, zigzagging through parking lots like they’re in some kind of survival race, clutching their reusable bags like they hold the secret to happiness. Meanwhile, us country folks just take our time, trying to remember why we came in the first place.

So, what are you up to today, GW? Well, today I’m getting back into making those Native American flutes I’ve been working on, the ones we call Fluture Flutes. They’re our own style, something we came up with years ago, and there’s nothing else like them, each one is truly one of a kind. Today’s the day I start tuning them, so I’ll be setting up my cameras to video how I go about it. Should be an interesting day, to say the least.

So with that, I’m off for my breakfast, which will consist of an egg, some bacon, and cheese on top of a toasted bun. That should hold me over until lunchtime. After that, before heading out to the old woodworking shop, my lovely wife and I will enjoy our hot cocoa along with our regular morning chat. What would a day be without them?

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good morning! You know… there’s no better way to start the day than with a deep breath of country air and a strong cup of coffee. Which is exactly what I am going to do here in a few minutes.

So starting things off, we’re waking up to a sky full of clouds and a fresh dusting of snow up here in the north…just Mother Nature’s way of reminding us who’s boss. A good, strong cup of coffee and a warm fire ought to set things right.

Now, let’s take a look-see at the weather for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today:

Expect cloudy skies with some scattered snow flurries now and then. It’ll be a chilly one, with temperatures hovering around 30°F (–1°C). Some wind but nothing much to speak of, just enough to remind you to keep your hat pulled down.

Tonight:

The clouds aren’t going anywhere, and we could see a few more flurries before the night’s through. The mercury’s gonna dip to about 20°F (–7°C), so best keep an extra log on the fire.

Tomorrow:

More of the same…cloudy with a chance of light snow. Daytime highs around 32°F (0°C), which ain’t bad for this time of year. Might even feel a touch warmer if the wind stays put.

Highway 522 is mostly clear, though a few patches of snow are hanging on for dear life. Overall, traveling should be just fine. But around here, the weather isn’t the only thing you need to keep an eye on.

You might find yourself slowing down for a deer that figures the middle of the road is a great place to ponder life. Or maybe you’ll get caught behind someone who thinks turn signals are just “suggestions” and stopping for a roadside chat is more important than keeping traffic moving. And of course, there’s always that one fella in an old tractor, chugging along at a speed that makes a Sunday stroll look fast.

So, take it easy, enjoy the drive, and remember—around here, the road’s not just for getting somewhere; sometimes, it’s part of the entertainment!

On another note, my wife and I kept ourselves busy yesterday morning, clearing snow off the decks and driveway. Figured it was a good time to do it, seeing as the power was out till noon—couldn’t even get the coffee pot to perkin’. But you can bet that the moment the lights came back on, that coffee was brewing, and let me tell ya, it tasted mighty fine.

After lunch, I got to work making some weather sticks for our store, which we’re planning to open this spring—around June if all goes well. My wife and I are always coming up with new, one-of-a-kind items whenever we get the chance. Keeps things interesting, and you never know what’ll end up on the shelves!

What are you up to today, GW?

Well, this morning, I’m planning on wrapping up these weather sticks. Then, after lunch, I’ll wander on out to the old woodworking shop and get back to making those flutes that have been hogging my time these past few weeks. They’re slowly coming together, and if all goes well, I figure another week should see ‘em all finished up. I have 20 on the go, so it’s been keeping me busy.

Now, that’s the plan…but as any old woodworker knows, plans are just fancy ideas until the wood decides to cooperate. Sometimes things don’t pan out… or in this case, they don’t bore straight, don’t sand right, or split when they’ve got no business splitting. But hey, that’s half the fun of working with wood… you never really know what kind of day you’re gonna have until you get your hands on it!

So, with that bit of info, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my little woman is kindly whipping up for me. After that, we’ll see what the day has in store… though not before my lovely wife and I sit down with a hot cup of cocoa and a good old-fashioned chat, which we do every morning.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! My old Dad used to say that: If hard work builds character, I reckon you should be quite the character by now. True in a lot of ways.

It’s a cloudy start to the day here in good ol’ cottage country. Late in the day yesterday, we got ourselves a little taste of some more snow, I would say about 4 inches or so. ‘Course, that ain’t much to write home about for us northerners…just enough to freshen things up and keep the snow shovel from getting’ rusty.

Here’s the weather forecast for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today, Sunday, February 23, 2025:

• Morning: Cloudy skies with temperatures around 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius).
• Afternoon: Highs reaching 36 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius) with a chance of light snow flurries.
• Evening: Temperatures dropping to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degree Celsius) with overcast conditions.

Tonight:

• Overnight: Cloudy with lows near 26 degrees Fahrenheit (-3 degrees Celsius).

Tomorrow, Monday, February 24, 2025:

• Morning: Windy with snow showers, accumulating an additional 1 to 3 centimeters. Temperatures around 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius).
• Afternoon: Continued snow flurries with highs reaching 36 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius).
• Evening: Overcast with temperatures steady at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius).

Looks like winter’s still got a bit of a grip on us.

Highway 522 is mostly clear of snow, though there are still a few snowy patches on the north side of the road. So, if you’re out and about, it might pay to keep an eye on things…unless, of course, you’re looking for an excuse to test out that new set of winter tires.

As for my wife and me, we’re pretty well set for a while. We made the trip to town a few days ago, stocked up on the essentials, and now we can sit back and watch the snow pile up… at least until something runs low. Funny how in a small town, you never seem to need much until the weather turns bad. Then suddenly, you’re fresh out of whatever it is you can’t do without. But that’s country living for you… where a trip to town is more of an event than an errand.

And with that, I’m off to enjoy the breakfast my lovely wife has made for me…best get to it before the power goes out. They’re planning an outage between 9:00 AM and noon, though I suspect we’ll be too busy moving snow to notice much. That should keep us occupied till things flicker back to life.

One thing I’ve learned living in this neck of the woods is that you’ve got to roll with whatever comes your way. No sense fussing over what you can’t change. That’s just the way it is.

You all have a great day! And Until The Next Time:

Keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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“Good Morning Folks!” You know you’re in Northern Ontario when the snowplow wakes you up before your alarm does…and it’s still dark at 7:00 AM.

Well, it’s another brisk morning here in the north, with the mercury sitting’ at a nippy -8.68°F (-22.6°C). It’s the kind of cold that makes a fella think twice…maybe even three times…before throwing’ off the covers and facing the day. And for the record, I’ve always liked Fahrenheit better…gives a feller a real sense of just how cold it is.

Today: Sun’s peeking’ out here and there, but don’t let it fool ya…it’s staying’ cold. High of 8°F (-13°C), but with that wind, it’ll feel a fair bit colder. Best to keep the long johns handy.

Tonight: Clear skies, but that just means the cold digs in deeper. Temps dropping’ to -7°F (-21°C), and if the wind gets to whistling’, you’ll know it. Might be a good night to toss an extra log on the fire.

Tomorrow: A smidge warmer, if you can call it that. High of 15°F (-9°C), but don’t expect a heatwave. The sun will be out, but that just means it’s bright enough to see how much snow still needs shoveling’.

Bundle up and keep that coffee strong, as winter ain’t letting’ go just yet.

Highway 522…well, I am beginning to see a bit of pavement showing through here and there, but there are still plenty of snow-covered spots hanging on, not quite ready to give up. That is pretty much the norm for this time of year, especially with the cold temperatures we have been having.

As for the folks around here, well they are handling it in true northern fashion. Some are out early, shoveling with a coffee in one hand and a snow shovel in the other, while others are standing at the end of their driveways, staring at the snow like it might just move on its own. And then there are those who figure if they wait long enough, a good strong wind or a kindhearted neighbor with a plow might just save them the trouble. That’s what I call smart thinking, doesn’t happen all that often though.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I had a busy morning cleaning up the snow from the day before. And let me tell you, it wasn’t the light, fluffy kind that you can just brush away with ease. No, this stuff was heavy. The reason being, the snow that fell came down in tiny flakes, and when those little fellas pack together, they turn into something as stubborn as a pile of wet sand. At least, that’s how it felt to us two old timers.

But no matter, we managed to get ‘er done. We finished up just before noon, and I have to say, by that time, we were more than ready for a hot cup of cocoa. Truth be told, we had that, then lunch, and then figured, why stop there? So we enjoyed a couple more cups of coffee for good measure. Some might call that a bit much, but hey!… We figured we earned it.

I also managed to spend the afternoon working on the flutes I’ve got on the go. Not a bad day, all things considered. Had a few bumps along the way, but after all these years, I’ve learned you gotta take the good with the bad and keep on movin’. And that’s exactly what I did…just kept at it, knowing some days you win, and some days you learn.

This Morning, after breakfast…thanks to my lovely wife, of course…I’ll head on out to the old woodworking shop and carry on with the day’s work. It’s a cold one, but with the stove in the shop cranked up and doing its thing, well, what could be better than that? Not much, if you ask me. There’s just something about that warm stove, the smell of fresh wood, and the sound of the tools that just makes a feller feel right at home.

You all have a great day!!

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! The snow’s knee-deep, the shovel’s worn thin, and the only thing keeping me going is the thought of spring… whenever it decides to show up.

Yep it’s a cold, snowy morning here in Cottage Country, the kind that bites right through a man’s coat and makes a feller think twice about leaving the warmth of his bed. But stay put? Not a chance. Every morning my feet hit the floor, I figure that’s a victory worth celebrating.

You see, after all these years, my wife and I have come to understand something most folks don’t talk about anymore. Life ain’t about piling up money, worrying about what the neighbors think, or running yourself ragged trying to keep up with everyone else’s expectations. It’s about knowing when to work hard and when to sit back and enjoy what you’ve built.

And that’s exactly what we’re doing now. We’ve earned every bit of what we have—through long days, cold mornings, and years of doing what needed doing. And from here on out, things will get done when we see fit, in our own time, on our own dime. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that life ain’t about rushing—it’s about living.

Highway 522—well, I know it’s out there somewhere, but you wouldn’t think so with all this snow coming down. Usually, it ain’t this bad, but today? Looks more like a forgotten trail than a road. And given the shape it’s in this morning, I’d say it’s a fine excuse to stay put, keep the coffee brewing, and let the rest of the world figure itself out.

If there is one thing I’ve learned over the years is that nature don’t much care about schedules, plans, or what a feller thinks ought to get done. Snow falls when it wants, roads disappear when they feel like it, and the best way to handle it? Accept it, stay warm, and don’t go looking for trouble where it don’t need finding.

You know...living in a small town up here in the north is a lot like an old wood-stove—sometimes it smokes a bit, sometimes it runs hot, but most of the time, it just keeps folks warm and talking. We don’t have the big city rush, and truth be told, if we did, we’d probably just watch it go by from the porch, coffee in hand, and shake our heads.

Yep, small-town living might not be for everyone, but for those of us who’ve been here long enough, it’s home. And besides, where else can you get your morning news, a weather forecast, and a fresh batch of town gossip all in the time it takes to fill up your gas tank?

On another note, yesterday was another full day in the shop, working away on my flutes. Got a lot done, too. So far, I’ve filmed the whole process from start to finish, and once I get around to editing, those videos will make their way onto my YouTube channel. But that’ll be a while yet—still plenty left to do, both on the flutes and the footage.

The thing is, folks don’t always realize that making these flutes takes time—steady hands, sharp tools, and a bit of patience. But what takes just as long, if not longer, is editing the videos so folks can actually see how it’s all done without having to sit through hours of me shaping, sanding, and scratching my head. It’s a job in itself, and like any good project, it’ll get done when it gets done.

So with that bit of info on your minds, I’m off for my breakfast—hot cocoa in hand—and our regular morning chat with my lovely wife. It’s a quiet start to the day, but the best kind, if you ask me. The world may move fast, but for us, we’ve learned to slow down and savor what we’ve got. That’s a gift in itself. Here’s to another day of enjoying the little things and doing it all side by side.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! The roads are icy, the air is crisp, and if you don’t like winter, well… it’s a little late for that now!

Well, the sun’s up there somewhere this morning, but its hard to tell with all these clouds hanging around. And wouldn’t you know it, they’re dropping a little more of that white stuff…snow. But I’ve got to say, there’s something about a morning like this. The quiet, the slow drift of snowflakes…it just does something to a feller. Makes you feel like you’re pulling in the kind of energy a man/woman needs to get through the day.

Here’s what the sky’s got in store for Port Loring:

Today:
Looks like the sun’s playin’ a game of hide and seek behind them clouds, with a few flurries drifting down just to remind us it’s still winter. Won’t be too bad, though—highs around 25°F (-4°C), which ain’t exactly balmy but could be worse.

Tonight:
Them clouds are settlin’ in like an old dog on the porch, and before long, they’ll be shaking’ out a bit more snow. Nothing too wild, but enough to keep things interesting. Expect it to dip down to around 14°F (-10°C), so best toss an extra log on the fire.

Tomorrow:
Gonna wake up to a fresh blanket of the white stuff, with 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) piling up before midday. After that, the wind might kick up a bit, and it’ll stay on the chilly side, only climbing’ to about 17°F (-8°C) before dropping’ like a rock overnight—down to -3°F (-20°C).

Bottom line? If you ain’t got to be out in it, might be a good time to hunker down with a hot coffee and let winter do its thing. Stay warm, and keep your snow shovel handy!

Yesterday, I finally got a full day in the shop, working on them flutes. Been a while since I had a stretch like that without something pulling’ me away. But wouldn’t you know it, the day rolled along just fine…steady hands, sharp tools, and wood that behaved itself for once. And with that happening I managed to get a good bit done, too, which, given how things have been going, felt like a win. Funny how some days fight you every step of the way, and others just let you work. Guess that’s the way of it, same as writing or anything else…some days, it all just comes together.

With all that said, we’ll see what today brings. I did roll out of bed a bit early this morning and got the old shop stove fired up. Truth be told, it wasn’t all that cold in there for a change…not warm enough to work bare-handed mind ya, but not bad either. Give it a little time, and by the time I’ve finished my breakfast, that shop ought to be toasty enough to get some real work done today. I have always felt there’s nothing like the crackle of a good fire, and the promise of a warm work bench to start the day off right.

With that, I’m off for a bite to eat—courtesy of my lovely wife. After that, we’ll settle in with our usual cup of hot cocoa and a good chat, the kind we’ve shared for more years than I can count.

You know, some couples seem to drift apart over time, and I reckon a lot of it comes down to not talking, not truly listening to each other. I’ve even heard of folks keeping separate bank accounts, splitting things right down the middle like business partners instead of life partners. Truth be told, I can’t make sense of that. Around here, there’s no such thing as “mine” or “yours.” It’s ours—always has been, always will be. That’s how we’ve made it through fifty-odd years together, side by side, never keeping score.

And another thing—we work together. When one of us stumbles, the other is there to pick up the slack. Kind of like that old team of Clydesdale’s we had years ago. One wouldn’t work without the other, and when one passed on, well… the other wasn’t far behind. I always figured it was a broken heart that did it.

So for now, my wife and I will carry on, sharing everything—and I mean everything. Our work, our laughter, our quiet moments, and most of all, our love. Because in the end, that’s what truly keeps a team moving forward, no matter what road they’re on.

Now, how’s that for an ending on this fine winter’s morning?

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

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Good Morning! The woodpile’s shrinking, the snowbanks are growing, and the coffee pot’s working overtime—must be a Northern Ontario morning.

Well, folks, for once, we’re waking up to a bit of sunshine. Been a while, and I was starting to wonder if ol’ Mother Nature up and lost the recipe for clear skies. But sure enough, there it is, peeking through like a neighbor dropping by unannounced—welcome, but still surprising.

But, don’t get too comfortable just yet. As today, we’re looking at a high of around 30°F (-1°C), which ain’t exactly shorts weather, but compared to what we’ve been getting, it’s downright balmy. And we might catch a bit of melting if the sun sticks around long enough.

Come nighttime though, things will dip back down to a crisp 14°F (-10°C), so don’t be putting away those wool socks just yet. And if you’re heading out, best bundle up.

Tomorrow? Well, we’re back to playing the guessing game. Expect clouds to roll in again, with a chance of snow flurries here and there, just to remind us winter’s still got a grip on things. We’ll see a High of 28°F (-2°C), a low of around 12°F (-11°C), and a wind that might just whisper sweet nothings in your ear.

So, there you have it. A little sun, a little cold, and a whole lot of winter still left to go. But hey, at least it keeps the mosquitoes away.

Highway 522’s looking mostly clear this morning—well, as clear as it ever gets this time of year. But don’t let that fool ya. There are still some of those sneaky icy patches hanging around in the curves where the sun don’t shine

So, if you’re out and about, best take ‘er easy. No sense turning a quick trip to town into an afternoon waiting on a tow truck. But then again, you folks around here already know that right? The thing is, most of us that live here in the north has been dodging black ice and potholes longer than some city folks have been driving. But—if you do happen to slide a little, well, at least it’ll give the fellas at the coffee shop something to shake their heads about. Although it doesn’t take much to do that.

On another note—yesterday, I had it in my mind to head out to the shop and work on my flutes. But you know how winter goes—what you plan and what actually happens are usually two different things.

After spending half the day wrestling snow off the driveway and decks, any thoughts of crafting tunes went right out the window. And by the time we finished, my lovely wife and I were both so beat, we barely had the energy to lift a coffee cup—let alone a carving knife. So, for the flutes? Well, I figured they’d keep. Didn’t reckon they were gonna get up and walk away… least I sure hope not.

Today—well, that’s another matter. As my old woodworking shop is warming up, with the wood stove throwing off just enough heat to take the chill out of the air. My carving knives are sharpened, sitting on the bench, ready for work. You know…there’s something about a well-honed blade and a fresh piece of wood that just feels right, like they were made for each other.

So with the sun shining for a change, there is no better day to get back at it. The way I see it, any day I can spend working in my shop instead of shoveling snow is a good one. The weather may have slowed me down a bit, but I am making progress. Little by little, chip by chip, things are coming together. That is the way of a woodworker—patience, steady hands, and knowing that some things just take time.

With that, I’m off to enjoy my breakfast—nothing fancy, just some good ol’ toast with eggs and a touch of sweetness, made by my lovely wife. It’s the kind of meal that’ll hold me over until lunchtime, though I wouldn’t be surprised if I find myself sneaking back in for a cup of hot cocoa later on. We’ll see how that goes—it might just become the perfect mid-morning treat.

Until the next time: Keep your minds open and your stories alive!

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Good Morning! The coffee’s hot, the road’s covered with snow, and somewhere in between, there’s a good day waiting.

Well, looks like we’re all waking’ up to a fresh blanket of snow here in the north. Ol’ Mother Nature decided we needed another 6 inches overnight, and when you add that to the couple inches from the day before yesterday, we’re sittin’ at about 8 inches total. Good for the snowmobilers, not so much for those of us with a shovel in hand.

Weather for Port Loring, Ontario

Today (Thursday, Feb. 13)
A bit more snow’s gonna fall off and on through the morning, maybe another inch or so, then mostly cloudy the rest of the day. Not much for sunshine.

• High: 20°F (-7°C)
• Low: 4°F (-16°C)

Tonight
Cloudy and colder than a well digger’s boots. Gonna dip down near zero in some spots, so best throw an extra log on the fire.

• Low: 4°F (-16°C)

Tomorrow (Friday, Feb. 14)
Another gray ol’ day, but at least the snow’ll ease up. Still cold, though, so don’t be in a hurry to put the long johns away.

• High: 19°F (-7°C)
• Low: 11°F (-12°C)

So all and all, you might wanna hold off on any long hauls ‘til the roads get cleaned up. And if ya do have to go out, drive like ya got some sense—there’s always one fella out there who thinks he’s in a race.

Highway 522, well— it’s snow-covered this morning, which isn’t much of a surprise for folks living where we do. And if I had to guess, I’d say it’ll stay that way for most of the day. That’s nature’s way of telling us we might be better off hunkering down at home, keeping the fire stoked and the coffee pot full. No sense battling the elements unless you have a real good reason-like the coffee running low. Now that would be a true emergency.

Meanwhile, here in our little northern town, folks are finding ways to keep busy. Some are out shoveling, trying to stay ahead of the drifts, while others are looking out the window, convincing themselves it can wait until tomorrow. The smart ones? Well—they’re sitting by the wood-stove, swapping stories and wondering how much snow it will take before the “Purolator” truck starts delivering by dogsled.

Just another good old winter day in the north.

On another note, yesterday I had every intention of heading out to the woodworking shop to work on those flutes I’ve got on the go. But as is often the case, plans changed. A delivery showed up—my new battery backup—so I figured I’d best get it hooked up.

Now, that might sound like a simple enough job, but let me tell you, with all the wires I’ve got running here, there, and everywhere, it turned into a real morning project. By the time I was done untangling, plugging, and scratching my head, half the day was gone.

The real surprise, though, was that my computer fired up and ran just fine—maybe even better than before. A rare victory when it comes to tinkering with technology. The only thing that has me wondering is the handful of extra wires I ended up with. No idea where they belong, but since everything is still running, I’m going to assume they were just along for the ride. Either that, or I’ll find out what they were for when something stops working. Time will tell!

Today, like just about everyone else in our small town, my wife and I will be spending some time digging out from under all this snow. But first things first—breakfast, a good chat, and a cup of hot cocoa. Got to fuel up before tackling a job like this.

From what I saw on my walk to the woodworking shop earlier, I’d say we’re in for a real workout. Might not need to do any stretches beforehand—as Mother Nature has taken care of that with knee-deep snowdrifts. My lovely wife and I will no doubt start out strong, full of ambition, but I suspect that after a while, the enthusiasm will fade, and we’ll be standing there, leaning on our shovels, wondering if we really need a driveway after all.

One way or another, we’ll get it done.

You all have a great day, and don’t forget—shoveling is just nature’s way of reminding us we’re not as young as we used to be. Take it slow, take plenty of cocoa/coffee breaks, and if the snow gets too deep, well, there’s always tomorrow.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! They say every snowflake is different, but right now, they all look the same—piled up in my yard.

Well, I’ll tell ya, it’s a damn cold morning here in the north. Woke up to a downright bitter -18°F (-28°C), and let me tell ya, that kind of cold don’t mess around. By the time I got the old shop stove fired up, I was about ready to hightail it back inside. Lucky for me, I threw a few chunks of hardwood in there before bed last night, so it wasn’t too bad once I got things rolling’. But just the same, trudging’ out there and hauling’ out the ashes had these old bones feeling’ every one of their years.

Weather for Port Loring, Ontario:

Today: Cold as a banker’s heart this morning’, with temperatures crawling’ their way up to 20°F (-7°C) by afternoon. Not much of a warm-up, but at least it ain’t getting’ worse.

Tonight: Dropping’ down to a chilly 10°F (-12°C), so best toss another log on the fire before bed.

Tomorrow: More of the same—cold and stubborn, with a high near 19°F (-7°C) and a low of 2°F (-16°C). And if that ain’t enough, there’s a good heap of snow rolling’ in, expecting’ to drop around 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) by the time it’s done. Gonna be a mess out there, so best be prepared.

Sounds like a good time to stay close to the stove and keep the coffee hot.

Highway 522: Well, once again, it’s snow-covered—no surprises there. With these kinds of temperatures, that white stuff ain’t going’ anywhere fast. Not much a fella can do about it neither, ‘cept take it slow and hope the plow guy’s had his coffee. But hey, that’s just life up here in the north, especially as we creep toward mid-February.

Folks in the city might complain when they get a dustin’ of snow, but out here, we measure it in “how many shovels deep” instead of inches. And when the highway disappears under a fresh blanket, we don’t panic—we just pour another coffee, maybe throw another log on the fire, and figure we’ll get where we’re goin’… eventually, and take in what nature has to offer.

On another note, I worked the day away yesterday out in the old woodworking shop, fussing’ with them flutes I’ve been talking’ about these past few weeks. Still lots to do, but I’m making’ good, steady progress. Today, once the shop gets toasty enough that I ain’t seeing’ my own breath, I’ll be back at it.

Not much more to report this morning, so I reckon it’s time to see what my lovely wife has rustled up for breakfast. Can’t beat a good home-cooked meal to start the day. After that, we’ll settle in with a couple of steaming mugs of hot cocoa, have ourselves a good old-fashioned chinwag, and watch the morning show at our bird feeder—no commercials, just the kind of entertainment you don’t get in the city.

This time of year, it’s mostly nuthatches, chickadees, and the occasional finch, flitting about like they own the place. And in a way, I suppose they do. They sure don’t seem to mind the cold, unlike us humans who bundle up like we’re facing’ the next Ice Age. It’s funny—some folks spend a fortune on fancy getaways, looking’ for peace and quiet, while all we gotta do is pour another cup and let nature come to us.

Well folks, that’s about it for this morning. Time to see what kind of mischief—I mean, productivity—I can get into today. I might even take a moment to just sit back and appreciate the simple things, like a warm fire, a few hot drinks, and the fact that I don’t have to scrape ice off a windshield to get where I’m going’.

Until the next time: “Keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW

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Good Morning! Winter’s got a grip, but then again so do my boots—at least they did the last time I wore them. Never know though they don’t make things like they used to.

It’s a cloudy morning here in cottage country, and we had about two more inches of light snow late yesterday. Looks like winter isn’t ready to pack its bags just yet.

Today: It’ll be a chilly one, with a high of 11°F (-12°C) And we might see a few stray snowflakes this morning, but otherwise, just a mix of clouds.

Tonight: Temperatures dropping to -8°F (-22°C), so best keep that extra blanket handy.

Tomorrow: Clouds rolling in, with a few flurries expected in the afternoon. A bit warmer, reaching 19°F (-7°C) for the high, with a low of 10°F (-12°C) overnight.

Heads up Though!!! A winter storm watch is in effect from Wednesday evening into Thursday. They’re calling for 8 to 16 inches (20 to 40 cm) of snow, with strong winds kicking up some blowing snow. If you’ve got travel plans, you might want to rethink them.

Best to keep the woodpile stocked, portable generator gassed up, and the coffee hot.

Highway 522 is snow-covered once again this morning, which means two things—our brake pads are getting another good sanding, and our vehicles are earning a fresh coat of that fine Northern Ontario rust, the kind that comes free with every winter but costs a fortune to fix come spring.

Then there’s the group at the diner every morning, debating the best way to tell if it’s too cold to go outside. One says if your boots freeze to the porch before you make it to the truck, it’s a stay-in kind of day. Another figures if the dog takes one sniff of the air and heads back to bed, that’s all the proof you need. The general agreement? If you’re asking, you’re better off pouring another coffee and letting the wood-stove do its job.

Just another day in the north, where the snow’s deep, the coffee’s hot, and common sense comes with a side of humor.

On another note, yesterday my wife and I spent the morning clearing snow from the driveway, decks, and even some off the roofs—and let me tell you, we’ve got plenty of roofs. Kept us busy, but at least we got our exercise in for the day. After that, we rewarded ourselves with a hot drink, a rest, and some lunch. Then, feeling somewhat human again, I moseyed on out to my woodworking shop and got back to work on them flutes I’ve been crafting for the past couple of weeks. Still plenty to do, but little by little, they’re coming along.

So with that, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the breakfast my little woman whipped up, along with a hot cocoa and our usual morning chinwag. After that, I’ll mosey on out to the old woodworking shop. Thought about clearing the driveway again, but with more snow on the way, I figure I’ll let Mother Nature finish what she started before I go battling it again. No sense shoveling twice if you can help it.

You all have a great day!

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good day from the North—where a man’s word still holds weight, and a handshake means more than any contract. But times are changing, so best tread carefully.

It’s a cloudy morning starting things off here in the country. The kind where the coffee’s hot, the wood-stove’s crackling, and the world feels just a little quieter. But don’t let that fool you—change is always rolling in, just like the weather.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast:

• Today: Cloudy with a chance of light snow or flurries. High around 30°F (-1°C).
• Tonight: Mostly cloudy, a few passing flurries possible. Low near 20°F (-7°C).
• Tomorrow: A mix of sun and cloud, with a chilly breeze. High around 28°F (-2°C).
• Yeah, I’m still holding onto Fahrenheit. Folks say Celsius makes more sense, but truth be told, I never saw the logic in a system where 0 just means wet fingers and a bad mood.

Best keep the fire stoked and the kettle on—looks like winter’s still got a grip.

Highway 522 has some icy patches here and there, but if you’re needing a trip to the city, the roads should do ya fine—just keep a steady hand on the wheel. But let’s not forget, it is February, and around these parts, that means being ready for just about anything. One minute, it’s smooth sailing, and the next, you’re white-knuckling through a snow squall wondering if you should’ve packed an overnight bag. Let your guard down for even a second, and well… let’s just say, winter has a way of reminding you who’s really in charge.

You know-–Out here, a “quick trip” to the hardware store is never quick. You go in for a box of screws, and next thing you know, you’re stuck in a half-hour chat about the weather, last night’s game, and who’s been spotted with a new ATV. By the time you finally make it home, you’ve forgotten the screws but somehow ended up with a bag of peanuts and the freshest gossip in town.

On another note: Yesterday, I didn’t make it to the woodworking shop, but I did manage to get my new computer up and running, along with all the tools I need for writing my stories. Took most of the day to get everything squared away, but now that computer’s purring like a kitten. My son Karl calls it a beast—and it is, in the best way. Should be set for a few years, though with these modern gadgets, you never really know.

What are you up to today, GW? Well, if all goes according to plan, I’m hoping to get some more work done on those flutes I’ve been crafting for the past couple of weeks. There’s still plenty of tedious work left to do, but that’s just the way it goes with certain projects—requires patience and a steady hand.

So with that I’m off for my morning breakfast and our cup of hot cocoa, followed by the usual chat with my lovely wife. Then, I’ll let the day unfold around me—there’s always a few surprises lurking in the wings.

Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive! GW

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Good Morning! The wood-stove’s hungry, the coffee’s ready, and the snow shovel’s pretending it doesn’t see me.

Well in spite of some clouds, the sun is trying’ to show herself here in the north this morning’. Might not be a full-on blue-sky day, but she’s doing’ her best to shine through.

Port Loring, Ontario Weather Forecast:

Today: Mostly cloudy with a few breaks of sunshine now and then. High around 26°F (-3°C). A light breeze, just enough to remind you it’s still winter.

Tonight: Cooling’ down to about 16°F (-9°C), with the clouds hanging’ around. Might see a few flurries drifting’ in overnight.

Tomorrow: Starting’ off with a mix of sun and cloud, but by afternoon, expect a bit of snow. Not much, just a dusting—maybe an inch (1 cm) at most. High near 26°F (-4°C). Dropping’ down to 3°F (-16°C) at night, so keep that firewood close by.

As it looks like winter ain’t loosening her grip just yet. Stay warm!

Highway 522 is pretty well clear of snow this morning, but there are still a few spots where winter is hanging on, waiting to catch folks off guard. So, if you are heading out, it would be a good idea to take it easy. But let’s face it–living where we do, driving with care is not just about the snow; as there are plenty of other things to watch for, like deer, moose, wild turkeys, and the occasional porcupine, all thinking they have the—right of way.

If you have ever had a moose step out in front of you, you know they are not in any hurry. They will just stand there staring at you, probably wondering why you are in such a rush. And turkeys? Well, they are either standing in the middle of the road without a care in the world or suddenly taking off like they just remembered they left the stove on. Either way, it is always best to stay alert. Around here, the roads have a way of keeping you on your toes—just like the folks driving on them.

On another note, I’ve been working away in my old woodworking shop for the past couple of weeks, creating a new batch of flutes. Had a good day yesterday, though—things went to plan, and I didn’t feel all that bad. My old mind stayed focused on good things, not wandering off to places it shouldn’t. There’s something about the rhythm of sanding and shaping the wood that helps clear out the cobwebs. It’s the kind of work where you can lose yourself in the process, let your hands follow the grain, and everything just clicks into place. After all this time, it still feels satisfying when the pieces come together the way they should—almost like the wood knows exactly what you’re after before you even make the cut.

And when the day wraps up, there’s that quiet contentment of knowing you’ve crafted something with your own hands that might bring a little peace or joy to someone. That’s the real beauty of it all—keeping the mind clear and the heart full, one flute at a time.

Today, I’ll probably be doing the same as yesterday, but then again, who’s to say? I’ve found that some days I head out to the shop all set to dive into a project I’ve been working’ on, and before I know it, something else catches my eye. Maybe it’s the way the light hits the wood or the feel of a tool I haven’t used in a while. Next thing you know, I’m off in a completely different direction, working’ on something’ I hadn’t planned on at all. That’s the beauty of the shop—every day’s a bit of a surprise. It’s like the wood’s got a way of speaking’ to you, whispering’, “Hey, try this today,” and before you can argue, you’re right there in the thick of it. It’s never the same old routine, and that’s what keeps it so interesting. No matter what I set out to do, you can bet something unexpected is bound to happen—’cause out here, that’s just how the days roll.

With that, I’m off once again for my morning breakfast, courtesy of my lovely wife. After that, we’ll sit down together and enjoy our usual cup of hot cocoa, along with our regular chat. It’s a nice way to start the day, just the two of us, taking’ the time to catch up on whatever’s on our minds. After that? Well, we’ll see where the day takes us. Might head out to the shop, might sit a spell and enjoy the quiet—who knows? But for now, I’m lookin’ forward to that first sip of cocoa and the peace of the morning with Ruth.

“Until next time—keep your minds open and your stories alive!” GW